Big Bend Times’ most-viewed stories of all time span ghost towns, record-breaking land listings, regional reopenings, and controversial arrests—highlighting growing interest in Far West Texas.
Topping the chart is “Historic Ghost Town and Lost Mine of Terlingua Now on the Market,” with 15,920 views. The piece detailed the availability of a storied Terlingua property that drew attention from prospective buyers and history enthusiasts alike.
Land transactions dominate the list. “Massive 324,345-Acre Dove Mountain Ranch in Texas Hits the Market at a Reduced Price of $225,744,120” garnered 12,929 views, while a similar story on the “330,530-Acre Dove Mountain Ranch” brought in 12,145. A separate piece on Texas’ acquisition of Brewster Ranch for $81 million below asking price also landed among the top-read with 5,383 views.
Marfa’s enigmatic lights continue to draw attention. The article “Mysterious Marfa Lights Capture Attention on Social Media” was viewed 12,881 times, showing enduring fascination with the unexplained phenomenon.
Cultural and tourism developments also ranked high. Reports on Indian Lodge at Davis Mountains State Park—both its general 2024 reopening plans (10,951 views) and completion of a $3.5 million renovation (4,498 views)—resonated with readers. So did coverage of a large shipping container sculpture in Marfa, titled the “Sleeping Giant,” which drew 9,449 views.
Government and legal coverage also saw strong interest. The arrest of Big Bend Times’ publisher in Jeff Davis County following investigative reporting received 7,487 views. An article on a cease-and-desist order issued to Davis Mountain Apple Orchard reached 5,600 views.
Other notable stories included the closure of La Kiva in Terlingua (9,305 views), hotel acquisition deals in Alpine and Fort Davis (7,375 views), and the sighting of a Confederate statue at a golf resort (6,249 views).
The wide range of high-traffic articles reflects Big Bend Times’ focus on public interest, land use, cultural heritage, and accountability journalism in a rapidly changing region.
