Being Texan: A Texas Monthly Special

Texas Monthly writers explore people and places at the intersections of identity, history, progress, and change. Stories include the ghost town of Terlingua, the last surviving ninepin bowling alleys, a ranching industry under threat, the unexpected discovery of a rare type of coyote, a woman who overturned state braiding laws, and a mild-mannered librarian who fought to save the Big Thicket.

Fewer than 20 places in the United States, all of them in the Texas Hill Country, still offer a version of bowling that was played by German settlers. Texas Monthly writer Lea Konczal wanted to find out why, and she discovered a deeply held tradition in these small communities. Ninepin is a source of connection and a point of pride as much as it’s entertainment.