Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Fort Worth or a long-time resident, now would be a great time to experience The Duke. John Wayne: An American Experience, located on Rodeo Plaza in the Stockyards, announced the completion of its expansion project for the museum exhibit and gift shop. With 30% more items to explore, patrons can get even closer to the legend.
Even more memorabilia
An American Experience includes even more personal and professional items such as his Academy Award, never-before-seen family photos, costumes, and some of Wayne’s favorite hats. Even his 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari is on display at the museum — which he customized to be taller so he wouldn’t have to remove his cowboy hat when he got in.
The museum’s new features include a couple of rotating exhibits. First, the “Guns that Won the West” collection features firearms used in his films over four decades, including the short-barreled, large loop Winchester Model 1892 used in “True Grit.” Second, the John Wayne Family Portfolio Collection from Andy Warhol’s “Cowboys & Indians” is a 10-piece collection featuring Warhol’s depictions of The Duke, Annie Oakley, and more.
A day at the museum
City Editor Elizabeth, here. I had the privilege of visiting the museum for the first time and have these tips to make sure you get the full experience:
- In the middle of the exhibit, you will notice there is a large pile of what looks like unopened mail. It is, in fact, hundreds and hundreds of unopened fan mail that Wayne received during his last years in the hospital that he never got to read. My favorite fact: sometimes when the Wayne family visits the museum when they’re in town, they’ll open up and read a few of the unopened letters.
- At the end of the exhibit, don’t miss the two life-size photo ops with the Duke. Look up to admire part of Wayne’s extensive Stetson collection.
Get involved
John Wayne: An American Experience, voted Best Museum and Best Family Outing in 2023, hosts events throughout the year. In addition to visiting yourself, you can support the John Wayne Cancer Foundation via donation.
