Never have I felt more in the Midwest than when I came across the Smiley-Woodfin Native Prairie Grassland. In incredible grass prairie for as long as one can see.
Texas Historical Marker reads:
This meadow approximately 2,100 acres, is the largest section of native grassland existing in Texas. It was originally part of a prairie system that stretched throughout the Midwestern United States and into Canada. Since the earliest settlers arrived in this area in the 1830’s, when Texas was part of Mexico this grassland has remained uncultivated, providing an annual harvest of native grasses.
A lack of fuel and surface water made this area suitable for pioneer farmers. Although similar land nearby was tilled and planted, often resulting in erosion of overworked soil. This site was saved by the owner M.L. Smiley (1872-1953). A native of Lamar County, he used the meadow for cattle grazing and for hay production.
Early harvests consisted of cutting and stacking the grasses for drying, or transporting the hay to nearby steam-powered presses. The process was later simplified by the use of gasoline-powered machines that harvested and baled the hay on the site.
After Smiley’s death, the meadow was inherited by brothers George S. and Gene M. Woodfin. Today the Smiley-Woodfin Prairie Grassland is the largest supplier of native hay in the state.
The land is absolutely beautiful, endless and something that we really can’t capture just in a photo. Driving by, your gaze will be directed to the prairie and consumed by how endless it seems.
Location: Along side Hwy 82 between Bonham and Honey Grove in North Texas.
What does this remind you of? Have you ever driven by these endless fields?