John Wayne: An American Experience Celebrates 5 Years In The Stockyards

John Wayne was an American icon. He brought wide open spaces and the Western way of life to the silver screen. His family could have chosen anywhere to build a museum worthy of the legendary actor. But the Fort Worth Stockyards seemed the perfect fit. The John Wayne Museum, which follows the life and legacy of the American icon, opened five years ago. Now it’s time to celebrate.

When family members of John Wayne visited Fort Worth’s Stockyards in 2020, they knew they had found a special place, according to a release. It would prove to be the perfect location to build a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the prolific actor and family man ― filled with personal items and unforgettable Hollywood scenes.

“They found that this gateway to Western culture was a warm and welcoming place where John Wayne’s message of patriotism and grit would resonate with and inspire both fans and newcomers to his legendary films,” they say.

Fifth Anniversary of John Wayne: An American Experience 

December marked the fifth anniversary of the opening of John Wayne: An American Experience.

“This month, to coincide with the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, they’ll celebrate five years in the historic Stockyards district with special activations, exhibits, and discounted admission to the museum.”

The museum and its offerings have grown over the past five years ― “both literally and figuratively,” they say.

“A 2024 expansion grew the space to nearly 14,000 square feet, adding room for rotating exhibits and enlarging the retail shop and event rental space. Exhibits have been added and expanded as well, focusing on John Wayne classics like Big Jake and The Cowboys.

Andy Warhol’s Legendary Cowboys & Indians On View

“Two rotating exhibits are currently on view at John Wayne: An American Experience. On display through February 28 is The John Wayne Gun Collection ― Guns that Won the West,” they say. “The unique, curated collection of firearms spans four decades of John Wayne films, from The Big Trail (1930) to The Shootist (1976).”

Plus, Warhol’s brilliance is on display through May 31. It is the John Wayne Family Portfolio Collection from Andy Warhol’s “Cowboys & Indians” series.

“This 10-artwork collection showcases Warhol’s depictions of Duke, Annie Oakley, General Custer, Teddy Roosevelt, Geronimo, Kachina Dolls, Northwest Coast Mask, Mother and Child, a Plains Indian Shield, and an Indian Head Nickel.” It’s a rare opportunity to view these iconic artworks.

Ty Hays & Teressa Foglia Take Part In The Celebration

During the anniversary celebration, running through February 7, the museum will offer all attendees $5 off walk-up admission. That brings prices to $17.95 for adults, $15.95 for seniors 65 and over, or students with ID cards. Children’s admissions are $12.95 for ages six through15. Kids five and younger get in free. So, while you’re in town for the Stock Show, don’t miss it.

The museum’s retail shop ― John Wayne Stock & Supply, debuted apparel from its Fort Worth Collection on January 16. Joining that debut was the unveiling of an installation of 10 multimedia pieces by artist Ty Hays and several customized hats from milliner Teressa Foglia. Their Western-themed works will be on display and available for purchase through February 7.

After its first five years, John Wayne: An American Experience has become a beloved Stockyards showplace.