Fireside stories feature rodeo history

The history of the Sisters Rodeo is long and storied. Some of the “facts” depend on who you talk to, but one thing is certain: The Sisters Rodeo has always been an all-volunteer, community-wide event since its inception.

On Tuesday evening, April 23, 7 p.m., at FivePine Conference Center, Three Sisters Historical Society will offer a glimpse into some of the stories surrounding the rodeo at their third Fireside Stories Evening. “Eight Seconds in Sisters: Early History of the Sisters Rodeo” will feature several storytellers with tales of earlier days — some they experienced themselves and some handed down from bygone days. Because these cowboys have been as hard to herd as cats, who the storytellers will be keeps changing. For sure, Dick Elliott and Mike Oxman are on hand with Floyd Leithauser as the “bartender emcee.”

In addition, cowgirl poet A. K. Moss will share some of her original poetry about cowboys, Western life, and rodeos. Longtime rodeo association member Bonnie Malone will read her short history of the rodeo to set the stage for the evening’s stories.

The rodeo association will be on hand selling this year’s rodeo poster featuring a barrel racer in action. They will also have on display photos of previous rodeo activities and several earlier rodeo posters. Rodeo buckles, old rodeo tack, and other memorabilia will be available for viewing before and after the presentation.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with displays for viewing, history books available for purchase, and time to swap your own rodeo memories. Admission for TSHS supporters is free, $10 for the general public. Memberships may be purchased that evening to support the work of TSHS.