Wildfire in Stonewall, Texas

The massive 'Swenson Fire' ignited during the afternoon hours of the 6th in Stonewall County, north of the Swenson community. The use of a cutting torch during critical fire weather conditions started the blaze, which consumed 122,500 acres before it was finally contained on the 21st. During the fire's 15-day run, it burned into grasslands of adjacent King and Knox Counties. At least nine structures were destroyed. Tragically, a 105-year old cowboy and his wife lost four ranch homes to the fire. The couple, who were uninjured, had lived in Stonewall County their entire lives and as patriarch to six generations of family cowboys on their ranch. The fire destroyed 155 utility poles in Stonewall County and 130 poles in King County. Dozens of cattle were reported killed. Total economic damages were estimated at $2.54 million.