La Josefina Ranch, also known as the Allen Ranch or Jesus Maria Ranch has a rich history, including associations with Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders and notable figures like John Houghton Allen.

La Josefina Polo Team named "Los Poloteros," "Los Poleros," or "Las Poloteras" at La Josefina Ranch, was a well-known polo team led by John Houghton Allen and his brother Wilbur George Allen on their ranch near Hebbronville, Texas, on Randado Road. 

The team was part of a vibrant polo scene in the area, and their matches were significant events, especially during the 1930s and 1940s.

The Allen brothers were prominent figures in the South Texas polo scene and became known for hosting and participating in games on their ranch, La Josefina. La Josefina Ranch, became a hub for all polo activities in South Texas. 

Wilbur George Allen Played Polo for University of Texas Polo Team from 1931 to 1934, showcasing his prowess alongside various teams, including those forged with his brother John at their ranch. During his time on the Ranch, he would often face off against his UT companions in spirited matches at their homestead. Rising to the rank of First Lieutenant during World War II, he earned the esteemed Purple Heart for his valor. In addition to his athletic endeavors, he made a charming appearance in the film “Two Rode Together” in 1961.

John Houghton Allen became a Professional Polo player. He was a notable figure in early 20th-century Texas, recognized for his contributions to literature and his family's involvement in polo. He authored the poetic novel "Southwest," which reflects life on the ranch during the era of Pancho Villa and Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders. The narrative offers a vivid portrayal of the region's culture and history which offers a poetic and nostalgic account of his experiences growing up in Jim Hogg County, Texas, during the 1920s and 1930s. The work blends fiction, fact, and folklore, providing vivid descriptions of the land, people, and social structures of the Southwest. 

The Allen Brothers played against various notable figures, including the Rough Riders—a legendary cavalry unit formed by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War in 1898. Roosevelt, a strong supporter of polo, had been involved with the sport for many years and had connections to Texas and the Rough Riders legacy, leading to some historical matches between these two teams.

The Randado Road area near Hebbronville was not only known for its rich history of ranching and polo but also for the Allen family’s significant influence on the sport in South Texas. 

The La Josefina Polo Team's matches with the Rough Riders were celebrated as part of the legacy of both the Allen family and the history of polo in Texas. These games are a testament to the sport's cultural importance in the region, blending both competitive polo and historical connections to figures like Teddy Roosevelt.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of history woven through the newspaper clippings gathered below. Discover how polo, cowboys, and the early American Quarter Horse united to create a legacy of legendary history.