The 19 steer sculptures in front of the National Ranching Heritage Center (NRHC) were installed over a 12-year period and are made possible through the financial underwriting of individuals and foundations. The bronze steer project is appropriate to both the history of Texas and the western United States. The herd commemorates the Texas Trail Drive Era of the 1860s to the 1880s. Each of the steers is posed differently and wears the brand of its donor. The outdoor art project at the NRHC was initiated as part of the master plan for the museum and historical park.

There also is a life-size sculpture depicting a working cowboy and his horse as they stop for a rest at a stream. It was donated by Red Steagall and friends. The fountain was built by Paul Nash & Associates to accommodate the sculpture.

*Artwork not funded by the Texas Tech University System Public Art Program