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Mustangs Memories

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Helen Windener. Jim was the Chamber of Commerce President at the time of groundbreaking for Williams' Square, the Mustangs have always been the first place we took our guests. It was a wonderful way to introduce out friends to Texas and America. When Jim was in WWII, he made many friends in Belgium. Over the Years, some of them came to visit us. It was always out pleasure to take these couples to see the Mustangs of Las Colinas.

Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet

Text on brown background reads: Abha Biyani.
I have fond memories of my first visit to Mustangs. I grew up in Mumbai, India and studied Architecture when I first came across a book on sculptures across the world. The Mustangs by Robert Glen was featured, and the horses in perpetual motion left an impression on me due to my love for horses and horse riding.
Little did I know I would end up doing my Masters in Architecture at Texas A & M University and visiting the Mustangs in Irving during my summer internship at HKS in Dallas. At the time, I was living in Irving and my boyfriend (now my husband) was visiting me from College Station and we spent half a day at Williams Square.
I was blown away seeing what I had read about in real life. I had come a long way in life and it was a special way to acknowledge that. Growing up, I always associated Texas with cowboys and horses and was glad to finally see horses in an art form captured for the world to see and appreciate.
I have always mostly lived close to the Mustangs and every time I drive by, I remember when I first saw the Mustangs in a book then in person. The horse sculptures brings a lot of energy and action to the plaza and has a special place in my heart. We usually take all our visitors to see the Mustangs of Las Colinas, and it keeps evolving every year.

Text on brown background reads: Bill Brown
Majestic!
The size and multiple movements capture the natural beauty of animals in the wild.
I cringe when I see a flat monochrome version in print or cut out. These depictions can represent, but do not fully capture the majestic nature of the iconic mustang statues.

Text on brown background reads: Nell Anne Hunt
My first memory of the Mustangs was the magnificent party featured on the top floor of Williams Square to celebrate the grand opening of the Mustangs. The construction had not been completed before the party. In fact, the interior walls were not yet installed but thankfully the outer walls held everything together adequately.
It was impossible for me to know at that moment how the Mustangs would become the location of a myriad of Kodak moments for my family and my business in years to come.
The party guests wore formal attire to reflect the importance of the evening. The sumptuous buffet, stunning views, elegant decorations, and music created a magical evening.
As we left, I happened to walk out with Henry Parker, the Director of the Dallas Museum of Fine Art. He turned around to tell us all,

Text on brown background reads: Robert D. Martinez
When we lived in the Las Colinas Urban Center, I often included Williams Square and the Mustangs as part of my runs. Having such a beautiful work of art just a half-mile from our apartment made it a frequent part of my weekend runs. I never tired of seeing it and so appreciated the ways in which the time of day and the difference in lighting made it such an ever-changing and wonderful part of most of my runs.
I was especially pleased that I was able to enjoy the re-engineered plaza for about a year before we moved. The replacement of the granite paving with trees, turf, walkways and welcoming resting spaces, made it all the more an inviting example of outstanding public art.
The Mustangs and their place in William Square are things that I miss most about the decades that we lived in Irving. I am just as certain that they will bring that same kind of joy to many
generations of Irving citizens that will follow in our footsteps.

Text on brown background reads: Gayla Lawrence
As a lifetime resident of Irving, my sweetest memories of the Mustangs of Las Colinas are visiting them with my family. We made several visits with our boys throughout the years. Norm and I still love to visit the sculptures because they simply never lose their charm and majesty. Another tremendously memorable event for us regarding the horses was attending the 30th (plus one) Anniversary Celebration with Robert Glen.
His stories of creating and building the horses were amazingly interesting, and he was extremely personable. was such an honor to meet this remarkable artist in person.

Text on brown background reads: Bob and Sunny Bettis
On the Fourth of July following the dedication of the Mustangs, the Irving Symphony Orchestra was scheduled to perform on the Plaza. There were also fireworks scheduled on Lake Carolyn, and I believe there was a car show in the open area across the street. This was a significant city event with a large attendance anticipated. In those days, there was great camaraderie among the citizens, the business community, and the city leadership.
Several of us on the ISO board spent the afternoon setting up and arranging many folding chairs for the attendees. There were indications that the weather was deteriorating, but the orchestra was seated and began their performance. Shortly into the program, the wind and rain began in earnest. The wind became a severe issue, and the plaza became a maze of flying chairs, music stands, and sheet music as people ran for cover. Several of us went into the Williams Square central tower and up to the La Cima Club on the 26th floor. During the storm, we could feel the building shake, and if I remember correctly, the front door of the building was blown out.

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Chris E. Wallace
I enjoyed visiting with Robert Glen during his trips to Irving. The Mustangs of Las Colinas continue to be a world-wide attraction for our region. What amazing pieces of art this iconic sculptor created for our city!
When I left the Irving Chamber in 2014, I was gifted a maquette bronze sculpture of a mustang by Robert Glen. I am so proud to have this piece among my art collection in my home and always enjoy telling the story and sharing memories of how this piece originated.

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Phil Ochsner
My favorite memory involves my parents, who live on Maui. I've sent them Las Colinas literature over the years, and they have visited the Mustangs. My mother loves them. The neatest thing is when she is out on her daily walk on the beach, she'll stop and chat with people and sometimes the conversation comes around to my working in Las Colinas, and for a large percentage of the people the first thing out of their mouth is

Text on brown background reads: Chuck McDaniel
In 1979, as a fresh landscape architecture graduate of Texas A&M, I joined the Houston office of the SWA Group. Jim Reeves was SWA's design principal for the plaza and he assigned me to the project. Under Jim's guidance, I prepared plaza alternate design studies, sections and details. I also joined Jim on visits to the project during the construction phase and
witnessed the completed project prior to the formal dedication in 1983.
Since my Williams Square opening, a visit to the plaza is often on my list of destinations when I introduce friends, family and students to SWA's projects. All are amazed!
In my professional travels and project pursuits, I've shown Williams Square to clients from across the world.
In 2019, SWA was selected to reimagine Williams Square to better meet the needs of today's visitors and the tenant's of the Williams Square Towers. Forty years after working on the original design I led SWA's design update.
It was a great thrill when Rob Glen enthusiastically supported the reimagined design and the new vision of Williams Square.

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Joe Zagorski
I moved to Texas from Chicago in 1979, and accepted a job with Glenn, Bozell & Jacobs advertising in 1981. When the agency moved from Regal Row to John Carpenter Freeway a year later, nothing was in Las Colinas but the building we were in and a few links to the canal and tramway. By 1984, I had gone freelance but continued working for the agency and its spin-off, Levenson & Hill, who opened shop at Williams Square, overlooking the Mustangs.
The statues were everything I fantasized about Texas growing up as a kid in Chicago. Larger than life and full of power, promise and energy. From the lead horse blazing a trail to the little pony scampering to keep up, the composition reflected the wild exuberance I felt when I first arrived D/FW in 1979.
I recall sitting beside the fountains brainstorming with my agency peers after picking up an
assignment. It was a place where the creative muse could run wild. We did a lot of good work in the presence of those ponies. I also remember KPLX hosting a concert on the dais beside the fountain. Free beer, country music, pretty girls! Quite the memories!

Text on brown background reads: Ronda Huffstetler
A memory I am pleased to share is that anytime I have visitors come to stay with me, I always take them see to the Mustangs.
This photo captures a special moment with my sister-in- law during her first visit to Irving. I took her to see the Mustangs in the evening, my favorite time to admire the sculptures. She
loved it! As someone who owns a horse farm in Tennessee, she was deeply impressed by this iconic feature of our city.

Text on brown background reads: Charles Ashcraft
I have many memories of the Mustangs.
I would travel from AMA to the HEB area and often have dinner at the Mustang Café.
I have used the Mustangs to entertain and educate our out-of-town guests over the last 35 years.
I have done family photos with my daughters and families at the Mustangs.
Years ago we would attend the July 4th performances of the Irving Symphony in the square with the Mustangs.
Today I still go past them about once a week when at the square, and I occasionally stop and pat the young one.
They are my favorite treasures in Las Colinas.

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Don Williams
My favorite memory is visiting the museum and watching the video on the history of the Mustangs. That provided me a unique connection that I was able to use throughout my career at the Chamber doing Economic Development. On any tour, I always included passing the Mustangs to encourage participants to visit the museum and specifically to watch the video. The Mustangs also provided me with numerous trivia questions over the years such as how many Mustangs are in the exhibit, who was the sculptor, where did he live, etc.

Text on brown background reads: Kraig Parker
A few days after I met my wife, Jo, in the fall of 1999, I took her on a date to see the Mustangs of Las Colinas. We walked along the canal and had a beautiful, romantic, candle-lit dinner at the Mustang Café. I was so struck by her that I actually set my menu on fire as it hovered over the candle. It was embarrassing but cute, I guess. Safe to say, that's where we fell in love. I proposed to her a few months later, and we married on Valentine's Day in 2000. It's been 24 years of true love that all started at the Mustangs of Las Colinas!

Text on brown background reads: Jacky Knox
The grand opening was a big event. Tables and chairs were set up on the plaza with tablecloths, etc. A weather change came thru and blew the settings on the plaza around so much that the festivities were moved to the top floor of Williams Square Central Tower which was still under construction. It was still a very grand event with Mr. Carpenter and Robert Glen, along with others, describing and celebrating the Mustangs At Williams Square.
One day Mr. Carpenter and Rob notified me that we should meet on the Plaza after dark to assess the lighting and water effects as we were nearing the Grand Opening time frame. We met and Mr. Carpenter scrutinized areas he felt the effects needed to be spot on for authenticity and detail. Rob and I would get in the water and make adjustments as
possible and noted other adjustments to be addressed later. Mr. Carpenter left. Rob and I went across O'Connor Blvd to view The Mustangs and Plaza from that perspective. I asked Rob

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Rick and Melanie Stopfer
In 1984, I was attending an IBM education update in Irving when the Mustangs were installed. In 1986- 1987, I was on sabbatical from a tenured position at Dakota State University and working for IBM in Las Colinas. Rick and I would see the Mustangs whenever he visited from South Dakota. It was the perfect spot to walk, hold hands and spend time together.

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Kay Schecht
Williams Square in Irving, Texas is well-known for its symbolization of business and its support of the arts. It also signifies a forward movement to community progress, education, and in a uniqueness of its own, to romance.
I had a youth group in Irving for 25 years that served low- income children and often later in evenings we would venture out to Williams Square to delight in the beauty of the stampeding mustangs running through rushing waters and where the teens and children could calmly walk around the plaza to laugh and chatter as they socialized with each other.
On one evening in the Square, as a soft breeze wafted through the Plaza, there was a couple who found a place to sit close to each other and as they talked, our youth heard the young man ask his girlfriend to marry him. Our children came running to me excited and bubbling that they had heard the proposal and that his girlfriend said

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Debra Cox
Where does one begin in describing their love of the Mustangs of Las Colinas.
My husband and I always enjoyed dining experiences in the near vicinity of the Mustangs and afterward often strolling the plaza enjoying the visual beauty of the Mustangs. We then started bringing our daughter Ashley early in her life to enjoy the majestic visual display splashing through the waterway.
She always 'knew' where we were going...

Text on brown background reads: Hans-Peter and Rica Monser
In April 2024, my wife and I took a 3-week trip from Germany across Texas. We think Texas is a beautiful state in the United States. And that's exactly what we were able to experience.
We started in Dallas and we find Dallas the most interesting compared to Austin and Houston. We read up on what to see in Dallas. And we got the recommendation, among other things, to visit the

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Oscar Ward
My Mustang Memories are many, but these are very special.
The nine mustang sculptures commissioned by Ben Carpenter were installed in 1984 with world-class sculptor Robert Glen from Kenya present. It is a very special memory.
We enjoyed our visit to the original Mustang Museum at Williams Square. We viewed the video history which tells the story of Ben Carpenter and Robert Glen's first meeting through the nine mustangs being installed at Williams Square. We had an interesting meeting with Robert Glen and were able to take photos (below, left).
The 30th anniversary of the Mustangs was celebrated on Williams Square Plaza in 2015 instead of 2014 due to the O'Conner Street construction. It included the Tanner Band and dancing on the plaza (photo below, right, Oscar Ward and Diann Contestabile).
Robert Glen came to Irving in 2014 celebrating the actual 30th anniversary at which State Representative Linda Harper Brown presented him with a Texas State proclamation recognizing his works.
THE REST IS HISTORY.

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Peggy Filbeck
We were there when the building was being built with hard hats eating a picnic on the rafters of LaCima! Jim was in the Chamber at the time and we did all the festivities surrounding Williams Square and Mustangs! Exciting times for all of Irving!

Text on brown background reads: Candy Thompson
I proudly display a thrice-signed poster in my home with photographs of each visit with Mr. Glen here in Irving. The first was March '97, second in November '04, and the third in January '09.
Being a DFW Tour Guide, I have brought thousands of folks to see the Mustangs--all with a

Text on brown background reads: Brett Dyer
I first encountered the Mustangs as a teenager. Seeing art in person was a new experience for me, and I was profoundly impressed by how this sculpture stood out and seamlessly integrated with the surroundings and architecture. The freedom and motion of the horses captivated me, at a time when my future was just a dream, with an uncertain journey ahead. This sculpture inspired me to persevere, instilling in me the hope that one day I could create public art that brings the same joy and inspiration to the community and all its visitors, leaving a lasting impression on their lives. For nearly two decades, I've had the privilege of teaching at Dallas College and other local colleges and art centers. When discussing sculpture or local public art, I always encouraged my students to visit the Mustangs, experience their magnificence, and learn through sketching or drawing inspiration from them.
The Mustangs of Las Colinas have played a significant role in my artistic journey, serving as a source of inspiration and motivation. I am honored to be part of this celebration and to share my story.

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Julia Glen
How Rob Glen came to be chosen as the sculptor of the Mustangs of Las Colinas.
Ben and Betty Carpenter used to frequently come on Safari to Kenya in the early 1970's, with Bunny Allan as the Outfitter. Ben mentioned to Bunny that he was thinking of getting someone to sculpt some Mustangs running across a square for his new development. Bunny then suggested that he meet Rob, so at the end of the safari Rob and Ben met up, they really liked each other, and so discussed the project. Ben said he would be back in Kenya with Betty in six months-time, and would Rob come up with some ideas.
Ben hadn't specified how many horses he was thinking of, so Rob decided on a small herd of 5 horses. Rob made 5 small sketch models about 8 inches high, and then set about creating a square. A large table was constructed about 8 feet x 8 feet with a stream flowing through it. Photos were enlarged of high-rise buildings for three sides of the square, and a friend helped Rob with the 'waterworks' using a small fish tank pump to circulate the water, so it was moving. Spotlights were focused on the horses in the square, the studio windows were blacked out, chairs arranged for Ben and Betty.
Ben and Betty arrived, and were led into the unlit studio, sat down, the spotlights were then switched on, focusing on the 'mock-up' square ... well... we watched the Carpenters for any reaction for at least 5 minutes; not a word was spoken, just total silence and no movement. Rob's heart fell to his boots thinking this was a total disaster!
Finally, Ben beamed, and said to Rob that it was a wonderful conception, BUT there are not enough horses!! Five was not enough, he wanted nine horses galloping across the square. So that was how it all started.

Text on brown background reads: Julia Glen
We were all there at the opening of the Mustangs - what a day that was. Kerry and I left Rob and Mark in the plaza helping set up all the tables, chairs etc., piles of plates stacked up, whilst Kerry and I went to the hairdresser for a clean-up. We were almost through when people came rushing through the door saying a twister had just gone through town!! Kerry and I arrive back at the plaza to total devastation!! We located Rob and Mark amidst the debris, and they said it was quite an experience. The wind had whistled in through the gap between the two buildings that had already been built and picked up the tables, chairs, plates etc., which were flying everywhere Mark said they ducked behind a table on its side with plates flying like frisbees and smashing against the table, but that it was all over in a few minutes, leaving the devastation behind!!
I remember the numbers of people who were already working in the newly finished offices just downing their tools and coming to the square to help clear up the mess. It was incredible how people just pitched in to help - very moving. Then, of course, the opening party was moved to the top floor of the now middle building, which was just an empty shell at the time. I do remember the horses looked great with the lights on from many stories up where the opening took place!! What a day that was!!

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Hector Guzman
The Irving Symphony performed many unforgettable 4th of July concerts at the magnificent Mustangs of Las Colinas plaza. Yes, it was sometimes hot...sometimes stormy, sometimes windy...but it was always fun to watch the kids splash and play in the water at the feet of the horses. The emotional response to the

Text on brown background reads: Gary Schepf
Having spent a 40-year career in the Irving schools, one of the greatest opportunities I had was sharing the great benefits of living in the City of Irving. Through a joint effort between the Greater Irving Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, City of Irving, U.S.-Mexico Cultural and Educational Foundation, Irving YMCA, and the Irving Independent School District, the Future Leaders of Irving was formed in 2011 and continued for several years.
The Future Leaders of Irving, which ran annually for seven months, provided high school seniors with the opportunity to learn more about many organizations, potential careers and important lessons in leadership. The program encouraged and promoted continuing education, civic engagement and personal development.
During one of the numerous excursions for students participating in the program, the high school seniors were taken to the La Cima Club at Williams Square. And, before heading back to the bus and onto our next stop, the students would gather around the Mustangs for an up-close view, as well as a culture lesson. Many teenagers never had the opportunity to see the majesty of the Mustangs. Sharing the Mustangs with the community, especially the youth, provided a sense of honor and excitement when viewed through the eyes of teens.

Text on brown background reads: Lorraine Taylor
With my 50th birthday approaching, I decided to train for and compete in a triathlon. I challenged my siblings and some friends to do it with me. My sister, Angela, her husband, Curt, and several friends accepted the challenge.
On a scorching Sunday morning, O'Connor Blvd. was closed to traffic and the transition area was set up in the grassy field across from The Mustangs of Las Colinas, where Water Street is now located.
As we waited to jump into Lake Carolyn for the 500-yard swim, we heard stories of an
alligator that lived in the lake! Next, we biked 18 miles, then ran 3.1 miles, beginning and finishing at Williams Square.
My main goal was just to finish the race and I did, as did all who were with me! We had a great celebration with the many family members and friends who had come out to cheer us on, and with the beautiful Mustangs as our backdrop!

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Michael Hill
My wonderful memories of the Mustangs start back when William Square was being constructed. The Las Colinas Urban Center was the stuff of

Text on brown background reads: Marguerite Korkmas
My favorite memory of the Mustangs is from the early 1990s when the Irving Symphony Orchestra presented the first July 4 Patriotic Concert with fireworks at Williams Square. The incredible Mustangs of Las Colinas Sculpture made for a beautiful backdrop to the event, which started at 8 p.m. and lasted through the City fireworks. It was a memorable celebration of our Independence, filled with beauty, music, and joy.

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Tim Fooks
My future father-in-law, Bobby Joe Raper, was mayor when The Mustangs were installed. I was dating his daughter Gayla. We both attended Irving schools and graduated from Nimitz. We ran into each other on the campus of North Texas State University in Denton. First, we commuted together to NTSU. Then we started dating. It was apparent to both of us that we would marry. Often, we would go and sit and enjoy each other's company in the presence of these beautiful bronze behemoths. It was in their presence that I proposed. She said yes. This year (2024) we celebrated 38 years of marriage.

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Jill Martinez
In about 2003, we sold our house in Valley Ranch and became Urban Pioneers, moving into The Lofts, the first apartment complex in the Urban Center, a block from Williams Square. It was always a destination when we had guests from the area or from out of state.
I have always been fascinated by The Mustangs sculpture and what was involved in its creation. I have viewed the ICTN video numerous times. During the several years I ran the Future Leaders of Irving program, we always took group photos in front of the mustangs.
My mother lived in Michigan and came to stay with me for several weeks during the winter months. She loved that sculpture and we walked to Williams Square on a regular basis. Her maternal instincts and protective nature focused on the one colt she imagined was fearful of making the jump into the water. My mom passed in 2021 and that mustang will always make me think of my mom.

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Rick Bidne
FREEDOM, STRENGTH, PERSEVERANCE and BEAUTY
These words depict the vision I have of the Mustangs. Robert Glen beautifully captured from the wild what could never have been found elsewhere, revealing their strength and beauty to everyone who sees them.
I was relatively new to Las Colinas when the Mustang Sculptures arrived. The significance of the Mustangs soon became obvious. But what has always stood out to me is how the Mustangs became an ATTRACTION to so many people from throughout the world. Visitors from abroad who were interested in emulating what was happening in Las Colinas invariably wanted to see the Mustangs. Local visitors often asked for directions to the plaza which was not the easiest to find for some. Most wanted to take pictures, but some would just sit and admire what Robert Glen had created. Wedding parties would stop to have an iconic background in their memorable pictures. Even children seemed to be mesmerized by what they were seeing. What attracted and continues to attract so many can only be speculated on and what each person took away will never be fully known.
Williams Square is truly an outdoor museum with one spectacular piece of art that will always be an Attraction found only in Las Colinas and Irving.

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As a touring musician, I've visited a lot of small towns across the U.S., and most every town has

Text on brown background reads: Lowell Duncan
As Vice President of Corporate Communications at Las Colinas, I was asked by Ben Carpenter to create a film documenting the history and creation of The Mustangs of Las Colinas.
I secured the services of Mike Phillips, a filmmaker and photojournalist for KDFW-TV, and along with Craig Germain, another Las Colinas Corporation officer, we traveled to Robert Glenn's home and studio in Nairobi, Kenya. There we filmed Robert cutting and placing pieces of Styrofoam into the shape of a horse, covering the form with plasticine, and then shaping and creating the horse.
When Robert was satisfied with his creation and the plasticine dried, the horse was cut into sections, packed and shipped to the foundry in Basingstoke, England - the same foundry that cast the Lions in Trafalgar Square. At the foundry, each piece of the horse was cast in bronze and then reassembled. Robert then put the final artistic touches to the mustang which runs alongside its family through the plaza at Williams Square.
Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the dedication ceremony as I was at that time Vice President of Corporate Communications at American Airlines and was out of the city.

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Sybil Sutton
Forty years already? The Mustangs is worthy of such a celebration. Kudos to Mary for her insight. Back in the day (December 94), capturing the moment of engagement on film for social media sharing was not a high priority, as smart phones and digital social media did not exist! The place, and how, was the emphasis. Enter the Mustangs. Ours was a chilly, slightly misting, night with dinner first at the elegant restaurant overlooking The Mustangs.

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Hammond Perot
Prior to working at the Las Colinas Association, I was introduced to the Mustangs of Las Colinas via membership at the La Cima Club, during the mid-1990's.
When Trista and I were married, we had our reception at La Cima and, of course, we took wedding photos in front of the Mustangs. At the time, while I recognized how special the Mustangs were as a work of art, I didn't appreciate until I began working for the Association what they meant as a symbol of Mr. Ben Carpenter's vision for the Las Colinas community he developed.
When we published a book commemorating Las Colinas' 50th
Anniversary, there was no better way to depict the spirit and roots of our community on the cover than the world class Mustangs of Las Colinas!

Text on brown background reads: Joy Goodrum
As a young girl, my grandparents would bring me and my sister, Merri, out to Las Colinas on Saturday mornings to have breakfast along the Canal, then walk over to the beautiful Mustangs of Las Colinas sculpture. The Mustangs always represented the future of Irving and I always saw this area of our city as so advanced, yet incredibly elegant. Years later, as an employee of the Irving- Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, I had the honor of serving as the liaison to the Future Leaders of Irving program and it was so special, bringing groups of high school students each year to stand in awe of the Mustangs and to learn of their rich history and journey here from Mary Higbie. I hope, as time goes on, those same students will one day bring their own children to see this amazing work of art that has become such an iconic piece of Irving.

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Anne Pfaff
We went to the dedication of the Mustangs when Ben Carpenter and Robert Glen, who designed them, were here. La Cima Club was being built on the top of Williams Square but was not completed yet. But it was open to the south, so we got to go out on the patio or the balconies there and we were just amazed at seeing those horses. My husband and I took a trip to Africa one year and we went to five safari camps. My favorite was Mount Kenya Safari Camp, which was one of the nicer ones and the only one that had a small shop of curios. We walked in we were 6,000 miles from home and there was a big podium there with a book opened to the Mustangs of Las Colinas. Robert Glen is from Kenya, so that's why the sculpture was so popular over there. It was quite impressive to be in Africa and
seeing the picture of those Mustangs.

Text on brown background reads: Shirley Smith
In my position of CIP Coordinator for the City of Irving, I was often asked to write articles for the City Spectrum, the city's monthly newspaper. In 2010, I wrote an article about several projects that had been completed or were currently under construction. My 87-year- old grandmother was living in a nursing home as she suffered from severe Parkinson's Disease. She called to say she had read the article and to ask if I could arrange to drive her around to see some of these

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Susan Hope (Sukie) Everett
Newlyweds! Seven years into our marriage. And the gaping hole in our kitchen floor was masked only by old newspaper and noxious yellow linoleum. We had thrown our lot in at the vintage end of Irving, Texas. Our house had seen better days. But oh! In strongest possible contrast the Mustangs of Las Colinas! The best of the best brought forth by a world class sculptor - and another man intent upon leaving a gift and a legacy.
What struck me most about the steeds, and continues to do so, was their veins. They were pulsing out in extreme effort. Each horse intensively forward! Except for one who is just at the edge and considering, not exactly a leap off, but a point of decision and no turning back. So once were we.
Our union, like those horses, weathered dynamic and well. That old house battered my young hands into those of my great grandmother.
How I long to place them now into the hands of Ben Carpenter and Robert Glen - first our visionary and then the artist. I would give them profound thanks for all they left behind for the rest of us to follow.

Text on brown background reads: Helen Duran Curtis
The Mustangs of Las Colinas and Robert Glen will always have a special and loving place in my heart. My husband, Pat (now deceased) proposed to me at The Mustangs, and we had the privilege of meeting and visiting with Robert a most skilled, gracious, and delightful man. The Mustangs are such an outstanding and valued treasure to many local residents and visitors and will always be to me as they were to Pat.

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Kelly O'Brient
The Mustangs have become a regular part of any dinner we have in Las Colinas. Be it a date night or a meal with colleagues or friends, we always visit after dinner. It is a special way to end an evening, and no meal out in Las Colinas feels complete without seeing the beautiful horses running through the water!

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Mark Zeske
The Mustangs and Williams Square was the site of a perfect storm on an extended Fourth of July weekend. I combined an amazing number of loves from my life family, city, country, journalism career and sense of adventure. My wife Karen and I loaded up our three kids (at the time, Jessica, Jamie, and Rebecca) and joined a throng of people and cars at a patriotic party. The event was a staging for The Great Race, a vintage car cross-country rally
competition. Our wheels of choice were on a stroller. All of the teams loved showing off their classics, giving out swag and answering all questions. The kids got to warm plenty of seats and even pretend they were driving. We played with clowns and all of us took home plastic The Great Race visors. The event also became a highlight of my 25 years covering motorsports for Dallas and national
publications. I wrote a story for the Dallas Times Herald about Irving resident Curtis Graf, a competitor. The story helped me win The Great Race Print Journalist of the Year, while Electronic Journalist of the Year was radio legend Paul Harvey. Good day, indeed.

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Torsten Ilse
Encountering the Mustangs of Las Colinas did not really happen by coincidence. When talking about my plans to attend a conference in Grapevine, Texas, a good friend of mine
recommended to spend time in Las Colinas and next to admiring the planned community, to ensure I would see the famous Mustangs and to learn about the amazing story of their creation by Robert Glen. Neither had I heard of Las Colinas before nor of the Mustangs, but that's what you have friends for. And I am glad I followed her advice.
It was one of these really hot days when I walked on Williams Square and probably like most visitors, had this first, surprising view of the dynamic group of mustangs crossing an imaginary river. Having seen the pictures before on Wikipedia and then experiencing it in real life were two different things. The natural appearance of the mustangs, especially the foals, and the creative way of positioning them on a small river crossing makes the sculpture group the natural center and highlight of the square which remains a key memory of the overall visit.
It was greatly complemented by the small, yet very insightful museum giving the background of the Mustangs' creation and bringing the story of Robert Glen, the design and manufacturing process and last, but not least, the logistics of bringing the parts together from their original conception in Africa, via the molding in England and then the travel as air cargo to the United States. What an impressive undertaking and what a great result Las Colinas is now enjoying!
It is these things that create the identity of a community and hopefully serve as a magnet for visitors and to future residents of the town! Certainly, worked on me and I am grateful for the advice that made me explore this great place which otherwise probably would have escaped my attention.

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Sanders Thompson
We're in Johannesburg (South Africa) and there is a fountain with a herd of impalas jumping over the fountain. Ben says,

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Marty Ray
In 1984 I was teaching sculpture and ceramics at North Lake College. That year an amazing sculpture installation was dedicated at Las Colinas, the Mustangs by sculptor Robert Glen. I visited the Mustangs often with my students and had them tour the museum and see the video about the creation of the Mustangs. In 2009 I designed the Carpenter Ranch DART station and included an image of the Mustangs within the photo history boards. Over the years I enjoyed taking lunch breaks from North Lake and stopping by for a visit with the Mustangs. I never tire of this incredible display of public art. The Mustangs continue to inspire young and old alike and give a glimpse of the history of these Las Colinas lands. Thank you, Ben Carpenter for finding a way for us all to enjoy up close and personal a frolicking herd of Mustangs in modern times.

Text on brown background reads: Visiting the Plaza with many of grandchildren in 2008.

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Cindy Santoscoy
The Mustangs were a reminder to me that I was going to be somewhere special in my hometown. I always admired the mustangs as I walked to Spa Atelier Salon. My mom and I also enjoyed going to Las Colinas for lunch and then stopping for the delicious cookies from Connie's Bakery and shopping at The Canal. It was always a beautiful spot to show off to out of town family and guests. Sweet memories!!

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Danny Opitz
My

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Jo Ann Johnson
As soon as my grandson, Austin, could walk, I took him to see The Mustangs of Las Colinas. He has grown up and still talks about the Mustangs as being

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Christa Slejko
I was in college and was lucky to secure an internship with IBM which had offices in the Williams Square towers. I vividly remember that a highlight of our workday was looking out the window as they were hoisting in the horses. It was a really big deal to witness the installation from overhead, but we had no idea just how iconic and special these horses would become. I personally love horses, and especially the history of wild mustangs in our country. Just knowing that I was THERE when they were installed, and that I still get to see them weekly as I continue to work and serve the Irving community means so much to me!

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Kathy Burke
I vividly remember the excitement & anticipation of the arrival of the Magnificent Mustangs....seeing them the first time in the Plaza was breathtaking and remains so...a very powerful impression each & every time I see them. Such a tribute to the remarkable citizens who dedicated their lives to building & carrying out the Vision of Ben Carpenter & so many others. The Mustangs embody the drive & strength of the now internationally recognized and respected City of Irving & community of Las Colinas.

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Amber Hudicek
When I took photos for my bridal portraits around the Mandalay Canal in July 2024, I had to come visit the Mustangs of Las Colinas. It is mesmerizing to see the beautiful bronze sculpture work!

Text on brown background reads: Amalia Sandoval
Muy hermoso monumento.

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Mark Glen
I am Rob Glen's son. We live in Kenya. I remember being in Las Colinas setting up for the opening event of the towers around the mustangs and the unveiling of the mustang sculpture. It must have been round 1982. There were tables and ceramic plates stacked in piles ready to be set out for the luncheon. Suddenly, a twister came through the plaza and caused chaos. There were plates flying and rolling around the plaza, we took cover in the buildings. The wind passed and left a scene that took the rest of the afternoon to tidy up. I must have been 8 years old so this stuck in my memory of the amazing plaza and mustangs.

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Deborah Fleck
During the 30th anniversary celebration of the Mustangs, my husband Alan and I lingered a little after the festivities and ended up talking to Mary Higbie and Robert Glen. Mary was taking Robert to dinner at the then La Cima Club and was gracious enough to invite us to join them. We were so delighted to have a chance to dine with Robert and learn more about him and his art. Such a treat and we really appreciated Mary's invitation. We had dinner in the sky overlooking the beautiful sculpture created by our dinner companion! Something we'll never forget.

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Nancy Khaleel
I remember when the horses splashing first went up there was actually a much larger spray of water as the horses

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Kary Berg
I remember when the Mustangs were installed in 1984. My mother, Mary Patton Conklin, couldn't wait to go see them! We got in the car and drove to Williams Square. They were just beautiful and still are! Many years to follow on July 4, we would put our lawn chairs in the car and go to Williams Square. We would sit by the Mustangs and listen to the Irving Symphony play patriotic music! We loved it!

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Dallas Burke
I started out in Las Colinas as a Water Taxi Operator for DCURD in 1987. The number one question we heard from visitors was

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Paulina Davila
After living together at Las Colinas, my husband proposed to me by the mustangs knowing we'd start building our lives together in this city. We've been Las Colinas residents for over 10 years now and love seeing how much the area has grown. Can't wait to see what else is to come!

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Sharon Barbosa-Crain
Since the Mustangs of Las Colinas were commissioned, they have been a news story. Their installation caused Las Colinas Urban Center to become more than an office setting. It became the home to a genuine tourist attraction. Central to its appeal was the story of Robert Glen, his life and his art, and the unique activities that create such sculptures. His visits to Irving allowed many of us to meet him and enjoy the experience of talking with the creator of such art. Before the exit of the Cowboys and Texas Stadium I could introduce myself as a councilwoman with two distinctions: being from the home of the Cowboys and of the Mustangs. People knew about both. The vista of the plaza, the movement of the horses, the waterway they traverse, and the ever-present wind, all engage the inner senses of the observer. Art that we experience as well as see; connecting to all our senses. Representative not just of a period of history but of a freedom of movement and thought that uplifts and inspires. That is what the Mustangs mean and what Robert Glen did for Irving and all who view his art.

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Stan Lynch
I had the privilege in my early years in Las Colinas to be the general manager for the Dallas County Utility and Reclamation District (DCURD). The District was given the responsibility of maintaining the Mustangs and the water feature. These included operations of the pumps and filtration systems, the piping underneath the plaza, the water quality and quantity and the Mustangs themselves. One day, not too long after DCURD took over the maintenance of the Mustangs, I received a request to meet Mr. Carpenter on the plaza one early morning prior to people being present. Mr. Carpenter was not pleased with the way the spray from the hooves of the Mustangs was appearing. He wanted the spray to be more realistic and consistent with the effect of real horses crossing a water course. After we discussed his ideas and thoughts, I got with our DCURD maintenance team to try to come up with a solution regarding the spray nozzles under the water surface. The solution turned out that we would have to perform maintenance every morning early before the public was around. It involved making sure that the water was filtered properly, the fountain and water course were clean/clear and that we would have to individually clean each of the Mustang hoof sprays to guarantee that they met the expectations of Mr. Carpenter and that they were clear of any debris that would cause the sprays from not looking real. This was all in line with Mr. Carpenter's desire and goal to strive for

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Paul Wahlstrom
I've always considered the Mustangs the jewels on the crown of Las Colinas.

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Gerald Farris
I remember listening to the symphony and watching fireworks at a July 4th celebration with my daughter when she was little.
I met Robert Glen in 2010 and again at a Mustangs' anniversary celebration.

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I still remember the joy on my daughter's face and also experienced by my god twins as they frolicked among the mustangs. I, along with them, was fascinated by the detail on the faces and the tails of the mustangs. The open space allowed the children to run and jump enjoying being outdoors. It was no surprise that when my daughter went to her high school prom that one of her stops for photos was Williams Square. Added to the excitement was eating lunch at the restaurant. My favorite was the pecan chicken! I always took guests to visit the mustangs.
Jearlene Miller

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Kathy Howard
The Mustangs are favorite place to take family and friends visiting. I would have

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Karen Cooperstein
We were married on Friday the 13th at Williams Square and despite the 104-degree heat, managed to take a few photos outside in front of the Mustangs to commemorate the special day!

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Kevin Costner Presented Key to the City
Mayor Stopfer, city council members and senior city staff present the key to the city to Kevin Costner.
Costner visited the Mustangs of Las Colinas when he came to town to promote a movie on June 11, 2024.

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Katie Matott
In 1989, my parents got married in their hometown in New Hampshire and immediately moved to Norman, Oklahoma, so my dad could go to school at OU for his master's. In 1991, my father graduated, and as a present, they took a trip to Dallas to celebrate. They came across these Mustang statues and thought they were beautiful, and the little

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Patty Caperton
My fondest memories of the Mustangs are from the late 1980's. Every year on July 4, the Irving Symphony Orchestra would present a special patriotic concert on the Williams Square Plaza near the middle building entrance. There was excitement in the air with a guest musical performer and anticipation of the fireworks to come.
People would bring lawn chairs or a blanket to the plaza and sit around the Mustangs. There was this wonderful sense of community with lots of visiting with friends and kids frolicking around the Mustangs. About 9 p.m., we would all turn toward Lake Carolyn and watch the fireworks.
July 4 was always a magical evening and the Mustangs were at the center of it all!

Text on brown background reads: Susan Rice
My husband, Dr. Joseph Rice and I and our family spent many evenings enjoying events at Williams Square throughout the process of planning and purchase of the Mustangs!
Enjoyed several July 4th celebrations and concerts... also survived a serious surprise storm one evening.

Text on brown background reads: Jan Bodnar It was a thrill to meet Robert Glen in person!

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Seniors (65+): $5

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