Live Oak Creek (Crockett County, Texas) facts for kids
Live Oak Creek is a lovely stream in Texas, USA. It starts in Reagan County, Texas, high up in the land, and flows south. This creek eventually joins the Pecos River in Crockett County, Texas. It's a natural waterway that has been important for travelers and wildlife for a long time.
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Where Live Oak Creek Flows
Live Oak Creek begins its journey in Reagan County, Texas. Its starting point is quite high, about 2,938 feet above sea level. From there, the creek travels south, making its way through the landscape. It finally reaches its end, or "mouth," where it flows into the larger Pecos River. This meeting point is about 2,001 feet above sea level, showing how the creek flows downhill.
A Historic Water Stop
For many years, Live Oak Creek was a very important water source for people traveling across Texas. It was a key stop on the old San Antonio–El Paso Road. This road was a major route for pioneers, soldiers, and traders moving between San Antonio and El Paso.
Travelers on this road would find Live Oak Creek about 30 miles from another important spot called Howard Springs. It was also very close to Fort Lancaster, a historic military fort, being only about 3 miles away. The creek was also not far from the Pecos River crossing, which was about 7 miles away.
Fort Lancaster's Connection
Fort Lancaster was a military post built to protect travelers and settlers in the area. It was located just east of Live Oak Creek, near where the creek joins the Pecos River. The creek's fresh water would have been vital for the soldiers and horses stationed at the fort.
A Traveler's Description
In 1857, a famous explorer named Edward Fitzgerald Beale traveled through this area. He wrote about his experiences and described Live Oak Creek beautifully.
Beale called Live Oak Creek a "clear and beautiful stream." He noted that its water was "sweet and cool," which would have been a welcome sight for weary travelers. He also mentioned that the area around the creek had "very fine" grass, perfect for grazing animals. There was also plenty of wood, including oak, mesquite, and willow trees.
He described the view before reaching the creek as a "very steep, rocky hill" that looked over a "valley of great beauty." He said the hillsides were covered with "brilliant verdure and flowers," painting a picture of a lush and vibrant landscape. This shows how important and appealing Live Oak Creek was in the dry Texas environment.
