Texas Longhorn Riders

In 1493, Columbus landed in Santo Domingo with the first cattle destined for the New World. This was the beginning of an evolutionary process that would create a breed of cattle unique to the Americas—a breed that would forever change the face of a continent and symbolize an era unparalleled for its lasting mystique. Developed through natural selection, the Texas Longhorn flourished to over 4,000,000 by 1860 in Texas alone. Less than 50 years later, driven to the brink of extinction by barbwire and “improved” breeds, the Texas Longhorn numbered a mere 2,500 in total.

In 1964, a handful of dedicated, far-sighted cattlemen formed the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America, whose stated purpose is “to recognize the Texas Longhorn as a distinct breed in order to protect the unique heritage of the Texas Longhorn and its link with the history of America.” Today the TLBAA’s 4,000 members have registered over a quarter million head of cattle, thus ensuring the future of the majestic Texas Longhorn.