The 2020 National Western Stock Show has officially come to a close. And as we reflect on this year's event, we've decided to take a look at its storied past.
For those of you who regularly consume content on Our Community Now, you know that we love our local communities and the history and cultures that make up their social fabric. It's because of this love that we highlight the events that are part of the communities that we follow. Colorado has been known for its western spirit and rugged, independent nature for as long as it has been a state. One of the local events that highlight that western spirit is the National Western Stock Show (NWSS).
The NWSS is one of the oldest Colorado-born events. It has been running for 144 years and is a huge part of Colorado culture. But many who have newly arrived in the state may not know as much about the event as they should, and that's why we're here. Here's a bit of history of the event, courtesy of the NWSS website:
- "In 1906, the NWSS ran its first event on Monday, January 29, and ran for six days. Attendance was estimated at 15,000 and the Grand Champion steer sold for 33 cents a pound—23 cents over the market price!
- In 1931, the 25th National Western presented the first Rodeo in conjunction with the Livestock and Horse Show.
- In 1954, the Westernaires made their first appearance at the Rodeo.
- In 1981, the show increased to 12 days and included 21 Rodeo performances. A still-standing record of $301,000 was paid at auction for a Hereford bull.
- In 2006, National Western celebrates its 100th anniversary! The show’s attendance reached 726,972 for the 16-day show and the grand champion steer sold for $75,000—or $58 per pound!"
History aside, the NWSS has benefited the state in many ways imperceptible to those of us living in the urban environment.
It's more than just a stock show. It has raised awareness about the places where many of us get our food. It has shown how close the relationship between agriculture and urban living really is. It shows the difficulties and rewards associated with agriculture. It helps many rural youngsters to attend college through hard work and the sale of livestock. It has shown us how close a relationship between humans and animals is. And it shows us the history of our state and the roots that make us what we are today.
So, the next time the National Western Stock Show rolls around, we highly suggest you attend it. Take a long look at the people that put food on our plates and take the time to appreciate them. And at the end of the day be part of the culture and history of Colorado.
Did you attend this year's stock show? If so, share your photos and videos with us in the comments below.
