Morales Ranch, TX historical marker, rock house ruins, photos. (original) (raw)
The 1881 rock house built by settler Meliton Morales
"The Morales Ranch ruins - I should probably refer it to the Morales House ruins, since it is just the one building. As the historical marker indicates, it is about 350 yards west of the marker, but it is also about 150 yards from the road that runs closest to it. It is on fenced in property, but I didn't see any No Trespassing signs posted." - Erik Whetstone, August 2005 photo
Morales Ranch - Connected to Cleo, Texas, the story of Meliton Morales and his family was worthy of a historical marker, which makes it worthy of being added to our ghost town list.
Photographer's Note:
"The historical marker is within walking distance south of the old store and community center in Cleo." -
Morales Ranch Historical Marker
Photo courtesy Erik Whetstone, August 2005
Historical Marker:
Morales Ranch
350 yards southwest stands a small rock house built in 1881 by settler Meliton Morales (1837-1924).
Born in Mexico, Morales was kidnapped by Indians as a youth and spent 9 years in captivity.
Moved to Texas in 1855. Came here from Duval County in 1874, bringing 200 Spanish goats and 2,000 sheep to start ranching.
He and wife Ramona (Pena) had 9 children. He served on jury of first court convened after organization of county. He and wife are buried on the Manuel Morales Ranch in Schleicher County, near Kimble County Line.
Descendants own this land.
1970
Morales Ranch Historical Marker
Photo courtesy Erik Whetstone, August 2005
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