Moore: Windmills, Art, and History

Moore reveals its history through windmills and ranching, as well as through art, theater, and leisure activities. For planning, it’s worth distinguishing between these themes: the Window on the Plains Museum brings together several historical points of interest, while the Art Center hosts changing exhibitions. There is also a historic trail, event venues, and annual events. This makes it easy to choose which interests you want to shape your stay.

Windmills, ranches, and historic trails

The Window on the Plains Museum moved to its permanent location in 2001. South of the museum stands an Aermotor windmill donated by the Charlie Jameson family. It is a concrete example of the area’s windmill history. In the past, Moore County had an average of one windmill for every 900 parcels of land. Windmills once defined the horizon around Dumas; they were used to pump water. These details illustrate different scales: a single windmill at the museum and a historic distribution that shaped the landscape.

The Tascosa-Dodge City Trail is also part of the region’s history. It was established in 1877 for cattle drives and freight transport, and also served as a stagecoach and mail route. Those interested in the development of transportation and the cattle industry will find several historic functions represented by this named trail. The Sneed Ranch grew to become the largest ranch in Moore County, adding to this picture of ranching history.

Art and theater

The Art Center opened in October 2004. Its exhibitions change monthly and feature works by artists from the region. This ongoing rotation sets the program apart from a permanent historical display and offers a distinct focus for a visit centered on regional art.

The historic Evelyn Theatre is a beautifully renovated two-screen cinema built more than 70 years ago. In addition to showing films, the theater hosts private parties, gaming events, and family nights. This means that films and a variety of event formats share the same venue. Which option suits your stay depends on whether you’re more interested in the theater’s history or in a specific event.

Leisure activities for different interests

Dumas Aquatic Park features umbrellas, winding slides, and a splash pad. Operations may vary by season, so plan your visit accordingly. At Dumas Family Fun Center, activities include bowling and miniature golf with glow-in-the-dark lanes. Since offerings may change, check the latest information about these activities before your visit.

Pheasant Trails Golf Course also offers a clear contrast within a single course: the front nine holes are laid out in the Scottish links style, while the back nine follow a West Texas style. Golf enthusiasts can take these two distinct design influences into account rather than viewing the entire course as a single, uniform layout. Course details may change, so keep that in mind when planning.

Keep an eye on annual events

Dogie Days is an annual celebration in Dumas that dates back to 1946. The Texas Tumbleweed 100 is also held annually: this cycling event features routes ranging from 12 to 100 miles. The Christmas Open House at the Window on the Plains Museum includes complimentary refreshments, holiday entertainment, seasonal displays, and visits from Santa Claus. The three events differ considerably in their occasion and activities. If you’d like to plan your stay around one of them, check the specific event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Dumas, Potter, Gonzales, Lynn County, Wise, Oldham, Hopkins, Clay.

For the broader travel overview: Texas.