Since 1865
Our Story
The story of Richards Ranch
A Legacy of Land, Cattle, and Character.
A Legacy of Land, Cattle, and Character.
1865
Founding Year
Eliza Elizabeth Boon Dodson establishes the ranch just south of Jacksboro, Texas, during post-Civil War settlement of the West.
LATE 1800s – EARLY 1900s
Frontier Ranching Era
2nd generation Henry James Hensley greatly expands land holdings.
The ranch operates as a working cattle operation across rugged North Texas terrain, surviving droughts, market crashes, and evolving practices.
MID 1900s
Generational Continuity
The Richards Family continues to steward the land, preserving traditional values while adapting to changing agricultural practices.
1970s–1980s
Expansion of Land Management practices
Under the direction of 5th generation ranch manager John Hackley, Richards Ranch began implementing advanced rangeland conservation strategies, setting the foundation for award-winning stewardship.
Establishes innovative holistic rangeland management practices across all livestock operations.
1998
Current General Manager and 6th generation Brent Hackley returns
Growth of Hunting & Guest Lodging Business
Richards Ranch expands into curated hunting experiences and upscale lodging for guests, including private cabins and full-service meals.
Current General Manager and 6th generation Brent Hackley returns. Implementation of innovative wildlife management practices.
Advancement of adaptive grazing techniques and improvement of grass efficient angus genetics.
2023
Family Leadership Expands
7th-generation Hunter Hackley takes on role of Assistant Manager.
2023
Launch of Horse Clinics and Working Dog Camps
The ranch begins hosting horsemanship, ranch riding, and dog training events focused on skill-building and tradition.
2025
Opening of Richards Ranch Event Center
New 200′ × 360′ outdoor arena and event venue
Designed for cutting, sorting, roping, and more—supporting both professional and recreational riders.
ONGOING
Outreach & Innovation
Actively contributes to regional historical, ecological, and youth-oriented initiatives.
Continues to seek innovative ways to improve operations and implement progressive business practices.
Richards Ranch
CORE VALUES
Land Stewardship:
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- Ecology: maintaining a healthy and complex ecosystem by enhancing biodiversity and fostering a rich native ecosystem.
- Sustainability: practicing regenerative grazing practices that improve rangeland resiliency.
- Long-term Vision: Implementing practices that build on our ancestors’ hard work and that are intended to leave the land in better shape for our descendants.
Animal Husbandry:
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- Raising livestock on open pastures and allowing them to express their natural behaviors.
- Treating animals like part of our family, with their health and temperament as top priorities.
- Employing low-stress handling practices and ensuring the safety of all livestock.
Western Heritage Preservation
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- Upholding our generational ranching values through the use of traditional skills and practices and the continuation of the pastoral way of life.
- Hosting western lifestyle events that perpetuate cowboy traditions and practices.
- Safeguarding over 160 years of heritage and honoring our ancestors’ contribution to western history.
Our Legacy
You Have My Word,
Hunter Hackley
Richards Ranch
7th Generation Family Member