Fort Worth Welcomes New Cowgirl Museum

FORT WORTH--Sharpshooter Annie Oakley, Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, singer Patsy Cline and artist Georgia O’Keeffe are among those who will be honored this weekend when the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame opens its expanded $21-million facility.

The museum honors 159 women who “exemplify the pioneer spirit of the American West.” Hall of Fame members include artists, writers, entertainers, ranchers and rodeo cowgirls.

Since its origination in the Texas panhandle town of Hereford in 1975, the museum has focused on the lives of Western women who have distinguished themselves.

O’Connor, an El Paso, Texas, native, grew up on her family’s ranch in southeastern Arizona, learning to ride, shoot and herd cattle. She later attended Stanford Law School and served in the Arizona Senate before becoming the first female member of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1981.

The new museum, which includes three galleries, a theater and an activities area for children, is closed Mondays and holidays. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for children 6 to 18. (817) 336-4475, www.cowgirl.net.