Belton celebrates 100 Years of Broncs and Buckles
By BRANDY CRUZ | Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR and courtesy of the BELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From its humble beginnings on the dusty Central Texas landscape 100 years ago, Belton’s Fourth of July Rodeo has evolved into a premier event, attracting competitors and spectators from around the world.
“We are excited to celebrate 100 years of the Belton Fourth of July Rodeo this year,” said Randy Pittenger, president of the Belton Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you’ve been dozens of times, or this will be your first rodeo, you don’t want to miss the 100th Belton Fourth of July Rodeo.”
Belton’s rodeo was the brainchild of Ellis White Holland Sr., a rancher and local businessman who reportedly leased bucking horses from the Texas State Penitentiary in the early years of the rodeo and allowed aspiring cowboys their chance to make their dreams a reality. Situated at the top of Penelope Street Hill in a dry, open arena, the Belton Fourth of July Rodeo was a huge success. Holland continued working on the rodeo committee until 1940, when he handed the reins to younger men to continue the work. He is now an honorary member of the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame.
In the 1930s, Belton began hosting some of the first ever nighttime rodeos, which were so popular they lasted well after midnight. Following World War II, the rodeo was becoming so popular it outgrew the dusty field. After building an arena with wooden bleachers, stock pens and chutes, the rodeo moved to what is now Liberty Park. With the inclusion of the arena, the rodeo began to draw top professional cowboys and the crowds continued to increase in size.
The Belton Fourth of July Rodeo had long outgrown its outdoor arena and eventually moved to the Bell County Expo Center (now known as the Cadence Bank Center) in the 1980s. Besides classic rodeo events, such as bronc riding, bull riding, roping and wrestling, the rodeo also added events for children. Mutton bustin’ quickly became a fan favorite, as well as the stick horse stampede.
Situated in close proximity to Fort Cavazos, which trains Army, Air Force and international military personnel, the rodeo also became the first rodeo experience to many people around the world.
“We always have first time attendees who marvel at the athleticism and entertainment value that the rodeo provides,” Pittenger said. “We often hear people comment about how they had no idea how fun rodeo can be. It is designed to be family friendly, with traditional rodeo events showcasing the cowboys and animals, but also including entertainment from the rodeo clowns and other acts.”
The chamber president said the city played host to representatives from Belton’s sister city, Ebino, Japan, several years ago, who were treated to the unique rodeo experience they had probably only heard about on television or movies. Last year, visitors from Great Britain planned their trip to the United States so they could experience the rodeo in Belton.
“It’s athletic, daring, challenging, and at times dangerous, so peaks the interest of those in attendance,” Pittenger said. “It’s different from what most people experience regularly, or might see on television, so it is special.”
One thing he is never tired of hearing is “This might be my first rodeo, but it won’t be my last.”
As the centennial festivities approach, anticipation is running high in Belton. The theme for Belton’s annual Fourth of July Rodeo is “Celebrating 100 Years of Rodeo.” Pittenger said people should expect parade entries to feature historical aspects of the rodeo. Charlie Throckmorton, known by many in Texas as the “Voice of the Rodeo” will serve as the grand marshal.
The centennial celebration kicks off June 29 at a Downtown Belton Street Party, with live music by Tejano artists Grupo Pression and Texas Dancehall Music performers Kenny Orts & No Chance. The rodeo is July 4-6. The rodeo committee is planning some special activities and recognitions to celebrate a century of rodeo.
“It’s family-friendly entertainment, providing opportunities to see athletes and animals perform and compete at a high level,” Pittenger said. “Multigenerational families will come to the rodeo together to enjoy an evening of fun entertainment.”
For many, the rodeo is a chance to relive cherished memories and celebrate the enduring spirit of the Wild West.
“Many people who came to the rodeo as children, now bring their children and grandchildren to experience the thrill of the events, and make new memories together,” Pittenger said. “This is a tradition built over generations that is valued throughout our community by families.”
