El Fortin De La Cienega, Texas
Nestled within the rugged landscape of Presidio County, Texas, lies a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of early settlers: El Fortin De La Cienega. This historic fort, erected in 1857 by the enterprising Milton Faver, stands as a compelling example of private fortifications in the vast Big Bend region, a silent sentinel echoing tales of ranching empires, defensive strategies, and the relentless pursuit of prosperity in the untamed West.
The story of El Fortin De La Cienega is inextricably linked to Milton Faver, a visionary rancher who carved out a significant domain in the challenging terrain of West Texas. Faver, recognizing the need for security and control over his burgeoning cattle operations, modeled the fort after his headquarters ranch complex at El Fortin del Cibolo. This strategic decision laid the foundation for a fortified outpost that would play a crucial role in the development of the region.
Located along the life-giving Cienega Creek, the fort’s position was carefully chosen. Faver strategically situated El Fortin De La Cienega amid a protective embrace of rolling hills, leveraging the natural topography to enhance its defensive capabilities. More than just a secure dwelling, the fort became the first significant outpost erected between the established military presence of Fort Davis and the Rio Grande, a testament to Faver’s ambition and his commitment to securing his interests in a volatile environment.
Faver’s vision extended beyond mere defense. He recognized the importance of sustainable resources and ingeniously tapped into the natural springs that graced the property. This foresight ensured a reliable water supply, not only for his livestock but also for the extensive vegetable gardens and a flourishing peach orchard that transformed the arid landscape into an oasis. The fort became a self-sufficient hub, capable of sustaining a community and contributing to the wider region.
The ingenuity didn’t stop there. Faver constructed an intricate irrigation system that efficiently distributed water across his Cibolo ranch crops. Showing civic responsibility and an understanding of the needs of the surrounding communities, he also supplied the soldiers stationed at Fort Davis and the residents of the nearby mining town of Shafter with crucial water resources. This act solidified his position as a vital contributor to the area’s development and earned him the respect of both the military and civilian populations.
The physical layout of El Fortin De La Cienega reflected its multifaceted purpose. Beyond the fortified structure itself, the site encompassed a collection of essential buildings designed to support the daily life of the ranch. Dwellings provided living quarters for the families employed by Faver, while specialized workrooms catered to the various tasks essential for maintaining the ranching operation. Sturdy stone corrals and fences contained the valuable livestock, and strategically placed holding pens facilitated the management of the cattle.
Cattle ranching was the lifeblood of El Fortin De La Cienega. Milton Faver employed numerous families, skilled vaqueros (cowboys) and dedicated laborers, who formed the backbone of his thriving enterprise. These individuals played a vital role in managing the vast herds, tending to the land, and ensuring the continued prosperity of the ranch. The fort, therefore, was not just a structure of stone and adobe; it was a community, bound together by shared labor and a common purpose.
The legacy of El Fortin De La Cienega extends beyond Milton Faver’s lifetime. Following his death in 1889, the property was divided between his wife, Francesca, and his son, Juan Faver. Juan inherited La Cienega, continuing the family’s connection to the land. However, after Juan’s death in 1913, his heirs made the difficult decision to sell the Cienega complex to neighboring ranchers John A. Pool, Sr., and J. W. Pool. This marked a transition in ownership but did not diminish the fort’s historical significance.
The Pool family and their heirs, the Greenwood family, maintained ownership of El Fortin De La Cienega for several decades, preserving its integrity and ensuring its survival. It remained in their possession until the 1980s, when it eventually became part of the larger Cibolo Creek Ranch.
Today, El Fortin De La Cienega stands as a meticulously reconstructed and restored testament to the past. Painstaking efforts, informed by archaeological evidence and employing traditional hand labor techniques, have breathed new life into the one-story adobe structure. The cottonwood and cypress construction reflects the materials readily available to the original builders. The courtyard configuration, with its imposing walls ranging from one to four feet thick, provides a glimpse into the fort’s defensive design. Rounded towers, strategically positioned at the northwest and southeast corners, offered enhanced vantage points, while carefully placed gun ports allowed for effective defense. Even the wood drain spouts are historically accurate details, demonstrating the commitment to authenticity in the restoration process.
Hand-built stone fences, a characteristic feature of the landscape, further accentuate the fort’s primitive surroundings. The fort is a tangible link to a bygone era, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine life on the Texas frontier. Its designation as a Texas Historic Landmark underscores its significance as one of the region’s most important historical structures.
Now integrated into the expansive Cibolo Creek Ranch, one of the oldest ranches in Texas, El Fortin De La Cienega offers a unique blend of history and hospitality. The ranch provides visitor accommodations, fine dining experiences, and event venues, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region. Hunting expeditions, guided tours, and other activities further enhance the visitor experience, making Cibolo Creek Ranch a destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deeper understanding of Texas history.
A historical marker stands proudly in Presidio County, near the town of Shafter, commemorating the significance of El Fortin De La Cienega. It serves as a constant reminder of the fort’s role in shaping the landscape and the lives of those who called this region home. The marker invites travelers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the enduring legacy of this remarkable site.