Elam and Perneitia Tarrant, who came from Talladega County, Alabama, built the old homestead and cemetery in 1850. The original house, was built 22 years before Jacksonville was established. In 1850, cotton was king, and the Tarrants had their own cotton gin and hauled the baled cotton in wagons to the river port in Jefferson to be sold. Jefferson was the largest town in Northeast Texas at the time and was an entry into Texas.
In 1946, James Robert Tarrant began raising cattle. At one time, the second largest herd of Brahman cattle in the United States lived on this ranch. Through special breeding, the Tarrants began a herd of black Brahman, and in 1957, registered the first-ever black Brahman. The cattle were shipped all over the world and were in high demand. In 2005, the cattle were sold. In present times, the legacy continues as the grandchild, Ben Tarrant, now raise cattle on the very same land.
The ranch became a recreational area in 2005. It now offers more than 50 miles of marked trails cut into the woods with primitive campsite, you can bring your RV, pitch a tent and sleep under the stars.
The ranch is located on the Mount Selman/Loves Lookout earthquake fault line, and the geological activity has definitely shaped the property. Unique ponds with sundry rock formations are found in numerous locations. There is cold, crisp, clean water and more than 30 ponds and lakes on the property. Peaceful nights await you as you listen to crickets, coyotes and other critters that come alive at night.
This is a perfect place to bring a troop of Boy or Girls Scouts, your riding club or family for a quiet, getaway.