Est. 1890
Deals + giveaways mark Fort Worth Stockyards' 135 anniversary this month
The Fort Worth Stockyards were officially formed in 1890, making this year the historic district's 135th anniversary.
To celebrate, this ultimate destination for cowboys and culture is gifting visitors with giveaways, special sales, and free event tickets — it's a month-long birthday bash you won't want to miss.
Wall Street of the West
The Stockyards began in 1866 as a cattle drive’s last and best stop on the Chisholm Trail before the rugged journey through Indian Territory to the railheads in Kansas.
When railroads arrived in Fort Worth in 1876, the great Texas cattle market followed, and by 1890 the Fort Worth Stockyards was formally recognized as the top trading center.
When Armour & Co. and Swift & Co. joined in 1900, the Stockyards received the title “Wall Street of the West.” The rest, as they say, is history.
The Cowtown Coliseum was built in 1908.Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Stockyards
Western legacy is everywhere in the historic Stockyards. The Livestock Exchange Building was built in 1902. The Cowtown Coliseum was built in 1908 and hosted America’s first indoor rodeo. The Stockyards Hotel opened in 1907, accommodating cattle barons and famous outlaws alike. And Mule Alley, built in 1912, once housed the largest horse and mule market in America.
A scene in Mule Alley in the early 1900s.Photo by WD Smith Commercial Photography
Fashion in Fort Worth
To make sure we're all properly outfitted for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, happening January 17-February 8, more than 30 Stockyards retailers are rolling out trunk shows, shopping happy hours, and exclusive sales.
Featured brands include Kemo Sabe, Lucchese, Double D Ranch, Ariat, Kimes Ranch, Kings Ranch, Tucker Brown, Maverick, and many more.
Cowtown kids
The Cowtown Coliseum is welcoming little cowpokes every week through February 6 with free tickets for kids 12 and under. Score one free kids ticket for each regular-price adult ticket purchased.
Bring the kiddos.Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Stockyards
This BOGO is valid for the PBR Stockyards Showcase, held Thursdays at 7:30 pm, and Sunday’s Ultimate Bullfighters matinees at 2:30 pm.
Download for deals
Do you have the Fort Worth Stockyards app yet? If not, you'll want to get it ASAP.
Pick up a free 135th anniversary bandana when you download the app and visit the Stockyards, and you also might win other goodies such as free tours and tickets and even a round of beers.
Employees of Ross Brothers in 1939.Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Stockyards
The anniversary celebrations continue through February 9, but the Fort Worth Stockyards will continue to make history this year and for decades to come.