Arena Legacy

Book excerpt: From its roots in cowboy and vaquero culture to the big-business excitement of today's National Finals competitions, rodeo has embodied the rugged individualism and competitive spirit of the American West. Showcasing the collections of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, this illustrated volume depicts rodeo's material and graphic heritage. Richard Rattenbury opens with an illustrated history of rodeo, from its first recorded competition in Colorado in 1869 to its role in county fairs, cattlemen's conventions, and old settlers' reunions across the West, to its rise to national prominence between 1920 and 1960. Following its historical overview, Arena Legacy features an extensive pictorial gallery of signature materials. A series of colorful portfolios reveals artifacts from rodeo life, including costumes, trophies, buckles, and riding equipment.