Our 100 year old building houses the history of the Coleman-Fulton Pasture Company, (Taft Ranch).
The 167,000 Acre Ranch that was a key in developing the Texas Coastal Bend. It is blended with local collections of Rocks, Minerals, Sea Shells, Military, Coins, Agricultural Equipment, and South Texas Culture..
To educate and preserve our precious history.
Taft: Blackland Museum In 1871, Col. George Fulton brought together drover Tom Coleman and cousins J.M. and Thomas Mathis to form what would become the area’s largest and most successful ranching empires. It would extend to 250,000 acres of land across five South Texas counties, and they profited greatly shipping hides and tallows from Rockport to New Orleans. Coleman’s cattle roamed freely in these parts before the company introduced some of the first fences to contain the animals in individual pastures. The ranch was eventually taken over by a lender from Ohio, who willed the land to his daughter. She married Charles P. Taft – for whom the ranch and the town were named.
Rocks, Minerals, Sea Shells, Military, Farming, Historic rooms of the 1920 era, School, Kitchen, Bathroom, Bed Room, Music Room, Board Room, and Blacksmith shop. Many more eclectic collections.
Very Extensive archives on the Coastal Bend Area.
Exhibits vary with the the seasons, we have a great number of programs for schools, educators, and guided tours for all age groups. Many things are available at no charge in our Library but we do not lend out material.
Over 12,00square feet of collections.
Privately owned and Operated by Board of Directors.
Access: General Public, Students, Scholars, Members
Appointment required: True
Tours are always available and Free. Groups are asked to call ahead.
Lectures and tours when requested.