ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy | Colorado Springs

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy, located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is the premier institution dedicated exclusively to preserving, celebrating, and interpreting the history, culture, and achievements of professional rodeo. Established in 1979, it is the only museum in the world devoted solely to professional rodeo and its many contributors, including the athletes, stock contractors, livestock, rodeo committees, and entertainers who have shaped the sport.

1. Mission and Significance

The Hall of Fame’s mission is to honor the pioneers and champions of rodeo and the Western lifestyle, preserving their legacy for future generations while educating the public about the sport’s rich traditions and ongoing cultural importance. It serves as a tribute not only to human athletes but also to the animals integral to rodeo events, such as bulls and broncs, recognizing their role in rodeo history.

2. Exhibits and Collections

The museum features a wide array of exhibits, many of which are interactive and immersive, designed to engage visitors with the authentic spirit of rodeo.

Hall of Champions: This core exhibit honors over 275 inductees, including legendary cowboys and cowgirls who excelled in events such as bareback riding, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and team roping. Each inductee is showcased with photographs, memorabilia, and detailed biographical information that highlights their careers and contributions.

Founders Hall: This section recognizes the individuals, families, foundations, and businesses whose efforts helped establish and grow the Hall of Fame and the rodeo industry itself. It honors the visionaries behind the sport’s promotion, infrastructure, and evolution.

Heritage Hall: Dedicated to the history and development of rodeo, Heritage Hall displays historical artifacts such as early rodeo equipment, vintage saddles, leather gear, traditional costumes, and promotional materials that illustrate the transformation of rodeo from informal contests to a highly organized professional sport.

101 Gallery: This space hosts rotating exhibits that often include art related to the American West and rodeo culture, special historical themes, or featured collections from donors and other museums.

Outdoor Garden Exhibit: Located outside the main building, this area features bronze sculptures depicting iconic rodeo moments and figures. It also serves as a venue for live roping demonstrations and educational events during warmer months, allowing visitors to witness skills and traditions firsthand.

3. Inductees and Categories

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame honors individuals and animals across multiple categories to comprehensively represent the sport’s diversity:

Competitors: The athletes who have excelled in rodeo events, including all-around champions and specialists in disciplines such as bull riding, barrel racing, and roping.

Animals: Outstanding rodeo animals, such as bulls and horses, that have earned legendary status for their performance and influence on the sport.

Contract Personnel: Rodeo clowns, announcers, stock contractors, judges, and others who play essential roles behind the scenes, ensuring rodeo events run smoothly and safely.

Rodeo Committees: Organizations and communities responsible for hosting rodeos, fostering local and regional rodeo traditions.

Notables and Lifetime Achievement: Individuals who have made lasting contributions to rodeo through promotion, innovation, or leadership beyond competition.

Media: Journalists, photographers, and broadcasters who have chronicled and elevated the sport through their work.

Notable inductees include Casey Tibbs, a legendary saddle bronc rider whose statue greets visitors at the museum entrance, and Earl W. Bascom, known for his contributions as a rodeo competitor, inventor, artist, and pioneer of rodeo equipment.

4. Educational Programs and Events

The museum is active in community engagement and education, offering programs that deepen appreciation for rodeo’s history and culture:

Induction Ceremonies: Annual events that celebrate new inductees, featuring presentations, historical retrospectives, and community gatherings.

Anniversary Celebrations: Special milestone events with exhibitions, live rodeo demonstrations, and family-friendly activities.

Workshops and Live Demonstrations: Hands-on sessions in roping, leatherworking, and horsemanship, as well as live performances by rodeo clowns and athletes.

School Outreach: Educational programs designed for students to learn about the American West, rodeo sportsmanship, animal care, and cowboy heritage.

5. Visitor Experience

Visitors to the ProRodeo Hall of Fame can expect an immersive experience combining historical exhibits with dynamic storytelling. The museum’s layout encourages exploration of rodeo’s many facets-from the grit and athleticism of the competitors to the deep connection with Western heritage.

Key amenities include:

Gift Shop: Offering rodeo-themed apparel, books, souvenirs, and artisan crafts.

Accessible Facilities: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with staff available to assist visitors as needed.

Guided Tours: Available for groups and individuals, providing detailed commentary on exhibits and the stories behind the artifacts.

6. Location and Practical Information

Address: 101 Pro Rodeo Drive, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919

Hours:

May through August: Open daily, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

September through April: Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Admission Fees:

Adults: Approximately $12

Seniors (55+): Approximately $11

Military: Approximately $10

Children (6–12): Approximately $7

Children under 6: Free

Contact: Phone number available for advance inquiries and group bookings.

Summary

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy is a comprehensive institution celebrating the vibrant heritage and ongoing legacy of professional rodeo. Its rich collections, engaging exhibits, and dedicated educational programs offer an authentic and inspiring experience for visitors of all ages, highlighting the athleticism, courage, and cultural traditions that define this quintessentially American sport. The museum stands as a tribute to the people, animals, and communities that have shaped rodeo into a dynamic, enduring symbol of Western life.