The Art of Cattle Trailing
Cattle trailing emerged as the primary method for transporting cattle to market in the late 19th century, particularly in Texas. Spanning from 1866 to 1890, this practice allowed cattlemen to market surplus livestock economically, often facing challenges like hostile farmers and quarantines. Notable trails include the Chisholm and Western Trails, which facilitated the movement of millions of Texas cattle northward, especially after the Civil War. Innovators like Joseph G. McCoy established key markets, while contract drovers played a vital role in cattle drives, underscoring the significance of this tradition in American frontier history.