Once a part of the massive XIT Ranch, this Panhandle community has long been a railroad shipping point for area cattle and crops. Today the plains city is visited by birders as well because of its location on the southern fly-way. Dalhart is the county seat of Dallam County.
Attractions
Empty Saddle Monument. (pictured above) Created by local artist Bobby Dycke, this statue honors fallen cowboys. US 385 and US 87.
Lake Rita Blanca Park. This 2,000 acre park has campsites, hiking and riding trails, a children’s playscape and an event pavilion. It is a favorite with birders who come to observe waterfowl around the lake. FM 281 and US 87.
XIT Historical Museum. Once the world’s largest ranch, the history of the XIT is explored at this museum. Items include frontier and ranch artifacts, cowboy memorabilia, and turn of the 20th century farm equipment. 108 E. 5th St.
Festivals
JULY:
Community Fireworks Display. Dalhart salutes the red, white, and blue at this annual 4th of July celebration held at Rita Blanca Lake.
AUGUST:
XIT Rodeo and Reunion. Billed as “the world’s largest free barbecue” this event draws thousands of visitors and features three days of western dancing, arts and crafts vendors, parades, a PRCA rodeo and a fiddling competition. Rita Blanca Park, 1219 W. FM 281.
Map
For More Information
Dalhart Area Chamber of Commerce
Photo credit: Billy Hathorn at en.wikipediaen.wikipedia.org