The rodeo has always been a major Texas attraction, encouraging out-of-town guests to book rooms at local hotels in order to experience it. However, very little is known about the history of this popular sport. Here’s a brief summary about where the rodeo got its start and how it came to be the highlight of the year.

A Brief History of the Rodeo

Simple Beginnings

It all started in the 1500s, when Spanish-Mexican settlers came into the country with their herds of horses and cattle. As the market grew and the demand for fresh meat increased, employment opportunities began to develop. Soldiers looking for work shortly after the Civil War saw their chance and headed out west. They perfected their skills in herding cattle and enjoyed the adventure of living off the land.

American Cowboys

By the 1800s, everyone knew about these rough-and-ready cowboys. Their hardened exteriors and years of experience produced a mystique that fascinated the people they met. As communities sprang up, they soon became an object of celebration, causing wealthy individuals to sponsor competitions in order to see a demonstration of their skills. The Fourth of July of 1882 was an especially memorable event in which William F. Cody, also known as Buffalo Bill, opened his first Wild West show in his hometown of North Platte, Nebraska.

Today’s Rodeo

Many rodeos were independently produced until the late 1920s, when the Rodeo Association of America came into being. Several committees drafted a set of rules that governed how each rodeo should be organized, creating a points system that ranked contestants based on their skills. This took the focus away from the profits that could be made and encouraged communities to come together to ensure an event’s success. Eventually, the rodeo became such a popular part of the culture that Texas recognized it as the official state sport.

Find a place to stay during this year’s ABC Pro Rodeo by reaching out to Best Inn Texas in Levelland, TX. This family-owned hotel features an assortment of rooms and is conveniently located less than two miles from The Mallet Event Center. They offer competitive pricing and include amenities, such as coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, that will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Call (806) 894-7335 to speak directly with a friendly hotel representative or visit their website for additional information about available rooms.