Leaving of Pecos facts for kids
Leaving of Pecos was an important camping and stopping place in Texas a long time ago. It was located on the west side of the Pecos River. This spot was used by travelers on old wagon roads and later by mail coaches.
What Was the Leaving of Pecos?
The Leaving of Pecos was originally a place where people traveling across Texas could set up camp. It was on a major route known by several names, like the Lower Emigrant Road or the San Antonio-El Paso Road. This road was important for pioneers and soldiers. Later, it became a regular stop for mail delivery services. These services included the San Antonio-El Paso Mail and the San Antonio-San Diego Mail Line.
Where Was It Located?
This historic spot was in Texas, right on the west bank of the Pecos River. It was about 38 miles north of a place called Lancaster Crossing on the Pecos River. It was also 16 miles east of the first crossing of Escondido Creek. The Leaving of Pecos was also just a mile north of where the Lower Emigrant Road connected with a shortcut. This shortcut led to another important road called the Upper Emigrant Road. The Upper Emigrant Road ran between Fredericksburg, Texas and Comanche Springs, which is now Fort Stockton, Texas.
Important Roads and Mail Routes
The Leaving of Pecos was a key point on several old travel routes.
- Lower Emigrant Road: This was a main wagon road for people moving west. It was also known as the Military Road or the San Antonio-El Paso Road.
- Upper Emigrant Road: This road offered a different path for travelers. It connected to the Lower Emigrant Road near the Leaving of Pecos.
- Mail Lines: The site became a regular stop for stagecoaches carrying mail. These included the San Antonio - El Paso Mail and the San Antonio-San Diego Mail Line. These mail lines helped connect distant towns and cities.
