Colorado Was Home to the World’s First Rodeo

Colorado has a rich history as part of the Wild West, and that lively Western spirit is showcased each year at rodeos across the state

Events centered around equestrian activities, such as the National Western Stock Show and the Greeley Stampede, attract thousands of spectators to arenas throughout Colorado. Here, cowboys and cowgirls of all ages compete in action-packed rodeo events, including mutton bustin’, bull riding, cattle roping, historical reenactments, and barrel racing. These rodeos are fantastic representations of Colorado's traditional Western roots.

Given Colorado's deep passion for rodeos, it's fitting that the state was home to the first-ever Western exhibition of this kind.

On July 4, 1869, a tiny town on the Eastern Plains hosted a groundbreaking event - the world's first rodeo.

The Deer Trail Rodeo featured many of the same events that continue to be part of modern rodeos.

At the inaugural rodeo, many of the region's ranchers brought their best horses to see who could ride the longest. These were outlaw horses that were impossible to break, making the conditions dangerous, but thrilling to watch. The winner was reportedly awarded a suit of clothes and bragging rights as the "Champion Bronco Buster of the Plains." That year, Emiline Gardenshire of the Milliron ranch earned the grand prize after staying on his bucking horse for over 15 minutes.

Deer Trail, Colorado has been officially recognized as the Home of the World’s First Rodeo by the Pro-Rodeo Hall of Fame, Colorado State Legislature, the History Channel, and the Guinness Book of World Records.

Although Deer Trail took a brief hiatus from hosting the rodeo in 2020, the annual event has since returned and continues to take place every summer in early July.