All states have their quirks and oddities; things that make them unique. But Texas? We have more than our fair share of rarities, compelling sites to visit, and stand-out symbols that truly are unique and, of course, authentically Texan. Here are few unique official Texas state symbols that might surprise you.
Lifestyle
Quick Guide: Unique State Symbols of Texas That Might Surprise You
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Our State Dinosaur is Paluxysaurus Jonesi
Photo: Facebook/Dinosaurs titans of past time
Bones from the Paluxysaurus jonesi, the official Texas State Dinosaur, were unearthed near Waco in the mid-1980s. That particular specimen was 70-feet in length and 12-feet in height (at the shoulders alone), making it one of the largest creatures ever to roam the planet. Is that surprising? Everything’s big in Texas!
Our State Food is Actually Chili
Photo: Facebook/Grove Grab N’ Go Market
Although many of us are self-proclaimed pros at barbecue, the state food of Texas is actually chili. Featured in homes and cook-offs throughout Texas, if you call the Lone Star State home, that usually means you can cook a mean pot of it, and in 1977 the Texas State Legislature made it official.
Our State Sport is the Rodeo
Photo: Facebook/Rodeo de Charlevoix
Although many would guess it to be football, the official state sport of Texas is the rodeo. Recognized as having the most influence in the state, House Concurrent Resolution No. 21 gave the rodeo the title in 1997. Growing from its informal competition roots among cowboys during roundup and branding, today’s rodeos have standardized events showcasing an athlete’s ability in bareback and bull riding, steer wrestling, team and calf roping, and saddle bronc riding. It’s Texas-tough, y’all.
