amarillo chamber of commerce - HPN Books

Chapter3hides, horns,and hatsWestern heritage is still important to Amarillo residents today. Thefamous days of massive cattle drives are long gone, but from time totime it’s possible to catch a glimpse of a longhorn steer. Many millionhead of cattle have been raised in the Texas Panhandle since the firstsettlers came to the region and fenced in open range land. The ruralareas surrounding Amarillo are predominantly ranching areas. Therolling plains with native grass and playa lakes are naturally suited forraising cattle, just as they were suited for the massive buffalo herds incenturies past. The sight of cowboys branding, doctoring, and herdingcattle are common sights on the High Plains. Cattle are herded throughloading chutes, and cattle trucks transport beef on the hoof to arealivestock auctions every day.Chapter 3155