The historic Shafter Ghost Town, located 40 miles south of Marfa on Highway 67, is experiencing a significant transformation under the direction of billionaire John Poindexter, owner of the Cibolo Creek Ranch resort. According to reporting by the Big Bend Sentinel, Poindexter has acquired several properties in Shafter, with plans to restore them and create a destination highlighting the town’s rich history.
A New Vision for Shafter
Shafter, once a bustling silver mining town, is being revitalized with restored buildings and plans for exhibits to showcase its past. Recent efforts have focused on clearing vegetation and rehabilitating structures to reflect the town’s heyday in the early 1900s. Poindexter’s Tidewater & Big Bend Foundation is overseeing the project, aiming to create a living history destination with features such as museums, overnight accommodations, and dining options.
Community Benefits and Challenges
Shafter’s small population, around 25 residents, has mixed feelings about the changes, though many welcome the improvements. Plans include adding a restaurant and shop, which would provide much-needed conveniences for locals who currently drive to Presidio for supplies. Restoration efforts also extend to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Mission Church, which remains a community hub and still holds monthly Mass.
Preservation Efforts
Key properties under restoration include the former Howell Package Store, a large house next door, and a historic gas station. The gas station, once known as the Silver Mine Store, is set to become a small restaurant with a focus on preserving its historical elements. While some buildings are being restored, others too dilapidated for renovation may remain untouched, contributing to the town’s ghostly ambiance.
Future Development
Efforts to secure a reliable water system for Shafter are underway, ensuring the town’s sustainability as it grows. Discussions about reopening the dormant silver mine, which briefly operated from 2008 to 2012, add to the community’s long-term potential.
Poindexter’s vision for Shafter is ambitious, combining historical preservation with modern amenities. By transforming this ghost town into a vibrant destination, his work ensures that Shafter’s unique place in Texas history will be celebrated for years to come.
