Nestled within the windswept plains of South Texas, the Harris Ranch stands as a testament to generations of resilience and unwavering commitment to the land. At the heart of this enduring legacy is Frank Harris, an octogenarian with a weathered gaze and a tenacious spirit. Frank's steadfast dedication to the ranch is etched in every blade of grass and within the intricate tapestry of his family's history, stretching back to the 19th century. As visitors approach the welcoming sign that reads, "A Hard Rain and a new Calf are always welcome," they are invited into the rich narrative of the Harris Ranch in Zavala County.
Reflecting on the annals of his lineage, Frank meticulously traces the origins of his family's journey, from the rugged terrains of South Texas to the expansive vistas of northern Mexico. With a background in electrical engineering, his meticulous notes reflect both the precision of his profession and the passion he pours into preserving the ranch's chronicles. His narratives unravel the struggles and triumphs of earlier generations, encapsulating the enduring spirit of those who carved their existence from the unforgiving landscapes of early Texas.
The tale spans through time, encapsulating the lives of strong-willed men and women who faced the harsh realities of life in rural Texas. From his grandfather's resilient efforts to establish the ranch in 1907 to his father's unyielding determination during the Great Depression and the Fever Tick Quarantine, the Harris family's saga is a testament to their unbreakable spirit. Frank's recollections reveal a tapestry interwoven with stories of resilience, courage, and the unrelenting pursuit of a better life amidst the unpredictability of nature and the turbulent currents of history.
Frank's father, a war veteran decorated for bravery, played a pivotal role in shaping the ranch's trajectory, transitioning from Mexican steer operations to a flourishing cow/calf enterprise. Overcoming adversities like the scathing drought of the 1950s and the ravages of the screwworm epidemic, the Harris family's endurance was a testament to their resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Throughout the narrative, the figure of Frank's mother, Rosita, emerges as a bridge between cultures, embodying a fusion of British sophistication and the rugged resilience of the Texan spirit. Her story, marked by the tumultuous backdrop of the Mexican Revolution, speaks of fortitude, sacrifice, and an unyielding determination to safeguard her family through the chaos of a changing world.
The legacy of the Harris Ranch remains a testament to the unbreakable bond between the land and the Harris family, a narrative of determination, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to preserving a way of life that spans across generations. As Frank Harris continues to nurture the ranch, his dedication stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the Harris legacy endures for generations to come. In his own words, "I must help this place keep going for my two sons as well as future generations. I guess this motivation is what keeps me going."
https://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/news/2022/03/07/frank-harris-harris-ranch-zavala-county.html
