This ain’t my first rodeo, it’s the world’s first rodeo

You might not know that Colorado’s very own Deer Trail lays claim to the first rodeo in the world.

Though the rodeo is said to be an American invention, its roots are in Europe and Mexico. Bull wrestling was a fixture in the Ancient European world, and may have even been a part of the original Olympics. Then, a mix of bullfighting and cattle wrangling emerged from Spanish-run ranches in Mexico.

On an otherwise unassuming Fourth of July in 1869, the rodeo was born. The rodeo is still held at the original grounds, and now includes an annual parade and concert.

– Margot Calmar, The 100 Companies