National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame | Fort Worth

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in Fort Worth, Texas, is dedicated to honoring the women of the American West who have made significant contributions to the development of the region. The museum recognizes women from a wide range of professions, including pioneers, ranchers, rodeo stars, writers, artists, businesswomen, and activists.

Overview and Purpose

The museum aims to preserve the history of these women and their contributions by highlighting their stories through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. It celebrates their resilience, courage, and pioneering spirit, which were pivotal in shaping the American West. The museum also serves as the home of the Cowgirl Hall of Fame, where over 250 women have been inducted for their significant impact on the West.

History of the Museum

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame was established in 1975 to recognize the accomplishments of women in the West, but its current location in Fort Worth’s Cultural District was opened in 2002. The museum’s building was designed to evoke the spirit of the West, blending traditional and modern architectural elements. It spans 33,000 square feet and houses a variety of interactive exhibits and galleries.

Hall of Fame

The Cowgirl Hall of Fame is one of the most prominent features of the museum. It honors women who have made a lasting impact in the West across multiple disciplines. Some of the notable women inducted into the Hall of Fame include:

Sacagawea: The Shoshone woman who assisted Lewis and Clark on their expedition across the western United States.

Annie Oakley: The sharpshooter who became a star in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.

Georgia O’Keeffe: The renowned modernist painter whose works often depicted the landscapes and beauty of the American Southwest.

Sandra Day O'Connor: The first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

Dale Evans: An actress and singer, best known as the wife of Roy Rogers and a trailblazer for women in film.

The Hall of Fame serves as a testament to the diverse achievements of these women, preserving their legacies for future generations.

Exhibitions and Galleries

The museum’s exhibits are carefully curated to showcase different aspects of Western life and the role women played in its development. Key galleries and exhibits include:

Kit Moncrief Galleries: This gallery focuses on the historic bond between women and horses in the West. It features a variety of artifacts, including saddles, tack, and clothing worn by women riders and cowgirls. The gallery also explores the evolution of Western design, showcasing the importance of horses in the daily lives of women pioneers.

Into the Arena: This exhibit highlights the role of women in rodeo and Wild West shows. It honors legendary cowgirls like Annie Oakley and Barbara Inez “Tad” Lucas. The exhibit features memorabilia from professional rodeo stars and Wild West performers, including saddles, riding gear, and costumes.

Kinship with the Land: This gallery is dedicated to the ranching women of the American West. It showcases historical artifacts related to ranch life, including tools, family heirlooms, and clothing. The gallery also honors the women who have worked the land, emphasizing the challenges and resilience of these ranchers.

Western Design Room: An immersive room that explores the evolution of Western design, from fashion to home décor. This room highlights how women influenced the design of clothing, homes, and public spaces in the American West.

Bucking Bronc Room: A room dedicated to rodeo and the cowgirls who competed in the sport. It features interactive displays where visitors can learn about the history of rodeo and the women who became champions in this male-dominated field.

Interactive Exhibits

The museum offers several interactive experiences designed to engage visitors in a deeper understanding of the American West and the roles women played in shaping it. These include:

Immersive video presentations that showcase the stories of the Hall of Fame inductees.

Interactive displays where visitors can learn about the tools and skills women used in the West, from cattle branding to cooking and homemaking.

Films and Theaters

The museum features two theaters that screen films and documentaries focusing on the lives of the women inducted into the Hall of Fame, as well as on various aspects of Western history and culture. These films provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of the cowgirls, pioneers, and ranch women who shaped the American West.

Desert Rose at the Cowgirl

The museum’s gift shop, Desert Rose at the Cowgirl, offers a variety of items related to the exhibits and Hall of Fame honorees. Visitors can purchase books, apparel, jewelry, and other memorabilia, many of which highlight the iconic women of the American West.

Educational Programs

The museum is also dedicated to education, offering a variety of programs designed for school groups, families, and individuals. These programs include guided tours, interactive workshops, and special events such as rodeo demonstrations and talks by notable cowgirls and historians. The museum also hosts annual events like the Cowgirl Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, where new inductees are celebrated.

Visitor Information

Location: 1720 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107

Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays and major holidays.

Admission:

Adults: $12

Seniors: $9

Children (4–12): $6

Children (0–3): Free

Special Family Rate: $36 (for 2 adults and up to 4 children)

Parking: $12 fee in the City of Fort Worth lots in the Cultural District; free parking for museum members.

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame not only honors the past but also provides a space for visitors to learn about the ongoing contributions of women to the American West. Through its exhibits, events, and interactive galleries, it celebrates the diverse legacies of these remarkable women.