This is an original, authentic J.O. Bass Tulia, Texas marked large single spur. Spur is stamped, “NO. 1294. MADE BY J.O. BASS. TULIA. TEX.” J.O. Bass / James Oscar Bass (1879-1950) was born in Atlanta, George in 1879, as one of seven children. In 1890, his family moved to Young County, Texas and then to the Panhandle a year later. Unable to transport the wagon over Caprock Canyon, the family setttled in what became Quitaque. In 1897, at 18 years old, J.O. Bass opened a blacksmith shop in Quitaque where he made spurs for local cowboys and ranchers. Lazy F and Matador ranch hands prided themselves in owning a pair of Bass spurs. Eventually orders extended to cowboys in other states such as Montana and Nevada, and to the famed Texas Rangers as well as movie star Tom Mix. Bass moved his shop to Tulia in 1902. The town of Tulia was incorporated in 1909 with J.O. Bass as one of the first city commissioners. In 1914 Bass won the metallurgy award at the Texas State Fair for a pair of Gal-Leg spurs with inlaid and overlaid gold and silver. Bass retired in 1924 west of Plainview and later passed away in 1950. “Worn and loved by many cowboys and ranchers, J.O. Bass's legacy of craftsmanship impacted the Panhandle frontier and beyond." - Texas Historical Commision. Each piece is serial numbered such as this example. This shows a large spur with seven-point rowels and nice long shank. One side is nicely and correctly marked and the other shows remnants of silver work. Truly a highly collectible and rare spur. Measures overall 7.75-inches long, 3 5/8-inches wide without strap spots, 2.25-inch diameter rowel.