Attractions
A Pioneer Christmas — The Tale of Christmas in Wichita Falls from villagers in 1880
By Jessica Crabtree 16
When listening to classic Christmas songs, a picture can be painted of a more meager holiday, surrounded by family, friends much like family, simple gifts, but none-the-less radiant faces.
J.H. Barwise was an Ohio-born farmer, business man and staunch unionist. In 1877 Barwise moved his family of seven kids and wife Lucia Hansel Barwise to Cedar Springs, Texas, near Dallas. In December of 1879, according to the Texas State Historical Association website, after prospecting much of the state, the Barwise family made the move northwest by an ox-drawn wagon, settling in Wichita Falls. Only a village at the time, Barwise was the first permanent citizen.
Upon arriving in Wichita Falls, Barwise stated that God had directed him to the spot. The vision he saw was as he said, “I see a large city, prosperous and with many people. Near me, I see many tall buildings that mark the business section of this city. Surrounding this is a beautiful residence section of lovely homes and paved streets. Here and there are big granaries. Huge factories give employment to thousands of people. A network of railroads accommodates a big export of grain and cotton in the vicinity of the city. People from all parts of the country come and go. There is a brilliant future for this section of the country.”
Barwise would go on to orchestrate a farm and freight service, helping sink the community’s first well. He even initiated the manufacturing of bricks made from native clay in order to supply local construction. As Barwise prospered, he acquired several sizeable landholdings, helping extend the Wichita Falls and Denver City Railway Company through the community. Barwise was elected Wichita County Judge in 1885, serving three different times. His name among Wichita Falls residents was revered and respected.
To read more pick up a copy of the December 2018 NTFR issue. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
It’s already March and the smell of springtime parties and special events is in the air.
Everybody knows in order to have a great party, you’ve got to have the right music.
Well, that’s where my friend Katie Dieter comes to the rescue.
Katie, aka DJ KD “The Spinner,” has been spinning the right mix for parties and special events throughout North Texas for years now. Her passion for music helps to make your special event one your friends will never forget. Whether you’re planning a wedding, banquet, school event or just a backyard get-together with friends, DJ KD “The Spinner” is the right call for you.
To read more, pick up a copy of the March issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
Seems lately these days Texas is becoming the envy of musicians from around the world.
With the overwhelming response to “Yellowstone,” the television series, Texas once again finds itself under the microscope of the world, much like the late 1980’s TV series know to all around the globe as “Dallas.”
With that said, the musician population in Texas is beginning to grow as many aspiring performers turn their sights on Texas instead of Nashville. Meet my newly-found friend and fellow musician Grace Partridge. This youthful 19 year old has recently made Texas her new home. She began fiddling at age four in Rigby, Idaho. Grace worked her way through the National Fiddle championships in Weiser, Idaho, becoming a five-time national champion. She’s even played on the Grand Ole Opry. Still yet, her desire to become a true Texas Fiddler has brought her to the Lone Star State. I’m pretty sure we can thank Bob Wills for that.
To read more, pick up a copy of the January 2024 issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
On Nov. 4, 2023, the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra will present an evening of Texas Cowboy, Country and Western Swing with yours truly, Dave Alexander and the fabulous Quebe Sisters.
Enjoy the music of Bob Wills, Willie Nelson, Gene Autry and many more of your Texas Music favorites performed with a full symphony orchestra. We also will feature music from my latest CD, “From The Saddle To Symphony Hall,” along with some of my own compositions. It is guaranteed to be a night to remember.
To read more, pick up a copy of the October issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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