Region: Big Bend Country
Established in 1881 as stop on the Texas and Pacific Railroad, Pecos gained
early fame as a hangout for rowdy cowboys and fast-draw lawmen. Touted as the
"Home of World's First Rodeo," Pecos was the scene of a cowboy contest in 1883
that was the forerunner of today's popular sport. (West of the Pecos Rodeo,
Fourth of July, re-enacts 1883 events.) Today, it is a hub of travel and a
commercial center for ranching, irrigated farming, produce processing, and oil
production. Area hunting includes mule deer, javelina and upland game birds.
Pecos is also known for cantaloupes. Grown in irrigated fields, this luscious
melon is the delight of gourmets throughout the United States. Quality derives
from natural combination of alkaline soil, western sunlight and altitude. Pecos
cantaloupes enjoy comparable status with Maine lobsters, French wines and Swiss
cheeses. Harvested late July through September with a festival held in late
summer. For festival schedule, call 432/445-2406.