Description

The public is invited to attend the annual Old Rip Oath Ceremony at the Eastland County Courthouse on Monday, February 23, at 8:30 AM. The Seibert Singers will perform. 

Ninety-eight years ago, on February 18, 1928, a horned lizard—locally known as a “horned toad”—was removed from the courthouse cornerstone after being sealed inside for 31 years. To the amazement of thousands of onlookers, the creature was still alive. He was named Old Rip after Rip Van Winkle and went on to tour the country, even visiting President Calvin Coolidge. Ten months later, Old Rip passed away, but Eastland County has kept his legend alive ever since with this oath, written by H. V. O'Brien editor/publisher of the Eastland County Today: 

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of Old Rip Promoter, and will, to the best of my ability, promote, protect, and defend to the death the Truth of the Story of Old Rip.” 

Join officials and supporters in Eastland, Texas as they raise their left hands and recite this oath celebrating one of Texas’ most enduring legends.