The Bill Pickett Rodeo in Fort Worth stands as a vibrant homage to African American cowboy heritage, drawing spectators to the historic Fort Worth Stockyards for an exhilarating showcase of rodeo sports including bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. This annual event, enriched with live music and cultural exhibitions, not only celebrates the daring spirit of rodeo but also honors the significant contributions of African American cowboys to the shaping of the American West.
At the heart of this celebration is its namesake, Bill Pickett, a figure of monumental importance in the rodeo world and American history. Born in 1870 in Texas, Pickett was an iconic cowboy and rodeo performer known for his extraordinary skills and innovative techniques. He is credited with inventing the technique of “bulldogging,” a method of steer wrestling that involves the cowboy riding alongside a steer, jumping onto it, and wrestling it to the ground by biting its upper lip. This daring and unique approach showcased Pickett’s deep understanding and connection with the animals he worked with.
Bill Pickett’s legacy extends beyond the rodeo arena. As an African American cowboy in the post-Civil War era, his achievements and contributions to cowboy culture and the development of rodeo sports challenge the often narrow narratives of the American West, highlighting the diverse and multifaceted nature of those who shaped it. His induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1989 posthumously acknowledged his pioneering role and enduring influence.
