Pecos, County seat in western Texas, United States
Pecos is a small town in western Texas positioned at around 2,600 feet (793 meters) above sea level amid flat desert country. The settlement spreads along several main roads, surrounded by wide dry plains and distant mountain ranges to the south.
The Texas and Pacific Railway founded the settlement in 1881 as an important junction for rail traffic through the region. Three years later, the community gained status as the administrative center for Reeves County.
The town is recognized as the birthplace of the American rodeo, a tradition still visible in local events today. Visitors can see this connection to cowboy culture through community gatherings and displays honoring rodeo history.
The town sits along Interstate 20, which runs through western Texas and offers several motels and rest stops for travelers passing through. Those traveling during the day should carry enough water, as temperatures can become very high in summer months.
Railway lines still cut through the town today, with freight trains regularly blocking main streets at several crossing points. Travelers should plan routes with possible delays from waiting trains in mind.
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