"There are towns with cowboys and then there are cowboy towns. Full of rich Old West history, the latter is definitely more interesting. These are towns where you’ll surely find guys who look like Sam Elliott in The Big Lebowski, only instead of living out of their element in a big city like Los Angeles, they’re right at home. In these hoedown centers, the spirit of the Wild West is alive and well."


AskMen.com - Top 10 cowboy towns (http://www.askmen.com/fashion/travel_top_ten_150/168_travel_top_ten.html)

Well, at least they didn't mention the Cow Patty Tossing contest.

I was preparing to be mortified but actually wasn't, great pic and nice article.. okay, we'll take what we can get.

How hilarious is it that Fort Worth people are getting all jealous about this?

So because they have the Cowgirl Hall of Fame, they should beat us out?

Ft Worth Motto: Rode Hard - Put Away Wet

Okc motto = The Big Friendly Cowboy.

How embarrassing!

I'm sorry, but I don't understand what is "embarrassing" or "mortifying" about being selected for this list. The article said some flattering things.

It seems that several of the people who have issues with the cowboy association (and the state bird, and other things that are very much a part of our culture) are non-native Oklahomans. If you fall into that category, please take some time to try to appreciate OKC- and OK in general- for our heritage and what we are. I have a hard time understanding people who move here for five or ten years and decide that they want to overhaul our image and values.

I'm sorry, but I don't understand what is "embarrassing" or "mortifying" about being selected for this list. The article said some flattering things.

It seems that several of the people who have issues with the cowboy association (and the state bird, and other things that are very much a part of our culture) are non-native Oklahomans.

Well, it probably matters only to me, but for the record I am native born and bred and I stand with Pug!
:fighting2:

I think OK has been trying really hard to improve the image of the state for various reasons. Getting large corporations to locate here and bring their tax dollars, jobs and housing needs, improve the economy ( higher paying jobs, combating poverty, keeping college grads here, public service improvements .. etc,
etc, etc ) all depend on a positive image of the state..... with a rejuvenated, vibrant downtown/Bricktown area it's hard to sit idly by and see that we are still considered a 'cowtown'... throw in a watermelon as a state veggie, a flycatching bird on our quarter.. it's discouraging.

It doesn't matter if we are born here or not.. we live here now and have a vested interest in how people perceive our home.

I seriously fear the day when Oklahoma City gets so big that it's just like any other city. Unfortunately, it's a byproduct of progress.

I stand with those who see this "recognition" as being "good," "worthwhile," and "deserved."

I find NO embarrasment, and only pride, in being selected the #1 "Cowboy" town in the USA ...


http://images.askmen.com/fashion/travel_top_ten_150/168e_travel_top_ten.jpg


Number 1 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

You may wonder how a big city can be considered a cowboy town. The population of Oklahoma City is over half a million, and that doubles if you include the suburbs. There aren’t many places that can pull off being a cowboy town with such a massive population, but OKC does. For starters, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is there and the city is billed as the Horse Show Capital of the World. So even though it’s a city by name, there’s no denying it’s a cowboy town at heart. Throughout the year, there’s the annual Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival, Western Heritage Awards and plenty of rodeos. If you still have doubts, wander around Stockyards City (it is what the name implies) and have a meal at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse.

While I'd likely find another restaurant to dine in (several, actually), note that the pic these people included was the Bricktown Canal, above. And, what's not to like in the post ... Okc being referred to as a "big city" ... the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum ... Horse Show Capital of the World ...

I'm personally proud of ALL these things (and much more), and I'm glad for Okc to be dubbed as the "#1 Cowboy Town" in the United States of America! We can accept that label while, at the same time, be many other things at the same time, as well.

So, "Where's the Beef?" Our roots ARE involved with "cowboys" (among others) ... like Charles Colcord who was a cowboy "lawman" before he came to Okc, was the 1st Okc police chief, before he struck it rich and built the Colcord (now Colcord Hotel) and Biltmore Hotel (now gone), among other of his credits ... as well as many other "cowboys" which are part of city's rich history and legacy.

So, what IF we are called as KarrieD noted, "City ranks 13th on list of top business sites," etc? See http://www.okctalk.com/okc-metro-area-talk/6400-forbes-top-business-sites.html . Our "cowboy" heritage is also real. Our "cowboy" contemporary presence is real, too. So, what's the problem? This kind of stuff is an indelible part our history, and a part of what makes this city cool and unique, today. I, for one, would not like it if ... it were ignored, or it was blotted out in a revisionist history, altogether. It's all a part of who "we", as Oklahoma Citians, "are." Proud ... and proud of ALL of our heritage and the recognition that we are garnering as time goes on.

You want to be "just" urban"? This is not the place ... maybe Chicago or New York would be more akin to your fancies ... but this place started out as an 1889 land run town, complete with cowboys, cows, etc., and it is a part of who "we are," like it or not. These "cowboys" layed the bedrock for the city today.


http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/DougLoudenback/colcord/colcord_1880.jpg

http://www.dougloudenback.com/downtown/vintage/1889.3.jpg

Why should we not embrace ALL of our heritage, including the "cowboy" part? It's part of who "we", as a city, "are."

For me, I'm more than happy to accept accolades that might come our way including those which speak to our "cowboy heritage," and just say, to those who notice, "Thanks!"

I seriously fear the day when Oklahoma City gets so big that it's just like any other city. Unfortunately, it's a byproduct of progress.

I think this is cool. As far as getting too big, no matter how much bigger OKC gets, it is still a cowtown at heart. Progress can make OKC only better and appeal to a wider span of people. But even sophisticated newcomers know that Stockyards City and the Western Heritage center are a big part of what OKC is about.

I like being number one on this list as well. I am far from a cowboy, although I am a native Oklahoman being born and raised in Okc. I have never worn boots or a hat, never drove a tractor or had a farm, never gone hunting, only fished a few times, don't like camping, rode a horse once, I am completely city through and through.

I think that cowboys are cool, especially in the movies. I like indians too. Soon we will have the Native American Indian History Museum, that will only add to the Wild West of Okc.

Maybe I will get a pair of boots and a hat and head on over to the Saloon.

I like being number one on this list as well. I am far from a cowboy, although I am a native Oklahoman being born and raised in Okc. I have never worn boots or a hat, never drove a tractor or had a farm, never gone hunting, only fished a few times, don't like camping, rode a horse once, I am completely city through and through.

I think that cowboys are cool, especially in the movies. I like indians too. Soon we will have the Native American Indian History Museum, that will only add to the Wild West of Okc.

Maybe I will get a pair of boots and a hat and head on over to the Saloon.

Doug Dawg may just get a pair of boots and join you at the Saloon for a shot of whatever it is that it might have available! If it is a "saloon" that is "contemporary" to the time, it might not be very tasty, but, I'll have it with you, regardless.

I went to Cattleman's several years back and tried out their "brains" for a breakfast item ... a serious mistake. But, that's part of our history, too. It might not be the "best" place to eat a steak these days, but, it does carry on some elements of our history that no place else does.

:yourock:
I think this is cool. As far as getting too big, no matter how much bigger OKC gets, it is still a cowtown at heart. Progress can make OKC only better and appeal to a wider span of people. But even sophisticated newcomers know that Stockyards City and the Western Heritage center are a big part of what OKC is about.

Well said, floater.

Number 1 Cowboy town and number 13 Forbes business city, all in the same week.

10-Deadwood, South Dakota
9-Miles City, Montana
8-Sheridan, Wyoming
7-Dodge City, Kansas
6-Makawao, Hawaii
5-Elko, Nevada
4-Tombstone, Arizona
3-White Oaks, New Mexico
2-Bandera, Texas

Number 1
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
You may wonder how a big city can be considered a cowboy town. The population of Oklahoma City is over half a million, and that doubles if you include the suburbs. There aren’t many places that can pull off being a cowboy town with such a massive population, but OKC does. For starters, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is there and the city is billed as the Horse Show Capital of the World. So even though it’s a city by name, there’s no denying it’s a cowboy town at heart. Throughout the year, there’s the annual Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival, Western Heritage Awards and plenty of rodeos. If you still have doubts, wander around Stockyards City (it is what the name implies) and have a meal at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse.

..

I think thats a pretty cool distinction! I don't think OKC will ever be perceived as a chic urban metropolis throughout the nation. OKC's roots lie in the western "cowboy" culture, and that will always remain. This article sheds a postive light on OKC which is a good thing!

So where are the best places to go to find these cowboys and share cocktails? Ha ha. I've always loved men in boots. And hats. And big ole' belt buckles. I can't help myself. Glad to know OKC has lots of them.

I'm with Doug on this one.

And I think there's a big difference between being called a "Cowboy Town" and being called a "cowtown".

I like being number one on this list as well. I am far from a cowboy, although I am a native Oklahoman being born and raised in Okc. I have never worn boots or a hat, never drove a tractor or had a farm, never gone hunting, only fished a few times, don't like camping, rode a horse once, I am completely city through and through.

I think that cowboys are cool, especially in the movies. I like indians too. Soon we will have the Native American Indian History Museum, that will only add to the Wild West of Okc.

Maybe I will get a pair of boots and a hat and head on over to the Saloon.

I'm with ya. See you at the stockyards!

I agree, jbrown84. It's also not like they called us a hick town, though many would immediately associate the two. The angle of this write up is that OKC is a cowboy town despite its city setting and size. The reality is that this element brings a lot of money to the city. Really what this amounts to is that OKC is the most successful cowboy town.

I also think being number one on this list, along with the reasons why, reinforces why we need to do more to offer some contrasting lifestyle opportunities. Not to spite the cowboy cutlture that thrives in the city, but to expand on Oklahoma City's character. While every city may have its strengths and weaknesses, all major cities are very well diversified. No expansion of Oklahoma City's culture needs to be at the expense of any other cutltural elements already ingrained in the area. We all know we have plenty of room for just about anything. :)

I would like to see better thought and planning going into what and where things are developed in the city. I think Stockyards City is a nice little enclave, but for being the #1 cowboy city, it could be better. If it could attract things like Toby Keith's (much more appropraite, imo) or even a cool rustic hotel or something, I think it could grow to not only better itself, but be a center for our cowboy culture where all of our future focus of expanding and capitalizing on our cowboy status could be concentrated.

Funny story, when I moved here the first time in 1998 I worked at UMB downtown, my co-workers took me to the UMB Stockyards branch and then were taking me to lunch at Cattleman’s for the first time. They all said “hey make sure you try the lamb fries” and my response was “oh, I don’t like lamb”, I had no idea why everyone was laughing hysterically until I got to the restaurant. Still haven’t tried them but I hear they are delicious. Might have to share a plate of them with a cowboy.

I agree I think we should not be ashamed of the cowboy culture, but I would prefer things like the OKC CVB logo not be based on it.

http://www.visitokc.com/images/header.jpg

"10-Deadwood, South Dakota"

Good God, can't believe that Deadwood made the cut. Anyone been there lately? A buddy of mine that was stationed near there 20 years or so ago while in the military, and when he heard I was taking a roadtrip to Custer's Battleground, Devil's Tower, and Rushmore, he suggested I spend some time in Deadwood. I called in a reservation to the old hotel there (The Franklin?). The hotel and the entire main strip was a giant disappointment: it had changed entirely from an quaint and picturesque mountain mining town to a gaudy casino town. The hotel was dirty and very overpriced. All but one of the old bars were full of flashing ringing clanging slot machines. What a waste...

You'll occasionally here me disagree with suggestions, made here, to bring gambling to Bricktown. Deadwood, among other towns, is one of the reasons why. It seems that, at least in our country, gambling often brings with it a tacky, gaudy, slimy taint, and Deadwood is living proof of that. Yeah, that town is making a ton of money, but it's certainly sold it's soul...

"8-Sheridan, Wyoming"

Now Sheirdan is a nice town. Check out the Mint Bar if you ever get up that way: the furniture is made out of knotty pine.

As to OKC being the #1 Cowtown,, we should definitely celebrate that honor. Cowboy culture is appreciated all over the world. The English in-laws of a co-worker of mine visitied Oklahoma years ago and they were desperate to see Cowboy and Indian sorts of things. Once, while walking through London's Gatwick Airport, I had a conversation with an Englishman who, upon hearing that I lived in Oklahoma, eagerly volunteered that he was amemebr of some sort of English Western/Cowboy club. He spoke enthusiastically of America, and Western culture. Sergio Leone, an Italian, made some of the best Westerns movies ever made. Oklahoma and Texas are known by folks all over the world as Cowboy and Indian country.

We should embrace, rather than scorn, Oklahoma heritage. Our past, particularly our extremely unique status as "Indian Territory" or "The Indian Nations" is very valuable, and not merely in a cultural sense: Tourists, and their money, are drawn here by it.

I would like to see better thought and planning going into what and where things are developed in the city. I think Stockyards City is a nice little enclave, but for being the #1 cowboy city, it could be better. If it could attract things like Toby Keith's (much more appropraite, imo) or even a cool rustic hotel or something, I think it could grow to not only better itself, but be a center for our cowboy culture where all of our future focus of expanding and capitalizing on our cowboy status could be concentrated.

Much agreed, BDP! Stockyards City can and should have everything going for it. I really think our city should concentrate on it just as much, if not more, as it does Bricktown. I think it would be great if all of the development focused aroud Stockyards City used Rio Rancho and San Antonio as models (specifically the Riverwalk, to develop an entertainment venue along the Oklahoma river) and showcase all things historical. Texas cities have always tried to pride themselves on being "cowboy" and as the number one cowboy city, we should showcase that title too with the stockyards.

How cool! I think this is great news and something to be proud of. My husband works in the tourism arena. He tells me people call him from all over the country/world on a daily basis wanting to come to Oklahoma to see none other than the quintessential cowboy. Not too long ago, some writer from the London Times wrote an incredible article about Stockyards City and Cattleman's Steakhouse.

Even though the whole cowboy thing isn't my style or background (I grew up in NW OKC and as much of a city/suburbs kid as another) it is a big part of what makes OKC unique and interesting to outsiders.

I used to hate articles and recognition like this but I now have the chip off my shoulder and realize you can be considered a somehwat sophisticated city and still embrace your western heritage. The cities in Texas have always done this and to me , it's always shown confidence on their part.

And like Dallas and Houston, we now have lots more with which to impress visitors, so once we get them here, the city and people will take over from there.

Case in point: In article about cowboys and stockyards, the one photo of OKC is of the Bricktown Canal. :)

Okc motto = The Big Friendly Cowboy.

That is ALL we need. Another way for the rest of the country to think of us as a bunch of uneducated hicks. What an insult.

Anderson,

Can you please cite an example of the rest of the country thinking that we are uneducated hicks?

To anyone who thinks being labeled a cowboy town is a bad thing I would suggest you observe Calgary Alberta. I had the opportunity to attended a convention dealing with the Canadian oil and gas sands and let me just say for a "cowtown," I was quite impressed. Calgary is home to the Calgary Stampede, a huge rodeo that has left a very western footprint on the city. Lots of people walking around in boots and hats, right along with businessmen in suits. The skyline was beautiful and the city was SPOTLESS! Very prosperous and cosmopolitan but with a western flair that made the city feel very comfortable and "down home." I think the cowboy atmosphere is an asset to OKC especially considering that many cities are losing it. We shouldn't be ashamed of it because it is what this city is built on. Just my .02

#1....yeeeeeehawwwwwww!
I do mind being called a "cowboy" and that's largely due to the fact that I am an OKIE COWGIRL!
And my boots have real cow$hit on them!
And that is absolutely nooooooo bull$hit!
......uneducated okie hick? At least that implies..... I ain't from Texas.
I want my steak medium well, please.

Well, I like my steaks (if they are a good cut) bloody red. But, that's just me, an old fart carnivore! :)

Even though the whole cowboy thing isn't my style or background (I grew up in NW OKC and as much of a city/suburbs kid as another) it is a big part of what makes OKC unique and interesting to outsiders.

I used to hate articles and recognition like this but I now have the chip off my shoulder and realize you can be considered a somehwat sophisticated city and still embrace your western heritage. The cities in Texas have always done this and to me , it's always shown confidence on their part.

And like Dallas and Houston, we now have lots more with which to impress visitors, so once we get them here, the city and people will take over from there.

Case in point: In article about cowboys and stockyards, the one photo of OKC is of the Bricktown Canal. :)
Another Texas city which does this "blend" of cowboys & cosmos nicely is Ft. Worth. I hadn't really ever spent any time there (aside from driving through to get somewhere else) until last spring when a group I'm involved with had a 2 night "retreat" there. We took the train to Ft. Worth, were picked up at the downtown train terminal by the fellow who owned the absolutely charming bed and breakfast we stayed at, which was located about a mile or so south of downtown.

Downtown Ft. Worth was splendid ... lots of good places to eat and shop. It was a delightful experience ... cowboys & cosmopolitan, at the same time ... some of the finer museums one would find anywhere ... a vibrant downtown nightlife. We could pick up some tips as to what Ft. Worth has done, imo.

Ft. Worth had that effect on me too, that the two worlds can co-exist. IMO Sundance Square is a cooler destination than any place in Dallas, and their Bass performing arts center is a jewel.

Ft. Worth had that effect on me too, that the two worlds can co-exist. IMO Sundance Square is a cooler destination than any place in Dallas, and their Bass performing arts center is a jewel.
I agree, completely! For those who've not seen downtown Ft. Worth, here are a few random pics from the web ...

Bass Performance Hall

http://www.fwscene.com/images/bass_hall_300.jpg

http://www.fwscene.com/images/bass_hall_facade_420.jpg

http://www.bluffton.edu/~sullivanm/texas/ftworth/bass/distant.jpg

Sundance Square

http://www.visitortips.com/images/gallery/destinations/usa/texas/fort_worth/fullsize/ftworth7.jpg

Reata At Sundance Square ... great food & beautiful

http://www.fortwortharchitecture.com/caravan.jpg

Here's the bed & breakfast we stayed at, the "Texas White House" ... Fort Worth Bed and Breakfast - The Texas White House (http://www.texaswhitehouse.com/index.html) ... I heartily recommend it.

That's a beautiful place... apparently, the people on this forum were upset that Ft Worth wasn't on the list.

I can see a lot of points about embracing our heritage... I guess what I'm trying to say is I would like to have the best of Both worlds.... a world in which we can appreciate the roots of the city but also advance ( technologically and economically) to increase the desirability of relocating (moving ) here to OKC ie.. large corporation & companies...

When companies look for a place to move their employees.. I'm pretty sure that being a cowboy town isn't high on their list of priorities.

I would much rather see us on the top 20 places to own a business or see real estate appreciation etc etc.

An Internet Surfing Cowboy ... hmmm? That could be our new tourism ploy. Combining the heritage and chivalry of the 'cowboy' with the convenience of technology... I'm picturing the ads now...

I'm sorry, but I don't understand what is "embarrassing" or "mortifying" about being selected for this list. The article said some flattering things.

It seems that several of the people who have issues with the cowboy association (and the state bird, and other things that are very much a part of our culture) are non-native Oklahomans. If you fall into that category, please take some time to try to appreciate OKC- and OK in general- for our heritage and what we are. I have a hard time understanding people who move here for five or ten years and decide that they want to overhaul our image and values.

Awww well I can say from an "outsider" point of view that I am so proud of this distinction, and its obviously a good thing. I love cowboys and plan on marrying one one day. Ok maybe not, my boyfriend is a great guy and looks silly in a hat and chaps.

One of the reasons I wasn't so terrified of moving to a new place was my love for the culture of the "West", which I was excited was alive and thriving in OKC. Overall I think this is great news! Now I have to find time to go to a rodeo, I've never been.

What's wrong with the state bird? At least its not the lame old boring finch (that's Jersey's bird). Is it because its called a "flycatcher"? Who cares? I honestly think its a really awesome looking bird.

Awww well I can say from an "outsider" point of view that I am so proud of this distinction, and its obviously a good thing. I love cowboys and plan on marrying one one day. Ok maybe not, my boyfriend is a great guy and looks silly in a hat and chaps.

One of the reasons I wasn't so terrified of moving to a new place was my love for the culture of the "West", which I was excited was alive and thriving in OKC. Overall I think this is great news! Now I have to find time to go to a rodeo, I've never been.

What's wrong with the state bird? At least its not the lame old boring finch (that's Jersey's bird). Is it because its called a "flycatcher"? Who cares? I honestly think its a really awesome looking bird.

You might love cowboys, and that is fine... For you. However, the majority of "outsiders" think of Oklahoma as a hick state full of backward, stupid, uneducated bafoons who do nothing but drive their pickups while drinking a coors and acting quite uncivilized. I have been to every state in the nation and very rarely do I have people NOT think of Oklahoma as I described.

Cowboys and Indians are NOT the image I want to project of Oklahoma. I want people to know this, for the most part, is a progressive state, and Oklahoma City in particular, is a very progressive city on the rise.

However, the majority of "outsiders" think of Oklahoma as a hick state full of backward, stupid, uneducated bafoons who do nothing but drive their pickups while drinking a coors and acting quite uncivilized.

Would you admit that their (the 'outsiders") opinion is a misconception, or do you share it? I wonder if you're frustrated by an inaccurate stereotype, or if you're ashamed of a large number of your fellow Oklahomans?

BTW, I've been to a few States myself, and while folks may poke fun at traditional stereotypes, it all seems to me to be in good fun. Something akin to making fun of an Italian from North Jersey about being a mobster. It's all part of a healthy national character, IMHO.

I'm with Dave on this one, as well. I'm proud of our heritage. I worked by the airport a for a few years , and people came from all over the world wanting to "see a cowboy", ride a horse, buy hats and boots, etc. They would never have stopped here to sleep in our hotels and eat at our restaurants or spend their money here were it not for our heritage. They come here to see a rodeo, go to the Stockyards, have a steak. These are things that they don't experience in their culture.
Likewise, when I travel I like to go somewhere that has things I do not do regularly , and can offer something new, and a glimpse into another culture and way of living.
I'm also tired of hearing people bash our state symbols, as well. Has anyone been to Rush Springs? Has anyone gone to the Watermelon Festival? Has anyone entered a seed spitting contest, or watched their children try to spit? IT'S FUN!!!!!
Has anyone had an ice cold watermelon in the heat of the summer while your at a picnic enjoying the company of your friends and family on a hot Oklahoma summer day? IT'S GOOD, AND IT'S FUN!!!!
Smell some roses people...
ride a horse, build a house for a scissortail flycatcher, visit a rodeo, go to the races, wander the Stockyards, eat some watermelon...IT'S FUN!!!

You might love cowboys, and that is fine... For you. However, the majority of "outsiders" think of Oklahoma as a hick state full of backward, stupid, uneducated bafoons who do nothing but drive their pickups while drinking a coors and acting quite uncivilized.

Don't you mean Bud Light?

"Majority" is quite a generalization, there.

I still disagree with the point that most/all people from other places have negative feelings toward us. I've lived or spent significant time in 8 states (well, 7 and DC). I've got friends from college and grad school who grew up all around the world.

After having spoken with everyone from coworkers at retail-type places to my Ivy League classmates, I can think of exactly two negative comments I've ever gotten when I've mentioned that I was from Oklahoma. One involved the perception that we spend more time focusing on football than education in our public high schools. The other had to do with our geography.
All I've ever heard in terms of cowboys or oil has been that it is cool that we have so much heritage and culture left after the OKC area has expanded into what it is today.

I'm thinking that this may be a case of selective hearing, or that the people we're talking to are modeling their responses based on the attitude we project when we say we're from Oklahoma.

That is ALL we need. Another way for the rest of the country to think of us as a bunch of uneducated hicks. What an insult.
Aww, come on, Mr. Anderson ... do you think some guys and gals wearing cowboy boots are gonna rub off on you and give you some sort of communicable disease, or what? :) The next thing you're gonna tell me is that you don't like John Wayne! :gossip: (or that you secretely like him but wouldn't want anyone to know that you do)!

Oklahoma, a "progressive" state? <giggle> Where have you been, man? Well, when we can buy wine in Homeland and gays can have "civil contracts" and not be governmentally ostracized, maybe that will be so. But, not now. Oklahoma may be "business friendly", and Okc may (and does) have lots going for it, but "progressive" as west/east cost people think of it? I'd suppose the latter 2 examples of "progressive" are more significant to them that people wearing cowboy boots and/or hats (I have neither, by the way ... the boots make my feet sweat intollerably and I'm not a cowboy hat kind of guy ... I need a smaller hat to look cool, more like Indiana Jones ... though I admire those lanky guys who look good in those ten-gallon hats when doing so).

But, frankly, I'm not particularly impressed with that sort of perspective or analysis, anyway ... I'm more impressed with self-image/esteem which apparently is causing YOU to have some issues and "blush" and/or say "Kings X" about being an Okie. Maybe you, but not me. I also doubt that east/west coast perceptions have a THING to do with "cowboys," as you seem to think, and, as I said, if that matters.

Mr. Anderson, what else would you like to be dismissive of / denigrate in our city ... the new Native American Cultural Center at Eastern and I-40? Red Earth? The National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center? Our 1st mayor (Couch, who was a "Boomer" in Oklahoma before he became mayor)? Our early if not 1st Chief of Police (Colcord, who was a cowboy lawman before he set foot in Oklahoma) ... do I need to go on, and, if so, how far???

And what parts of our common heritage do you perceive to be "Ok," if any? Is there ANYTHING in our heritage that you feel comfortable keeping as part of the public's perception of "who we are?" and don't feel the need to cover your face in shame when "outsiders" talk about Oklahoma / Oklahoma City?

You are from Oklahoma, aren't you? If so, where's your Okie pride? If you're not ... what can I say?

Aww, come on, Mr. Anderson ... do you think some guys and gals wearing cowboy boots are gonna rub off on you with some sort of communicable disease, or what? :) The next thing you're gonna tell me is that you don't like John Wayne! :gossip:

Of course not. We MUST change that hick image. Enough said! BTW. In some movies I like John Wayne just fine, and some not. In fact, for the record, "True Grit" was the first movie I saw on a plane... Oddly, both going to and from London.

Another note on the Duke. He was very good to Oklahoma, visiting here many times in his lifetime.

I have yet to figure out why being a cowboy is such a bad thing. The entire maternal side of my family is made up of ranch-raised people. Real cowboys. They are some of the kindest, most real people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. They don't B.S. you. You know exactly where you stand with them. And I like that, because so much of the time people are fake and you don't have a clue what they really think of you.

No one is better than anyone, and certainly, no one here is better than a real cowboy, and I for one am happy and flattered with this #1 ranking on the "Cowboy Town" list.

Another thing--I don't get why we're supposed to all know this story of the "Pioneer Woman" and get all up in arms when she's not on the quarter, because then we aren't paying homage to our heritage...but far be it to have some Native American stuff around...never mind that whole Trail of Tears thing. Yeah, it's sad. So is a lot of history. It's part of hours, and it's better to honor than forget it!

Aye-yip-aye-oh-eee-yay.

Of course not. We MUST change that hick image. Enough said! BTW. In some movies I like John Wayne just fine, and some not. In fact, for the record, "True Grit" was the first movie I saw on a plane... Oddly, both going to and from London.

Another note on the Duke. He was very good to Oklahoma, visiting here many times in his lifetime.
Disagree with the "hick image" part. We don't have to change a thing ... we just have to be "who we are." And "who we are" seems to be working pretty well, as far as I can tell.

Another thing--I don't get why we're supposed to all know this story of the "Pioneer Woman" and get all up in arms when she's not on the quarter, because then we aren't paying homage to our heritage...but far be it to have some Native American stuff around...never mind that whole Trail of Tears thing.
Aye-yip-aye-oh-eee-yay.


My thoughts exactly, bandnerd.

I have yet to figure out why being a cowboy is such a bad thing.

I don't think many people think being a cowboy is a bad thing. I certainly don't think so, and it is uncontestably true that the "cowboy culture" is an important part of our heritage and of our character. I think what people are reacting to is the fact that to many Americans (especially those on the two coasts) Oklahoma continues to be associated ONLY with cowboys (and Indians and oil). We are certainly a lot more than that. Thus there is a feeling that we need to emphasize other aspects of our culture to correct the unbalanced view that still prevails in the minds of many "outlanders."
I suspect others have experienced, as I have, the reaction of visitors from other parts of the country who are surprised (pleasantly so) at the diversity of Oklahoma from the cosmopolitan nature of our two large cities to the varied topography (mountans, lakes, plains, and prairies). We need to spread the word!

Of course not. We MUST change that hick image. Enough said! BTW. In some movies I like John Wayne just fine, and some not. In fact, for the record, "True Grit" was the first movie I saw on a plane... Oddly, both going to and from London.

Another note on the Duke. He was very good to Oklahoma, visiting here many times in his lifetime.Let me guess. You were on a plane to London to visit the Queen. Oh.... And I bet your Father was probably a close personel friend to the Duke.

Redland--

I was really only referring to one person who seems to have a problem with cowboys or "cowboy culture." I have never met anyone who had a negative thing to say about cowboys...they might have a stereotyped image in their head but I set them straight...

at first, I was offended by this. But then, I read the article and I was quite impressed and proud.

To be a "Cowboy Town" yet also a big city is quite impressive. I think it is something that the city should run with in regard to and especially at Stockyard City. I was always amazed that the city didn't really turn that into one of its true tourist districts but it really should consider it. I mean, although OKC is a major city with lots to offer - we should have a thriving historical district that celebrates our roots.

Like BDP and others have mentioned, Stockyard City should rival Bricktown in terms of entertainment - all Cowboy and Western in theme. If nothing else, we should go all out in the Stockyard City area - and make it a true Cowboy Town, complete with "old" rustic hotels, more western shoppes, much more restaurants (and I agree, Toby Keith's belongs in Stockyard City), and even Western themed housing and 'horse and buggy' transportation options in the district. Stockyard City should be developed into a "look" back into OKC's past yet having all of today's modern amenities. I think it is somewhere where we could go ALL OUT and really have a true cowboy town (like a theme park or something).

While I am glad that OKC really isn't a cowboy town but instead is a growing and successful major metropolitan area, I really liked the article and once again think the city should run with it (albeit JUST in Stockyard City).

I wouldn't get too carried away with it since most would probably look down if OKC gave up on being sophisticated/urban and instead ONLY celebrated being the #1 Cowboy Town. lol.

Like BDP and others have mentioned, Stockyard City should rival Bricktown in terms of entertainment - all Cowboy and Western in theme. If nothing else, we should go all out in the Stockyard City area - and make it a true Cowboy Town, complete with "old" rustic hotels, more western shoppes, much more restaurants (and I agree, Toby Keith's belongs in Stockyard City), and even Western themed housing and 'horse and buggy' transportation options in the district. Stockyard City should be developed into a "look" back into OKC's past yet having all of today's modern amenities. I think it is somewhere where we could go ALL OUT and really have a true cowboy town (like a theme park or something).

While I am glad that OKC really isn't a cowboy town but instead is a growing and successful major metropolitan area, I really liked the article and once again think the city should run with it (albeit JUST in Stockyard City).

I wouldn't get too carried away with it since most would probably look down if OKC gave up on being sophisticated/urban and instead ONLY celebrated being the #1 Cowboy Town. lol.

Great idea on the theme park. I can see it now: we'll call it "Frontier City" :biggrin:

I wholeheartedly agree about Stockyards City, however I don't think that heritage should be *JUST* limited to that area. I am a firm believer in all things Western, but I definitely understand your concerns. Western doesn't have to be "I Love this Bar ...and Grill" but rather Wells Fargo & Co., the Rock Island Line, Johnny Cash, stogies, and blue jeans. I too hold great concern that we "celebrate" by coming up with embarassing factoids of Oklahoma's apparently ONLY celebrity, Toby Keith (who I'll agree should receive credit for his work promoting the state) and buy Big Tex and put him in the middle of the CBD, which is obviously silly but you get my point. We can celebrate our heritage and continue on with a Metropolitan/Western style easily; just take the Land Run monument as an example.

at first, I was offended by this. But then, I read the article and I was quite impressed and proud.

To be a "Cowboy Town" yet also a big city is quite impressive. I think it is something that the city should run with in regard to and especially at Stockyard City. I was always amazed that the city didn't really turn that into one of its true tourist districts but it really should consider it. I mean, although OKC is a major city with lots to offer - we should have a thriving historical district that celebrates our roots.

Like BDP and others have mentioned, Stockyard City should rival Bricktown in terms of entertainment - all Cowboy and Western in theme. If nothing else, we should go all out in the Stockyard City area - and make it a true Cowboy Town, complete with "old" rustic hotels, more western shoppes, much more restaurants (and I agree, Toby Keith's belongs in Stockyard City), and even Western themed housing and 'horse and buggy' transportation options in the district. Stockyard City should be developed into a "look" back into OKC's past yet having all of today's modern amenities. I think it is somewhere where we could go ALL OUT and really have a true cowboy town (like a theme park or something).

While I am glad that OKC really isn't a cowboy town but instead is a growing and successful major metropolitan area, I really liked the article and once again think the city should run with it (albeit JUST in Stockyard City).

I wouldn't get too carried away with it since most would probably look down if OKC gave up on being sophisticated/urban and instead ONLY celebrated being the #1 Cowboy Town. lol.

Hot Rod, not only are you very insightful and informative, you're very creative. PLEASE visit Oklahoma's 100 Ideas! (http://www.100ideasok.org) and submit your idea under "tourism".

Also, if any of you out there have ideas on how to make Oklahoma or OKC a better place, submit them to Oklahoma's 100 Ideas! (http://www.100ideasok.org). This board could take over the ideas site like no one has ever seen. I sometimes wish our leaders would just take a look at these forums. I don't know where you guys come up with your ideas, but the ones I've seen on OKCTalk are awesome. (Especially the ideas for the Oklahoma River)

thanks ACFM and Spectral. I did submit my idea to the city and to the 100Ideas.

I think Stockyard City as a true theme attraction could be just the boon the city is looking for to truly set it apart from being called a copy of somebody else. I mean, OKC IS the TRUE WESTERN COWBOY YET MODERN BIG CITY - settled 10,000 people in the first day.

What other big city could every lay claim to that?