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Living to tell — Comanche Captives, the Babb Siblings
By Jessica Crabtree
In continuance of last month’s article featuring Thomas Jefferson “Jeff” Waggoner, another historical piece can be written in association with Waggoner. The link is Waggoner’s sister Mary Ella Waggoner Babb. Mary Ella married Hernandez Cortez “Court” Babb in 1879 in Wise County.
Court was born June 8, 1850, in Sauk County Wisconsin. The eldest of four, his father was John S. Babb and mother, Isabel Ann Jenkins Babb. Mr. Babb was Ohio-born in 1818 while all that is known about Isabel’s birth is that the year was 1824 in Ohio. Her life was cut short by an unexpected turn of events.
Mr. Babb and wife Isabel moved from Ohio, then to Wisconsin, before heading south to Texas in 1854. Forming a family, Isabel and Mr. Babb, along with sons Court and Theodore Adolphus, “Dot,” forged the track to Texas in a two-horse wagon. After reaching the mighty Red River, the boundary between Indian Territory and Texas, their journey was halted by flood waters from the swollen Red. While the family waited, their third child, a daughter named Bianca “Banc” Babb Bell was born. Thereafter, the family came to settle in Wise County near present day Chico.
The unimaginable happened in September of 1865. According to the information found coinciding with Bianca’s records, Mr. Babb and son Court left that fateful September, driving cattle up to Fort Smith, leaving his wife, son and now two daughters with the help of a young widow named Mrs. Luster. Not long after John S. and Court’s departure, a Comanche party of more than 35 braves surrounded the Babb homestead. While there was little to no warning, the Babb family took refuge in their home before being invaded by Indians.
To read more pick up a copy of the November 2018 NTFR issue. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
By Emily Gleason
The outdoor, hunting, and fishing industries have long been perceived traditionally as a male-dominated realm. However, as societal norms shift, the experiences of women in these industries have been increasingly coming to the forefront. Being a woman in the outdoor industry today is a complex blend of passion, perseverance, and community, marked by both challenges and triumphs.
Women who hunt or engage in outdoor activities frequently find themselves confronting preconceived notions about their capabilities and interests. Many of us have experienced skepticism or outright disbelief when we express our enthusiasm for hunting or other outdoor activities.
Despite these stereotypes, women are increasingly challenging and redefining what it means to be involved in these activities. Female hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are not only participating but excelling in such skills. They contribute unique perspectives and insights to the hunting community, showcasing that passion for the outdoors knows no gender.
To read more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By Norman Winter
It’s easy for us to take for granted the multiple forbs that are growing throughout our North Texas and Oklahoma grazing lands. They play an important part in the health of our soils and of our livestock, and we should be aware of how they fit in our grazing environment.
Winecup is one of the forbs that many of us can recognize. There are both annual and perennial species, and of significant numbers in our area is Trailing winecup, which is a perennial.
To learn more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By Hannah Claxton | Editor
The North Texas Fair and Rodeo, held annually in Denton, Texas, has a rich history that dates back to 1928. Originally conceived as a small agricultural fair, it was organized to showcase the region’s farming and ranching heritage while promoting local businesses and community engagement.
The fair quickly gained popularity, and by 1958, it incorporated a rodeo, which became a central feature of the event. The rodeo added an exciting element to the fair, drawing competitors and spectators from across the region to witness events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Over the years, the fair grew in size and scope, expanding to include live entertainment, carnival rides, livestock shows, and various exhibitions celebrating North Texas culture.
Today, the North Texas Fair and Rodeo has become one of the largest and most anticipated events in the region, attracting thousands of visitors each August. It remains true to its roots, continuing to celebrate the region’s agricultural and ranching heritage while incorporating modern elements such as concerts, arts and crafts, and food vendors.
The rodeo, which is now a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association sanctioned event, draws top-tier competitors from across the state- both in the arena and for the accompanying rodeo queen contest.
To learn more about Miss North Texas Fair & Rodeo, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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