The Surprising WWII History Behind The Big Texan Steak Ranch

One of Amarillo's iconic places is The Big Texan. The Big Texan is home to the 72 oz Steak Challenge. It is also one of the most popular tourist stops in Amarillo.

The Big Texan story started in Amarillo in the former Underwoods restaurant on Route 66.  It moved to its current location at 7701 I-40 in 1969. However, a piece of history that you might not know about The Big Texan is the history behind the wood used to build the original iconic building.

Read More: Origin of The Big Texan Steak Challenge in Amarillo, Texas

Big Texan's POW Camp connection

Owner Bobby Lee shared that he and his father, R.J. Lee, the founder of The Big Texan, along with his brother Danny, went to a former POW camp located on the Amarillo Air Force Base and helped tear down the barracks. The wood from those barracks was used to build The Big Texan.

The 1976 Fire at The Big Texan

Unfortunately, in 1976, the Big Texan caught fire. According to The Big Texan, the main dining room, gift shop, and all the antiques and artifacts from the original Route 66 restaurant were destroyed. Also destroyed was the wood from the POW camp.  The banquet hall built after 1971 served as a temporary location until they were able to rebuild the dining hall.

Big Texan Steak Ranch History

The Big Texan isn't only one of Amarillo's most popular tourist spots, but it is also a spot full of history. The life of The Big Texan shares a piece of Amarillo history. It's not just a spot to go and try and eat a 72 oz Steak, it's a place that holds thousands of stories.

Read More: A Gigantic Forgotten World War POW Camp Called Hereford Home?

If those walls could talk. In the meantime, we'll enjoy all the stories that Bobby Lee and his brother Danny share with us on social media.