
Visit Fort Worth
The Fort Worth Herd
Every great Western has its legends. And in the heart of Fort Worth, where the Old West still rumbles down East Exchange Avenue twice a day, four new stars are stepping onto the scene. Meet Black Gold, Brutus, McCree, and Blacksmith — the latest steers to join the Fort Worth Herd, a living, breathing tribute to Texas history.
These four aren’t just cattle. They’re icons in the making, each with a story as rich as the land they now roam.
Black Gold: Striking Oil in the Herd

The Fort Worth Herd
Originally from Greenleaf, Kansas, Black Gold is the kind of Longhorn that turns heads. Born in 2018 and standing proud with a striking black coat and a horn span that stretches an awe-inspiring 100.5 inches, he’s a testament to the grandeur of the breed. Gifted to the Herd by Lazy J Longhorns and Joe Sedlacek, his name is a nod to the Texas dream — hitting it big, just like a gusher in an oil field.
Brutus: The Gentle Giant

The Fort Worth Herd
Some legends are born champions, and Brutus carries that title with ease. With his commanding red-and-white spotted coat and formidable frame, this 2019 Sunset, Texas native has won multiple championships. Now, as the largest steer in the Herd, he brings sheer presence to every cattle drive. Donated by Karlye Williams, Brutus is the kind of Longhorn that reminds you why Texas is known for going big.
McCree: The Quiet Maverick

Not all heroes ride in with thunderous hooves — some glide in with quiet confidence. McCree, a two-year-old steer also donated by Karlye Williams, is the Herd’s calm, collected soul. His sleek red coat and delicate white speckles make him a visual standout, but it’s his straight, measured horns (spanning 57.5 inches) that tell a different story — one of steady growth and quiet strength. He’s the reminder that even in the wild frontier, there’s beauty in grace.
Blacksmith: The Local Legend

Some stories come full circle. Blacksmith, a sleek black-and-white stunner from Southlake, is as local as they come. Donated by Chris Hesse, he wears the number ‘25’ branded into his hide, marking his arrival in the Herd’s 25th anniversary day. It’s a fitting tribute — like a cowboy returning home after a long ride on the trail.
But the Fort Worth Herd is more than just a twice-daily cattle drive — it’s history in motion. Every day at 11:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., these longhorns make their way down East Exchange Avenue, led by real Texas cowhands dressed in the authentic gear of the 19th century. The saddles, the chaps, the dust kicked up in the afternoon sun — it’s as real as it gets.
Want to get closer to the Herd?
The behind-the-scenes Fort Worth Herd Experience happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at 129 East Exchange Avenue. And if you want to support this iconic tradition, text THEHERD to 41444 or visit fortworth.com/the-herd.
After all, the West isn’t just something you read about. It’s something you feel. And in Fort Worth, it’s still alive and kicking.
“These four new steers bring such unique characteristics and charm to the Herd,” Kristin Jaworski, trail boss of the Fort Worth Herd, said in a statement. “We are thrilled to share their stories and introduce them to our visitors. They truly represent the heart of Fort Worth.”