Geologist's 4,942-acre gift in 1959 helped create Guadalupe Mountains Park

When petroleum geologist Wallace Pratt first visited McKittrick Canyon in 1921, he had been sent to West Texas on a trip with oil brokers to acquire leases for Humble Oil and Refining Company. Local land brokers offered to show him what they called the most beautiful spot in Texas, a hidden oasis of clear streams, waterfalls and lush greenery in the Chihuahuan Desert. Impressed by the canyon's geology and natural beauty, Pratt bought land there with two business partners to use as a private summer retreat. Nearly four decades later, that personal refuge became the foundation for Guadalupe Mountains National Park. According to historical records maintained by the National Park Service, Pratt's first land donation included 4,942 acres and was accepted by the federal government in 1959. He and his family later gave an additional 690 acres between 1960 and 1961.