Claude....Don't Just Stop. Explore!

CLAUDE, TEXAS...Country Living with a View of City Lights

Claude, Texas....Yes, you could say I've been there a time or two. In my travels back in forth to Dallas on Hwy 287, I've made many stops at their local Alsups for gas. And yes again, in my previous life as a basketball coach and cheerleading sponsor, our teams have had their share of ballgames at the mighty blue & red Mustang stadiums. But wait---does that count towards experiencing the town and its assets? I think not. In order to actually learn about a town, you have to absorb yourself in what it is that makes a place home. Here's a little more about this unique town.

     Claude became Armstrong County seat in 1890 when a tie-breaking vote for Claude was allegedly cast by legendary cattleman Charles Goodnight, former co-owner of the JA Ranch. Claude was 1st named Armstrong City, but the name was changed in 1887 after Claude Ayers, the engineer of the 1st train to travel through area. Spanish conquistador Francisco Coronado & party went through Claude and Tule Canyon, a scenic wonder to the south of Claude off Hwy 207 towards Silverton. Many historic buildings are in Claude including the Armstrong County Courthouse (1912), County Jail (1921), and County Museum/Gem Theater. Several films including The Sundowners, HUD, starring Paul Newman, Leap of Faith & Sunshine Christmas were made here. Tom Blasingame, considered the oldest cowboy in the American west, lived and worked on the JA Ranch for 73 years. During the 30’s, Claude had the only official-sized gymnasium in the area. The West Texas State College basketball team used it on many occasions. Claude has many antique shops on the square, a city park, rodeo arena, and a public library. Claude offers country living with a view of the city lights of Amarillo. Yearly events include Goodnight Festival and Caprock Round-Up. http://www.armstrongcountymuseum.org/   806-226-2187. Find out even more about Armstrong County at: 
http://www.texasplainstrail.com/index.aspx?page=1190&recordid=5801
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