COLUMN: Big Tex: The face of the fair | Opinion

Every year, the State Fair of Texas brings families, friends, and Texans from all across the state together. With a variety of activities, foods and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From the Midway rides and creative food offerings to the concerts, livestock shows, and rodeos, Texans can spend close to a month exploring all the state fair has to offer, but none of these attractions garner more attention and adoration than the fair’s most prized possession: Big Tex.

The 55-foot statue is known as the world’s tallest cowboy and greets every Texan who attends the State Fair with open arms and a friendly “Howdy Folks!” He is a Lone Star icon, but few Texans can tell you about his back story. Exactly how did Big Tex come to loom large at the entrance of the fair and in Texans’ hearts?

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