Nestled high in the picturesque hills above Medina, Texas, lies a hidden gem of a ranch, a sprawling 3,000-acre expanse known as Two Bow Ranch. For over two decades, Ron Toms and his wife Fran have lovingly tended to this wild and untamed landscape, transforming it from an almost impenetrable cedar-covered rocky terrain into a haven of natural beauty and wonder. Their tireless efforts have not only improved the quality of the land but have also contributed to the flourishing health of the native wildlife.
As you step onto the property, you'll be greeted by a warm and lively scene that unfolds in the grand ranch house perched atop a hill. This is where family gatherings take place every weekend, filled with delicious feasts prepared by Ron and Fran's loved ones. From heaping plates of mouthwatering chicken legs to mounds of creamy mashed potatoes and an array of delectable sides, this is a place where culinary delights are shared amidst laughter, clinking cutlery, and the bonds of family.
But Two Bow Ranch is more than just a family retreat; it's a place where history and nature seamlessly converge. The ranch's name itself, "Two Bow," is a testament to the rich history and personal passion of Ron and Fran. It was inspired by the gift of two antique Native American bows from Fran, setting the stage for Ron's lifelong journey of historical exploration.
One of Ron's greatest passions lies in the study of Native American culture and the collection of artifacts from various ranches and collectors throughout Texas. The ranch proudly houses a museum-like great-room, adorned with an intricate display of Native American arrowheads and tools. It's here that Ron spontaneously imparts lessons on the origins and uses of these hand-crafted treasures to eager family and friends.
But Two Bow Ranch wasn't always this accessible and rich with history. When the Toms family first acquired the land, dense cedar thickets made traversing the property nearly impossible. It was overgrazed and had been owned by individuals who didn't fully comprehend the importance of stewardship. Ron began the painstaking process of clearing the land and using controlled burns to restore the natural balance of the ecosystem. These efforts not only allowed for more accessible roads and majestic views but also emulated the practices of the indigenous people who had once thrived on this very land.
Improving the wildlife of Two Bow Ranch became another focal point. The Toms family has diligently cared for the white-tail deer, red deer, Pere David's, and buffalo that call the ranch home. The buffalo, in particular, hold a special place in Ron's heart, as they were once on the brink of extinction. With carefully planted food plots, lakes for wildlife to drink from, and supplemental feeding, the Toms family has helped foster a thriving ecosystem.
In the pursuit of knowledge, Ron has not only explored the history of his land but invited experts from various fields to study the ranch. Their findings have revealed fascinating insights into the indigenous people who once roamed these hills, the migratory patterns of different groups, and the intelligent use of resources.
With each passing year, the Toms family's connection to Two Bow Ranch deepens. It's a place where the stars shine brightly at night, where phones are left behind, and where the spirit of the land becomes entwined with the souls of those who tend to it. Ron Toms understands that he is merely a temporary custodian of this remarkable piece of earth, and his mission is to pass down the legacy of stewardship and respect for the land to the next generation.
Two Bow Ranch is not just a piece of land, it's a living testament to the enduring connection between people, nature, and history. As Ron Toms puts it, "I suppose I needed the ranch, but prior to having it, I didn't realize I needed it." Today, there's no place he'd rather be, and there are few joys greater than the responsibility of knowing the land needs him. In this article, we'll delve deeper into the remarkable story of Two Bow Ranch and the dedicated stewardship of the Toms family.
