Main Street, Amarillo

The State of Texas increasingly is defined by large cities like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Austin. But across vast stretches of the state – from Abilene to Alpine and Lubbock to Laredo – an expansive Cowboy Ethic still defines local cultures and economies.

Other than hearing George Strait’s signature anthem of cowboy realities, and once shooting the Cadillac Ranch for a Route 66 book, I’d never experienced Amarillo in any depth. When I finally spent some quality time in this north Texas Cowtown I found some surprises and I’d like to share them with you.