GoHorseShow is sad to report that the industry has lost a legendary landmark. Clark’s Outpost BBQ in Tioga, Texas burned down late Sunday evening.
According to halter trainer, Roy Donn, the fire started in the kitchen, but they aren’t sure of the cause and that they plan to rebuild. Judge Andrea Simons says, “It’s so sad. A lifetime of memories.” The restaurant had their walls lined with photos of famous horseman including: Tommy Manion, Ted Turner, Doug Lilly, Tim McQuay, and Dave Page.
We reached out to several people in the industry about the loss of this legendary place where horse deals and memories were made.
“Clark’s BBQ was the place to go to when I moved to Pilot Point in 1991 and has remained a vital part of the horse industry in North Texas,” Kathy Smallwood shared. “Warren Clark, the original owner, always made you feel like you were a special customer and adorned the walls with pictures of local horse celebrities. Many horse deals were done within the rustic walls…if only those walls could talk! Back in the day, even the trains would stop so the conductors could grab some of the special BBQ, and it wasn’t unusual for a helicopter to be seen landing to do the same. We will miss this landmark and hope to see it rebuilt.”
Breeding manager Kim Dean adds, “Back in the 80’s and 90’s when Warren Clark was alive, it was THE place to take important, out of town clients to eat. Almost every day you would see helicopters parked across the street where people were flying in for lunch. More horse deals were probably made there than just about anywhere.”
LuAnn Knost shares, “It’s really sad…I think about all the portraits on the walls. Warren Clark loved having the horse community come in. Always a smile on his face and a towel on his shoulder. Such a nostalgic atmosphere gone. It’s so sad to think, it can never be replaced.”
Charlie Cole shared the same sentiments, “Lots of history there. I remember when I first came to Texas when I was 13 and Tom Chown would take me there for lunch. I was in awe of the famous trainers on the wall and getting to meet some them that were there for lunch..Dave Page, Tommy Manion and many others that were great horseman frequented Clark’s.”
Photos courtesy of Roy Donn, and Collinsville Fire Department.
