Established in 1881 as a stop on the Texas and Pacific Railroad, Pecos gained early fame as a hangout for rowdy cowboys and fast-draw lawmen. Touted as "Home of World's First Rodeo," Pecos was scene of a cowboy contest in 1883 that was the forerunner of today's popular sport. The 1883 events are re-enacted at the West of the Pecos Rodeo. Today Pecos is a hub of travel both east-west and north-south, as well as a commercial center for ranching, irrigated farming, produce processing, and oil production. For additional information contact the Pecos Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 432-445-2406.
Things to do in Pecos
Chaparral Village Golf and Country Club
Chapparal Village Golf and Country Club is a 9-hole public course on US Highway 80 in Pecos. Call 432-445-6890 for more information.
Maxey Park and Zoo
Among several species of animals featured at Maxey Park & Zoo are buffalo, Longhorns, deer, javelina, mountain lions, and antelope. A picnic area, gazebo, and botanical garden with regional flowers and shrubs are found in the park area. A kids' city playground is available for children of all ages to enjoy. A full facility campground and RV park is located west of the park. Located on the I-20 access road between U.S. 285 and Texas 17. Call 432- 447-3957 for more information.
Pecos Canteloupes
Grown locally in irrigated fields, these luscious melons are the delight of gourmets throughout the United States. The quality of the melon is derived from a natural combination of alkali soil, western sunlight and altitude. Pecos cantaloupes enjoy comparable status with Maine lobsters, French wines and Swiss cheeses. They are harvested in late July through September. A cantaloupe festival is held in late summer. Call 432-445-2406 for more information.
Reeves County Golf Course
Reeves County Golf Course is an 18-hole public course on 88 Starley Street in Pecos. Call 432-447-2858 for more information.
West of the Pecos Museum
The West-of-the-Pecos Museum occupies an old saloon and three floors of the historic hotel, once the area's finest. Visitors can explore restored ornate fixtures, accurate displays of life in the late 1800s, and the site where two outlaws were gunned down by quick-draw bartender, Barney Riggs. Fifty rooms of exhibits showcase Pecos and West Texas history, as well as information on other Pecos attractions. Call 432-445-5076 for more information.
West of the Pecos Park
Adjacent to the museum, the West of the Pecos Park features the first building in Pecos, the grave of Clay Allison, the "Gentleman Gunfighter," a replica of Judge Roy Bean's saloon, an Eclipse windmill and offices of the Pecos Visitor Center and Chamber of Commerce. Located at 120 East 1st.
West of the Pecos Rodeo
Held in July, the West of the Pecos Rodeo is the country's oldest rodeo, first held in Pecos on July 4, 1883. The popular rodeo is still going strong with regular rodeo fun plus unusual events like "A Night in Old Pecos," the "Golden Girl of the Old West Pageant," and the "Sherrif's Posse Barbecue." Call 432-445-2406 for more information.
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