By Meda Kessler
Photos by Jeremy Enlow
Plan on spending a good chunk of time at Tumbleweed Vintage Boots in Weatherford, especially if you’re seriously boot shopping. Owner Gary Bush carries a big selection of neatly arranged footwear for men and women, which makes browsing both a pleasure and a chore, as it’s tough to pick just one pair. If you know what you’re looking for — calf leather, narrow fit, square toe — be sure and let him know. If he doesn’t have it, he can probably find it for you. Bush spent 16 years doing specialty visual merchandising for Bass Pro Shops. He sleuthed out antiques such as old fishing rods to be used in displays by the outdoor retail giant. He moved to Parker County from Dallas in 1997 to pursue his antiques hobby, purchasing a couple of old buildings just off the Weatherford town square. A couple of years ago, he expanded into Western collectibles and wearables, specifically “walked-in boots,” his endearing term for used footwear. Bush has a keen eye for the expensive, the custom made and the unusual. In addition to boots, you’ll find used hats, tooled belts, buckles and other leather goods. The shop itself is an attraction, too. Gary’s daughter, Libby Bush, is a Nashville artist. She painted several wall murals and a pinup on a ’40s-era GE refrigerator with partner-in-art Sam England. And, yes, the fridge still works, as does a pinball machine in the store. She also created the rooftop signage, which looks like neon when lit up. Gary is in the process of setting up a shoeshine chair, so no worries if your own boots are a little dirty when you visit. Oh, and say hello to the shop cats (meet them on Page 30). Tumbleweed Vintage Boots, 116 N. Main St., Weatherford, 817-594-1515, tumbleweedvintageboots.com.
Treasures are found throughout the store, and not just footwear. From a signed pair of John Justin boots to a sweet ’40s fridge that features art by Libby Bush and Sam England — and still works.
