October 7th 1759, a fierce battle took place on the Red River between Native American tribes, including Comanches, Yaceales, and Tawakonis, and a Spanish force led by Diego Ortiz Parilla. The Indigenous warriors emerged victorious, dealing a blow to the Spanish presence in the area.
Fast forwarding to 1862, we celebrate the birth of Lee Bivens, a man who would grow up to become a prominent rancher in Amarillo. By the 1920s, Bivens was widely recognized as the largest individual cattle owner in the world, solidifying his legacy in the industry.
However, not all events on this day are cause for celebration. In 1868, in Boston, TX, William G. Kirkman, an agent of the Freedman’s Bureau, was tragically assassinated by an outlaw named Cullen Baker. This act of violence served as a reminder of the lawlessness that plagued certain areas of Texas during this time.
Shifting gears to more recent history, we turn our attention to 1951 when the Western Hills Hotel in Fort Worth made waves by becoming the first hotel to feature all foam-rubber mattresses and pillows. This innovative development in the hospitality industry showcased Texas’ commitment to modernization and comfort.