James C. Loving facts for kids

James C. Loving (1836–1902) was an important American cattleman and rancher from Texas. He became famous for raising a very large herd of purebred shorthorn cattle. He also helped start the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. He worked as its secretary for 27 years.

Life of James C. Loving

Early Years and Family

James Carrol Loving was born on June 6, 1836. His birthplace was Hopkins County, Kentucky. His father, Oliver Loving, was also a cattleman. His mother was Susan Daggett Morgan Loving.

In 1845, James and his family moved to Texas. They eventually settled in Palo Pinto County, Texas.

Career as a Rancher

During the American Civil War (1861-1865), James C. Loving served in the Confederate States Army. He became a First Lieutenant.

After the war, he opened a general store in Weatherford. In 1867, his father passed away. James then took over his father's cattle business.

In June 1868, James C. Loving worked with Charles Goodnight. They drove 2,300 cattle all the way to Colorado. This long journey took about six months. He also owned a ranch with C.L. Carter. It was near C.C. Slaughter's ranch.

Developing a Large Cattle Herd

In 1873, James Loving started his own ranch. It was located in Jermyn, Jack County. This area was known as the Lost Valley. His ranch was about 25 miles from Graham. It was also 15 miles from Jacksboro, Texas.

He became known for having "the largest purebred shorthorn herd in the nation." This meant his cattle were of a very specific and high-quality breed.

Founding the Cattle Raisers Association

Sadly, many of his cattle were stolen by raiders. Because of this problem, James Loving helped create a new group. In 1877, he co-founded the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. About forty other ranchers joined him. These ranchers were from Palo Pinto, Young, Parker, and Shackelford counties. C.C. Slaughter was also one of the founders.

James C. Loving served as the secretary for this association for 27 years. He held this important job until he died in 1902. In 1879, he also became the Treasurer.

In 1880, he published a special book. It was an almanac that listed the main cattle herds in Texas and their owners. Four years later, in 1884, he moved the association's office to Jacksboro. Then, in 1887, he moved it again to Fort Worth, Texas.

Personal Life and Death

James C. Loving married Mary Ellen Willett in 1857. They had two children together.

He passed away on November 24, 1902. His death occurred in Tarrant County, Texas.