PECOS

Population 12,023

Altitude 2,580

General

Established 1881 as stop on Texas and Pacific Railroad, Pecos gained early fame as hangout for rowdy cowboys and fast-draw lawmen. Touted as "Home of World's First Rodeo", Pecos was scene of cowboy contest in 1883 that was forerunner of today's popular sport. (West of The Pecos Rodeo, 4th of July, re-enacts 1883 events.) Today a hub of travel both east-west and north-south; commercial center for ranching, irrigated farming, produce processing, and oil production. Area hunting for mule deer, javelina, upland game birds. Visit the chamber of commerce, 111 S. Cedar St. (U.S. 285) for details.

Attractions

• MAXEY PARK & ZOO-Among several species of animals are buffalo, Longhorns, deer, javelina, mountain lions, and antelope. Picnic area, a gazebo, and a botanical garden with regional flowers and shrubs are found in the park area. Also, "kid's city" playground for children of all ages. Full facility campground and RV park west of the park. On I-20 access road between U.S. 285 and Texas 17.
• PECOS CANTALOUPES-Grown in irrigated fields, luscious melon is the delight of gourmets throughout the United States. Quality derives from natural combination of alkali soil, western sunlight and altitude. Pecos cantaloupes enjoy comparable status with Maine Lobsters, French wines and Swiss cheeses. Harvested late July through Sept. with a festival held in late summer. For festival schedule, 915/445-2406
• WEST-OF-THE-PECOS MUSEUM AND PARK-MUSEUM occupies old saloon and two floors of historic hotel, once the area's finest. See restored ornate fixtures, accurate displays of life in the late 1800's, and site where two outlaws were gunned down by quick-draw bartender, Barney Riggs. Information on other Pecos attractions. Open Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 2-5 p.m.(6 p.m. daily in summer) 120 E. First St. Admission. Adjacent park contains first building in Pecos, grave of Clay Allison, the "Gentleman Gunfighter," replica of Judge Roy Bean's saloon, an Eclipse windmill and offices of the tourist center and chamber of commerce.

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