History

The Frontier Days Rodeo got it's start back in October of 1912, you can read more about it on genealogytrails.com

Frontier Days 1928 by the football field. See our Facebook Page Historic Photos album for a higher resolution version.

Frontier Page Poster from 1964In 1962, Otterman Post 94 took over managing Frontier Days and have kept the tradition alive ever since. That year the rodeo was held at the football field however it was clear a permanent facility was needed. In 1963, we bought land on the southeast corner of town and with the money, labor and equipment that was donated by the community the rodeo grounds took shape with a grandstand that could seat 3200, pens, chutes, toilet facilities and adequate parking. On August 17 and 18 of 1963 the first Frontier Days at it's new location was held. Over the years we have made may updates to the facility including lights, cement dance floor with a bandstand, new bucking chute so they face the grandstand and a new grandstand. As members of the Otterman Post #94 we inspirer the community to make each Frontier Days the best ever.

The Legion Auxiliary Ladies operate their concession stand for the two rodeo performances, and help out where ever needed.

White River Frontier Days has been recognized for the great stock provided by our stock contractors.

  • Lyle Nelson's stock provided the thrills for the first couple of years.
  • For over 20 years Don Hight, a hometown boy and Legion member, provided some of the roughest stock you might hope to draw.
  • Bill Held used to furnish some mighty rough bulls out of the Nebraska country.
  • Jeff Waln's Rodeo Company furnished stock for a few years
  • Currently Hollenbeck Rodeo Company of Winner, SD is furnishing the stock

People that have made their mark on the rodeo

  • Donna Jensen served as Rodeo Secretary from 1961 till 2009
  • Governor Frank Farrar was a special guest of the American Legion in 1962

There is no greater thrill than standing for the National Anthem at our Frontier Days arena on a hot August day, and seeing the American Legion's flags of the 50 states whipping in the breeze from tall posts around the arena, with the cowboys and cowgirls and their horses on parade, bulls bellowing in the pens behind the chutes! Memories bring us back to White River every third weekend in August.

Referenced article by Devota Hutchinson