Camp Holland, Texas
In the vast expanse of Presidio County, Texas, where the rugged landscape meets the horizon, lies a site steeped in history and echoing with tales of border conflicts and military presence: Camp Holland, Texas. Also known as Jackass Camp, this outpost emerged in 1918 as a direct response to the escalating raids carried out by Mexican bandits, most notably those targeting the Brite Ranch and Neville Ranch. The establishment of Camp Holland, Texas, marked a pivotal moment in the region’s struggle to maintain order and security along the volatile U.S.-Mexico border.
The very name of the camp pays homage to the J.R. Holland Ranch, the land upon which it was strategically constructed. More than just a collection of buildings, Camp Holland, Texas, was a self-sufficient community designed to house and support a significant military force. The layout comprised two substantial barracks capable of accommodating up to 400 soldiers, providing them with essential shelter and living space. Four officer’s houses offered more refined accommodations for the commanding personnel, while a central mess hall served as the communal dining area, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences among the troops.
Beyond the living quarters, Camp Holland, Texas, included essential infrastructure to ensure operational efficiency. A guardhouse stood as a symbol of security and control, while a bakery provided the sustenance necessary to fuel the soldiers’ arduous duties. A blacksmith shop, a vital component of any frontier outpost, ensured the maintenance and repair of equipment, from horseshoes to weaponry. A quartermaster store supplied the troops with the necessary provisions, clothing, and equipment needed to endure the harsh conditions and fulfill their mission.
Camp Holland, Texas, played a crucial role in supporting the United States Cavalry’s efforts to patrol the Mexican border and counter the threat posed by figures such as Pancho Villa and his band of revolutionaries. The camp served as a crucial supply hub, organizing and dispatching pack trains laden with essential goods to sustain the cavalry units as they traversed the challenging terrain. These patrols aimed to deter cross-border raids, protect American citizens and property, and maintain a semblance of order in a region fraught with tension and unrest.
However, the active life of Camp Holland, Texas, was relatively short-lived. By 1921, the U.S. Army began to reassess its border patrol strategy in Presidio County, leading to a gradual phasing out of military presence. The decision to close Camp Holland marked a shift in priorities and a perceived decrease in the immediate threat level. With the military no longer requiring the facilities, the buildings of Camp Holland, Texas, entered a new phase of utilization.
Initially, the structures were leased to various civilian entities, including the famed Texas Rangers, who continued to play a role in maintaining law and order in the region. Customs and immigration border patrols also utilized the facilities, reflecting the ongoing need for vigilance along the international boundary. This period of leasing provided a temporary solution, ensuring that the buildings remained occupied and served a purpose within the community.
Eventually, the buildings of Camp Holland, Texas, were sold to private owners, marking the final transition from military post to civilian property. This marked the end of an era for the camp, as its purpose shifted from military defense to private enterprise.
Beyond its history as a military outpost, the area surrounding Camp Holland, Texas, holds significance as the site of a notable event in the history of the American West. Viejo Pass, located approximately 12 miles west of Valentine, Texas, witnessed the last recorded battle in Presidio County between the U.S. Cavalry and Apache Indians. This encounter, which took place on June 12, 1880, stands as a reminder of the long and complex history of conflict between Native American tribes and the U.S. military in the region.
A historical marker now designates the site of this battle, commemorating the event and providing a tangible link to the past. The marker serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by both sides during this period of conflict and the enduring legacy of the American West.
Today, while much of Camp Holland, Texas, has faded into the landscape, some of the original fort buildings still stand on the privately owned Miller Ranch. These remnants offer a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to imagine the bustling activity that once characterized this frontier outpost. The weathered structures stand as silent witnesses to the history of border conflicts, military presence, and the evolving landscape of West Texas.
Visiting the site of Camp Holland, Texas, requires permission from the property owners, allowing for responsible exploration and appreciation of the historical significance of the location. The remaining buildings serve as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those who lived and served in this remote region, and the enduring legacy of the American West. The stories of soldiers, bandits, and Native Americans converge at this site, creating a rich tapestry of history that continues to captivate and inform.