Say howdy to the Fort Worth Herd’s new trail boss

Say howdy to the Fort Worth Herd's new trail boss

Published on August 19, 2025

Georgia Cartwright is the new trail boss of the legendary Fort Worth Herd, the world's only twice-daily cattle drive and one of Texas' top attractions. She joins a dedicated team that upholds the Herd's high standards and daily operations.

Learn more about the new trail boss:

1. You have an extensive background in the cattle bidness. How did it all get started?

   I have been in the horse and cattle business for as long as I can remember. My mother and father raised me in a "cowboy" environment, and I am grateful. I learned, at an early age, that a long day's work is a successful day. Additionally, I learned that a good work ethic is important, no matter what your aspirations are in life. I live by two old cowboy mottos: "An honest day's work for an honest day's pay." And of course, "Always ride for the brand."

2. What attracted you to the job as trail boss? Any surprises so far?

   What attracted me most is simple: our western heritage. I have always said that I was born 100 years too late. I have a deep appreciation for our western past. I feel a responsibility to share our western heritage with generations, young and old. I want our visitors and guests of the Fort Worth Stockyards and the City of Fort Worth to get a feeling of where we came from, the struggles settlers and ranchers overcame to create this great city. Our western history is something that should be preserved and shared. I feel that as the trail boss of the Fort Worth Herd, I have a unique opportunity to do just that. I love this city, its history and its future and I am thrilled to be a part of it.

3. If someone is not familiar with the twice-daily cattle drives, how do you describe it to them?

   I would describe our cattle drive as "living history." It is a unique opportunity for visitors and locals alike to experience the history of Fort Worth in a true re-enactment. It is a tribute to Fort Worth's rich history, our western heritage and our Texas hospitality.

4. Do you have a favorite longhorn among the Herd?

   First, let me tell you, all of our steers have their own, individual personalities. Each of them brings true joy to me, each day. If I had to pick just one, it would be Lil' Tex. Lil' Tex is a miniature Texas longhorn and joined the Herd in 2022. He was graciously donated by Bruce and Lori McCarty of Weatherford, Texas. He was the 2022 World Show Champion Miniature Trophy Steer. He is very friendly and full of personality.

5. Any fun stories about things you've observed during Herd cattle drives so far?

The most fun, for me, is to see our visitors' and guests' faces light up when they see our horses and Longhorn cattle coming down the street. Some of our visitors may have never had the opportunity to see a Texas Longhorn or a horse, live and in-person, before their visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards. Sharing an experience like that with them is truly an honor for me.

Photo at top: Georgia Cartwright

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