The Fort Worth Herd and Visit Fort Worth are saddened to share the loss of our longtime friend, founder and supporter, Jim Lane. Affectionately known as father of The Herd, Jim has always been honored with his tireless efforts to promote the Fort Worth Herd and the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.
“We affectionately refer to Jim as the father of the Fort Worth Herd,” said Pam Minick, president of Friends of the Fort Worth Herd. “We were so fortunate to have him as a supporter and friend for so many years.”
“Jim Lane was a servant leader of the Fort Worth community and a friend to many. He served our country in the U.S. Army, our city as an accomplished attorney and former city councilman for District 2, Godfather of the FW Herd and advocate for the historic Stockyards, Jim leaves us a legacy of service and support. Heartfelt condolences to his wife, Janet, and son, Jake,” said Fort Worth City Councilmember Carlos Flores, who serves in the seat once held by Jim Lane. Flores also serves on the boards of Friends of the Fort Worth Herd and Visit Fort Worth.
Jim was an advocate of keeping the culture and history of Native America and western culture alive. Serving on the Fort Worth City Council for 5 terms, he initiated the idea of the daily cattle drive.
“Jim poured his love for our city into this unique program that has drawn visitors from around the world. Today we are the beneficiaries of his vision. I will miss my friend who gave so much to our community,” said Bob Jameson, president and CEO of Visit Fort Worth, the parent organization that operates the Fort Worth Herd and its legendary twice-daily cattle drive on Exchange Avenue.
Receiving the support of then Mayor Kenneth Barr, the Fort Worth Herd program was created in 1999 as part of the City's sesquicentennial celebration. The City acquired 15 Texas Longhorns each representing a decade of Fort Worth's colorful past, and a group of diverse drovers clad in authentic 19th century clothing. On June 12, 1999, in front of 15,000 spectators, the Fort Worth Herd made its official debut. The inaugural cattle drive began Downtown, and made its way to the Herd's permanent home the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.
“Jim taught me to keep true, be authentic and not to compromise the mission and vision that the leaders in the city created. And I will always do my very best to carry that through,” said Kristin Jaworski, trail boss of the Fort Worth Herd.
Jim continued his support for the program and shared his love of western heritage with his wife, Janet, and son, Jake. In 2012, Jim and his family adopted Fort Worth Herd steer Sancho, the last remaining steer from the original 1999 cattle drive.
Jim will be missed and we extend our thoughts to Jim’s loved ones during this time.