Duffy's Peak facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Duffy's Peak
Duffy's Peak viewed from the Salt Fork.
Highest point
Elevation	2,503 ft (763 m)
Prominence	58 ft (18 m)
Geography
Duffy's Peak Location in Texas
Topo map	Cap Rock SE
Geology
Age of rock	Cretaceous, Triassic
Mountain type	Butte

Duffy's Peak is a small hill or butte located in Garza County, Texas. A butte is a tall, flat-topped hill with steep sides. This peak is found near the Salt Fork Brazos River.

Even though Duffy's Peak is small, rising less than 50 feet (about 15 meters) above the river, it was a very important landmark. Early land surveyors used it to help map the area. It is believed to be named after a member of the first survey team who passed away and was buried nearby in the late 1870s.

What Makes Duffy's Peak Special?

Duffy's Peak is located in the "rolling plains" area of West Texas. This region is south and east of a large cliff called the Caprock Escarpment, which is part of the Llano Estacado.

The ground around Duffy's Peak has rich soil that supports different plants. You can find mesquite trees, yucca plants, cacti, and various grasses growing here.

How Duffy's Peak Formed

The land in this area is often shaped by erosion. This means that wind and water slowly wear away the rock and soil. Streams like the Salt Fork Brazos River and its smaller branches, such as McDonald Creek, flow only when there is heavy rain. These heavy rains can cause sudden floods.

Duffy's Peak has a top layer made of strong sandstone. This hard rock protected the soil underneath it from being washed away. The softer ground around it eroded over time, leaving Duffy's Peak standing tall. This is why it became a noticeable landmark that can be seen from far away.

A Historical Landmark

In 1969, the Texas Historical Commission recognized Duffy's Peak as an important historical site. They placed a special marker for it along Texas State Highway 207. This marker helps people learn about the peak's history and its role in mapping Texas.