Authentic Texas Issue 27 (Winter 2024) by Authentic Texas

T H E

S P O R T S

H E R I T A G E

O F

T E X A S

HISTORIC HIGH S C H O O L S TA D I U M S

DUBLIN’S BEN HOGAN MUSEUM

O F F I C I A L S TAT E SPORT: RODEO

SUPER TEX, RACER A.J. FOYT

LONE STAR LEGEND FEARED ON THE MOUND, THE HALL OF FAMER PITCHES IN TO PROVIDE A BETTER FUTURE FOR YOUTH IN TEXAS

Nolan Ryan

Play Ball! Texas Heritage Trail Regions The Texas Heritage Trails program is based on 10 scenic driving trails created as a marketing tool in 1968 by Gov. John Connally and the Texas Highway Department (now the Texas Department of Transportation). In 1997, the State Legislature charged the Texas Historical Commission (THC) to create a statewide heritage tourism program. The THC responded with a program based on local, regional and state partnerships and using the 10 driving routes. These “trails” serve as the nucleus of 10 heritage regions and include heritage tourism attractions both on and off the trail.

BRAZOS TRAIL TexasBrazosTrail.com

LAKES TRAIL TexasLakesTrail.com

FOREST TRAIL TexasForestTrail.com

MOUNTAIN TRAIL TexasMountainTrail.com

FORTS TRAIL TexasFortsTrail.com

PECOS TRAIL TexasPecosTrail.com

HILL COUNTRY TRAIL TxHillCountryTrail.com

PLAINS TRAIL TexasPlainsTrail.com

INDEPENDENCE TRAIL TexasIndependenceTrail.com

TROPICAL TRAIL TexasTropicalTrail.com

As the new year begins, we’re excited to announce that beginning with our next issue, the Texas Historical Foundation will be joining the Authentic Texas family as our third editorial partner. We are proud of the collaboration and support of the Texas Historical Commission and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission who have been editorial partners since our first year in 2016. Each has a unique mission important to the preservation and understanding of Texas heritage and culture. Now, we look forward to sharing information from the Texas Historical Foundation highlighting their work and the amazing projects they fund, along with the people that are working to preserve the unique aspects of our diverse history. Also, we’re delighted to share that our Editorial Committee has expanded to include the following individuals: Patty Bushart, Mike Carlisle, Bob McCullough, David Preziosi, Robin Shellard, Tristan Smith and Clark Wernecke. We appreciate their willingness to share their expertise and knowledge in shaping future issues of Authentic Texas! So, we’re kicking off 2024 with this edition focusing on Lone Star legends who have contributed to the athletic legacy and sports heritage of Texas! It is widely acknowledged that sports are part of nearly every culture – past and present. Folks are often surprised to learn the official state sport of Texas is . . . rodeo, with its deep Spanish and Mexican roots! The newer sports of baseball, basketball and football have been enthusiastically embraced by Texans as well. Visit almost any county history museum and I’ll wager there’s at least one exhibit – if not an entire room – dedicated to local sports heroes! In the last 50 years sports has experienced significant growth in terms of participation, audiences and professional teams. There are two National Football League teams in our state; read about the Dallas Cowboys who have become the most valuable sports team in the world and are featured as our Authentic Thing. Texas also boasts of three National Basketball Association teams and two Major League Baseball teams. (We’d be remiss if we didn’t congratulate the Texas Rangers, the 2023 World Series Champions!) We also have Major League Soccer, NASCAR at Texas Motor Speedway, the U.S. Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, the Colonial National Invitational (now known as the Charles Schwab Challenge), and so much more! Visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in Waco — featured as our Authentic Place — to learn more about Texas athletes, coaches and teams who have brought “lasting fame and honor to Texas sports”. Not every article in this edition is about sports. Learn about Lubbock’s favorite son Buddy Holly and how the community pays tribute to him each year on February 3, “The Day the Music Died”. Allow us to introduce you to the Texas Forts Trail Region where a Spanish presidio and U.S. Army forts were once outposts on the frontier. Read about various Texas Independence Day celebrations and plan to join one this year! As always, we hope our articles inspire you to hit the trails and discover your own Authentic Texas experiences! Sincerely,

Bill Simon LLC Manager, Texas Pecos Trail Region 1

ISSUE 27

FEATURES

au t h e n t i c p e rso n

a u t h e n t i c p l ac e

Au t h e n t i c t h i n g

Nolan Ryan is pitching in for a better future in the latest stage of his career in life

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame in Waco recognizes over 400 Texas sports legends

The Dallas Cowboys is America’s Team, but is it Texas’ team as well?

Founded by Texas Heritage Trails LLC

PUBLISHER

Margaret Hoogstra director@authentictexas.com DIRECTOR OF MEDIA SALES

Jeff Gross jgross@authentictexas.com ADVERTISING SALES

Philip Walker pwalker@authentictexas.com

Sharon Whitaker swhitaker@authentictexas.com DIRECTOR OF DESIGN & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Steven Lyons info@authentictexas.com DESIGNERS

Whitney Morman, Jon Carpenter

CONTRIBUTORS

Austin Allison, Sara Bustilloz, Susan Floyd, Anne Fornoro, Loretta Fulton, Rob Hodges, Connie Sue Low, James Malanaphy, Bob McCullough, Eric Miller, Genesis Moncada, David Preziosi, Tristan Smith, Liz Weaver

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE

Pamela Anderson, Patty Bushart, Mike Carlisle, Melissa Hagins, Allison Kendrick, Wendy Little, Bob McCullough, Dolores Mosser, David Preziosi, Robin Shellard, Tristan Smith, Clark Wernecke, Tammie Virden

TEXAS HERITAGE TRAILS LLC BOARD

Texas Brazos Trail Region Pamela Anderson, Executive Director Texas Forts Trail Region Owen Miller, LLC Manager Tammie Virden, Executive Director Texas Mountain Trail Region Randall Kinzie, LLC Manager Wendy Little, Executive Director Texas Pecos Trail Region Bill Simon, LLC Manager Melissa Hagins, Executive Director

Subscribe Today! Get a regular helping of Texas Heritage with a print, digital, or combo subscription and our free monthly newsletter.

Texas Plains Trail Region Dolores Mosser, LLC Manager Allison Kendrick, Executive Director

AuthenticTexas.com/subscribe

ON THE COVER an illustration of Nolan Ryan for his “Life After Baseball” card, depicting his time as a rancher and philanthropist. Illustration by Tom Velez, a professional illustrator based in Austin, Texas. See more of his work at www.tomvelez.com

Texas Heritage Trails LLC P.O. Box 208, Abilene, TX 79604 AuthenticTexas.com (325) 660-6774 Texas Heritage Trails LLC, dba Authentic Texas is owned and operated by five nonprofit heritage trails organizations.

ISSUE 27

DEPARTMENTS LOCAL

LIFE

LEGACY

yonder

Trail Drives

Texas originals

The Junction Boys Finding a heart in Hell

Pecos The history of the world’s oldest rodeo

Texas Treasure Business Award Spotlights

Texas Forts Trail Region

Highlighting the people and places in this heritage trail region

Georgetown How polo, cowboys, and the early American Quarter Horse combined to make history.

Eats & Drinks

Late Friday Night Meals The after-game meal is a special Texas tradition

Coach Ron Mayberry Lessons from a winning basketball coach

Finding sense of place under Friday night lights

A snapshot of recent award recipients

Historic High School Stadiums

A.J. Foyt Racing legend Super Tex and Victory Lane

Celebrations across the state

Dublin

The boy, the businessman, the golfer, Ben Hogan

Texas Independence Day Activities

TEXAS STATE LIBRARY & ARCHIVES

Owl Drug

100 Years Old and Going Strong

The Official State Sport of Texas Home to the world’s first rodeo, it makes sense to be Texas’ State Sport

Graham Cheering from Southern Bleacher Grandstands

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION

city lights

All-American Sports Heroine

Babe Didrickson Zaharias

Round Rock

The Sports Capital of Texas offers rich history and recreation

Lubbock

An exhibit and the Remnants of the Southwest Conference

Old is new again in the total transformation of the Fannin County Courthouse

Deep in the art

Abilene

Historic White Buffalo Hide at Frontier Texas!

Live Show

Lubbock

The Day the Music Died

Fannin County Courthouse

TEXAS HISTORICAL FOUNDATION

Preserving the History of Texas Texas Historical Foundation

LOCAL

yo n d e r

city l ights

F e at u r e s

Bear Bryant and the Junction Boys; Dublin remembers Ben Hogan; Rodeo began in Pecos; Texas style polo in Georgetown; Stadium seating from Graham; Historic Business Awards

Honoring Babe in Beaumont; Heritage and recreation in Round Rock; Remnants of the SWC in Lubbock

Legendary Nolan Ryan, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, the Dallas Cowboys

LOCAL

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Finding a Heart in Hell The Legacy of “Bear Bryant” and the Junction Boys by Connie Sue Low

Coach Bear Bryant standing up to address the people gathered at the Texas A&M Junction Boys reunion.

ugust 31, 1954 – 115 excited, young men showed up to pre-season football training camp for Texas A&M. Instead of finding the usual well-groomed football field with green grass and painted lines, what they found had them questioning if they were in the right place. Their practice field was a dry patch of cracked ground that had only been somewhat cleared of rocks and cactus the night before. They had no idea what the next 10 days held for them.

Paul “Bear” Bryant is considered by many to be the greatest football coach of all time. He was motivated by fear and was tough as nails. He wanted his players to be cold and deadly. In 1954, to avoid the input and prying eyes of the A&M alumni, Coach Bryant decided to do something radical. He held the pre-season training camp at the Texas A&M adjunct campus in Junction, Texas. In 1954 Junction was in the middle of a severe heat wave and the worst drought the region had ever seen. The land was barren, and temperatures during

JUNCTION

PECOS TRAIL REGION

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

DON’T MISS READ MORE Visit Junction junctiontexas.com

“The Junction Boys” tells the story of Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant’s legendary training camp in the small town of Junction, Texas, which many consider the salvation of the Texas A&M football program at that time. The Junction Boys: How Ten Days in Hell with Bear Bryant Forged A Championship Team is written by Jim Dent, a longtime award-winning journalist who covered the Dallas Cowboys for eleven years, has written six books, including “The Junction Boys”, the New York Times bestseller that was the basis for an ESPN movie.

Top Right Junction Football Camp as it was in 1954: the athletes stayed in tents. Bottom Right First reunion of the Junction Boys in 1979 with Coach Bear Bryant Top Left Program from 1956 when Texas A&M broke the “Jinx” against the University of Texas | Photos Courtesy Dennis Goehring

the training camp topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Bryant would call Junction “hell’s little acre” due to the extreme heat and parched conditions. This is where he would separate the quitters from the keepers. This is where those who survived would become known as the “Junction Boys” and find out exactly what they were made of. Those 10 days of hell reduced a group of 115 quickly to a group of 35. It was a training camp of two practices a day that began before dawn and ended at dusk, with no water breaks, dehydration, broken bones, and broken spirits. Only those of strong mind and will survived. The brutality of that training camp would weigh on the heart of “Bear” Bryant for the next 25 years. In 1979, the Junction Chamber of Commerce reunited Coach Bryant with 20 of his Junction Boys. Coach Bryant was nervous about this reunion. He wasn’t sure if the boys would be excited to see him or want to punch him. These boys who had survived heatstroke, broken bones, and searing heat were now men.

They were doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, coaches, bankers, CEOs and many were millionaires. In the speeches given by the players they expressed deep gratitude and credited their success to Coach Bryant. In the book, “The Junction Boys” by Jim Dent, player Dennis Goehring is quoted, “If not for you, I couldn’t have done the things I had to do in my life. If I hadn’t been tough, I never would have made it. You are the person that made me tough.” When Coach Bryant took his turn to address his former players he said, “I never had a team I was more proud of. I came here today to apologize to y’all. I shouldn’t have done what I did to you twenty-five years ago. But now that I’ve seen all of you today, and heard about your happy and successful lives, I realize that maybe I did something right after all. I knew you men would be successes. But nothing like this. Hell, maybe I oughta stop feeling guilty.” Many of the Junction Boys suspected a big heart beat beneath that tough exterior. Now they were sure of it. 9

LOCAL

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Dublin’s Ben Hogan The boy, the businessman, the golfer by Loretta Fulton

ou don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy a visit to the Ben Hogan Museum, located in a historic building in downtown Dublin, Hogan’s childhood home. The museum is included in the Travel Channel’s “10 Bucket List Destinations for Golf Fans,” but even non-golfers will find something of interest and will appreciate learning about one of the greatest golfers of all time. The museum is owned by the Dublin Historical Society, and it is packed with memorabilia and information that history-minded visitors will find interesting. Karen Wright, director of the museum and an officer in the historical society, isn’t a golfer, but she is totally immersed in the historical figure and legend that is Ben Hogan. “My fascination literally is with Ben Hogan as a boy, as a businessman, as a man, and obviously as a golfer,” she said. The museum has drawn visitors from all over the world, including two PGA Tour golfers from Australia — Bruce Devlin and Steve Elkington. Another professional golfer who stopped by recently is J.J. Henry of Fort Worth. Hogan is a legend of the game as one of only five players to have won all four major championships in his career. He was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 1953.

DUBLIN

FORTS TRAIL REGION

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

Above A life-sized bronze statue of Ben Hogan is showcased in Dublin’s Ben Hogan Museum. Located in downtown Dublin, the Ben Hogan Museum honors native son and one of the greatest golfers in the history of the game. The Ben Hogan Honor Wall gives details of many of Hogan’s golfing achievements.

The most important shot in golf is the next one.

— Ben Hogan

DON’T MISS Visit Dublin dublintx chamber.com Ben Hogan Museum 121 E. Blackjack St. Dublin, TX 76446 (254) 445-4466 benhogan museum.org

Left The famed “1-iron” photo of Ben Hogan following through at Merion Golf Club in 1950.

Maybe the one historical tidbit that most fascinates Wright is that Hogan turned pro when he was 17 and didn’t win for nine years. That is the very definition of perseverance. Hogan had that trait and others that led to his success instilled in him during his early years in Dublin. He was born August 13, 1912, and grew up frequenting the blacksmith shop owned by his father. When young Ben was just nine years old, his father committed suicide; afterwards, the family moved to Fort Worth. In 2013, the Texas Historical Commission erected a marker at the site of the Hogan Blacksmith Shop. It noted that Ben Hogan’s grandfather, William Alexander Hogan, a former Confederate States of America Cavalry blacksmith, brought his family from Mississippi to Dublin in 1870 and opened the shop. The marker notes that in addition to being a world champion golfer, Ben Hogan became known for manufacturing golf clubs. “Ben used blacksmithing skills to modify his golf clubs, and in 1953 opened his own club manufacturing plant, using what he learned about the science and art of metal from his grandfather and father in the Hogan Blacksmith Shop.” Hogan’s love of golf can be traced to an early job as a caddie. When he started playing the game himself, it took a while before he found success. Just as he was succeeding as a professional golfer, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps to serve in World War II. The museum’s website tells what happened next: “When he returned to the game afterward, he took a while to return to his former skill level. Then in 1949, at the peak of his career, a head-on car

wreck with a Greyhound bus threatened to claim his life. Mr. Hogan survived, but with massive injuries to his legs. In what is considered one of the most impressive comebacks in sports history, Hogan learned to walk again and 16 months later won the 1950 U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club in Pennsylvania. And in 1953, he won the Triple Crown: the Masters, the U.S. Open, and the British Open, all in the same year.” Plans for the Ben Hogan Museum were announced in 2012 — the 100th anniversary of Hogan’s birth — and it opened a year later. The museum is packed with memorabilia but a couple of things routinely draw attention, Wright, the director, said. People are fascinated with the putter that Hogan designed and used. It features a “sweet spot” that is about the size of Wright’s little fingernail, and it is worn dark by Hogan’s consistency. Another is a bronze sculpture of Hogan based on the famous “one iron shot” photo from the 1950 U.S. Open. When the Dublin Historical Society decided to create the museum, board members were concerned about filling it, Wright said. But as soon as word got out, people who had stored Hogan memorabilia started donating items to the museum. His niece, Lisa Scott of California, is heir to Hogan’s estate and is chair of the Ben Hogan Foundation. The Dublin Historical Society worked closely with the foundation to design the museum. “We are grateful for the foundation’s encouragement,” Wright said, “and Mrs. Scott’s dedication to preserving the archives for her famous uncle.”

LOCAL

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World’s Oldest Rodeo West of the Pecos Rodeo by Members of the West of the Pecos Rodeo Committee and the West of the Pecos Museum

PECOS

PECOS TRAIL REGION

ecos is a town with roots tracing back to 1873 and it stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of American frontier history. As the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, Chisholm Trail and Goodnight-Loving Trail traversed here, Pecos quickly evolved into an important supply town for the ranches scattered within a 100-mile radius. In the early days of frontier Pecos, the corrals were bustling with the comings and goings of cattle, and the atmosphere was alive with the camaraderie and occasional argument that arose when cowboys congregated. These gatherings were important, as they formed a network that connected the vast landscapes of the American West. However, where cowboys gathered, conflicts were bound to emerge. Judge Roy Bean’s “Law West of the Pecos” became the silent guardian of order, keeping the rowdiness in check, except for a few gunfights leaving their mark, literally, on the town’s colorful history. One can still trace the echoes of these confrontations through the bullet holes preserved in the historic West of the Pecos Museum, a testament to that tumultuous yet spirited era in the history of Pecos. However, with time, a more friendly competition began to take center stage. As the story goes, in 1883 the cowboys from several area ranches were engaged in an argument as to which outfit (ranch) had the best cowboys. It was decided to outline a number of contests that would determine who were the best cowboys. On July 4, 1883, Pecos, Texas,

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

was home to the first rodeo. That date was chosen because it was a holiday, and everyone could attend. The excitement that filled the dusty air that day was palpable, with bragging rights hanging in the balance as cowhands from various ranches showcased their skills. The location for this event was the south side of the Pecos Courthouse. Various wagons and horses made a circular makeshift arena. No admission was charged and on that day the audience witnessed a defining moment of the Wild West as the first rodeo was held. Cattle outfits that were represented during this historic event were the NA, Lazy Y, and W Ranches. The prizes were ribbons cut from a new dress from a little girl in the crowd. That memorable day the best ropers were first, Morg Livingston of the NA and second, Trav Windham of the Lazy Y. Others who participated were Howard Collier, Fate Beard, Jim Mannin, George Brookshire, John Chalk, Jeff Chism, Jim Livingston, Jim and Henry Slack, Brawley Oates, Henry Miller, and E.P. Stuckler. Henry Slack, who was the last surviving member of this group, headed the annual rodeo parade for many years, always riding straight and tall in his saddle. He passed away in 1944. Local historian Barney Hubbs gathered affidavits from people and family members who participated in that first rodeo. Encyclopedia Britannica declared Pecos, Texas, as the “Home of the World’s First Rodeo.” The encyclopedia states Pecos is where the first public cowboy contest wherein prizes were awarded to the winners of the bronc riding and steer roping competitions. The rodeo was held in at least four locations until 1935 when several significant changes were made. The location was set at its current location on South

Highway 285. Up until that year the rodeo was held during the day, with dances following in the evening. In 1935 the rodeo started a new tradition by staging the event in the evening, when it was a lot cooler than those over-110-temperature days. Additionally, the rodeo was broadcast for the first time on the local Pecos KIUN radio station. The West of the Pecos Rodeo has played a pivotal role in shaping rodeo events, notably introducing the Cloverleaf pattern in Pecos on July 3, 1945. This innovative concept, initially created to include cowgirls in the rodeo, involved navigating the distinctive cloverleaf pattern as quickly as possible around three barrels in the arena without knocking them over. This unique contribution has become a defining and dynamic element of the modern rodeo.

Today, the legacy of that first rodeo lives on with the annual West of the Pecos Rodeo. The rodeo is one of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s (PRCA) top 40 prize money rodeos and showcases the best cowboys and cowgirls from around the country. Each year the rodeo brings in over 500 contestants, each vying for top prize money that can catapult them to the prestigious National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada. The West of the Pecos Rodeo has continued to evolve while staying true to its deep-seated history. Recognized as one of the top-notch rodeos in the PRCA today, it has earned multiple nominations for Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year. The event transforms Pecos into a tightly knit community welcoming participants and spectators alike for a week filled

DON’T MISS Visit Pecos visitpecos.com West of the Pecos Rodeo June 26-29, 2024 Buck Jackson Arena 1556 S Cedar St. Pecos, TX 79772 pecosrodeo.com West of the Pecos Museum 120 E. Dot Stafford St. Pecos, TX 79772 (432) 445-5076 westofthepecos museum.org Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame 100 E 1st St. Pecos, TX 79772 (432) 445-1883 texasrodeohallof fame.com

Opposite Grand entry at West of the Pecos Rodeo on July 4, 1947 | Courtesy reevescounty.org Above Spectators eagerly await the opening of West of the Pecos Rodeo with the downtown parade | Courtesy Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame

LOCAL

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with Wild West festivities. The festivities kick off Monday night with the famous Silver Skull gala which is designed not only to entertain but also to showcase the rodeo sponsors who play a crucial role in bringing this event to life. The following day (Tuesday) starts with evening slack and every morning after that. Wednesday is the official start of the rodeo with the much-anticipated West of the Pecos Rodeo Parade. Colorful floats, horse groups, and the Pecos High School band travel the parade route waving at the crowds of people lining the streets. The Annual West of the Pecos Museum Old Timer’s Reunion is also held that day. This event has brought together area pioneers for over five decades. Each rodeo performance begins at 8 p.m. nightly and is filled with adrenaline-pumping performances for both participants and spectators. A cornerstone of the West of the Pecos Rodeo’s success is attributed to the dedication of the Rodeo committee; its members oversee and guide all aspects of the rodeo. The choice of stock is paramount, and in this regard, the rodeo has consistently set itself apart by bringing in some of the best in the business. Pete Carr and Carr Pro Rodeo, with their unparalleled reputation for having the finest stock, ensure that every rodeo-goer witnesses riveting matchups and, perhaps, witness history being made in the arena. The West of the Pecos Rodeo brings in some of the most notable personalities to make the rodeo experience a once-in-alifetime event for all who attend. The emcee of each rodeo performance is Anthony Lucia of Weatherford, Texas, who has a deep understanding of the rodeo world and provides humor and keeps the fans informed from his vantage point on horseback in the arena. Adding to the electrifying atmosphere and rocking the house every night is the 2022 14

PRCA Music Director of the Year, Benje Bendele, who ensures that the energy is palpable throughout the performances. However, the magic doesn’t stop there. Behind the scenes, the unsung heroes of the rodeo are John and Sandy Gwatney, often referred to as the backbone of the entire rodeo operation, who work tirelessly to ensure that every aspect runs seamlessly. Their dedication and attention to detail contribute significantly to the overall success of the West of the Pecos Rodeo. The acclaim and recognition bestowed upon the West of the Pecos Rodeo extend beyond the arena. In 2015, 2016, and 2023, the rodeo received nominations from PRCA cardholders, the cowboys themselves, as one of the five best large outdoor rodeos across the country. Such acknowledgment speaks volumes about the high regard in which the West of the Pecos rodeo is held within the professional rodeo community. The pinnacle of recognition came in 2008 when the West of the Pecos Rodeo was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor solidified its place in history, acknowledging not only its longevity but also its significant contributions to the sport of rodeo. The West of the Pecos Rodeo garnered further accolades in 2023 when the rodeo was nominated as Large Committee of the Year in the PRCA Texas circuit, a testament to the tireless efforts and collaborative spirit of the individuals and organizations behind the event. The West of the Pecos Rodeo has evolved into a world-class rodeo spectacle and is a celebration that transcends time connecting the modern rodeo experience to the roots laid down in the dust of Pecos over a century ago. Immerse yourself in the legacy of rodeo excellence at the Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame and discover frontier tales and cowboy lore at the West of the Pecos Museum.

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

Texas Treasure Business Award Spotlights A Program of the Texas Historical Commission

Anita’s Tortilleria y Comida Brownsville – 1953 Chico’s Tacos El Paso – 1953 Isabel’s Café Port Isabel – 1973 Gulf Coast Automotive Winnie – 1971 James Avery Kerrville – 1954 Peoples Funeral Home Marshall – 1923

Peoples Funeral Home — Established: 1923 On changes to the industry: “Historically, segregation in Texas was upheld in the funeral industry as it was in other service related industries, and continued extensively until the 1980s- 1990s. After that point, funeral homes previously catering to Whites only expanded their outreach to servicing African Americans. The competition for the African American population by White-owned funeral homes resulted in a decline in the number of cases served by previously Blackowned funeral homes.” Today, the daily operations of Peoples Funeral Home are overseen by fourth-generation descendants of the original owner, Milton (sometimes Melton) Williams.

Swindle‘s Jewelry — Established: 1942 “This restaurant has seen many significant disasters come “Grady and Gracie never considered themselves disabled; however, he had severe arthritis, and she contracted polio at age 3. Around 1941, the State Board of Vocational Education sent them both to a 9-month watchmaking course at Hardin Junior College in Wichita Falls. The two met just prior to graduating from watchmaking school and were later married. During WWII, Grady and Gracie founded their own watchmaking school in the back of their store in Dublin to provide disabled veterans returning home from war an opportunity to learn the trade.”

James Avery — Established: 1954 “In the summer of 1954, Mr. Avery started his jewelry business in a two-car garage with about $250 in capital. He built a small workbench, bought a few hand tools and scraps of silver and copper. Word spread, and people found their way to the craftsman in the hills. Each one who came would be greeted personally and with cordial gratitude. It was in this setting the strong and lasting relationships with customers grew… and grew…and grew! Our Kerrville campus, including our retail store, sits close to the original garage where Mr. Avery started his business, and we honor his legacy by continuing to engage and create memories with our customers throughout all of our retail locations.”

Turner, Pierce, and Fultz, Inc. Navasota – 1934 Lynn’s La Vega Pharmacy Waco – 1950 Willis Plumbing Waco – 1945 Circle Drug Waco – 1945 Bowen Electric Waco – 1955 City Tire & Battery Co. Waco – 1942 McCreery Aviation Co., Inc. McAllen – 1946 Taco Ole Mission – 1970 Swindle’s Jewelry Stephenville – 1942 Las Vegas Café Harlingen – 1964 Ernst Jewelers Huntsville – 1893 El Chico Rockwall – 1940 Citizens National Bank Cameron – 1900 Jefferson Jimplecute Jefferson – 1865 The Original Mexican Café Galveston – 1916

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The Sport of Kings, Texas Style How polo, cowboys, and the early American Quarter Horse combined to make history by Liz Weaver

olo has long been known as the sport of kings, but for a few years during the early 1930s in Georgetown and the Texas Hill Country, it became the sport of cowboys. Polo was introduced to the United States around 1876 and soon afterward Texas became known for its tough, agile cow ponies that were ideal for the sport. In Junction, to the west of Fredericksburg, was a rancher named O. W. Cardwell, an experienced livestock breeder who would later establish his name as one of the developers of the American Quarter Horse. Despite having only one arm, Cardwell became an accomplished polo player. He, his children, and friends on neighboring ranches played polo regularly, but they did it Texas style, using the western boots, hats, and saddles they used every day. Cardwell had become known in the polo world as a breeder of good ponies, shipping them to the eastern United States. In 1929, the desire for education drew the 16

Cardwell family to Georgetown. Cardwell leased his ranch in Junction and moved the family east to thriving Georgetown, where he enrolled his children in Southwestern University. When he made the move, he brought with him a string of about 35 horses and found property just west of Georgetown to lease. Once here, he met the Weir family who lived on a ranch just west of Georgetown along the South San Gabriel River. Doc Weir was also interested in polo and training ponies, and the two families formed the core of the Georgetown Polo Team. Doc Weir’s son, Mike Weir, recalled of his father, “The polo was before my time, but my father was probably the best horseman anyone had ever seen.” Polo Texas style was different from what was played in the East. Many of the players in the early days used their western saddles and wore their cowboy boots and Stetson Hats. Weir said, “The Texas polo players were inexperienced with mallets,

GEORGETOWN

BRAZOS TRAIL REGION

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but they were incredible horsemen. Cardwell had a heavy rein and, when he needed to use his arm to hit a shot, he’d hold the rein in his teeth to guide the horse.” The team had a practice field next to the Weir Ranch, an area now encompassed by IH-35, and they had a game field west on Highway 29. “The practice field was closer, but rocky,” Weir said. “On game days, they’d have some boys lead the ponies across the river and out to the game field.” The Georgetown group regularly faced teams from the area and, in 1932, were invited to play in the Southwest Championship Polo Tournament near Fort Worth. The Georgetown team swept the tournament that year and then followed with a second win the next year. By the second championship game, the Cardwells had moved back to Junction. Doc Weir continued to play polo and train ponies for a few more years. “He’d take his ponies to the East and play on someone’s team,” Weir said. “There was no money in that, but they would see his ponies and buy them. He would come home and train some more.” By 1938, the tough, Texas cow ponies were being replaced by Thoroughbreds as the preferred horse for polo. Also, the rising cost of transportation and feed, an IRS change disallowing a tax deduction for the ponies, and the country’s concerns about the war in Europe brought polo to an end in Georgetown. Today polo is played in some areas of Texas, where competitors still enjoy the click of mallets and thunder of hooves. All that remains of polo in Georgetown, though, is the Weir ranch house, known today as the Page House in Georgetown. For a while, though, it must have been grand!

DON’T MISS Visit Georgetown visit.georgetown.org Preservation Georgetown (512) 790-7222 preservation georgetown.org

Opposite Cardwell (far left) had a strict rule of no practice or competition on Sundays. His teams, including this team from Junction, often played in secret without him. Top Doc Weir continued training and selling Texas polo ponies on the east coast through 1938. Bottom In his early years, O. W. Cardwell was an outstanding college player in both baseball and tennis, despite having lost an arm in a gun accident when he was only 14. | Photos courtesy Preservation Georgetown

LOCAL

yonder

Cheering from Southern Bleacher Grandstands by Loretta Fulton

DON’T MISS Visit Graham visitgrahamtexas.com Southern Bleacher Company 801 Fifth St. Graham, TX 76450 800-433-0912 940-549-0733 southern bleacher.com

Left Cotton Bowl Stadium | Courtesy UNT Libraries Special Collections Right Opening in 1997 with 150,000-plus seats, Texas Motor Speedway marked a milestone for Southern Bleacher that still stands. | Courtesy UNT Libraries Special Collections Far Right located in Graham, Southern Bleacher Company is the largest U.S. bleacher manufacturer

ver been to a football game at the Cotton Bowl? How about a NASCAR experience at Texas Motor Speedway? If so, you know just about everything you need to know about Southern Bleacher, located in Graham, the county seat of Young County about 60 miles south of Wichita Falls. Southern Bleacher Company, with roots dating to 1946, installed the bleachers at both those famous locations, plus Texas Tech, Texas A&M, SMU, TCU, the University of Houston, and many other campuses. When Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) opened, its 150,000-plus seats marked a milestone for Southern Bleacher that still stands. “The largest project to 18

date was TMS, which opened in 1997,” said Sarah Lundgren, communication and marketing director for Southern Bleacher. “At the time, it was the largest grandstand built in a single phase.” The story behind Southern Bleacher and how the company ended up in Graham is the story of two determined men and of an idea they wouldn’t let go. Jim Geurin was a high school band director in Van Buren, Arkansas, when he decided his high school needed bleachers. The school superintendent, Virgil Coleman, got on board. In 1946, the two men contacted the dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Arkansas to draw up a simple design. That summer, Geurin and Coleman put together

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their first set of bleachers. Eventually, Geurin moved to Texas, while Coleman stayed in Arkansas. Southern Bleacher had a brief stay in Lubbock before Geurin moved the company to Graham and his daughter, Jo Ann, joined the business. Before long, Southern Bleacher was building stadiums as far afield as Oregon and Washington. Geurin died in 1988, nine years before the mega-seat Texas Motor Speedway became

the company’s largest project. Today, Geurin’s grandsons, Garrett and Wyatt Pettus, own the company, making Southern Bleacher a third-generation business with more than 160 employees. High school football, baseball and softball stadiums account for most of the projects that Southern Bleacher builds. But there have been some unusual requests, too. “For example,” Lundgren

said, “the most unusual grandstand was for tractor pulling in Union Grove, Wisconsin, at the Racine County Fairgrounds.” Other oddities include party decks at the turns at Texas Motor Speedway and the basketball arena at Butler University’s Hinkle Fieldhouse, which was pictured in the final scene of the movie “Hoosiers.” And, to top it off, Southern Bleacher built the outfield seating behind the ivy at Wrigley Field, home of the

Chicago Cubs. Today, Southern Bleacher is the largest bleacher manufacturer in the United States. For a long time in the beginning, Southern Bleacher was the underdog in the industry, even in Texas, where two other companies ruled. But Jim Geurin wasn’t content with being in third place, as noted on the company website: “From one little high school bleacher in 1946, his underdog had done good.”

LOCAL

city lights

Babe Didrickson Zaharias All-American Sports Heroine

Photo Courtesy Underwood Archives/Getty

by Bob McCullough

ans love to debate who’s the best among competitors in various sports. Among female stars, an incredibly gifted athlete from Southeast Texas — Mildred Ella Didrickson Zaharias — inevitably earns recognition by many sports enthusiasts as the greatest of all time. The story of this super-competitive, multi-sport dynamo, who sadly lost her race with cancer in 1956 after a relatively short, 45-year life span, can be relived and appreciated at the Babe Zaharias Museum and Visitor Center in Beaumont. “Of her numerous accomplishments, the most significant in my opinion is the number of sports Babe attempted and excelled in — golf, basketball, baseball, swimming, and track and 20

field,” says LaTasha Y. Sames of the Beaumont Convention and Visitors Bureau, which operates the Zaharias museum in collaboration with the Babe Zaharias Foundation. “Additionally, the number of medals she won — two Olympic golds and one silver — and the number of golf tournaments she won — 82 — are most impressive.” Her nickname Babe might be interpreted to connote sweetness and serenity where in reality she was a ferocious competitor in whatever sport or endeavor she pursued. A 1932 TIME magazine cover story called her a “symbol of strength.” When she was born, Mildred Ella was the baby of the Didrickson family, so her Norwegian mother called her “Min Bebe,” which ultimately became Babe. To permanently recognize Babe’s achievements,

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DON’T MISS Visit Beaumont beaumontcvb.com Babe Didrickson Zaharias Museum & Visitor Center 1750 IH 10 East Beaumont, TX 77701 (409) 833-4622 bdzfoundation.com

Visit Port Arthur visitportarthurtx.com Museum of the Gulf Coast 700 Procter St. Port Arthur, TX 77640 (409) 982-7000 museumofthegulf coast.org

This Life I’ve Led

by Babe Didrickson Zaharias

Left Babe Didrikson Zaharias was named the Associated Press “Woman Athlete of the Half-Century” in 1950 for her skills in basketball, track & field, and golf. Photo printed Syracuse Journal, 1934

Wonder Girl

by Don Van Natta Jr.

Beaumont civic leaders raised money, and the Beaumont City Council made available a 10-acre tract so the dream of a museum could become reality. Grand opening festivities occurred in November 1976. “The rotunda-style museum occupies 1,300 square feet and houses 118 trophies and 53 historic pictures of Babe,” Sames says. “One special feature of the museum is a kiosk that allows guests to listen to short verbal chapters about Babe’s life. Because of its prominent location on busy IH 10 through the heart of Beaumont, the museum attracts visitors from all over the U. S. Most have some familiarity with Babe and would like to know more.” Although Zaharias is most often associated with Beaumont, she actually was born 20 miles to the south in Port Arthur, where the Museum of the Gulf Coast also pays tribute to her with an exhibit in its Sports Hall of Fame. She stands out among almost a hundred inductees in an array of sports such as football, baseball, basketball, boxing, tennis, weightlifting, track, wrestling, golf, martial arts, drag racing and horse racing.

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Babe

Didrikson

never tried a sport too tough and never met a hurdle too high.

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attempts

keep women from competing, Babe achieved All-American status in basketball and won gold medals in track and field at the 1932 Olympics. Then, Babe attempted to conquer golf. One of the founders of the LPGA, Babe won more consecutive tournaments than any golfer in history. At the height of her fame, she was diagnosed with cancer. Babe would then take her most daring step of all: go public and try to win again with the hope of inspiring the world.

Items in the Zaharias exhibit include an American record certificate issued by the Amateur Athletic Union in 1930 in recognition of her javelin throw of 133 feet, 5.5 inches; the silver cup Zaharias won in the 1938 Eastern Women’s Open golf tournament; and a photograph of her at the Bob Hope Scratch (Golf ) Tournament that the host autographed for her. Like the Zaharias museum in Beaumont, the Museum of the Gulf Coast in Port Arthur has seen a steady stream of visitors from coast to coast as well as from other countries since it opened in July 1994. “Babe was unequaled by any other female athlete before or after her time,” says Tom Neal, Museum of the Gulf Coast director. “She was able to take on any sport and would learn to compete at a winning level in all that she attempted, often surpassing her male counterparts as well as her female competitors.” Was she indeed the greatest female athlete of all time? Her numerous successes clearly point to her going down in history as an AllAmerican sports heroine. 21

LOCAL

city lights

Round Rock A Journey Through Time and Sports Excellence Sports Capital of Texas offers rich history, recreation by Sara Bustilloz

magine a city where the echoes of the past mingle with the cheers of the present, where you can find both a major cattle-driving route from the 19th century less than a mile from a national championship facility. Welcome to Round Rock, Texas, a city that has woven a rich tapestry of history and sports, creating a unique destination for travelers. Residents and visitors to Round Rock will run across the name “Palm Valley” in a variety of places, including a major roadway named Palm Valley Boulevard. The area is named for the Swedish settlers who left their home for the New World in the 22

1800s and became prominent landowners and farmers in the area. Just as these settlers helped raise Round Rock from its infancy to become a prosperous town, city leaders would envision another transformation in the 1990s of a state-of-the-art ballpark nestled in the historic Palm Valley area. The Round Rock Express, the Texas Rangers’ Triple-A affiliate, moved into Dell Diamond in 2000 and the community entered a bold stride into an era where Round Rock became known as the Sports Capital of Texas. The Express were founded as a Double-A franchise by Ryan Sanders Baseball, a group made up of

Above The notable “round rock” landmark for cattle drivers on the Chisholm Trail and the namesake of this central Texas community.

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Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan, his sons Reid and Reese, Houston businessman Don Sanders, and his sons Bret and Brad. Reid Ryan worked with former Round Rock Mayor Charlie Culpepper to build community support for the team, while simultaneously setting the wheels in motion to build Dell Diamond prior to the team’s inaugural season. The Express, since their inception, have mirrored Nolan Ryan’s values of hard work, dedication and family-friendly entertainment. For decades, Dell Diamond has been a magnet for sports tourism, drawing in crowds for minor league baseball games, concerts and other largescale events, reinforcing Round Rock’s status as a destination for premier sports entertainment. The town has truly come a long way since 1908, when Round Rock’s hometown baseball team results were first reported in local newspapers, or since Fred Coffe organized the town’s first Little League team in 1951. For visitors who appreciate both the game and its rich heritage, Dell Diamond offers an immersive experience into the world of baseball and its impact on the community. Next to the Dell Diamond are two other sites that offer a serene escape into nature and history — The crown jewel of Round Rock’s outdoor facilities, Old Settlers Park, and the Old Settlers Association. The Old Settlers Association was organized for the sole purpose of gathering up fragments of history in Williamson County and continuing them for future generations. The Old Settlers Association and RV Park property features many exceptional

amenities such as RV parking, historical pioneer sites, the Palm Mansion, and the annual Old Settlers birthday celebration. Located on 645 acres, Old Settlers Park boasts a diverse range of facilities including a disc golf course, numerous playgrounds, ample picnic areas with barbecue pits, football fields, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and cross-country courses. The park also offers miles of paved trails, a designated area for special events, and a fish-stocked lake. Staying true to Round Rock’s Sports Capital of Texas moniker, Old Settlers Park is also home to the 60-acre Round Rock Multipurpose Complex which hosts national tournaments for soccer, football and more. Another tournament facility, the indoor Round Rock Sports Center located on Chisholm Trail Road, is located less than two miles from the unique “round rock” that was used as a landmark for settlers on the Chisholm Trail to cross the area’s Brushy Creek and ultimately provided the city’s namesake. Since the opening of the Sports Center in 2014, sports tourism in Round Rock has generated over $148 million in economic activity. Round Rock’s appeal as the Sports Capital of Texas goes beyond its athletic facilities or its strategic location near Austin. The city’s ability to balance modern sports amenities with rich historical context make it a unique destination. Round Rock’s parks and trails are perfect for travelers who love to explore the outdoors while delving into the historical narratives of Texas communities, making it a true home run for history and sports enthusiasts.

DON’T MISS Round Rock Visitors Center ( 512) 218-7023 goroundrock.com Planning and Development Services Round Rock Historic Preservation (512) 218-5428 roundrocktexas.gov Dell Diamond Round Rock Express 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78665 (512) 255-2255 milb.com/round-rock

Above Left Round Rock’s Dell Diamond, the home of the Round Rock Express minor league team. Above Right 1911 Round Rock town team. In the early 20th century, most towns and villages had town baseball teams before the sport was popular with schools. Bottom Right Fred Coffe orgazined the town’s first Little League team in 1951. This photo is of the 1963 team.

LOCAL

city lights

The Remnants of the Southwest Conference The Story of a Landmark Archival Collection by Austin Allison

onference realignment. It is the periodic buzzword that makes the rounds of college athletics for the past three or more decades as schools and conferences aim to sweeten their television contracts. The history of college athletics runs mostly parallel to the history of college athletic conferences, and with that history comes the stories of conference realignment. Conference realignment over the past decade has been front and center as schools like Texas A&M University and the University of Texas left their previously comfortable homes in the Big 12 Conference to try their luck in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). This was not the first time such moves rattled college athletics. A previously well-known entity in Texas, the Southwest Conference (SWC), dominated college sports in Texas for the better part of a century, but its stature quickly dissolved in 24

a matter of months as schools sought to keep up with a changing landscape that revolved more around television contracts rather than traditional conference foes. The first major blow to the SWC was the departure of the University of Arkansas in 1990. This left the conference as a Texas-only affair that was on the outside looking in as other leagues signed large and long-term collaborative contracts with television groups to broadcast games on cable and network television. The conference trudged along for a time, but the dominoes were already falling out of favor for the old SWC. Four schools, Baylor University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, and the University of Texas were on their way out by late 1993. Schools from the Big 8 and the four departing SWC schools joined forces to create the Big 12 Conference. Rice

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University, Southern Methodist University and Texas Christian University joined the Western Athletic Conference, while the University of Houston joined Conference USA. With the dissolution of the conference looming, the conference’s leadership was tasked with identifying a repository for the records of the organization. Two entities submitted proposals to house the remnant records of the conference: Texas Tech University ’s Southwest Collection and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in Waco. Each group submitted wide-ranging proposals detailing how the collection would be managed and publicized, but the Southwest Collection ultimately was chosen as the winning repository for the official papers and records, while the Texas Sports Hall of Fame was chosen as the repository of the Southwest Conference name, brand, and the memorabilia that Texas Tech was unable to house. Dr. David Murrah, then the Director of the Southwest Collection, authored a proposal to Southwest Conference representatives in August 1995 and presented it later prior to a November 1995 Southwest Conference board meeting. The proposal outlined a plan to survey and catalog the records, to perform preservation and conservation to items needing attention, and to publicize the collection externally to promote research and use of the records. Transfer of the materials began in early 1996, and by June of that year more than 300 boxes of material had been collected by the crew from Texas Tech. One of the selling points that Texas Tech touted was the expansion and opening of their new building which was slated to occur in 1996. Not only did Tech have the facilities to house the monstrous collection, but they had the permanent exhibit space to highlight the acquisition in perpetuity as

one of the cornerstone collections housed at the facility. This exhibit still stands today. The collection contains a breadth of information about not only the everyday business of the Southwest Conference, but also a wide-ranging view of athletics from the early 20th century up through a portion of its last decade. The most comprehensive series of documents is the meeting minutes records, which is complete and comprehensive. In fact, these records have been digitized and are available for researchers on the Southwest Collection’s digital repository. For those interested in historic game and season statistics, there are records folder after folder dating back to the 1960s and beyond. In total, there are 333 boxes of materials that were transferred when the final dissolution of the conference occurred. Perhaps the most interesting folders of the collection pertain to the early-1990s discussions about the conference’s future. The files of Kyle Kallander, the last commissioner of the conference, contain brutally honest views of the conference’s plight. A December 15, 1993 meeting of SWC university presidents detailed plans to address media speculation that the conference was foundering. By this time there was speculation that the Big 8 Conference aimed to absorb 4 SWC teams. To address this, a special meeting was called to brainstorm potential solutions while within the “window of opportunity” including a merge with the Big 8 Conference. This did not happen as the slow-acting conference failed to stave off the expansion-minded Big 8. February 1994 brought the announcement that Baylor, Texas, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech were leaving, thus sealing the fate of the old Southwest Conference. The Southwest Conference

Opposite As part of Texas Tech University, the Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library acquires, preserves, and makes accessible to scholars and the general public collections of regional, national, and international significance. Above Visitors to the Southwest Collections/Special Collections Library at Texas Tech can view a permanent exhibit about the Southwest Conference which was organized in 1914 and ended in 1996.

has a rich history that documents college athletics during the 20th century. This history can be accessed by researchers at Texas Tech University’s Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library. A box-by-box, folder-by-folder breakdown of the collection can be accessed online. Texas Tech is also home to the Southwest Conference Circle, a unique octagon-shaped marker that was constructed in 1956 to commemorate Texas Tech’s entry into the conference in 1956. The marker can be viewed just east of the Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering on Texas Tech’s campus in Lubbock.

DON’T MISS Visit Lubbock visitlubbock.org Southwest Collections / Special Collections Library Texas Tech University 2805 15th St. Lubbock, TX 79409 (806) 742-9070 swco.ttu.edu

A U T H E N T I C

P E R S O N

Pitching In for a Better Future

by Tristan Smith

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

or more than two decades, Alvin native Nolan Ryan ruled the diamond. His legacy should speak for itself by this point in history. However, the legacy he is paving for his life off the mound may have an even greater impact than the one he spent dominating batters. For the uninitiated, though, let’s take a quick look at Ryan’s storied career in Major League Baseball. With a career of having played in the majors for a record 27 seasons, Nolan Ryan was bound to accumulate some impressive statistics. Let’s start with the fact that he was the final active player from the 1960s to retire from Major League Baseball. He is one of only a few dozen players to have played games in four different decades. Additionally, he became the first person to play for all four of the Major League’s original expansion teams - the New York Mets, the California Angels (now the Los Angeles Angels), and the Houston Colt .45s (now the Houston Astros). That kind of career longevity is rarely equaled in any sport. “My ability to throw a baseball was a gift. It was a God-given gift. And I am truly appreciative of that gift,” Ryan said about his legacy on the mound. “I’ve got a different perception now and it’s really enjoyable to be at this point in your life and be able to watch this.” Following his 1965 graduation from Alvin High School, Ryan was drafted by the then-hapless New York Mets. Playing for Jim Watson’s Alvin Yellow Jackets, Ryan was amassing records even then. For 44 years, he held the school’s single-game strikeout record with 21 in a seven-inning game (a record that was tied twice in one week in 2009). It was during

the 1963 season that Mets scout Red Murff showed up for an Alvin High School game at Clear Creek High School in nearby League City. Coach Watson regaled Murff with stories of his young pitcher’s velocity, how some batters would refuse to face the high school pitcher and that Ryan’s pitches were so hard, he would sometimes break bones in catcher’s hands. Murff wrote back stating that Ryan’s arm was the best he’d ever seen, leading to his being drafted. He would make his way for a brief stint with the Mets in 1966 before permanently making the squad in 1968. From that moment, throughout his playing days with the Mets, the California Angels, the Houston Astros, and until his retirement with the Texas Rangers in 1993, Nolan Ryan not only witnessed a number of historic moments but crafted a few of his own. Nicknamed “The Ryan Express”, Ryan is widely considered to be one of the greatest pitchers of all time. Regularly clocked at over 100 miles per hour, his velocity would earn him eight trips to the All Star Game and a trip to Cooperstown, New York, for his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999. Along with that, Ryan racked up 5,714 career strikeouts, a lifetime batting average against him of .204, heartily controls his all-time lead of no-hitters with seven, and is only one of three players to have his number retired by at least three teams (the Angels, Astros, Rangers) — joining Frank Robinson and Jackie Robinson (whose number was retired by the entirety of Major League Baseball). Along with those records, he appeared in and helped the New York Mets win the 1969 World Series (his only appearance in the Fall Classic); was a runner-up multiple times for the Cy Young Award, managed to become the first pitcher to throw an immaculate inning (three consecutive batters struck out with only three pitches to each in the inning) in both leagues; led the league in strikeouts more times than many would care to count; was the first million-dollar player in 1979 when he signed with the

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SEASONS PLAYED

CAREER STRIKEOUTS

CAREER NO-HITTERS

Astros. When he doffed his cap for the last time, at the age of 46, Ryan had topped the 300-win mark with 324 and amassed his major league-record 5,714th strikeout. Born in Refugio, just outside Victoria, his family moved near Houston to Alvin when Nolan was only six weeks old. Noticing that his son enjoyed throwing at targets, his father encouraged him to play baseball. He joined Alvin Little League Baseball when he was nine. A few years later, having made the all-star team twice, he pitched the first no-hitter of his life. He jettisoned football in ninth grade and began to focus his vision on baseball only. Following his retirement from the mound, Ryan continued to be involved with baseball operations as well as several off-the-field activities, much of it originating near Alvin. In addition to his baseball legacy, he’s a rancher, an entrepreneur, and a family man. He’s the principal owner of the ownership group for the Round Rock Express, the AAA-affiliate of the Texas Rangers (the 2023 World Series Champions); he served as the Texas Rangers president and CEO from 2008-2013; a special assistant for the Houston Astros from 2014-2019 (the 2017 World Series and 2019 American League pennant winners), served on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission; has co-written six books; has schools and highways named after him; started Nolan Ryan

Beef following his life-long experience working cattle, and has also been inducted into the Texas Trail of Fame (2009) and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame (2010). However, one of the largest legacies that Nolan Ryan hopes to leave for others is through his foundation, now the not-for-profit arm of the Express. “We’ve helped kids get scholarships who otherwise couldn’t afford college,” said Ryan about the foundation’s impact. “Partnering with the (Round Rock) Express gives us some unique opportunities in Central Texas, and it makes sense because I live here and can spend more time on it.” The Nolan Ryan Foundation is not a new and emerging organization. Formed in Alvin in 1990, the foundation’s focus is providing resources for youth education and community development. A small group of local business leaders came together that year in Alvin to form the foundation, along with Nolan, and his wife, Ruth. The first project for the foundation was the construction of the $1.2 million Nolan Ryan Center, completed and donated to Alvin Community College in 1996. The facility is used for not only classes but special events and as a community center. For two decades, the foundation leased space within the building for their Nolan Ryan Exhibit Center. While the facility moved its contents to Waco’s Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 2016;

300 STRIKEOUT SEASONS

Left Ruth Ryan gives her husband Nolan a kiss after he tosses the fourth no-hitter of his career on June 1, 1975. Below Nolan and Ruth Ryan’s extended family. | Photos courtesy Nolan Ryan Foundation

HITS PER NINE INNINGS PITCHED

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PAIRS OF FATHERS & SONS STRUCK OUT

Left Luke Vizcarra (center), member of the Huston-Tillotson University baseball team, received the Willie Wells Memorial Scholarship presented by the Nolan Ryan Foundation in 2022. Right A statue of Nolan by Antonio Mendez placed in 2016 at the Round Rock Express Dell Diamond in Round Rock, Texas | Photos courtesy Nolan Ryan Foundation

the Alvin Historical Museum opened their own Nolan Ryan exhibit in 2021 to take its place. The facility continues to be used by the community college and Ryan’s impact in his hometown of Alvin is still felt and can be seen throughout town to this day. “I always thought that there was going to be life after baseball, and so I designed that in my life I would have other interests after baseball that I would be able to step into,” Ryan said about life off the mound. “I didn’t realize the grip that baseball had on me and my family. I can honestly say it took two full years for me to get over the fact that I was no longer a baseball player.” In 2016, the foundation relocated to Round Rock, not too far from Ryan’s home in Georgetown. Over the past decade alone, they have provided $4.2 million in scholarships, donations, and community grants; a quarter of a million of that came in 2022. Staff at the foundation are tireless, working yearround to raise funds for their community grants and scholarship program. The latter efforts awards scholarships to graduating Round Rock ISD students - renewable for up to four years. In addition to that, the foundation has memorialized Hall of Fame Negro League baseball player, Willie Wells who played for the Austin Black Senators. With the Willie Wells Memorial Scholarship, established in 2021 and awarded every spring, one HustonTillotson University student in Austin will be awarded the scholarship. “Year in and year out, the impact of the Nolan Ryan Foundation can be seen in our own backyard,” commented Mary Conley, the foundation’s executive director. “With eight student recipients receiving renewable scholarships, we can create a relation32

ship that is closer to them.” Those funds come from multiple events and opportunities for fans as well. The foundation hosts an annual dinner and a shotgun-style golf tournament that includes a variety of sports legends, and a live and silent auction. If that’s not your speed, head out to Dell Diamond for a Round Rock Express game. There, they host a 50/50 Raffle where half of the net proceeds go to a lucky fan while the rest goes back to the foundation. At the end of the season, the foundation donates all these proceeds to several Central Texas nonprofit organizations. And, if you can’t make it to Dell Diamond for a game, check out the foundation’s website and purchase one of the many unique Nolan Ryan items, which includes a number of autographed items and personalized opportunities. “Nolan and his entire family have been such an integral part of the city for so many years, and have literally helped shape the community,” said Mayor Alan McGraw when the Foundation moved to Round Rock. “We are very thankful for their many contributions to our quality of life, and look forward to their continued involvement.” Nolan Ryan’s legacy on the field has spoken for itself for the past six-plus decades. His records will be spoken about just like those of Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Satchel Paige, and Ted Williams for generations to come. His legacy left to the communities and people he supports will be felt just as long. Nolan Ryan not only improved the game of baseball with his skills and prowess, but he has improved the communities as well because of his interest in his fellow Texans and making sure he leaves the state a better place.

DON’T MISS NOLAN RYAN FOUNDATION nolanryan foundation.org VISIT ALVIN visitalvin.com ALVIN HISTORICAL MUSEUM 302 West Sealy Street Alvin, TX 77511 (281) 331-4469 alvinmuseum.org VISIT HOUSTON visithouston.com HOUSTON ASTROS HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM Minute Maid Park 501 Crawford Street Houston, TX 77002 (713) 259-8000 mlb.com/astros VISIT ARLINGTON arlington.com TEXAS RANGERS HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM Choctaw Stadium 1000 Ballpark Way Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 533-1972 mlb.com/rangers

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P L A C E

T E X A S S P O R T S H A L L O F FA M E Honors over 400 Texas Legends by Genesis Moncada

DON’T MISS Visit Waco wacoheartof texas.com Texas Sports Hall of Fame 1108 South University Parks Drive Waco, TX 76706 (254) 756-1633 tshof.org

Left Southwest Conference Gallery Top Right the Dave Campbell Research Library exhibit Middle Right the Nolan Ryan Gallery

ESTLED IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL TEXAS, THE TEXAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME, IN THE EVER-GROWING CITY OF WACO, STANDS AS THE REVERED HALL OF OVER 400 SPORTS LEGENDS FROM THE LONE STAR STATE. With a dedicated mission to uphold the legacy of its esteemed inductees and the rich history of Texas sports, the Hall pays homage to athletes, coaches, and administrators whose enduring contributions have left an indelible mark within the realm of sports excellence. Established in 1951 by the Texas Sports Writers Association, it marks the first state Sports Hall of Fame in the United States. That same year, the sports writers unanimously voted one of baseball’s greats, Tris Speaker, its inaugural inductee. In the early 1980s, with substantial support, Dallas native and Kansas 36

City Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt established the original museum in Grand Prairie, Texas, before its move to Waco in April of 1993. Today, the museum offers a range of educational tours and proudly houses three additional halls of fame: the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame, the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame, and the Southwest Conference Hall of Fame. The museum underwent a significant upgrade in 2010, doubling its size to 35,000 square feet, and introducing new educational and venue spaces, including The Red and Charline McCombs Great Hall, the Dave Campbell Research Library, the

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

Health, Fitness & Education Center, and the Southwest Conference Gallery, which encompasses the nine schools of the former Southwest Conference. Engaging exhibits and interactive programs drive the narrative of high school, college, and professional sports history within the Hall. Step into the Tom Landry Theater to relive the glory days of the Dallas Cowboys teams from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, showcasing their 20 winning seasons and two Super Bowl Championships, a must-see for ardent Cowboys fans. Delve into the rich tapestry of the Southwest Conference Gallery, highlighting 86 years of riveting history among the nine SWC schools and commemorating the profound impact of one of the greatest college conferences. The Tribute Rooms stand as a monument to Texas sports greatness which honors legends such as George Furman, Grant Teaff, Doak Walker, and Nolan Ryan, whose legacies have shaped the essence of Texas sports. Distinguished by its eclectic array of Texas-centered memorabilia, the Hall fervently promotes a diverse range of sports beyond the realms of football, basketball, and baseball. From the dynamic energy of volleyball to the finesse of golf, the adrenaline of track and field, the excitement of rodeo, and the thrill of auto racing, the Hall caters to a wide spectrum of fans, former athletes, collectors, and enthusiasts alike, fostering an inclusive space that transcends boundaries. Promoting a holistic approach to well-being, the Stephen & Mary Birch Health, Fitness, and Education Center offers a state-of-the-art virtual sports simulator, enabling guests to test their skills, from clocking their fastball to shooting a goal or throwing a pass, fostering an environment that champions a healthy and active lifestyle for all visitors. The exhibits at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame are a must-see for sports fans. They’re made for everyone and are conveniently located in the Heart of Texas. 37

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T H I N G

DALLAS COWBOYS IS AMERICA’S TEAM TEXAS’ TEAM? by Eric Miller

here are so many important dates in Texas history. We have battles (Alamo and San Jacinto), transitions, birthdates, tragedies, assassinations, victories and defeats. Start with March 2, 1836, and the adoption of the Texas Constitution, now known as Texas Independence Day. Or maybe November 22, 1963, and the assassination of President John Kennedy in Dallas. Finally, consider July 20, 1969, when Neal Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon and Houston is the first word heard from the moon. But what about September 24, 1960? Some may argue that Texas history changed on that date in Dallas’s Cotton Bowl. It is when the expansion Dallas Cowboys lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers 35-28 in their first regular season game. It started the history of an NFL franchise unlike any other. A team that became known as America’s Team. Here are a handful of other significant milestones in Cowboys history. The following year, 1961, was very important. The Cowboys first college draft pick, made after their winless first season, was Bob Lilly of Texas Christian University. The defensive lineman anchored the defense of many of the early teams. Later that year the Cowboys claimed their first regular season win, 27-24, against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 17. As any Texas can attest, what’s a football, high school, college or professional game, without cheerleaders. It’s not surprising that the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders trace their roots all the way back to the franchise’s formation. But the squad really took off in the early 1970s when it transitioned to uniforms and choreography that are still recognizable today. Their 1977 poster, the first by an NFL cheer leading squad, was a crucial moment in their development and growing popularity and remains one of the best-selling posters of all time. They soon became known as America’s Sweethearts and remain important to the Dallas Cowboys franchise to this day. The franchise’s first NFL championship was in Super Bowl VI in 1972, a 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins. The team has played in three different stadiums, beginning life in the historic Cotton Bowl, moving to newer, larger, more impressive stadiums twice. In 1971, the team moved to Texas Stadium in Irving (remember, it had a hole in the 40

roof ). Then in 2009 the move was to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, with its massive video board hanging over the field. It remains the team’s home and may be the only professional sports stadium in the US with a world-class art collection. THE COWBOYS HAVE PLAYED IN SEVERAL ICONIC GAMES IN NFL HISTORY. The Ice Bowl was played December 31, 1967, and featured the Dallas Cowboys against the Green Bay Packers on a frigid afternoon. Packers quarterback Bart Starr followed lineman on a sneak into the end with seconds to play, leaving the Cowboys on the short end of a 21-17 score and out of the Super Bowl. The temperature was –13 degrees. The Catch describes a last-minute play in the 1982 NFC

Championship game between the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers. In the game’s final minute Niner quarterback Joe Montana scrambled and found tight end Dwight Clark in the end zone. His pass was high, requiring a herculean effort by Clark. The final score was 28-27, putting the 49ers into the Super Bowl, not the Cowboys. Finally, The Fumble describes the mishandling of a snap by Dallas quarterback Tony Romo on a field goal try that might have advanced the Cowboys one game closer to the Super Bowl in 2006. Instead, the Cowboys lost to the Seattle Seahawks, 21-20. Despite the frustration, through the 2022 season, the Dallas Cowboys held the league’s highest regular season win–loss percentage (.574), with a 550–408–6 record. They have won five Super Bowls (1972, 1978, 1993, 1994 and

1996), the peak of success in professional football and second only to the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers who have each won six Super Bowls. Dallas’ other Super Bowl wins are: Super Bowl XII (1987) 27-10 over the Denver Broncos Super Bowl XXVII (1993) 52-17 over the Buffalo Bills Super Bowl XXVIII (1994) 30-13 over the Buffalo Bills Super Bowl XXX (1996) 27-17 over the Pittsburgh Steelers There are 32 Dallas Cowboys in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, another measure of franchise success, and they have inducted 22 players into their own Cowboys Ring of Honor. Since 1960, the Dallas Cowboys have become one of the most well-known sports franchises around the world, 41

perhaps in the same breath as the New York Yankees of Major League Baseball, Real Madrid of Spain’s La Liga and Manchester United of the United Kingdom’s Premier League and a handful of other franchises around the world. The current value of the franchise, estimated at $9 billion, is the highest in the world. But there is a second date that looms large in Dallas Cowboys history- February 25, 1989. It is the date when businessman Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys for $140 million. Depending on who you ask, and how you ask, that may have been the start of the most frustrating period in Dallas Cowboys history. Wins have continued and three of Jones’ early teams won Super Bowls, the last in 1996. But, despite the success the Cowboys have a string of playoff disappointments that leaves fans frustrated. YET, DALLAS COWBOYS FANS ARE LOYAL, VERY LOYAL. “Simply, sports drive Texans crazy,” Tai Kreidler with the Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library at Texas Tech University, says. For many Texans there are two sport seasons- football and spring football! The Cowboys may know that better, from their first General Manager Tex Schramm to current owner Jerry Jones, than any other sports organization. It’s no coincidence that the Sun Belt’s emergence as an important force in the nation’s politics, economics and culture times with the development and success of the Dallas Cowboys, Kreidler says. “It’s an intangible thing, from the iconic helmet star to Cowboy Blue to the cheerleaders, there is no doubt that most of Texas and much of America see the Dallas Cowboys as good guys.” Joe Nick Patoski, author of “Dallas Cowboys: The 42

“Along with the University of Texas (sorry Aggies), the Dallas Cowboys are the most recognizable team of Texas sports and popular culture.”

Outrageous History of the Biggest, Loudest, Most Hated, Best Loved Football Team in America”, long-time writer for Texas Monthly and Texas Highways and observer of Texas trends, has strong opinions on the Cowboys. “Sports reflect our culture. No team sport is as popular in Texas as football. No single team has so many television viewers and fans as the Cowboys,” Patoski says. All a fan has to do is watch mainstream media, such as ESPN, or read online content, such as SI.com, to understand how important the Dallas Cowboys are to everyday content. Believe me, I did in my research. Despite not winning a Super Bowl in nearly 30 years, no team is dissected and commented upon by pundits, fans and non-fans more than the Cowboys explains Michael Grauer, McCasland Chair of Cowboy Culture and Curator of Cowboy Collections & Western Art at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. He is a skilled observer of anything cowboy, from the Chisholm Trail to AT&T Stadium. “Along with the University of Texas (sorry Aggies), the Dallas Cowboys are the most recognizable team of Texas sports and popular culture,” Grauer says.

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

DID YOU KNOW? The Dallas Cowboys hold the NFL record for most consecutive winning seasons with 20 from 1966 to 1985. During that time, they reached the playoffs 18 times, won 13 NFC East championships, and reached the Super Bowl five times.

Cowboys Ring of Honor

Top Left Celebrated Cowboys Coach Tom Landry Top Middle Roger Staubach rolls out of the pocket Bottom Middle Quarterback Don Meredith hands the ball off in the infamous Ice Bowl in 1967 Top Right the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

His observation is supported by the facts that the Dallas Cowboys are with us from birth to death. According to the web site BabyCenter.com, the use of the name Troy spiked back in the 1960s but then saw a mini spike in the late 1990s, the same time quarterback Troy Aikman and the Dallas Cowboys were winning three Super Bowls in four years. During our lifetime we can bank at the official banking sponsor of the Dallas Cowboys (Bank of America), drink the official soda of the Dallas Cowboys (Pepsi), enjoy the official beer of the Dallas Cowboys (Miller Lite), drive the official vehicle of the Dallas Cowboys (Ford), fly the official airline of the Dallas Cowboys (American), even explore the world of cryptocurrency with the Dallas Cowboys cryptocurrency partner, Blockchain.com. Dallas Cowboy-themed funerals are very popular. In fact, you might say that the Dallas Cowboys and funerals go hand in hand, explains Brandon Blasingame, funeral director at Schooler Funeral Home in Amarillo. There is something about “America’s Team” that leads families to mention their loved ones beloved Cowboys while planning for and during services. Either it’s “Dad was so excited watching the Cowboys land the number one seed in the NFC,” or it’s “Dad requested that the Cowboys be the pallbearers so they could let him down one last time.” And the same goes for women. This fan base is not gender specific, Blasingame explains. Finally, consider the merch. Dallas Cowboys merchandise sales, the best in sports, reveal the real truth. “They are still America’s Team,” says Nick Gerlich, professor of marketing at West Texas A&M University. The Cowboys are significant to Texas history as the state’s most popular professional sports franchise ever. Just ask sports fans from the Rio Grande Valley up to the Texas Panhandle. “It’s no contest,” Patoski concludes.

Created by Tex Schramm beginning in 1975, it honors former players, coaches and club officials who have made outstanding contributions to the Dallas Cowboys football organization.

Troy Aikman Larry Allen Gil Brandt Tony Dorsett Charles Haley Cliff Harris Bob Hayes Chuck Howley Michael Irvin Lee Roy Jordan Tom Landry Bob Lilly Don Meredith Drew Pearson Don Perkins Mel Renfro Tex Schramm Emmitt Smith Roger Staubach Randy White Darren Woodson Rayfield Wright 43

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E at s & D r i n ks

deep in the art

L i v e s h ows

Texas Independence Day Festivities; Historic High School Stadiums; the Texas Forts Trail Region

Remembering football Friday night away meals; Owl Drugs soda fountain and grill over 100 years old

Preserving and exhibiting one out of a million: a white buffalo hide

The day the music died and all things Buddy Holly

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A Toast to Texas! Texas Independence Day Activities by Tristan Smith

very state celebrates a milestone. . . sesquicentennial of statehood, or bicentennial of the country, but Texas has something that no other state in the Union truly has – its very own Independence Day, separate from that of 1776. Texas Independence Day is the celebration of the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836. That document, signed by 59 delegates in Mexican Texas, officially declared independence from the country of Mexico, and thereby creating the Republic of Texas. While some locations and Texas Independence Day events should go without saying - the birthplace of Texas in Washington-on-the-Brazos, the home of President Sam Houston in Huntsville, and the Alamo in San Antonio – many other communities throughout Texas celebrate Texas’ Independence Day. You can find a bevy of opportunities to become a part of the celebratory events, from museum exhibits to being baptized a Texan, that can easily allow you to join the celebration. Unfortunately, 2024 sees Washington-on-theBrazos State Historic Site fulfilling restoration needs rather than hosting their extraordinary twoday living history celebration. The Star of the Republic Museum will be closed and under renovation; the site will be open – just not fully. However, plans are underway for a Friday evening with performances by local bands Night Moves and Drifters & Grifters and a concert by Glen Templeton. Saturday festivities will include an opening ceremony from 9:30 to 10 a.m. at Independence Hall. The First Annual Republic of Texas Chili Cook-Off – a period interpretive presentation – will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Sons of the Republic of Texas will present an Independence Day program from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. One should not pass up the opportunity to see Independence Hall, where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed, and Barrington Plantation, which provides a view of what life was like for those new Texas settlers. In an odd twist of fate, Texas Independence Day and Sam Houston’s birthday coincide. So, every year on March 2nd in celebration of these two events, the City of Huntsville, the Walker County Historical Commission and the Sam Houston Memorial Museum host the annual Texas Independence Day 46

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

Left Activities abound at San Antonio’s Alamo. The Daughters of the Texas Revolution usually host a number of events at the famed Texas landmark in and around Texas Independence Day | Courtesy San Antonio Express Opposite “A Tribute to Courage” statue of Sam Houston located in Huntsville, Texas | Courtesy Nigar - stock. adobe.com

and General Sam Houston’s Birthday Celebration. A traditional “March to the Grave” from Sam Houston State University is a celebratory walk from the campus to Sam Houston’s burial site in Oakwood Cemetery. Special gravesite ceremonies are conducted that include the ”Baptized a Texan” ceremony. Honorary Texans can be blessed with Huntsville water and be sworn in by Huntsville city officials to become true Texans! Afterwards, there is a “Toast to Texas” and serving of birthday cake. To learn more about these events, contact the staff at the Sam Houston Statue Visitor Center (see in Don’t Miss). Another obvious place to be for Texas Independence Day is at the Alamo in San Antonio. While defenders of the Alamo held their ground, delegates to the Convention of 1836 in Washingtonon-the-Brazos hammered out a declaration of independence, wrote a constitution and elected temporary government officials. The annual Battle of the Alamo Commemoration honors the 13-day siege from February 23 through March 6. Special events are held daily during this time including music and living history reenactments. Commemorative events culminate with the annual Dawn at the Alamo ceremony honoring the sacrifices of the Alamo defenders on March 6 which is the date of the Battle of the Alamo. Held at the Alamo Plaza from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m., the event includes music, vignettes, wreath-laying and a musket volley. 47

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DON’T MISS Washington-onthe-Brazos 23400 Park Rd. 12 Washington, TX 77800 936-878-2214 thc.texas.gov/ historicsites/washingtonbrazos-statehistoric-site Visit Huntsville huntsvilletexas. com Sam Houston Memorial Museum 1836 Sam Houston Ave. Huntsville, TX 77340 936-294-1832 samhouston memorial museum.com Sam Houston Statue & Huntsville Visitor Center 7600 State Hwy 75 S Huntsville, TX 77340 936-291-9726 vcenter@ huntsvilletxgove huntsville.com Visit San Antonio visitsan antonio.com The Alamo 300 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210-225-1391 thealamo.org

Top At Washington-onthe-Brazos State Historic Site, visitors can catch a glimpse of the lives and times of the 59 delegates who met here on March 2, 1836, to make a formal declaration of independence from Mexico. Bottom Numerous sites portray the battles that took place across central and southeast Texas. | Photos courtesy of Washington-onthe-Brazos SHS

An annual “Toast to Texas!” celebration will be held in Abilene at Frontier Texas! Celebratory events include everyone from school-age children to adults. There is usually an early morning ceremony with school-age children, along with a “Toast of Texas” reception in the early evening (a commemorative event that can be found throughout the state - from Austin to Tyler and beyond). A giant copy of the declaration is on hand for attendees to sign and the event typically includes live music, drinks, and light refreshments for attendees. This year the museum is hosting an “Evening with Barry Corbin” – a ticketed event – from 7 to 9 p.m. Grandscape in The Colony will be hosting its fifth annual Texas Independence Day celebration. While celebrating the Lone Star State’s independence, attendees will be offered live stage performances, a chance to hop on a mechanical bull, carnival games, arts and crafts, and armadillo racing every half

hour. Capping it all off will be a Texas Independence Day fireworks display. Events surrounding Texas Independence Day abound in the state capital of Austin. Some of these are, ahem, “unsanctioned” and can be found in bars and outposts throughout the city. Others, however, are either sanctioned or, at the very least, have become a part of the festivities over the years. During the work week, these include an early morning program at the Texas State Cemetery followed by a lunch-hour Capitol Celebration located at the Capitol Rotunda. These will be followed by weekend events for the family which include a parade up Congress Avenue on Saturday morning and a Sunday afternoon ceremony regarding the defenders of the Alamo on the South Capitol grounds. If you’re not able to participate in these events or a local celebration, gather your friends and family to raise a glass and give a toast to Texas!

Texas State Capitol 1100 Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78701 512-463-4630 tspb.texas.gov Visit the Colony visitthe colony.com Grandscape 5752 Grandscape Dr. The Colony, TX 75056 972-668-222 grandscape.com Visit Abilene abilene visitors.com Frontier Texas! 625 North 1st St. Abilene, TX 79601 325-437-2800 frontiertexas.com

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Historic High School Stadiums Under the Lights by Tristan Smith

Above and Top Right R. R. Jones Stadium, El Paso’s “Lady on the Hill” has overlooked the Texas-Mexico border from the foothills of the Franklin Mountains since 1916. | Images courtesy The Daily Toreador Bottom Right Mustang Bowl Stadium in Sweetwater, Texas. | Courtesya

ootball in Texas. It’s like Whataburger, Buc-ee’s, and the Alamo . . . it is a Texas institution. High school football transcends; it draws communities together and paves the way for a player’s next step. The National Football League is filled with players from the Lone Star State. The stadiums they play in have storied histories as well. A handful of stadiums throughout Texas have held their own and passed beyond one single player, one amazing play, and one championship; these hold the soul of Texas high school football heritage. R. R. JONES STADIUM: EL PASO

Opened in 1916, R. R. Jones Stadium, home to the El Paso Tigers, was the country’s first major stadium constructed out of concrete. Known locally as “The Lady on the Hill”, she is situated on the Franklin Mountains foothills and was rated as one of America’s best high school football stadiums by USA Today. Overlooking America’s border with Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, as well as downtown El Paso, semicircular steps lead away from the school’s main entrance to the playing field. The stadium, which is surrounded by the school, hosted the first three Sun Bowl games and saw General John J. “Black Jack” Pershing ride his horse in to commemorate the end of World War One. Jones Stadium was rebuilt, due to crumbling concrete, to its original specifications in 1993.

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DON’T MISS Visit El Paso visitelpaso.com R.R. Jones Stadium El Paso 800 East Schuster Ave. El Paso, TX 79902 915-236-2500 Visit Odessa discover odessa.org Ratliff Stadium Odessa 2231 East Yukon Rd. Odessa, TX 79765 432-456-9059 Visit Sweetwater sweetwatertexas.org Mustang Bowl 1205 Ragland St. Sweetwater, TX 76556 325-235-4371 Visit San Saba visitsansaba texas.com Rogan Field San Saba 204 West Brown St. San Saba, TX76877 Visit San Antonio visitsanantonio.com Alamo Stadium 110 Tuleta Dr. San Antonio, TX 78212 210-554-2655 Sanderson Eagles Stadium 315 West Mansfield St. Sanderson, TX 79848 Visit Jacksonville explorejackson villetx.com Historic Tomato Bowl Statdium 200 Austin St. Jacksonville, TX 75766 903-586-6511

RATLIFF STADIUM: ODESSA

Serving as the home field for both the Odessa High Broncos and the Permian High Panthers, the stadium once called the “Epicenter of Texas High School Football” opened in 1982. Hosting a number of high profile games in West Texas, USA Today, in October 2001, named Ratliff Stadium as one of the Top Ten high school football stadiums in the country. When H. G. Bissinger wrote “Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream” in 1990, he chronicled the story of the 1988 Permian High School Panthers football team, as they made their run for the Texas state football championship. In 2004, when Bissinger’s book was adapted into a movie, Ratliff Stadium was utilized during filming for most of the gridiron activity. Since 2015, Ratliff

has also served as the home stadium for the University of Texas of the Permian Basin Falcons. MUSTANG BOWL: SWEETWATER

Constructed from concrete by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1939, many in West Texas say there is no better place to watch high school football on a fall Friday night than the Mustang Bowl in Sweetwater. The tiered concrete embankments around the end zones can seat 9,500 fans with an additional 7,500 in the bleachers. Older than most stadiums still being utilized, the community has continued to maintain and modernize the Sweetwater High School football facilities, continuously improving them as a modern venue for games. Originally, those bleachers were made of wood sitting directly on the grass. This was changed in 1972 to metal bleachers on concrete. When you descend into the stadium under the scoreboard, the history of Texas High School is all around. Two local football legends have been enshrined at the stadium as well. Sammy Baugh, who played for Sweetwater from 1930-1932, has his number retired while Clyde “Bulldog” Turner, has been honored for his feats as well. Both are enshrined in the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. ROGAN FIELD: SAN SABA

When you walk through the entrance to San Saba’s Rogan Field, you are welcomed by a large “Welcome to The Graveyard” sign. They aren’t kidding. Rogan Field is named for Dr. J. D. Rogan, who owned the property and donated it for use as the city’s first cemetery. By 1878, it was no longer being used and the Rogan family eventually regained con51

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trol of the land. In 1934, family members with interred loved ones were urged to consider exhumation and reburial elsewhere. Many did, but several remained. The following year, the family sold the property to the school district in 1935 for only $10, which transformed the graveyard into a playing field. Players and fans are apparently not the only activity taking place here. Community members have mentioned that while most of the bodies were removed from the site; strange things continued to happen, such as players randomly tripping and falling, or human remains being revealed. In fact, that may be the very reason the team will never install a turf field, those require digging seven feet into the ground. At that depth, you start finding the graves. ALAMO STADIUM: SAN ANTONIO

Located in San Antonio’s Monte Vista Historic District, the limestone Alamo Stadium was completed by the WPA in 1940. Known as “The Rock Pile”, it was constructed on top of an abandoned rock quarry. Alamo Stadium is also decorated with numerous tile murals depicting life in San Antonio that were produced by the local WPA Arts and Crafts Division. The stadium is home to several San Antonio high school football and soccer teams, as well as a variety of other local sports teams. With a seating capacity of 18,500, it is Texas’ third largest high school stadium. SANDERSON EAGLES STADIUM: SANDERSON

This is not your average football stadium. While the rest of the stadiums here host 11-man football teams, Sanderson’s Eagles Stadium is home to 6-man football. Generally played by high schools in rural areas, this brand of football serves as an alternative means for small high schools to field a football team. 52

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Top Left Alamo Stadium: Known as the Rock Pile, is Texas’ third-largest football stadium. Bottom Left No frills exist at Sanderson stadium where fans watch 6-man football games | Courtesy Sanderson Athletics Left Jacksonville’s Tomato Bowl stands in the city’s downtown district. | Courtesy Jacksonville ISD

Not only is the play different, but you’ll notice this stadium stands out as well. There is no fancy pressbox, no video board, no field markings, and the capacity seats 710 people. Nicknamed the Pit, it was built for flood control and can be filled with water. TOMATO BOWL: JACKSONVILLE

Jacksonville’s Tomato Bowl stands today as one of Texas’ last remaining downtown stadiums. Located on the hilltop site of East Commerce Street, the stadium earned its nickname as

Jacksonville was then known as the “Tomato Capital of the World”. Construction began in early 1940 by the Works Progress Administration. Surrounding the stadium is a wall, both constructed out of local iron ore rock (also known as giraffe rock), which was delivered to the site by residents. While improvements included new seating, dressing rooms, a state-of-the-art press box and a turf field, the historic stadium walls and exterior were preserved. (Read more in the Authentic Texas Fall 2020 issue.)

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Throckmorton 380

380

Haskell

fork of the brazos 283

277

lake stamford

brazos river

fort griffin

p king 183

180

albany

hubbard creek lake

180

clear fork of the brazos

brec

lake Ft. Phantom Hill

Abilene

eastland 20

lake sweetwater

lake leon

des

Buffalo Gap 277

bradshaw

Tuscola ovalo

wingate

277

robert lee

lake coleman

183

winters bronte

lake brownwood

hords creek reservoir

colorado river

coleman

277

ballinger

brownwood

early

concho river

san angelo 190

richland

rochelle

christoval brady reservoir

brady voca

277

menard

san saba river

fredonia

eldorado hext grit mason

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jacksboro

lake graham

graham perrin 281

possum gdom Lake

lake mineral wells 180

palo pinto

mineral wells

180

ckenridge

lake palo pinto

strawn 20

From Frontier to Civilization The Texas Forts Trail Region

ranger

by Tammie Virden

sdemona

de leon proctor reservoir

comanche

lanket

goldthwaite

springs

an saba colorado river

he Texas Forts Trail Region — a 29-county area in Central West Texas — is home to a variety of historic sites, museums and attractions and offers visitors unique local flavors, shopping opportunities and outdoor adventures. The “trail” is a 650-mile driving loop through the region. The Forts Trail Region was the pilot organization in 1998 when the Texas Historical Commission breathed life back into the driving trails Governor John Connally and the Texas Highway Department organized in conjunction with HemisFair ’68. The Texas Forts Trail Region is aptly named since it contains the largest Spanish fort built in Texas, the Presidio de San Saba, along with eight pre- and post-Civil War forts from the second and third Texas frontier defense lines. Let’s step back into what was once the Wild Frontier where garrisons built and manned by soldiers stood between civilization and vast unsettled lands. Learn about the history of this region and its contributions to the greatest state in the world.

lampasas

FORTS ALONG THE TRAIL

lake buchanan

The Presidio de San Sabá, established in 1757, was designed to protect Spanish interests including the Mission Santa Cruz de San Sabá which was located further down river. Unfortunately, the mission did not survive long; just one year after its founding it was burned to the ground during an Indian raid. The Presidio lasted another fifteen years before it was abandoned and became a landmark for explorers and settlers. In 1936 the Texas Centennial Commission contracted for the reconstruction of the Presidio. Since that time, archeology digs at the site have recovered a

Historic Texas Highway Dept. signage from 1968 promoting the Forts Driving Trail, known today as the Texas Forts Trail Region. These bright yellow signs were placed in rest stop areas within the driving trail area.

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multitude of Spanish Colonial artifacts. Today you can visit the Presidio de San Sabá grounds located just west of Menard. The site sits along the San Saba River on almost 18 acres of native landscape with picnic tables and a beautiful pavilion that is inviting to travelers and great for family outings. Fort McKavett (1850-1875) was called “the prettiest post in Texas” by General William T. Sherman. It was established to provide protection for settlers and to be utilized as a rest stop for immigrants bound for California. The fort was home for all four of the Buffalo Soldier regiments, the place where Sgt. Emanuel Stance of the 9th Cavalry received the first Medal of Honor awarded to an African American after the Civil War, where women employed as laundresses worked along the headwaters of the San Saba River, and where Army personnel became the first weathermen. Fort McKavett is known for having some of the most well-preserved structures. Fort Belknap (1851-1867) was the northwestern anchor on the second Texas frontier line. The post offered a safeguard to travelers along a network of frontier trails, including the Butterfield Overland Mail route. Fort Belknap is located near Newcastle in Young County and 13 miles northwest of Graham. It is 56

COUNTIES BROWN CALLAHAN COKE COLEMAN COMANCHE CONCHO EASTLAND ERATH FISHER HASKELL IRION JACK JONES MASON MCCULLOCH MENARD MILLS NOLAN PALO PINTO RUNNELS SAN SABA SCHLEICHER SHACKELFORD STEPHENS STONEWALL TAYLOR THROCKMORTON TOM GREEN YOUNG

open to the public every day except Wednesday. Fort Mason, established in 1851 on Post Oak Hill, was Robert E. Lee’s last command post. Along with Robert E. Lee, Albert Sidney John and John Bell Hood, another seventeen officers who served at Fort Mason later became generals during the Civil War. Twelve fought for the Confederacy, eight fought for the Union. The post was officially closed in 1869. Visitors to a reconstructed officer’s quarters have an amazing view of the town of Mason. Fort Phantom Hill (1851-1854) was officially known as the “Post on the Clear Fork of the Brazos”. The fort was later used as a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, a resting stop on the Goodnight Loving cattle trail, a campsite for the Confederate Frontier Battalion and a sub-post for Fort Griffin. Located north of Abilene, the remains of the fort are open from dawn to dusk. Fort Chadbourne (1852-1867) provided protection for the western frontier and was a station on the Butterfield Overland Mail route. After closing, the fort reverted to private ranchland. Today, the fort has a top-notch museum and visitor center and offers tours of the grounds which includes several restored buildings. Fort Griffin (established 1867-1881) overlooks the Clear Fork of the Brazos and was the hub of the frontier forts between Fort Richardson in Jacksboro

Above Left Presidio de San Sabá, located outside of present-day Menard. Above Right Historic Fort McKavett Headquarters in 1936. | Photos courtesy UTSA Libraries Special Collections

AUTHENTIC AUTHENTIC TEXAS TEXAS WINTER FALL 2023 2024

FROM AN ORGANIZATIONAL STANDPOINT

FORTS TRAIL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Texas Forts Trail strives to make an economic impact in our region. We work hard as an organization to promote the events and festivals held by various communities and support heritage tourism sites. As a not-for-profit organization our support comes from multiple sources: we receive funds from the Texas Historical Commission, we have a membership program, and we have developed a fundraiser that helps our communities as well as our organization.

Will Cradduck President | State Longhorn Herdsman, Albany

In late 2019 we held our first Texas Forts Trail Wine Festival in Albany in conjunction with their Small Business Saturday and Christmas event. Our two scheduled wine festivals for 2020 had to be pushed to 2021; in that year we were able to host four. As an additional element of a local event, the Wine Festivals are a separate ticketed experience featuring wineries and vineyards from across the state. The most popular Wine Festival is held annually the second weekend in April at Fort Belknap in conjunction with the “Crawfish and Cannons” event held by the Graham Visitors Bureau. Crawfish and Cannons features a live crawfish boil, cannon firing on the hour, children’s activities, live music and the Annual Goodnight Loving Run plus the Texas Forts Trail Wine Festival. This event has sold out the past two years; be sure to purchase tickets in advance. For 2024, we are planning four “Texas Forts Trail Mini Caravans” that are an expansion of the “caravan” road trips held in 1968 and 2018. A mini caravan will be held each quarter in different quadrants of the region. The first caravan will kick-off in March and begin in Abilene at Frontier Texas. Each adventurous caravan will be two days in length and will offer non-stop activity with plenty to see and do. Look for more information on how to participate on our website (texasfortstrail.com) or follow along on our social media channels.

Mary Adams Vice President | W.K. Gordon Center, Thurber Denise Bryan Treasurer | Visit Early Cathy Partridge Secretary | Graham Chamber of Commerce Julie Smith Tarleton State University, Stephenville Karen Hunt Sweetwater Chamber of Commerce Candis Hicks Heritage Park, San Angelo Larry Sanders Atlas Missile Silo, Lawn Senora Scott KLST KSAN, Big Country David Waller Fandangle, Albany / Abilene CVB Troy Myatt Corporate Magic, Dallas Owen Miller XEO Wealth, Breckenridge Penny Corona Dublin EDC, Dublin Terry Kelley Presidio de San Saba, Menard EX OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS Robert Bluthardt Fort Concho NHL Jeff Salmon Frontier Texas! Garland & Lana Richards Fort Chadbourne Cody Mobley Fort McKavett State Historic Site Mitch Baird Fort Griffin State Historic Site Jim Hammond Fort Belknap Robert Frie Fort Richardson State Park & Historic Site Charles Eckert Fort Mason Fort Phantom Hill Lori Dodd Texas Midwest Community Network Cee Cee Kelley Presidio de San Saba

Shackleford County Courthouse, Albany

TEXAS FORTS TRAIL REGION COMMUNITIES GRAHAM

ALBANY

HAMLIN

ANSON

HASKELL

ASPERMONT

JACKSBORO

BAIRD

MASON

BALLINGER

MENARD

BRADY

MINERAL WELLS

BRECKENRIDGE

PAINT ROCK

BRONTE

POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE

BROWNWOOD CISCO COLEMAN COMANCHE DE LEON DUBLIN EARLY EASTLAND EDEN GOLDTHWAITE

STATE PARKS

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RANGER ROBERT LEE SAN ANGELO SAN SABA STAMFORD STEPHENVILLE SWEETWATER THROCKMORTON WINTERS

ABILENE STATE PARK COLORADO BEND STATE PARK LAKE BROWNWOOD STATE PARK POSSUM KINGDOM STATE PARK FORT RICHARDSON STATE PARK AND HISTORIC SITE LAKE MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK AND TRAILWAY SAN ANGELO STATE PARK PALO PINTO MOUNTAIN STATE PARK (NEW IN 2024)

and the mountains of Big Bend. Fort Griffin was home to several infantry regiments as well as Buffalo Soldier units. Today Fort Griffin is a state historic site and home of the Official Texas Longhorn Herd that recalls the days of the Western Cattle Trail. Fort Concho, established in 1867 near the banks of the Concho River, was headquarters for some of the most recognized frontier units, including the famed Buffalo Soldiers. The soldiers of Fort Concho served and patrolled the area for nearly 22 years which gave the nearby community of San Angelo a chance to prosper and grow. Today the city of San Angelo surrounds Fort Concho. It has been recognized as the best preserved frontier fort west of the Mississippi and hosts many annual living history programs as well as local events. Fort Richardson (1868-1878) was at one time the most northern army outpost in Texas and was once the largest post in the nation. The soldiers of the fort helped keep the peace, pursued criminals and deserters, escorted wagon trains, oversaw elections, protected cattle herds, and patrolled for hostile Native

Americans. Fort Richardson was the last defense against the Comanche and Kiowas in the early 1870’s. Located just south of Jacksboro, today Fort Richardson is a state park and historic site. Your adventure does not end here. As exciting as it is to have these forts in our region, there are many other fascinating sites to be found along the trail and within the region. Have you ever seen an Indian pictograph? Near Paint Rock we just happen to have a site with over 1,500 pictographs that cover about a half a mile on a limestone cliff about 70 feet high. The earliest Painted Rocks Native American Pictographs are at least 1,000 years old. This is one of the state’s largest collections and although the site is on private land, it can be seen by appointment. Exploration is ongoing and new pictographs are still being discovered. Another fascinating place within the region is the National WASP WW II Museum. In 1943 as World War II raged on and male pilots were in short supply, plans were put into place for women to perform the duties of military pilots for everything except combat. These plans came to fruition and were consolidated at Avenger Field in Sweetwater as the Women Airforce Service Pilots program. At the museum you can see the aircraft the women flew, read

MEET

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

TAMMIE VIRDEN

stories of the brave women who flew them, and step onto Avenger Field where dreams became reality for women who wanted to serve their country in a unique way. There are many things to discover throughout the region and I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you that we have just scratched the surface! Set your sites on an adventure of epic proportions. The Texas Forts Trail Region is full of surprises: not only can you step back in time and feel history unfolding but you can enjoy modern times with beauty all around. We hope you will join us in exploring this multi-faceted part of the Lone Star State!

While I am not native to Texas — I was born on the Air Force base in Alamogordo, New Mexico – my family moved to Texas on my third birthday, and I was raised in Ballinger. I still reside in Ballinger where my husband and I have raised three beautiful kids and now have nine gorgeous grandchildren. A “fun fact” about me is that I have lived in almost every town in Runnels County — Ballinger, Miles, Rowena, and Winters! There are a couple of unincorporated towns in the county I have not lived in, but I have lived in all three incorporated towns. My resumé can be lengthy as I have a strong sales background with direct sales, indirect sales, management of sales teams, and retail sales plus a fifteen-plusyear career in chamber of commerce and community development along with economic development thrown in there. I discovered my love for heritage tourism while in the chamber world and serving on the Texas Forts Trail board, where I held a board position for six years prior to applying for the executive director position. I love the work that I do and the place in which it encompasses. For me this is not a job but a calling and being able to explore, create, tell stories, meet interesting new people, and learn something new every day is what fuels me. 59

LIFE

Eats & Drinks

Late Night Friday Meals by Melissa Hagins

W Above 50 Yard Line Steakhouse was a fanfavorite in Lubbock, TX until it’s closure in 2019. Famous for their mouthwatering steaks, most people knew them by their blueberry muffins and cheese rolls.

in or lose, the football team always had a late dinner after an away game. When the team traveled out of town, they did not have time or want to eat before the game so the coaches would arrange for dinner at a local steakhouse after the game. Growing up as the daughter of a Texas high school head football coach, I remember having Friday night dinners with the football team after an away game. Following the game, we would travel to the local steakhouse where the coaches had arranged for however many meals were needed to serve the players,

trainers, coaches and coaches’ families. Later, after we moved to a bigger city, the athletic trainer would make that call. My daddy Coach Bernie Hagins is a 1955 graduate of Snyder High School, where he was the star quarterback. He received a scholarship to play at San Angelo College (now Angelo State University) where he played quarterback and Spike Dykes played center. They both transferred to Stephen F. Austin College. After a short stint serving in the U.S. Army he came back to SFA where he met and married my mother Lois Presswood. They both finished their bachelor’s degree at SFA and took summer

school classes to get their master’s degrees. My mother became an elementary teacher. Dad’s first coaching job was in Diboll. Then he coached under his good friend Spike Dykes in Coahoma; when Dykes moved on, Daddy became head coach/athletic director. From there, our family moved to the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo school district located in the Valley. From there, we went to Bishop, Lockhart and then Ballinger, where Daddy was head coach/athletic director at all of these high schools. By this time, the Hagins family consisted of my mom, dad, my older brother Tracy and me. Looking ahead, my parents wanted my brother and me to have the opportunity of attending and graduating from one high school. When that opportunity came, Daddy stepped down from being head coach at Ballinger High School to become an assistant coach at Midland High School. That Fall my brother was a high school freshman. Although Daddy retired as the football offensive coordinator at Midland High School in 1994, as a retiree hire, he coached the girls golf team until 2001. Those late Friday night football dinners were either joyful or very quiet, but we always ate the same thing. For the longest time I thought the only way to eat French fries was with gravy because the chicken fried steak and fries were smothered in gravy. Yum! We would also have a salad with French dressing, and watered-down iced tea because it had been sitting out for so long. There was also a roll. I do not remember ever having dessert. That would have been a luxury. We would wait for the boys

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Zentner’s Daughter was well known for it’s steaks but also it’s mounds of onion rings. Previously located in San Angelo, TX, the steakhouse closed in 2019.

and coaches to arrive along with other coaches’ families and the parents of the players. Sometimes the cheerleaders would join us but not often. The other families would always get seated outside of the area saved for the players and coaches, but Daddy always made sure my mom, brother and I had a place near him along with the other coaches and their families. We were usually the last served which was fine with me; this gave me the opportunity to watch the players and listen to them talk about the game. As a young girl, those boys were my heroes; later, the objects of young crushes! When the players were finished eating, they would load up on the buses for the ride home. Win or lose, as head coach Daddy expected a respectful attitude. When the team won, everyone was happy, and it was a joyful occasion – but not boisterous. When the team lost, it was very, very quiet. Sometimes when the team

was playing at home, someone – usually a coach or some of the more popular players’ families – would host an after-game party. These parties occurred more in the big city, but we had a few in the smaller towns as well. Steakhouses like K-Bob’s, the 50-yard Line and Zentner’s Daughter were all places I remember eating dinner as a coach’s daughter. Most of these places are no longer in business but I’m fairly certain football teams still have dinner after their away games. It has been too many years since I have had dinner with a football team, but the memories will always be with me. Those late-night Friday dinners were special times to be with the team and help either celebrate our win or cry for our loss. My parents are now fully retired and reside in Glen Rose. To this day, I still see players who played for my dad; the first thing they ask about is how my dad is doing.

LIFE

Eats & Drinks

Owl Drugs 100 Years Old and Going Strong by Loretta Fulton

athy Allen understands the nostalgia that so many customers experience when they visit Owl Drug in Coleman, whether it’s to get a prescription filled, buy something in the gift shop, or enjoy a coffee, smoothie, breakfast or lunch in the soda fountain & grill. She and her two brothers helped out with the family-owned business growing up and feel that connection to the past. A slogan on the drugstore’s website explains why customers, generation after generation, continue to come into the store: “Locally Owned, Locally Loved, Proudly caring for our community since 1923.” That’s right–1923. The store celebrated its centennial year in 2023, as did other businesses and institutions in Coleman and the surrounding area. Owl Drug is unique in that it is one of the few remaining family-owned pharmacies that still has a

working fountain and grill. Allen’s parents, Jim and Linda Caldwell, bought the drugstore in 1976 from Oplin “Op” Saunders, who had owned it since 1941. Running Owl Drug was truly a family affair, with both of Allen’s parents working as pharmacists, her two brothers making deliveries and doing maintenance work, and Cathy working in the gift shop and soda fountain. Whatever needed to be done, someone in the family could handle it. “We worked together as a family,” Allen said, “and learned the value of a strong work ethic and connecting with the community.” The current location of Owl Drug, 312 S. Commercial Ave. in downtown Coleman, is a block down the street from the original. Today, Allen runs the operation with the help of a dedicated staff. Her husband, Zac, a rancher, and daughter, Abbi, a student at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, help as they can. Jim and Linda Caldwell are retired

COLEMAN

FORTS TRAIL REGION

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but live in Coleman. Their involvement with the drugstore is behind the scenes, Allen said. “The things they do are necessary,” she said, “but not things that need to be done right now.” Drawing folks from near and far and from the beginning to now, is the soda fountain & grill, which is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The old-fashioned Owl Burger still reigns supreme. Allen described the generational favorite as a “classic, no-frills, handmade burger.” The 1923 Burger is a little fancier – with mushrooms and a different style bun – but is popular, too. The gift store, or The Owl’s Nest, is a popular place to shop for local and area residents, with a wide range of merchandise. Bridal and baby registries are available. At the heart of Owl Drug’s success story is Jim and Linda Caldwell. Owl Drug is known as the place “Where Friends Meet” and that is due to the atmosphere and reputation that the Caldwells built. “It has always been of paramount importance to them that our pharmacy patients are treated like family,” Allen said, “and from there it flows down.” Allen isn’t a pharmacist herself, but she comes from a long line of pharmacists on both sides of the family. Besides her parents both being pharmacists, both of her grandfathers were, too. Her mother’s mother, Opal Laxon Riley, was one of the first

female graduates of Baylor University School of Pharmacy, which no longer exists. Of course, the children knew her as a grandmother first, and called her Memaw. “She took care of the whole family when we were growing up,” Allen said. And, there’s more to the pharmacists-in-the-family story. Each of Allen’s parents had just one sibling, a brother in both cases. And each of them was a pharmacist. Another remarkable story is how Jim and Linda happened to meet. Hint–the chance meeting happened in pharmacy school. Linda grew up in Santa Anna, 10 miles from Coleman, and Jim in West Columbia, 55 miles from Houston. The first time Jim ever saw Linda was at a band contest. One glimpse and Jim was hooked, telling a buddy that he would marry that girl someday. Never mind that they didn’t even meet that day. That happened later when both were enrolled at the University of Texas College of Pharmacy. Jim couldn’t believe his eyes when he spotted the girl he vowed he would marry. The students had assigned seats, and Jim kept trading places to get closer to Linda. He was persistent in his pursuit of Linda and that persistence paid off, resulting in a happy ending to the story. “He ended up marrying her,” Allen said, just as he had promised the first time he saw her.

DON’T MISS Visit Coleman colemancounty texas.com Owl Drug 312 S Commercial Ave. Coleman, TX 76834 325-625-2178 owldrugrx.com

Above Brittany Guitterez serves a soda treat in Owl Drug Store. | Photos courtesy Owl Drug

LIFE

deep in the arts

Frontier Texas White Buffalo Hide One Out of Ten Million - A Preservation Exhibition by Margaret Hoogstra

hroughout the frontier it brought great acclaim to the owner. News of it appeared in practically all Texas newspapers and spread throughout the national press. Exhibited at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago and at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, it captured the imagination of millions. Teddy Roosevelt offered to purchase it for $5,000. The original owner and two generations of his family saw to the preservation and care of it for well over a century. This historic artifact – the hide of a white buffalo, killed by buffalo hunter J. Wright Mooar on October 7, 1876 – is once again on exhibit and can be seen at Frontier Texas! Born in Vermont in 1851, Josiah Wright Mooar became a buffalo hunter, freighter and rancher. As a young man, he moved westward to Illinois and then 64

to Fort Hays and Dodge City, Kansas, where he learned to hunt buffalo, providing meat for soldiers and railroad crews. When he had a surplus of 57 buffalo hides he contacted his brother John W. Mooar, working as an accountant in New York City, to see if he could sell them. John sold the hides to a tannery and got an order for 2,000 more hides, so he moved west to join his brother. This sparked the beginning of the buffalo hide industry in America. The brothers hunted buffalo in Kansas and the Texas Panhandle before moving south to Fort Griffin. In the fall of 1876, J. Wright Mooar moved his hunting crew from Fort Griffin south to continue hunting the great herd. He followed the old Butterfield Stage route to Fort Phantom Hill, an abandoned outpost, then headed west, eventually into the newly designated but empty Scurry County.

ABILENE

FORTS TRAIL REGION

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The indigenous tribes of the North American Plains were primarily nomadic hunters. They followed the migratory routes of various animals, among those the buffalo. And among the buffalo, the greatest prize was a white buffalo – believed to have healing powers and to bring great fortune to a tribe who could take one down and have its chief wearing that hide as a robe. – Jeff Salmon, Executive Director Frontier Texas!

On October 7, they set up camp along Deep Creek and scouted the area for buffalo. Upon returning to camp in the evening, Mooar later recalled, “I saw a herd of buffalo not far from the wagons, and the sun flashed quickly on a white object in the midst of the herd, which I quickly saw was a white buffalo. We slipped down the creek on foot, keeping under the high bank for six or seven hundred yards, and then crept out on the prairie through the grass near the white buffalo. It was a four-year-old cow, her white coat a freak of nature. I then took aim and pulled the trigger. At the crack of the big rifle the cow fell, and as the herd rushed together, we narrowly escaped being trampled; in fact, I shot three bulls down to prevent being run over. This was the first animal killed by me in Scurry County, of which Snyder is now the county seat. It was the only white buffalo killed by hunters in Texas.” It is said that J. Wright Mooar killed 20,000 buffalo during his career. When the buffalo were finally decimated, the Mooars stayed in Scurry and Mitchell counties as freighters. J. Wright established a

ranch ten miles northwest of Snyder and spent his remaining years there. He married Julia Swartz and adopted a son, Tommy McDonnell. Mooar’s recollections were published in five numbers of Holland’s Magazine in 1933; his amazingly accurate and detailed recall of events of the early hunting days has been a valuable source of information for Plains historians. Upon J. Wright Mooar’s passing on May 1, 1940, his son Tommy and granddaughter Julia “Judy” Hays became the caretakers of the ranch and the white buffalo hide. Judy built a display case for the hide in the family ranch house where it was preserved for over 60 years. Her son Randy Hays planned for the hide to be loaned to Frontier Texas after his mother’s death; however, Randy passed away only two years after his mother. His wife Jessie and son Shawn fulfilled those plans. As visitors to Frontier Texas learn, buffalo were vital to the survival and well-being of Native Americans; every part of the buffalo was used for food, clothing, shelter, tools, jewelry or in ceremonies. The American buffalo or bison is considered by many Native American peoples to be a symbol of life and abundance.

True white buffalo are extremely rare with just one out of every 10 million buffalo born with albinism, according to the National Bison Association. Of the millions of buffalo that once roamed the plains, there might have been only 8-12 white buffalo among them. Many Native American tribes consider white buffalo to be sacred as a sign of hope and a foretelling of good times. Crossbreeding bison with Charolais cattle in more recent years has made white buffalo more common. The famous white buffalo hide is on a long-term loan from the family of Randy Hays to Frontier Texas for public display to ensure its preservation for generations to come. The hide is in a Smithsonian-quality display case built by Exhibit Concepts of Ohio. This project received support from the Community Foundation of Abilene, the Hays Family and from private funds raised by Frontier Texas in 2021 and 2022. Frontier Texas extended a special invitation through the Snyder schools, so that among the first to view the new exhibit prior to its formal opening were school-aged children and their parents from Snyder. The formal opening of the exhibit occurred on Thursday, December 7, 2023.

DON’T MISS Visit Abilene abilene visitors.com Frontier Texas! 625 North 1st St. Abilene, TX 79601 325-437-2800 frontiertexas.com

Above The Mooar brothers: John (on the left) holding the hide of the white buffalo that was shot by J. Wright (on the right).

LIFE

live show

Discovering All Things “Buddy Holly” in Lubbock, Texas by Dolores McCall Mosser

ubbock, Texas proudly claims, Charles Hardin Holley (born September 7, 1936), or Buddy Holly, as the community’s favorite son. The young man grew up in a fine musical family, became famous, and then tragically died at the age of 22 in a plane crash during a winter snowstorm in Clear Lake, Iowa, on February 3, 1959. Music legends, most notably Beatle Paul McCartney, point to Holly as a founding member of a new form of music that began in the mid-1950s called “rock and roll”. McCartney owns the publishing rights to Holly’s song catalog. I can drive you around Lubbock to see Buddy’s legacy that begins with his modest grave in the City of Lubbock Cemetery. We can visit the Buddy Holly Center that houses artifacts of this amazing singer and

songwriter and is the very heart of the Buddy Holly story in our town. There, we can get a map that takes us to see the sites that mark his birth, home-life, schooling, and where he showcased his love for music. It began by singing with his family in church. He embraced all forms of music – gospel, country and western, and rhythm and blues. Buddy was first featured on local television and radio station programs in 1952, and then, in 1955, his band of longtime friends, became the opening act for the most famous of rock and roll legends, Elvis Presley. Buddy left West Texas, found his name shortened from “Holley” to “Holly” in a contract typo, made his name in the music business worlds of Nashville and New York City, appeared on “American Bandstand” and “The Ed Sullivan Show”, married Maria Elena Santiago, toured

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

the planet, and then he died. On that day, said to be “The Day the Music Died” by Don McLean in his hit song “American Pie,” young people from around the world, along with his family and friends in Lubbock, mourned the death of a truly remarkable young man and musician. Two years before his death, Buddy and his band, The Crickets, were managed by legendary music producer, Norman Petty from Clovis, New Mexico, when they released one of the most recognizable songs in music history, “That’ll Be the Day.” The song topped the sales charts in America and in the United Kingdom. Everyone loved Buddy Holly and The Crickets, even the girl memorialized in their follow-up hit, “Peggy Sue”! Buddy Holly’s playing and singing style were new and innovative. Holly is also credited for his “staging” for his rock and roll bands – two guitars, a standup bass, and a drum set. In 1986, Holly was among the first artists inducted into Cleveland, Ohio’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Other rock and roll legends that credit Buddy Holly’s influence on their careers include The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Elton John. In 1997, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences gave Holly a Lifetime Achievement Award. Rolling Stone Magazine ranked Buddy Holly as Number 13 on its “100 Greatest Artists” list in 2010. The Buddy Holly Center celebrates “Everything Buddy” with love and happiness twice a year, on his birthday and on his death day, when visitors are invited to experience music and art in all their glory. Center Director Jacqueline Bober was kind enough to tell us about the plans for this year’s February event. “February 3, 2024, marks the 65th anniversary of the plane crash that took the lives of musicians

Buddy Holly, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, Ritchie Valens, and pilot Roger Peterson. The Buddy Holly Center commemorates this date each year with a special remembrance called “The Day the Music Died.” This year’s event, on the first Saturday in February, the Center will offer free admission from 10 am to 5 pm. Guests can take a guided tour of the Buddy Holly Gallery led by curator Sebastian Forbush and view screenings of Larry Holley’s documentary “The Buddy I Knew” featuring his memories of his youngest brother.” “Tours are also available of the boyhood home of Jerry Allison, drummer with The Crickets, which sits adjacent to the Center. Children’s activities will also be offered throughout the day. The event serves to honor Buddy and the rich musical legacy he left behind.” Director Boder added more celebratory news. “This year (2024) also marks the 25th anniversary of the Buddy Holly Center. Opened in September of 1999 in the historic Railway Depot, the Buddy Holly Center not only preserves, collects and promotes the legacy of Buddy Holly, but the music and art of Lubbock and West Texas. We provide exhibitions on contemporary visual arts and music to educate and entertain the public. Our visitors from virtually every country learn about Buddy’s life, his music and its lasting inspiration that can be felt to this day.” An additional Buddy Holly legacy building can be found across downtown in the new Lubbock Arts-Cultural District. The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences is an amazingly beautiful performing arts venue. It has given Lubbock residents and visitors, young and old, a stunning venue for celebrated musical/dance groups, famous comedians, children programs, and Broadway Touring Companies.

DON’T MISS Visit Lubbock visitlubbock.org Buddy Holly Center 1801 Crickets Ave. Lubbock, TX 79401 806-775-3560 ci.lubbock.tx.us/ departments/buddyholly-center/home Buddy & Maria Elena Holly Park 1824 Crickets Ave. Lubbock, TX 79401 West Texas Walk of Fame 19th St. & Crickets Ave. Lubbock, TX 79404 Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts & Sciences 1300 Mac Davis Ln. Lubbock, TX 79401 806-792-8339 buddyhollyhall.com

Below Buddy Holly Statue and Walk of Fame and Glasses sculpture at the Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock, TX | Photos courtesy of the Lubbock Cultural District.

LEGACY

A.J. Foyt watches his father Tony Foyt work on his midget

T e xas H i sto r i cal Com m i ss i on

T e xas Stat e L i b rary & Ar ch i v e s

T e xas H i s to r i ca l F o u n d at i o n

t e xas o r i g i nals

New again, Fannin County Courthouse

Recognizing the Texas Icon of the Texas Official State Sport: Rodeo

Introducing the Texas Historical Foundation

Auto racing legend, Super Tex, A.J. Foyt; Lessons from winning basketball Coach Ron Mayberry 69

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION

Total Transformation Old is New Again at the Fannin County Courthouse by James Malanaphy & Rob Hodges

f you only saw the Fannin County Courthouse in Bonham five years ago and then saw it again now, you’d swear it was not the same building. After a four-year restoration that cost $27.8 million, it is utterly transformed. The beautiful French Second Empire-style courthouse with elaborate stonework and soaring clock tower is back after participating in the Texas Historical Commission’s (THC) Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program. Built in 1888, the historic Fannin County Courthouse was partially destroyed by a fire in 1929. Although stabilized and reoccupied, it was substantially altered—exterior walls and window openings were retained, but the clock tower was gone, the 70

gable roof and much ornamental stone decoration were removed, and the interior was completely refinished. In 1966, the entire exterior was covered in a new flat-panel facade. Interiors were completely altered—even the two-story district courtroom and balcony disappeared and was divided into two floors. The recent restoration completely reversed the dramatic changes of 1929 and 1966. Original building materials and finishes were carefully investigated, researched, and restored to allow public spaces to be returned to their original grandeur. The old stone exterior was uncovered and restored—using limestone from a nearby quarry that was generously reopened by the family to support the restoration—and a

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contributed $22.2 million authorized by the Commissioners’ Court with resident support. It takes a village, and everyone came together to see this transformative project through to an end result that aptly represents this proud community.

replica clock tower was raised as crowds of onlookers applauded. The combined efforts of over 35 specialty contractors and contributions from additional local companies were required to complete the full restoration. On March 10, 2022, hundreds gathered on the courthouse square (while many more watched a livestream) and cheered as the bell tower clock struck 10 a.m. and Fannin County Judge Randy Moore began the rededication ceremony. Among the attendees was Mary Helen Dodson, great-granddaughter of Wesley Clark Dodson, the courthouse’s original architect. During his remarks, Judge Moore credited the remarkable restoration not only to the tremendous support of the community, whose financial backing was critical, but also to the vision and determination of Barbara McCutcheon, retired town librarian who campaigned tirelessly for the courthouse’s restoration. The THC awarded a $400,000 planning grant in 2008 and a $5.6 million construction grant in July 2016, while the county

IF YOU GO When visiting Bonham’s courthouse centerpiece, heritage travelers should not miss some of the city’s other notable destinations. A great place to start is the THC’s Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site, the home of one of Texas’ best-known statesmen. One of the most powerful and influential politicians in the 20th century, Rayburn served in the U.S. Congress for 48 years, holding the position of speaker for 17 years. His 1916 home is a National Historic Landmark, a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore more about Rayburn’s personal life and political achievements, as well as learn about the early- to mid20th century Congress, at the Sam Rayburn Museum, a property of The University of Texas at Austin’s Dolph Briscoe Center for American History. The museum was founded by Rayburn himself, originally as a library to house his books, personal papers, and memoirs and as a resource center about political history. Southeast of town is Bonham State Park, which was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from 1933–36. The CCC constructed the dam that impounds the 65-acre lake, as well as several buildings, bridges, picnic tables, and more. A modified version of this article originally appeared in the 2023 edition of the THC’s legislative publication, Courthouse Cornerstones. 71

T E X A S S TAT E L I B R A R Y & A R C H I V E S

The Official State Sport of Texas by Susan Floyd

exas is definitely a sports state. While we have many professional sports teams, championship college and university teams, and thousands upon thousands of K-12 and community athletes, and gridiron football has historically been the sport most closely associated with Texas, the official state sport is rodeo! The Texas State Library and Archives Commission is charged by statute to “prepare and make available to the public a complete list of every state symbol and place designation” (section 441.006(a)(9) of the Texas Government Code). TSLAC’s state symbols website has long been popular, with frequent visits by educators, students, librarians, writers, researchers and members of the public. This freshly upgraded

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It’s not surprising some of the largest rodeos in the nation happen in Texas. Immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy one of these rodeos Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo January 12 – February 3, 2024 fwssr.com

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo February 8-25, 2024 sarodeo.com

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo February 27 – March 17, 2024 rodeohouston.com

West of the Pecos Rodeo June 26-29, 2024 pecosrodeo.com

Mesquite Championship Rodeo Every Saturday June-August mesquiterodeo.com

Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo October 18-20, 2024 brazosvalleyfair.com

WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo (Amarillo) November 14-17, 2024 wrca.org

version now includes more information in a user-friendly format, alongside photos relating to each symbol tsl.texas.gov/ref/abouttx/symbols. Rodeo was chosen as the official state sport in 1997 via Texas House Concurrent Resolution No. 6, 75th Legislature, Regular Session. Per the Texas State Historical Association, rodeo developed alongside the western cattle industry starting as far back as sixteenth century conquistadors and the horses they brought with them from Spain. Modern cattle culture really began after the Civil War, the era of sprawling ranches and long-distance cattle drives. Cowboys developed skills and wanted to practice them and show them off—and so the rodeo was born! “Two of the earliest rodeos on record were held in Pecos, Texas.” Rules were standardized by the Rodeo Association of America in 1929, and cowboys organized for increased earnings, fair judging, and to improve cowboys’ image. Women were also rodeo competitors from the turn of the 20th century. Rodeo

became even more popular, and more professionalized, after World War II, when many Americans had more leisure time and discretionary income. Unsurprisingly, Texans stood out in the sport throughout its history, with legendary rodeo cowboys like Barbara Inez “Tad” Lucas, William “Bill” Pickett, Myrtis Dightman, Fred Whitfield, Toots Mansfield, Dick Griffith, Harry Tompkins, Don Gay, Ty Murray, Phil Lyne, and many more leaving their mark on rodeo history. The State Archives have several collections with historic photographs of Texas rodeos, including the TSLAC Prints and Photographs collection, Texas Department of Public Safety photographs collection, Texas Tourist Development Agency photographs and audiovisual materials, and the L.L. Cook Company collection, featured here. See more photos from both, along with nearly 8 million other records, in the Texas Digital Archive at www.tsl.texas.gov/ texasdigitalarchive.

T E X A S H I S T O R I C A L F O U N D AT I O N

Preserving the History of Texas Texas Historical Foundation by David Preziosi, Executive Director, FAICP

any are familiar with the Texas Historical Commission and the great work they have done to promote and preserve the history of Texas. Many are probably not as familiar with the Texas Historical Foundation, what they do, and how they were once connected with the Commission. In 1953, the Texas Legislature established the Texas State Historical Survey Committee and tasked them with surveying and recording Texas history and sites. They were also charged with the review of historic sites for their worthiness before the state purchased them. The Texas Historical Foundation was formed as a nonprofit one year after the Survey Committee to provide most of the funding for the Survey Committee’s work. The two organizations worked together closely for many years. In 1962, the historical marker program for Texas was established under the Survey Committee’s authority with a goal to record historic 74

sites in all 254 counties in Texas. The scope of the Survey Committee’s work was broadened in 1968 with the addition of the state archeological program and a museum services program. The responsibility for the National Register of Historic Places program in Texas was also given to them as part of their designation as the State Historic Preservation Office after the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act in 1966. In 1971 the state assumed the funding role for the Survey Committee. After that, the Texas Historical Commission began independently seeking out worthy preservation projects, exploring critical preservation efforts, and establishing endowments to support projects around the state. Fifty years ago, the Survey Committee was renamed by the Texas Legislature to the Texas Historical Commission. Their role was expanded at that time with additional powers to protect historic places in Texas and a mandate to educate Texans about the importance of

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Above Left Supporting the restoration of the Charles & Mary Ann Goodnight house was one of the foundation’s largest projects. Above Right THF board members with the Bolivar Point Lighthouse Foundation board members. Opposite Texas Historical Foundation board members with members of the Friends of the Aldredge House who received a grant for expansion of their living history tours at the 1917 Aldredge House in Dallas.

historic sites and the role they played in the development of the state. As the endowments have grown at the Texas Historical Foundation, it has established itself as a champion for Texas history by providing quarterly grants to nonprofits who are working to conserve artifacts, archive documents, restore historic buildings and sites, pursue archaeological investigations, gather and share stories relating to Texas history and the Lone Star culture. Since 1990 over $2 million in grants have been given out by the Texas Historical Foundation to over 400 projects around the state. One of the Foundation’s largest projects has been the restoration of the Goodnight House which is now part of the Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight Ranch State Historic Site administered by the Texas Historical Commission. Recent grants have been awarded to the Bolivar Point Lighthouse, Archer County Museum, African American Heritage Project, Friends of the Texas Historical Commission, Council of Archeologists, Tom Lea Institute, Hemisfair Conservancy, Friends of Aldredge House, Kathyln Joy Gilliam Museum, Dallas Mexican American Historical League, Texas State Historical Association and more. The Texas Historical Foundation also recognizes excellence in preserving the history and culture of the state with its Star of Texas award, which honors individuals

or businesses for those exceptional contributions. Past recipients have included Frost Bank, J.P. Bryan, and Red McCombs. In March of this year, the prestigious award was presented to the Cavender family who were selected for their work to preserve the culture of Texas through Cavender’s Boot City, an iconic Texas company and leader in the western-wear industry. Next spring, the Texas Historical Foundation will be giving out its largest grants ever with the Micheal C. Duda Preservation Awards which will recognize three outstanding preservation projects in Texas with grants of $100,000, $30,000, and $20,000. The Texas Historical Foundation will be joining the Authentic Texas family though a new partnership beginning with the 2024 spring issue. The Foundation is excited and honored to join such a tremendous publication focusing on the heritage of Texas. In future issues you will be able to read more about our work across the state and the amazing projects that we fund, along with the people that are working to preserve the unique aspects of our diverse history. We look forward to being a part of this dynamic magazine and helping to bring the stories of the history and heritage of the great state of Texas to life! Visit texashistoricalfoundation.org to find out more about the work of the Texas Historical Foundation. 75

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personality

Super Tex & Victory Lane Racing Legend A.J. Foyt by Anne Fornoro

uto racing legend A.J. Foyt was dubbed “Super Tex” early in his outstanding career with good reason. Born and raised in Houston, he is fiercely proud of his Texan heritage. Fueled by ambition and determination, he carved out a remarkable life that was filled with adventure…and a few mishaps along the way. He has been richly rewarded with a close-knit family, loyal friends and a privileged lifestyle that belies his humble beginnings in the Heights section of Houston. Foyt’s career is a treasure trove of memorable records and incredible feats. His record of achievements may never be equaled and certainly won’t be in his lifetime. Major victories, including the Indy 500 in Indy cars, the Daytona 500 in NASCAR stock cars, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in sports cars, set him apart from all other race drivers. 76

At LeMans, Foyt teamed with Dan Gurney, and their victory remains as the only all-American team with an American-built car to win the prestigious international endurance race. Winner of a record 67 IndyCar races and seven national IndyCar Series titles as a driver, Foyt is often viewed as an intimidating personality by drivers, all of whom are now two generations removed from the motorsports legend. It is an assessment he disputes. “I don’t ask my drivers to do all that I have done, the times are different nowadays,” Foyt said. “But I do expect them to give me 100 percent. That’s the name of the game. When I was running, all I wanted to do was win, and that’s the reason I probably won as much as I did. I never did want to settle for second or third.” Turning 89 in January, the Houstonian has seen a lot of changes in his celebrated career, which began in 1953 at Playland Park and Meyer Speedway in his hometown. He soon turned it into a globetrotting romp of racetracks throughout North America and in Europe, Australia and Asia. However, the Texan’s most memorable races took place at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he became the first four-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 (1961, 1964, 1967, 1977). Including the 2023 Indy 500, Foyt has competed in 66 consecutive Indy 500s—of which 35 straight were as a driver – a record unlikely to ever be broken. He holds the IndyCar Series records for most career victories (67), most national championships (7) and most triumphs in one season

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(10). Those 10 victories in 13 starts computes to a winning percentage of 77% — a record still unmatched in IndyCar racing. “It’s hard for me to believe that I’ve been racing cars for over 70 years,” said Foyt. “I’ve had so many good memories, and some not-so-good, but I wouldn’t trade any of it.” Winning has been the hallmark of Foyt’s career: winning in Indy cars, NASCAR, USAC stock cars, midgets, sprints, IMSA sports cars and, of course, Le Mans. He won 14 national titles and 172 major races in his driving career, which spanned four decades and three continents. He has won in five countries—U.S.A., France, New Zealand, Canada, Great Britain—and in 15 of the 19 states in which he competed as a driver. Yet it was through his adversities that A.J.’s qualities burned brightest. His determination and toughness set him apart from his competition and he became one of auto racing’s most inspiring champions. Over the years, Foyt proved he was physically and mentally tough. The equipment that he drove did not have the safety features of today’s cars, tracks and personal gear. Foyt battled back from career-threatening accidents to race—and win—again. He broke his back at Riverside, California, in 1965 and again at Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1982; he sustained burns on his face and hands at Phoenix

in 1966. In 1972, he jumped from his burning race car after a pit stop at DuQuoin, Illinois, only to be run over it, breaking his ankle. He nearly lost his right arm in 1981 at the Michigan Superspeedway, and in 1990, he sustained debilitating injuries to his ankles and feet—he still limps from the effects of his crash at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. “I knew people wanted me to retire, heck my own family wanted me to,” he said of that 1990 accident. “But I didn’t want to go out on crutches. I was determined to walk to my race car without crutches.” At 56, Foyt limped to his car, without crutches, and qualified second for the 1991 Indianapolis 500! He was eliminated early when debris from another accident broke his car’s suspension, but not before he had shown his own brand of toughness before 400,000 race fans and millions of TV viewers. After finishing ninth in his 35th straight 500 in 1992, the motorsports icon retired from driving Indy cars in 1993 on Pole Day (May 15) at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. His decision was as abrupt as it was final. “When I won Indy the first time back in 1961, I had a chance to meet Ray Harroun, who won the first Indy 500 in 1911,” Foyt revealed. “I asked him when he knew when to quit. He said, ‘It’ll come to you, you’ll just know.’ And he was right.” As a team owner, Foyt has won the national Indy car title five times: 1967, 1975, 1979, and 1996 with

Bottom Left A.J. Foyt with his Watson roadster the day after his dominating 1964 Indy 500 win Below Right A.J. Foyt surrounded in the Winner’s Circle after becoming the first four-time Indianapolis 500 winner in 1977 Opposite Super Tex A.J. Foyt

LEGACY

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driver Scott Sharp, and 1998 with driver Kenny Brack. It was also with Brack that Foyt won the 1999 Indy 500 for his fifth visit to the Brickyard’s victory circle. Since retiring from driving, Foyt has faced his most serious health issues, which include two attacks by African killer bees, three knee replacements, a hip replacement, two back surgeries, three bouts of life-threatening staph infections, and triple bypass surgery. Foyt’s triple bypass surgery in November 2014, was followed by serious post-operative complications, leading to a nearly month-long hospital stay, and for the first time, a week-long induced sedation as doctors worked to get him back on track. Another two-week stay in the hospital in December due to more — but not life-threatening — complications set a personal record for Foyt, whose previous hospital stays (due to race-related injuries) were three weeks or less. “I’ve had a lot of injuries from accidents and have always recovered pretty fast,” said Foyt, adding, “but this was altogether different from an accident, because it was a health problem. All during my career I never had any health problems, so I didn’t realize how serious they can be or how lucky you are when you’re healthy.” Throughout his storied career, Foyt has defied

the odds to emerge triumphant. His accolades include being named the Driver of the Year in 1975, inaugural inductions into the National Motorsports Hall of Fame (Novi, Michigan), the Sprint Car Hall of Fame and the Miami Project/Sports Legend in Auto Racing (1986). He won the American Sportscasters Association Sports Legend Award in 1993. He was named to NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers and voted Driver of the Century by a panel of experts and the Associated Press. Additionally, he was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, and the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame. In 2019, he was honored by the Houston Sports Hall of Fame along with fellow Texans Jackie Burke, George Foreman, and “Honorary Texan” Dan Pastorini. “I don’t care how many times you’ve been honored,’’ said Foyt, who now lives in the posh River Oaks section of Houston. “It is really special to be honored in your hometown.’’ No one racing today can match Foyt’s career for versatility or record-setting accomplishments which he achieved in an era when racing was more dangerous and deadly. This Texan not only survived, he thrived to become a legend who is admired as much for his Texas brand of toughness and determination as he is for his unparalleled success.

DON’T MISS Visit Houston visithouston texas.com Houston Sports Hall of Fame Greenstreet 1201 Fannin Street Houston, TX 77002 greenstreet downtown.com Visit Waco destination waco.org Visit Texas Sports Hall of Fame 1108 S. University Parks Dr. Waco, TX 76706 (254) 756-1633 tshof.org

AUTHENTIC TEXAS WINTER 2024

The Secret of My Success Coach Ron Mayberry by Randall Kinzie

oach Ron Mayberry epitomized all things good in a Texas coach who never had a losing season. He coached at over 30 schools. His coaching path included little schools such as Wellman-Union (K-12 enrollment 117) to stints at junior college perennial powers such as Odessa College, Midland College, and South Plains College. Always in demand as a coach, he proved his methods through winning seasons, playoff appearances and having nearly a dozen junior college students go professional. Here’s a brief list of Coach Ron’s achievements: One thousand wins. Head coach at thirteen high schools and six colleges. Inducted into three Halls of Fame. He was selected by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches as the “State Coach of the Year” three times and was runner-up once, making him the only coach to be selected three times in four years. Named by various organizations as “Coach of the Year”, including acclaim as “National Junior College Coach of the Year” by Basketball Times Magazine. 79

Everyone is a coach in some manner or another. It does not matter what you are doing, someone is going to tell you how to do whatever you are doing. That is coaching in the most important form that exists.