Granbury, Texas – The Lightning C Ranch, a 264‑acre estate steeped in local heritage, has been listed for $8.7 million. The property, located about an hour southwest of downtown Fort Worth, was put on the market by longtime owners Courtney Blackman and her husband Greg, who hope a young family will appreciate its unique history.
Historic roots and distinctive architecture
The ranch’s name honors its connection to the early days of Texas Christian University. In 1873, brothers Randolph and Addison Clark founded Add‑Ran College in nearby Thorp Spring. When the college burned, stone from the ruined Add‑Ran Liberal Arts building was salvaged and incorporated into the home’s exterior and fireplaces. Blackman recalls, “They said it had come from the old Add‑Ran college, and that it had burned to the ground. The stones were all that were left.”
Designed by former owner Dan Coates – a financial executive, rodeo presenter, rancher and Western artist – the 3,450‑square‑foot residence reflects an “Old West” aesthetic. The two‑bedroom house showcases Pennsylvania‑sourced, hand‑hewn timber dating back to the 1800s, two bathrooms, and an upstairs bunkhouse with a private half‑bath. Coates also built a saloon‑style studio on the property where he created many of his celebrated artworks.
Features for modern ranch life
The estate includes a private 1.8‑acre lake where the family fished, a 100‑gallon producing water well, and Bermuda‑grass pastures equipped with cross‑fencing for cattle rotation. An elevated position at 1,042 feet makes the home sit on the second‑highest peak in Hood County, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
“The Lightning C is truly a one‑of‑a‑kind ranch,” said Kasey Mock, CEO of Mock Ranches Group. “Add the history and legacy of the Lightning C Ranch and it becomes a property unlike anything else on the market.”
Owners’ motivation and future hopes
Blackman, 62, and her 66‑year‑old husband decided to sell to spend more time with their expanding family, including an upcoming 11th grandchild. She expressed a desire for the next owners to be a young family that will love and preserve the ranch’s heritage.
“I hope it is a young family who can enjoy it and love it and appreciate it as much as we have,” she said.
Local significance
The listing highlights Granbury’s growing appeal as a destination for historic properties and equestrian lifestyles. With its direct ties to TCU’s origins and a blend of historic craftsmanship and modern ranch amenities, the Lightning C Ranch stands out in the regional real‑estate market.
Potential buyers can contact Mock Ranches Group for further details and to arrange a viewing of this distinctive property.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
