580 CR 430 , Goldthwaite, TX 76844(Mills County)

You can feel the history of this part of Mills County the minute you start down the county road toward this ranch. Located in western Mills County and where the community of Ratler was once a hub of activity. Ratler was known as Jones Valley prior to the U S Postal Service designating Willis Store as a postal station in the late 1800s. This ranch is located just north of the Renfro Dam which was first built in the late 1870s by Mary (Robins) and J. W. Jones using live oak logs and sandstone. This dam was needed to provide power to the Jones grist mill and cotton gin. In 1883 J. D. Wills purchased the Jones property, 50 years later Mr. Willis sold to B. F. Renfro who rebuilt the dam of sandstone. The flood of 1936 caused major destruction but the dam remained intact. The location of this property above Renfro dam is a great advantage because water backed up by the dam allows a more constant water level to this area of the river. This area is rich in Indian artifacts, home to huge live oaks and post oaks estimated to be 100 years old, a wildlife paradise and some of the most fertile ground available that can grow crops, coastal or start a pecan orchard or vineyard. Two Colorado River irrigation rights will convey with sale which only add to the potential for this ranch. The irrigation ditch still stands and was constructed and expanded through the generations. Large metal pipes and pumping station are also standing but are no longer functional. Another unique bit of history to the area is the Regency Suspension Bridge which is locally known as the Swinging Bridge, is a suspension bridge over the Colorado River. The bridge has a span of 325 ft and has a wood surface. It was originally built in 1939 and restored in 1997. This bridge is one of the last remaining 5 suspension bridges Texas.

200 +/- acres of this ranch is located on the west side of CR 430 and has aprox 4,660 ft of Colorado River frontage. The river is lined with towering cottonwoods, elms, live oaks, post oaks and pecan trees. Grass is thick and deep. River is accessible at several areas and there is one spot where a boat can be launched. An estimated 100 acres of this side is in cultivation or coastal. Last summer there was milo crop in the fields and dove were flying everywhere. Deer were seen in multiple areas during the heat of the day. Two fawns were bedded down in the rock irrigation ditch and enjoying the shade of huge pecan trees. The family ranch house is located near the entrance gate. This home has been used as a weekend retreat for the last 6 years. It is a well maintained 3 / 2 with a metal roof and wood siding. There are window units that heat and cool and a wood burning fireplace for those cold winter days. There is also a detached carport and workshop area. Phone, fiber optic internet and TV available. There is one strong water well that services home, cabin and livestock troughs.

The cabin is located just above the river. It has one bath and the remainder of the space is a large open area perfect for family gatherings. There is a kitchen, bar and sleeping benches lining the walls of the large family room. The cabin also has a covered patio area with cement floor that extends the length of the home. Large bbq pit is located in the yard, RV hookups also in place so invite your family and friends. String up a volleyball net, pitch some horseshoes / washers and of course all your kayaks, boats and fishing necessities and enjoy the outdoors!

There is an additional 99 +/- acres is located on the east side of CR 430. This beautiful tract of land offers amazing views, large post oaks, one stock tank full of bass and perch and aprox 40 acres of coastal and cultivated area. Fences are in good shape. Once again deer were seen along with a covey of quail!

This property has so much to offer any outdoor enthusiast and the added benefit of fertile ground and irrigation rights make the possibilities endless. Schedule a time to take a look at this one today!

Janette Padgett Real Estate, LLC obtains all information from sources deemed reliable. However, no warranty or guarantee is made as to the accuracy of the information. If applicable, Buyers brokers must be identified on the first contact and must accompany buying prospect on first showing for fee participation. If this condition is not met, fee participation will be at sole discretion of this real estate office.