Who Owns This Gigantic Chunk of Texas?
So, you're curious about the Kenedy Ranch, huh? Well, buckle up, cowboy, because we're about to ride into the heart of Texas to uncover this mystery.
A Ranch So Big, It's Practically a Country
Let's get one thing straight: the Kenedy Ranch is not your average spread. We're talking about a whopping 400,000 acres here – that's more land than some small countries! It's like the Kenedy family decided, "Hey, let's own a piece of Texas the size of Rhode Island."
The Kenedy Clan: Texas Royalty
Originally, the Kenedy family called the shots on this land empire. They were the Texas equivalent of royalty, minus the crowns and the fancy accents. But as life happens, people get older, and sometimes, they don't have kids to inherit the ranch (imagine that!).
The Ranch Split: A Family Feud?
So, what happened? Well, the Kenedy Ranch got split into two main parts. There's the John G. and Marie Stella Kenedy Memorial Foundation side, which handles about 235,000 acres. Then there's the John G. Kenedy Jr. Charitable Trust side, looking after the remaining 200,000 acres.
Think of it like dividing a massive pizza: one half for the foundation, the other for the trust. Except instead of pepperoni and mushrooms, you've got cattle and wildlife.
So, No One Actually Lives There?
Nope, not in the traditional sense. The Kenedy family mansion is now owned by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who turned it into a prayer house. So, if you're planning a surprise visit, you might want to rethink your itinerary.
The Ranch Today: More Than Just Land
These days, the Kenedy Ranch is all about conservation and giving back. The foundations use the land to support various causes, from wildlife preservation to community development. It's like they're saying, "We have all this land, let's make it work for everyone."
How To... Kenedy Ranch Edition
- How to visit the Kenedy Ranch: Unfortunately, the ranch isn't open to the public. But don't despair! You can always drive by and admire it from afar.
- How to become a Kenedy: Unless you're related to the family, this one's a no-go. Sorry to burst your bubble.
- How to buy a piece of the Kenedy Ranch: Dream on! The land is tightly held by the foundations.
- How to appreciate the Kenedy Ranch's impact: Learn about the foundation's work in conservation and community support.
- How to respect the Kenedy Ranch: Admire it from afar, don't trespass, and support organizations working to protect Texas' natural heritage.