Endowed by Bob and Doris Bowman of Lufkin, owners of Best of East Texas Publishers and Bob Bowman & Associates, Inc., the Best of East Texas Award is presented annually to an individual, organization, event or project deemed "one of a kind and the best there is" in its own category.

The award consists of a sculpture by Paula Devereaux Kurth of Santa Fe, New Mexico, who produced the statue of Thomas J. Rusk in Nacogdoches, as well as other pieces of art in Texas and New Mexico. It is a replica of an old-fashioned water pump and handle, signifying that the recipient "primed the pump" for other East Texans.

"Doris and I wanted to see a method whereby the Association could annually honor laymen, educators, professional historians, speakers, or writers...unique men and women who are known for their love of our special corner of Texas," said Bob Bowman. "We hope the award will become a symbol of the people who truly are the best of East Texas."