Bowie, Texas

Named in honor of the legendary Alamo hero, Jim Bowie, the city of Bowie is located about 35 miles north of Henrietta. As per the latest census, it has a population of over 5,000 residents (source: U.S. Census Bureau). Established in 1882 along the tracks of the Fort Worth and Denver Railway, Bowie has a rich history intertwined with the railroad (source: Bowie, TX – Official Website).

The city’s main streets, Wise Street and Mason Street, form the heart of Bowie’s downtown area. Here, visitors will find an array of local businesses, from quirky boutiques to authentic Texas barbecue joints. The city hosts the annual Jim Bowie Days Festival and Rodeo, which brings thousands of visitors to town for a celebration of the city’s namesake and the Western lifestyle.

A significant historic landmark in Bowie is the Bowie Knife. Unveiled in 2016, the Bowie Knife is a towering monument standing at 20 feet tall and weighing 3,000 pounds. This massive piece of art was created as a tribute to the city’s namesake, Jim Bowie, and his famous knife (source: Bowie News).

Bowie has also emerged as a major hub for antique hunters, with several large antique malls and unique shops located throughout the city. The Second Monday Trade Days, a tradition since 1893, is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in the Texas Lakes Trail Region, where vendors sell everything from home goods to livestock (source: Second Monday Trade Days).

To reach Skelton’s Shop at 213 East Wichita Street, Henrietta from Bowie, begin from the iconic Bowie Knife statue. Head south on TX-59 S/S Mason St toward E Tarrant St. Continue to follow TX-59 S for about 32 miles. Turn right onto TX-148 S, drive for about 0.4 miles, and then turn left onto E Omega St. In less than 0.1 miles, turn right onto N Bridge St. Drive for about 0.2 miles and take a left onto E Wichita St. Skelton’s Shop will be on your right.