e River. The Bosque River has tributaries or forks that feed into Lake Waco. These forks are known as
             the North Bosque, Middle Bosque, and South Bosque Rivers respectively. The Tehuacan and Aquilla creeks feed into the Brazos River from the east (Smyrl 431). Lake Waco is a man made lake, constructed by the Army Corp of Engineers in 1958 and the impoundment of water began in early 1965 (US Army Corp of Engineers 1).
             The fertile lands and rivers of McLennan County are enhanced by the relatively subtropical climate and ample rainfall. The average yearly temperature is 66.8 degrees Fahrenheit. The mean temperature in January is 34 degrees Fahrenheit. The mean temperature for July is 97 degrees Fahrenheit (National Weather Service 1). The moderate temperatures are complimented by fair amounts of rain. The county has an average of 33.03 inches of precipitation per year (National Weather Service 1).
             The combination of a subtropical climate, with moderate rainfall, ample water supply and good vegetation allows wildlife to flourish. Throughout the county, various species of wildlife, game and fish can be found. Wildlife in the area includes deer, coyotes, rabbits, bobcats, beaver, opossums, fox, raccoon, mink, skunks, and squirrels (Smyrl 431). "Prior to extensive settlements, the county's wildlife also included antelope, buffalo, bear, and wild hogs" (Smyrl 431). The opportunities of a new territory and the richness of the land, lured Americans and immigrants alike to Texas. Many settled along the Bosque and Brazos Rivers.
             Prior to the arrival of Europeans and Americans to McLennan County, nomadic Indians, and buffalo lived on the land. Three small tribes, the Wacos, the Tehaucans, and the Tonkawas settled the area encompassing McLennan County (Simpson 2). These tribes may be related to the Caddo tribes. There is some speculation that the Tonkawa tribes practiced celebratory cannibalism (Simpson 2)...