Hall of Fame preserves rodeo’s past

Thursday, Dec. 4, 1997 | 12:22 p.m.

To some, rodeo is a sport. To others, it's a business. But to most competitors, rodeo is simply a way of life. Professional rodeo is the only major competitive sport that has evolved from a working lifestyle, and its development over the years is brought to life in the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy in Colorado Springs, Colo.

The Hall, located adjacent to the National Headquarters of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, is the only heritage center in the world devoted exclusively to professional rodeo -- America's original sport.

Visitors to the Hall are greeted by "The Champ," a larger-than-life bronze statue of the legendary Casey Tibbs aboard the famed saddle bronc "Necktie." Tibbs, a nine-time world champion, was one of America's most celebrated rodeo cowboys.

The sport's evolution, from its origins in 19th-century ranch work to its present status as major spectator attraction, is documented in two multimedia presentations. Between shows, visitors tour Heritage Hall, where both historic and modern cowboy and rodeo gear, including saddles, ropes, clothing and hats, is exhibited. Tours through the rest of the museum are self-guided, allowing visitors to enjoy the exhibits at their own pace.

Changing art exhibits are featured throughout the museum, and visitors can see live rodeo animals close-up in the outside courtyard, which includes a replica rodeo arena and a sculpture garden.

Visitors also can take a little of the cowboy lifestyle home with them by shopping in the Hall of Fame Rodeo Store.

The largest gallery is the Hall of Champions, where contestants from each rodeo event are honored. Also featured are stock contractors, clowns, announcers, rodeo animals and other notables of the sport. Each honoree is profiled in an exhibit, which includes photographs, gear, personal memorabilia and trophies.

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy preserves the past and passes on the best of the Old West to future generations. By joining the ProRodeo Hall of Fame Society, you can help ensure the continuation of the Hall and Museum as a permanent trustee of the American cowboy legacy.