Figure 2 Ranch facts for kids

The Figure 2 Ranch is a very large ranch located in Culberson County, Texas. It was started in 1890 by a cattle rancher named James Monroe Daugherty. This ranch is known for its long history and its connection to important events and people.

History of the Figure 2 Ranch

The Figure 2 Ranch has a rich past. It was founded by James Monroe Daugherty, who was already an experienced cattle rancher. He owned several ranches before starting this one.

Early Days and Important Events

The ranch holds a special place in history. It was the location of one of the last battles between the Texas Rangers and the Apache people. This shows how important the area was in the old West.

James Daugherty had an interesting life. He was a messenger rider for the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. He also helped create the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, a group for cattle ranchers. By 1905, he was living on the ranch. Later, he even served on the local government for Culberson County.

Changing Owners

In 1933, when James Daugherty was 83 years old, he sold the ranch. The new owner was James Marion West, Sr.. He was a very successful businessman who owned many ranches, timber companies, and oil businesses.

James Marion West, Sr. never lived at the ranch himself. However, his son, James Jr., used it as one of his homes. The Figure 2 Ranch stayed in the West family for many years, until 1992.

Size of the Ranch

At its largest, the Figure 2 Ranch was enormous. It covered about 175,000 acres. That's a huge area of land!

The Figure 2 Ranch Today

Today, the Figure 2 Ranch is owned by Jeff Bezos, a well-known entrepreneur. He is involved in some very interesting projects on the property.

The 10,000 Year Clock

Part of the ranch, located in the Sierra Diablo Mountains, is home to a unique project. Jeff Bezos is building a special clock there called the 10,000 Year Clock. This clock is designed to tell time for ten thousand years! It's a project meant to inspire long-term thinking.

Blue Origin Facility

Another part of the Figure 2 Ranch is used by Blue Origin. This is a company founded by Jeff Bezos that focuses on space travel. The ranch property serves as a place for Blue Origin to test and launch rockets. The Figure 2 Ranch Airport is also located on the property, likely supporting these operations.