Legend has it that Bowman modeled the "three-over-four pattern" of "12th St. Rag" after the signature three balls displayed on the front of the many pawn shops lining Kansas City's 12th St. First published in 1914, Bowman sold the rag for $50.00 to Jenkins Music company, which subsequently earned millions of dollars in publishing royalties.

Bowman composed a number of rags named after other streets in Kansas City: "11th Street Rag," "13th Street Rag" and "Petticoat Lane Rag." He also composed a number of rags based on the blues, including "Kansas City Blues."

Jasen, David A. and Tichenor, Trebor Jay.

Rags and Ragtime (A Musical History). New York: Seabury Press, 1978.

Waldo, Terry.

This is Ragtime. New York: Hawthorn Books, Inc., 1976.

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