Wildcatter Ranch, the storied 1,484-acre ranch and resort in Graham, Texas, is a one-of-a-kind property along the Goodnight-Loving Trail, a piece of Texas history for 150 years and counting. A ranch such as this rarely comes on the market, making this a once-in-a-lifetime chance to invest in Texas’ legacy — and yours.
THE SESQUICENTENNIAL OF THE GOODNIGHT-LOVING TRAIL
Once home to the Comanches and Kiowas, nearby Fort Belknap became a stop on the Butterfield Overland stagecoach mail route by the mid-1800s. The route was later abandoned during the Civil War and the area reverted once again to an untamed wilderness. In 1866, two cattlemen attempted the impossible: During the tumultuous days of pioneer settlements and skirmishes, Charles Goodnight and Oliver Loving made the bold move to drive their cattle west on what later became known as the Goodnight-Loving Trail. With 18 cowpunchers, they drove 2,000 cows along a portion of the former Butterfield route into New Mexico. Another drive, in 1867, was fraught with peril and intrigue. These cattle drives became the stuff of Texas legend — constant danger, traveling during the dark of night, in treacherous weather conditions and often with little water to sustain Goodnight, Loving and the cowpunchers until they reached their destination.
THE ALLURE OF THE WILDCATTER RANCH & RESORT
An easy drive from Fort Worth and Dallas, Wildcatter Ranch is highly accessible yet completely removed from the cares and confinements of big-city life. The ranch was developed by the granddaughter of the founder of Graham, Texas, on land that has seen cowboys, Native Americans, oilmen and outlaws. Popularized in books and films such as Lonesome Dove and The Sons of Katie Elder — both stories recount fictionalized portrayals of actual events that took place around Wildcatter Ranch — this thrilling and unspoiled landscape has a rich history.
But Wildcatter Ranch is very much a resort for today. The luxuriously appointed, modern ranch house comes with amenities such as a gourmet kitchen, large game room and private movie theater. Its outdoor enjoyments include a courtyard, pool, hot tub, fountain, fireplace, kitchen and fire pit. The house has commanding views of the property from its hilltop perch, including the Brazos River winding below.
The ranch is perfect for horse lovers, with two barns that can accommodate approximately 35 horses. The property includes a 16-room hotel, 16 more rooms in four luxurious cabins and a restaurant and spa. The ranch is the ultimate setting for memorable conferences, retreats, events, weddings and family reunions.
Wildcatter Ranch is listed for $14,975,000 by Michael D. Crain of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. www.13wildcatterranch.com
