Robert E. Howard Days

Cross Plains hosts beloved Barbarian Festival to honor 'Conan' author : Big Country : Abilene Reporter-News: "CROSS PLAINS -- Robert E. Howard -- Texan author and poet who died on June 11, 1936 -- most likely never imagined that, more than 70 years later, his legacy would inspire thousands from all over the world to flock to Cross Plains.

'He was just before his time is all,' Troy Crockett, 97, said. 'Had he been born 20 to 50 years later, things would have been different.'

Crockett, Cross Plains' oldest citizen, said he's the only person left in the area who knew Howard.

Yet in 2008, hundreds gathered to celebrate and honor Howard's achievements. The Barbarian Festival, named for Conan the Barbarian, who was created by Howard, kicked off its festivities with a main-street parade. Until late in the afternoon, the street buzzed with excitement: pony rides, petting zoos, a 40-foot inflatable slide, children selling lemonade for 25 cents, live music, local artisans selling their handmade treasures and the aroma of a West Texas feast riding the wind. Visitors could also tour Howard's home and the surrounding area as part of Project Pride's Robert E. Howard Days."