A Tiny Hamlet’s Big Dream: Celebrating 79 Years of Rodeo Tradition

As July 31 approaches, the small hamlet of Gerry, just north of Jamestown, New York, is gearing up to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the opening night of its 79th annual rodeo. Defying early skepticism, Gerry’s rodeo has become the longest-running Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) event east of the Mississippi, transforming the village into “The Rodeo Capital of the East” for four days each summer.

The rodeo, a brainchild of former cowboy Jack Cox, began in 1945 as a fundraiser for the newly formed Gerry Volunteer Fire Department. Despite initial doubts, the community rallied together, transforming four acres of swampland into a functioning arena and parking lot in just 70 days. Colonel Jim Eskew’s renowned livestock headlined the inaugural event, with borrowed bleachers and rented lights setting the stage.

In the early days, the rodeo’s stock arrived by train, parading through the hamlet, a spectacle that has since evolved into a modern operation with semi-trucks. Yet, the excitement remains unchanged. Hundreds of volunteers, many of whom take vacations specifically to assist, ensure the event’s success each year. Tasks range from painting fences to serving the famed beef barbecue dinners, a culinary highlight of the rodeo.

The Gerry Fire Department has always prioritized quality, contracting PRCA-sanctioned rodeos. This year, Painted Pony Championship Rodeo of Lake Luzerne, New York, led by Shawn and Shana Graham, will bring over 100 head of stock to compete for more than $50,000 in prize money. The competition remains fierce, with events including bareback bronc riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, and cowgirls’ barrel racing.

Over the decades, continuous improvements have been made to the rodeo facilities. Permanent bleachers now seat 4,000 spectators, new lighting systems enhance the nighttime experience, and a large stadium screen offers replays and close-ups. The dining hall, famous for its beef barbecue dinners, has been refurbished and air-conditioned, cooking over a thousand pounds of beef daily over wood fires.

The rodeo’s midway offers a variety of family-friendly activities, from cotton candy to Western wear and pony rides. The alcohol-free event emphasizes wholesome entertainment, maintaining the tradition of family enjoyment. A free kids’ rodeo on Saturday afternoon provides young ones with the opportunity to participate in rodeo-related games under the supervision of professional cowboys and cowgirls.

The profits from the rodeo have significantly benefited the Gerry Fire Department, funding modern fire and rescue equipment. From humble beginnings with a 1921 Ford Model T, the department now boasts advanced firefighting and medical response vehicles, responding to over 300 calls annually.

The rodeo runs for four nights, from July 31 to August 3, with performances starting at 8:00 PM. Barbecue dinners are served each evening at 5:00 PM. For more information, visit www.gerryrodeo.org or call (716) 985-4847.

As the last performance concludes on August 3, the rodeo grounds will quickly return to normal. Yet, the spirit of community and shared achievement will linger, as Gerry’s residents look back with pride on their annual celebration and begin preparations for the 80th rodeo.