Texas geologist donated 4,942 acres, helping create Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Wallace Pratt's journey began in 1921 when he stumbled upon the breathtaking McKittrick Canyon, igniting a passionate fascination with its natural features. He bought land in the area and raised two residences, one of which was Ship on the Desert. Following the passing of his first spouse, Pratt continued his conservation journey alongside Iris Calderhead, eventually donating 5,600 acres to the federal government.