If these walls could talk, they would tell stories of mammoth hunters, Comanche warriors, stoic sod-busters, and innovative ranchers. Fortunately, you don't need the walls to speak—you just need to visit the Crosby County Pioneer Memorial Museum.

Located in the heart of Crosbyton, this isn't your typical small-town museum. With a collection exceeding 45,000 artifacts and a sprawling 52,000-square-foot complex, it is one of the premier historical institutions in West Texas.

The Hank Smith House

The museum’s crown jewel is the Hank Smith House exhibit. Hank Smith, a German immigrant, and his wife Elizabeth established the first permanent home on the South Plains right here in Blanco Canyon in 1876. The museum features a faithful replica of this historic "Rock House," giving you a tangible sense of the isolation and resilience required to survive on the frontier. You can walk through the rooms and imagine a life lit by oil lamps and fueled by grit.

Native American Heritage

Before the settlers, this land was home to Paleo-Indians and later the Comanches. The Wayne J. Parker Center for the Study of Native American Cultures, a wing of the museum, houses an incredible collection of over 23,000 artifacts.

  • Arrowheads & Tools: See the evolution of hunting tools spanning thousands of years.
  • Cultural Artifacts: intricate beadwork and pottery that showcase the artistry of the plains tribes.
  • The Diorama: A massive diorama depicts the geography of Blanco Canyon and the movements of the Battle of Blanco Canyon, helping visualize the clashes that shaped the region.

Farming, Ranching, and… Cars?

The Georgia Mae & Stanley G. Ericson Farm and Ranch Museum wing preserves the agricultural heritage that built Crosbyton. From horse-drawn plows to early tractors, you can trace the history of farming technology. And for gearheads, don't miss the rare 1911 Brush Runabout automobile—a wooden-axle wonder that somehow survived the rough pioneer roads.

A Learning Experience

Whether you are a serious historian or a family looking for an educational afternoon, the museum offers something for everyone. It’s a place where history isn't just dates on a plaque; it's objects you can see and stories you can feel.

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: 101 W. Main St, Crosbyton, TX
  • Admission: Free (Donations appreciated!)
  • Hours: Check our website for current hours.

Come for the history, stay for the stories.