LOSING A PIECE OF LOCAL HISTORY
Tom Mix homestead sold; converted into campground

A colorful piece of Cameron County's history has ridden into the sunset.

Ownership of the Tom Mix Birthplace Park and Museum has changed hands. Ray Flaugh, who for many years carried the torch as caretaker and historian, cited declining attendance as the main factor is his decision to sell the property.

Its new owner has converted it to a campground. Flaugh has maintained his vast collection of Mix memorabilia.

In its heyday, the property at Mix Run, south of Driftwood in Cameron County, attracted visitors from around the world.

Tom Mix was born there in 1880. His family moved to DuBois when Mix was eight. In 1910, Mix was hired as an extra in a western movie. Soon, he was landing bigger roles, rising to become America's top box office attraction.

He was the idol of young actors such as John Wayne, Roy Rogers and Ronald Reagan.

Read more about this famous Cameron County native on page 5.