Texas Cowboy Reunion; Stamford keeping West Texas heritage alive for nearly 100 years

STAMFORD, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)- The Texas Cowboy Reunion (TCR) has returned to the City of Stamford for its 95th year running. The event began as a way to bring the rural community together in 1930, a mission that has continued for almost 100 years. Since its origin, Stamford Mayor James Decker said that the mission has expanded, now also carrying on the West Texas Cowboy tradition alive for current and future generations.

“This here is the work of preserving our local culture and telling our story. This rodeo dates back to the depression. When the leaders of Stamford were actually looking for an event that would boost community morale,” said Decker.

Initially, only experienced open range cowboys were permitted to participate. Professional rodeo athletes now compete in the rodeo portion of the event, but amatures still do their part. However, Decker said that the TCR is so much more than a rodeo.

“If you can’t have fun here it’s your own fault,” said Decker.

While the TCR provides rodeo entertainment, it also focuses on multiple aspects of West Texas life and culture. The chuckwagon cooking, old time western music on a live stage, and Texas inspired art show all come together to form a uniquely Texan opportunity to get to know your neighbors and enjoy time with friends. Stamford Art Foundation Chair and longtime reunion attendee, Connie Decker said that connection with community and culture, is the true meaning behind TCR.

“All of the cowboys and the ranch people could get together and enjoy fellowship, and that’s what we are still doing. I think a lot of people can look at this [art] and they can get an idea of what it was like back in the early days when this land was settled,” Connie said.

The art gallery features works by local artists and some from surrounding states. Their works are on sale with a portion of those sales going to support the West Texas Rehabilitation Center, and the cultural value extends beyond the art gallery walls. Decker explained that the original TCR featured rodeo events that are no longer common in the field, but they are still show stoppers at TCR. All these offerings open to anyone who desires camaraderie and a true Texas experience.

“This is not a Stamford event. This is a Texas event that Stamford has hosted for 95 years so everybody’s welcome and we want you to come see us,” said Decker.

Team roping and breakaway rodeo events began on Tuesday after which attendees enjoyed the art show opening. Events continue through Saturday, July 5th at the TCR pavillion in Stamford.