Historical Markers in Texas

Marfa Lights

Quirky·Presidio County·Texas

The Marfa Lights, mysterious and unexplained lights that have been reported in the area for over one hundred years, have been the subject of many theories. The first recorded sighting of the lights was by rancher Robert Ellison in 1883. Variously explained as campfires, phosphorescent minerals, swamp gas, static electricity, St. Elmo's fire, and "ghost lights", the lights reportedly change colors, move about, and change in intensity. Scholars have reported over seventy-five local folk tales dealing with the unexplained phenomenon. (1988)

Getting there

30.2771, -103.8845

Locations are approximate and may be inaccurate, on private land, or otherwise inaccessible. Check before you travel.

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