Marker Inscription
Dug in 1868, in pick-and-shovel operation, by Lombardy Irrigation Company, whose officers were N. M. C. Patterson, W. F. Smith, and T. Watkins. Besides channeling water to irrigate over 800 acres, the 2-mile ditch furnished power for a cotton gin and shingle, grist, and flour mills. The settlement which grew up in the area was known as "The Ditch" until a post office was established in 1875. It was then named "Rio Frio" ("Cold River"). For a century the ditch has irrigated lands of families of two original company officers. (1968)
About this site
Lombardy Irrigation Ditch is a historical marker in Rio Frio, Real County, dedicated in 1968. It is one of 16 historical markers documented in Real County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 32 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 29.6342, -99.7376 near Rio Frio. The nearest cataloged historic site is Rio Frio Cemetery (cemetery), about 0.3 miles away. Others within a short drive include Famous Cattle Trail, Near Route of, Chisum Cemetery, and Clark Family Cemetery.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5385003112. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
