LOCATION: This historic ranch, once a major part of the holdings of legendary Texas pioneer Capt. Charles Schreiner, is located on all-weather Mill Creek Road, about 15 miles NW of Harper (supplies, feed, basics), just north of the Kimble/Mason County line. It is about 20 miles from both Junction (5,000 paved, lighted airstrip) to the SW, and Mason to the north. Both of these communities have grocery stores, shops, medical clinics and restaurants. Fredericksburg is about 45 miles east (good hospital, extensive shopping/restaurants) and Llano is about 55 miles NE.
San Antonio is a little over 1.25 hours drive to the south, and Austin and San Angelo are both about 100 miles distant. This is a decidedly rural area, in big ranch country, not frequented by hordes of people. Cattle, sheep, deer and outdoor recreation rule this part of the Hill Country, and it is a rare, pristine zone th...
San Antonio is a little over 1.25 hours drive to the south, and Austin and San Angelo are both about 100 miles distant. This is a decidedly rural area, in big ranch country, not frequented by hordes of people. Cattle, sheep, deer and outdoor recreation rule this part of the Hill Country, and it is a rare, pristine zone that has much appeal to those searching for the feel of bigger country, yet still only 1.5 hours or slightly more from 3 large, vibrant cities.
WATER: The mystical, spring-fed James River passes thru the ranch, including 1.5 miles of both sides of river ownership. In this area, it is mostly a 75 yard wide, solid rock bottom stream after its confluence with the Little Devils River just south of this ranch. This water flows year round according to historical data, as there is a large spring just upstream from this part of the ranch that is quite impressive, and several smaller springs emanating from this ranch that have never gone dry, that keep the flow active. This section of the river is classic James, with gurgling waterfalls and wide riffles beneath towering limestone/sandstone, color-streaked bluffs. There are several good swimming holes, including a large, deep hole chock full of fish near the northern boundary that would be suitable for a small boat.
It feels primeval and spacious as one wanders down the rock-bottom stream. Sighting of bald eagles is not uncommon, and there are fascinating, spring-fed side canyons, one of which features a 10 waterfall into a small pool enclosed by solid rock canyon walls lined with ferns and riparian plants. These creeks have water in them during dry times, and could likely be enhanced by cedar removal. Corn Springs trickles into a shallow canyon in the ranchs central section, then flows off to the northern neighbor.
The ranch is adequately watered by wells and springs, with livestock water available at depth of 200. For further information on area groundwater, please contact the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 at 325.597.2785 or visit their website.
LAND: Variety is the hallmark of this ranch, with the fertile, clay soil plains moving east to the river breaks. These breaks have limestone outcrops, and roll gently down to the river streambed below. Moving east, dramatic cliffs rise above the tranquil river below, punctuated by deep canyons (some with spring creeks), rising once again to the clay plains. The overall topography of the ranch encompasses 240 of relief from the eastern plains down to the northernmost James River exit point.
Soil quality is good for the area, with clays ranging from red to dark brown, with occasional rock and sandy outcrops, resulting in abundant forage production. There are unusual minerals and elements present in some areas, and there is a major gypsum quarry several miles to the east.
The ranch has been historically managed for livestock and deer since the 1870s, evidenced by large areas that have been chained and planted in grasses over the years. This ranch will grow beef with adequate rainfall, make no mistake, and many large whitetail bucks (168 B&C harvested in 2009) have been observed on recent visits. This is definitely superior deer country, and strong soils produce high-protein grasses, forbs and shrubs most of the year, resulting in fat, healthy animals who reproduce well and resist diseases.
There are liveoaks over most of the ranch, and cedar, walnut, Spanish oak, mesquite, elm and pecan are also present. Much of the ranch has excellent mixed cover for wildlife, including quail and songbirds (which are heard and observed regularly). Turkey habitat is solid, and there are several prime roosting areas along the river and larger creek drainages. Feral hogs are present, but not overly so. Varmints such as fox, coon, bobcat, rabbit and skunk inhabit the site as well.
Intrigue is found in interesting caves nestled into the river bluffs, including pictographs of possible ancient origin. There is little doubt that Native Americans lived on this ranch, though their traces have not been aggressively sought.
IMPROVEMENTS: This working ranch is fenced and cross fenced into several large pastures, and there are several hunting camps located on site. Ranch roads are adequate, and electricity is fairly well distributed throughout the parcel.
FINANCIAL/TITLE: Asking $3,477/acre, cash to Sellers, who will provide recent survey and basic title insurance. 25% of owned minerals under the ranch to convey. Recent title commitment available upon request. The property lies in the Mason and Harper School Districts, and current ag-exempt taxes are approximately $2000.
SUMMARY: If youre looking for the real deal, big-time live water ranch in ranch country for a ranch country price, we invite you for a tour. There have been few offerings of this magnitude in this prized area, and they dont last long when they occur. Come to the big country of the western Edwards Plateau, where eagles and spirits soar, and find an investment/enjoyment opportunity that is priceless. Walk in the footsteps of Capt. Schreiner, spend a lifetime learning the ranch, transform it into the dream spot your family deserves. Relax, enjoy the solitude, while being within easy driving distance of major cities. We hope to hear from you soon, and appreciate your consideration.
The information contained herein has been diligently assembled and is deemed reliable, but is not warranted by Broker or Seller, express or implied, and is subject to change, prior sale, errors and/or omissions and withdrawal from market. Buyers must verify accuracy of representations on their own, as well as investigate potentially pertinent natural attributes, laws and regulations, and draw their own conclusions regarding the usefulness and value of the property for a given purpose. SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, DO NOT TRESPASS.
Buyers brokers must be identified on first contact, and must accompany buying prospect on first showing to be allowed full fee participation. If this condition is not met, fee participation will be at sole discretion of LANDTX, David E. Culver, broker.