The Wichita Falls Alliance for Arts and Culture commissioned a permanent bronze sculpture of the late Charlye O. Farris as part of “The Legends Project,” an effort to honor North Texas Legends and trailblazers.
Farris holds the distinction of becoming the first African-American woman licensed to practice law in Texas, the first African-American attorney, male or female, in Wichita County, and the first African-American to serve as a judge in the South since Reconstruction.
The large-than-life bronze sculpture honoring Farris was crafted by renowned artist Eddie Dixon from Lubbock, Texas. Known for his powerful works that capture historical figures, Dixon has created pieces displayed in prominent locations, including the Pentagon and the Smithsonian. His work on the Farris sculpture brings his celebrated style to Wichita County.
The dedication for the sculpture took place on October 26, 2024 at the Wichita County Courthouse, with remarks from local dignitaries and community leaders, and featured a musical tribute from Dr. Naomi Carrier.
The project has garnered recognition throughout the state and was awarded the 2024 Texans for the Arts “Lasting Community Impact Through Arts Advocacy” award, marking it as a significant achievement in public art and historical recognition in Texas.
Educational Resources
The Alliance has created an educational resource designed for 4th-6th graders. The newspaper includes a timeline of Ms. Farris’s life alongside major Civil Rights events. The newspaper includes arts activities, group projects, vocabulary, and more! A free online Educator Guide offers additional resources and TEKS
Both resources are available online here. You can request phsyical copies by emailing info@wichitafallsarts.org or calling (940) 500-4453. Our supply is limited!
Two exhibitions have been created as part of this project. One features a timeline of Ms. Farris’ life in context with the Civil Rights Movement and local history in Wichita Falls. The second pays tribute to the lives of African American pioneers, both past and present, who have shaped the history and culture of Wichita County.
The exhibitions are available for loan to museums, schools, and community organizations. Email us for more information!
Dedication Ceremony
The Legends Project has been made possible by:
The Fain Foundation
The J.S. Bridwell Foundation
Will Tucker
Texas Commission on the Arts
Jane and Barry Macha
Judge Woody Gossom
Margie J. Reese
Schenk, Schenk & Haines, Carol Carlson Gunn, Kelly Yandell, Richard & Sheralyn Bowersock, Robert Schmidt, Larry Stanton Wiese in honor of Rebecca L. Lanmon, Catie Egan in memory of Geoffrey Lerew, Jordyn Berend, Greg Merkle, Michael Valverde, James Harris, Ricky Cottingham, Hannah Huckaby, Jean Eustice in honor of the Eustice Family, Barbara Merkle, Betsy Deiterman in memory of Betsy Kidd, Laura Rocchio, Edward Robinson, Valerie Rhodes, Frances Vernon