Dallam County: Discover XIT History and Culture

Dalhart is the site of the XIT Ranch and a stop on the Quanah Parker Trail within the Texas Plains Trail Region. These connections provide a distinctive introduction to Dallam County, where XIT history, regional culture, and outdoor recreation appeal to a range of interests. Trip planning can therefore focus on a variety of things: exhibits on county history, an annual event featuring a rodeo and parade, historic buildings, or activities at Rita Blanca. You can decide which of these to prioritize based on the places and topics below.

XIT History and Wildlife

The XIT Museum houses numerous permanent and temporary exhibits on the history of Dallam and Hartley counties. Dioramas and educational programs for schoolchildren also offer insights into the native wildlife of the northwestern Texas Panhandle. The museum thus brings together regional history and a close look at the wildlife of the area. Those especially interested in nature can explore the dioramas and educational programs, while visitors looking into regional history can focus on the exhibits about Dallam and Hartley.

Dalhart’s annual XIT Reunion is also connected to the history of the cattle country. The event includes a rodeo and parade; a horse with an empty saddle also honors the cattle country’s former riders. Alongside the festivities, this memorial provides the Reunion with particular historical significance. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the event dates as you make your plans.

Places and Architectural History

Local history is reflected in different ways. Texline was the first county seat of Dallam County. Dalhart was founded where the Rock Island Railroad and Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad lines crossed. These represent two distinct aspects: Texline’s early role in county administration and Dalhart’s origins at a railroad junction.

The Dallam County Courthouse was completed in 1923 and designed by Smith and Townes. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The La Rita Performing Arts Theatre tells a different story of architectural history: it was remodeled in the Art Deco style in the summer of 1942. Together, the two buildings offer different points of interest for those interested in the history of public buildings and the area’s architectural history.

Planning a Day at Rita Blanca

For outdoor visits, it is important to note the usage restriction: Lake Rita Blanca City Park is open for day use only. The same applies to Rita Blanca National Grassland. Plan visits to both as daytime activities and check the latest visitor information beforehand, as operating status may change.

Rita Blanca Coliseum has an 18-hole disc golf course. It is free and open to the public, and available year-round during daylight hours. This gives your day a clear timeframe: use is limited to daylight hours. As operating and usage information may change, check current municipal notices before visiting.

Rita Blanca Lake Park has RV sites near the Lake Center Building. Availability and conditions may change. If you want to include this option in your plans, confirm the latest information in advance.

Choose Your Interests for Your Stay

For a history-focused trip, consider the XIT Museum’s exhibits, the local history of Texline and Dalhart, and the architectural history of the Courthouse and La Rita Performing Arts Theatre as distinct topics to explore. The XIT Reunion adds an annual event featuring a rodeo, parade, and memorial. Those who prefer recreational activities can consider the 18-hole disc golf course and plan for day use only at Lake Rita Blanca City Park and the National Grassland.

If you’re looking for a hotel for your stay in Dallam County, these interests can help organize your trip: consider whether you’d like to set aside more time for regional history, the XIT Reunion, or recreational activities. Also coordinate your plans with current visitor information and, if relevant, the Reunion dates.

Discover more destinations: Dalhart, Texline, University Park, Rains County, Hill County, Bexar, Freestone County, Hardin County.

For the overview of the wider region: Texas.