This town developed with the establishment of a military post here in 1859. The area was popular with Native Americans long before white men arrived because of the large springs nearby. The area was also one of the earliest irrigated farming efforts in Texas. Today the city is the seat of Pecos county and the retail and shipping headquarters for vast ranching, natural gas and oil activites.
Things to do in Fort Stockton
Annie Riggs Hotel Museum
This old hotel, built in 1899, was a popular stop on the stagecoach route. It has been restored and maintained by the local historical society. Fourteen rooms display area collections that include 19th Century clothing, photography, Indian artifacts, cowboy regalia, kitchen utensils, geology, religion and Camp Stockton artifacts. Located at 301 S. Main. Open Monday - Saturday 10am 1 - 5pm. Extended hours in the summer months. Call 915-336-2167 for more information.
Comanche Springs
This springs was once among largest springs in Texas. It is now the site of an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
Courthouse Square
Historic features include the courthouse (1883), the first Catholic Church (1875), the first schoolhouse (1883) and the Zero Stone placed by survey party in 1859. It is used as an origin point for all land surveys in this part of West Texas. Nearby St. Stephens Episcopal Church (1872) was the first Protestant Church to be found west of the Pecos River.
Grey Mule Saloon
This saloon preserves the nostalgic remembrance of times past. Visit this restored old saloon that was one of early-day red-eye dispensaries of West Texas. Located at Callaghan and Main Streets.
Historic Fort Stockton
This Fort, established in 1858 as Camp Stockton, is a typical frontier military post. It was abandoned in 1886. The Fort consisted of 35 buildings made of adobe and hand-hewn limestone. Four of the original buildings remain and other have been rebuilt. Located at 300 East Third Street. Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 1pm & 2 - 5pm. Call 432-336-2400 for more information.
Historic Site Tours
Enjoy a series of special signs on city streets providing guidance for "do it yourself" tours of the historic sites. The historical notations date from the days of Cabeza de Vaca's explorations in 1534 and other explorers such as Espejo in 1583 and Mendoza in 1684.
Imperial Reservoir
Covering 1,530 acres, this reservoir provides irrigation and water recreation in an arid region of West Texas. Fishing, swimming, boating and related water sports are available. Access is off Texas 18 between Monahans and Fort Stockton.
James Rooney County Park
Green and specious park located on the southern edge of the city at the historic Comanche Springs. Swimming, picnicking and tennis courts are available.
Old Fort Cemetery
Records on existing tombstones indicate few people lived beyond the age of 40. There is an indication of hardships among those who opened and settled this harsh country.
Paisano Pete
At 20 feet long and 11 feet tall, Pete is probably the world's largest roadrunner. A popular photo subject. He is located at U.S. 290 at Main Street.
Ste. Genevieve Wines
Located 26 miles east of Fort Stockton on I-10. Tour buses pick up at 9:40am at the Chamber of Commerce for tours. Located at 222 W. Dickinson. Tours last about 2.5 hours. Open Wednesday and Saturday at 10am. Also by appointment. Call 800-336-2166 for more information.
Tunis Creek Stagecoach Stop
This is the former way station on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route. Later it became a Texas Ranger Station. This historic structure was moved to a highway rest area on U.S. 290, 20 miles east.
Visitor Information Center
Here visitors can find information on dining, accommodations, events and other area information. The center is located at I-10 and US 285. The center also offers Roadrunner Bush Tours, Monday - Friday at 1 and 4pm; Saturday - Sunday at 2pm. The tour covers 16 points of interest. Open Labor day to may from 11am - 6pm; Summer from 10am - 8pm. Call 432-336-8052 for more information.
Wheels and Frills
The "Wheels" museum features a collection of vintage cars, tractors, trucks and man of the accessories that go with them. A 1917 Ford Model T touring sedan and a 1929 Ford Model A are just samples of the vehicles you will find here. In addition there is a museum collection of Texas license plates, hubcaps, and hood ornaments to Both are open Monday - Saturday 10am - noon / 1 - 5pm. Located at 221 North Main Street. Call 915-336-8421 for more information.
Follow Us