Ranching Heritage Center Offers Entertainment, Education

Ranching Heritage Center Offers Entertainment, Education The National Ranching Heritage Center (NRHC) at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, offers an educational and family-friendly excursion into an iconic part of American history. “We opened in 1976, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of ranching in North America,” says Director of Education Julie Hodges. “The vision was to honor the culture and legacy of the American ranching industry. Over time, NRHC has grown into a world-class educational destination.” The center serves as both a museum and an activity center. “From hands-on programs for students to national collaborations, we’re continually expanding how we share ranching’s vital role in shaping our culture, economy, and environment,” Hodges says. It houses more than 50 historic structures from across the Southwest, each representing a different era of ranching life from the late 1700s to the mid-1900s. “One of our most beloved attractions is the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center,” she says. “Its interactive exhibits, featuring Hank the Cowdog, teach kids and families about ranching. Outside, our historic structures—including ranch houses, barns, a one-room schoolhouse and a blacksmith shop—are perennial favorites with visitors.” The indoor exhibits are frequently updated with a rotating collection of art, vehicles, firearms and cowboy gear. Ranch volunteers bring the historic structures alive every Saturday throughout the summer through living history demonstrations. “We also host several one-of-a-kind events for visitors of all ages—Ranch Day, Summer Stampede, Ranch Verse, National Golden Spur Award Honors, and Candlelight at the Ranch,” Hodges says. “Find more information on the website and social media.” She recommends that visitors set aside at least two to three hours to explore the Center. “That allows time to walk the historic park, visit the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center, take in the indoor exhibits, and stop at our gift shop. Many visitors end up staying much longer.” The Center is open seven days a week, and admission is free. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, National Ranching Heritage Center, 3121 4th St., Lubbock, Texas 79409 (ph 806-742-0498; ranchhc@ttu.edu; www.ranchingheritage.org).

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