Charles Goodnight

(1836-1929) Texas Ranger, Indian fighter. At 19, on way to California gold fields, saw ranching possibilities. Settled and started ranch in Palo Pinto County, 230 miles southeast of here. In Civil War, scout, guide and hunter for Frontier Regiment, Texas Cavalry, protecting settlers from Indian raids and Federal invasion. With Oliver Loving, moved cattle herds across arid west Texas and New Mexico lands dominated by Comanche Indians, establishing Goodnight-Loving Trail northeast to U.S. forts. Founded old Goodnight College. (1964)