Paul Mathews Prairie is a 100-acre rare remnant of unplowed Texas Blackland Prairie, part of the once vast (12 million acre) Texas Blackland Prairie, it' a little piece of wild America. Through an agreement with the Texas Nature Conservancy, it will remain that way. Today the tallgrass prairie is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the world. Only a few postage-stamp-size refuges remain.

The grasses and wildflowers that greeted early settlers still wave in the summer breezes. Native birds still feed on the seed-bearing grasses whose roots are anchored as much as 100 feet deep in the fertile blackland soil. Birders and wildflower enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the meadow. In fact, the sea of big bluestem and Indian grass waving in the wind is a treat for everyone.

To visit Mathews Prairie go 4.5 miles west from the intersection of US 69 and US 380 at SH 224 (west Lee St.). Turn north on FM 903, go 2.1 miles then turn west on CR 1116. Continue for 1.8 miles. A sign at the NE corner of CR 1119 and CR 1116 identifies the preserve. Parking is along the county roads.