“The cows stuck in front of me now are a reminder of the hazards of crossing water. So many cattle drowned on the Opelousas Trail that the town of Beaumont, Texas, where the Neches River wanders along the county line, enacted the “Ordinance to Prevent Nuisances by Swimming Cattle” in August of 1840. The provision levied a $ fine per drowned cow and a $50 bond before crossing. Drowning wasn’t the only peril along this drive; there were Read More …