Lloyd and Madge Mitchell Spur Collection

Discover the World’s Largest Spur Collection

In the mid-20th century, Lloyd Mitchell was a household name in Gatesville, Texas. Affectionately known as “Coach”, he was the head coach for Gatesville High School’s football, basketball, track, tennis and baseball teams from 1944 to 1955. After coaching, he went on to teach history, civics and government full-time.

Mitchell had a lifelong love of spurs and western memorabilia. Legend had it that he found his first spur at a young age while riding through Yellowstone National Park. He then proceeded to amass his collection for 77 years. Mitchell’s friends, family, athletes and students would bring him spurs from around the world to add to his treasure trove.

After Mitchell’s passing in 1991, his family decided to donate this record-setting collection to the Coryell Museum & Historical Center, so that Mitchell’s love of history and legacy of education could live on.

The collection includes spurs used from the 13th century to the 20th century, specifically the 1800s to early 1900s. Among the most famous of the spurs in this collection are those which belonged to Pancho Villa and Jacqueline Kennedy. Visitors come from all over to see The Mitchell Spur Collection with their own eyes. It was even featured on The Texas Bucket List.

With over 10,000 spurs in the Lloyd and Madge Mitchell Spur Collection, you have to see it for yourself!