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Tex Ritter Statue.

Tex Ritter Statue and Museum

Field review by the editors.

Carthage, Texas

Woodward Maurice "Tex" Ritter was a Carthage hometown hero, radio's first singing cowboy, who went on to star in more than 70 B-movie Westerns. Although mostly forgotten now, his career at its peak rivaled Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. His crooning rendition of, "Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Dar-ling," was the theme song to the Hollywood blockbuster, "High Noon."

Tex died in 1973; his Carthage museum opened 20 years later, and in 2002 it merged with the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, which has exhibits on performers such as Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Tanya Tucker, and Mickey Gilley.

Outside of the museum is a bronze statue of Tex playing guitar, seated next to his horse. Inside the museum, among its other relics, are items from Tex's son: John "Three's Company" Ritter.

Carthage's other claim-to-fame is its status as the "Gas Capital of the United States."

Tex Ritter Statue and Museum

Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and Tex Ritter Museum

Address:
310 W. Panola St., Carthage, TX
Directions:
On the north side of W. Panola St. near the corner of N. Sycamore.
Hours:
M-Sa 10-4 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
903-694-9561
Admission:
Museum: Adults $10.
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In the region:
Gas Station Oil Derrick, Greenwood, LA - 30 mi.

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