643 County Road 223, Hamilton, TX 75631 - Hamilton County

JK- Ranch is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Texas history that has been owned by the same family since the 1850's. The ranch consists of 449 acres of premier Texas ranch land just seven miles from downtown Hamilton. Steeped in history and defined by over two miles of year-round Leon River frontage, the ranch blends authentic heritage with exceptional recreational, agricultural, and investment value. With live water, productive fields, diverse terrain, and a comfortable hilltop residence, this property functions as an inviting family retreat, income-producing operation, and versatile hunting ranch, all within easy reach of Waco, Austin, and the DallasFort Worth Metroplex.

Location

Just outside of Hamilton, the JK- Ranch offers the tranquility of country living with the convenience of nearby amenities. Only 7 minutes away, Hamilton provides everyday essentialsfrom grocery stores and hardware shops to local cafs and hometown restaurantsmaking quick trips into town simple and stress-free. For wider options, Waco is only 45 minutes away, offering major dining, shopping, entertainment, and medical services. Austin and Dallas/Fort Worth are both just two hours from the property, making access to major airports, city conveniences, and popular attractions an easy, straightforward drive. It’s a central, well-connected location that still delivers the privacy and openness of true Texas countryside.

Residence & Improvements

The ranch features a 2,485 sq. ft. residence positioned on an elevated bluff overlooking the river valley. The home includes three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, two living areas, a kitchen, utility room, and a fireplace, along with a metal roof and central heat and air (heat pump). An attached two-car garage with a storage closet provides additional convenience. Both the front and back porches have their own fire pitsone facing the manicured lawn and the other capturing sweeping valley views.

Several supporting structures sit nearby, including a pump house, storage shed, and a container used for tractor storage. A unique architectural detail is the brick repurposed from the ranch’s original 1850s rock wall that was used in the home’s construction, adding a meaningful touch of history.

Live Water & Water Resources

The ranch’s strongest natural feature is its impressive Leon River frontage, offering over two miles of live, year-round watera highly sought-after attribute for buyers searching for Texas acreage with water. Any retained rights would offer significant functional and agricultural benefits. Additional water resources include multiple water wells throughout the cultivated fields, low-lying areas that retain water seasonally, and the potential for future lake development or expanded water features.

Land, Topography & Habitat

JK- Ranch showcases approximately 90 feet of elevation change, creating a dynamic and scenic landscape. The southern portion, where the home sits, is elevated 6070 feet above the river bottom, delivering panoramic views across the Leon River valley. Below the bluff, the property transitions into a flat, fertile floodplain well-suited for farming. The land features a balanced blend of native grasses, hardwood, improved pastures, and productive agricultural fields.

The ranch supports abundant wildlifeincluding whitetail deer, turkey, feral hogs, dove, and waterfowlmaking it an ideal Texas hunting property. Hamilton County is widely recognized as the Dove Hunting Capital of Texas, further enhancing the ranch’s sporting appeal. A well-maintained interior road system provides easy access throughout, with most routes navigable by standard vehicles and four-wheel drive recommended for the lower areas.

Agriculture & Income

The ranch is currently enjoyed as a recreational escape for the owners, serving as a gathering place for family and friends. In addition, the property is leased for agricultural production, offering supplemental income. Recent operations include winter wheat plantings, and the land has historically supported cattle grazing. Fertile soils and water access provide strong potential for continued farming, ranching, or diversified land use.

History & Heritage

JK- Ranch carries a rich and fascinating legacy. In the late 1850s, the original landowner (John Jefferson Durham) constructed over 10 miles of stacked rock wall, much of which still stands across the property today. The land is also associated with several documented Comanche raid sites, including the notable incident involving Anne Whitney and the Warlene Valley School along the Leon River. She sacrificed her life saving many school children from the raid.

Adding to its historical intrigue, dinosaur tracks discovered on the ranch appear consistent with the same species found in nearby Glen Rose.

This blend of natural beauty and deep Texas history makes the ranch not only an investment property, but a meaningful part of the region’s story.

Conclusion

JK- Ranch is a premier example of Texas ranch land for salea rare blend of live water, tillable acreage, topographic diversity, strong habitat, and meaningful history. Whether enjoyed as a private family getaway, a working agricultural operation, or a trophy hunting property, the ranch offers enduring value and extraordinary potential.

Minerals

Contact broker for details.