Samuel Burk Burnett (1849–1922) was a prominent Texas cattleman and owner of the 6666 Ranch. Born in Missouri, Burnett’s family moved to Texas in 1858, where he learned ranching from his father. At 19, Burnett began his cattle career by purchasing 100 head of cattle branded ‘6666.’ His success grew during the 1870s, notably after selling cattle for $10,000 during the Panic of 1873. Burnett expanded his holdings, moving his operations to Oklahoma’s Big Pasture and eventually purchasing the 6666 Ranch near Guthrie, Texas, in 1900.
Burnett played a key role in the cattle industry, serving as president of the Fort Worth Stock Show and expanding its scope to include exhibits and a rodeo. He was also involved in banking and oil, with oil discovered on his ranch shortly before his death.
Burnett’s personal life was complex. He married twice, and his second wife, Mary Couts Burnett, was disinherited and later sued for part of his estate. Burnett died in 1922, leaving his ranching and oil interests to his descendants, including his granddaughter Anne Windfohr Marion.
The town of Burkburnett, Texas, was named in his honor by President Theodore Roosevelt, who had hunted with Burnett in the area. Burnett’s legacy continues through his ranching and oil interests, which remain significant in Texas history.
