This Ain't our First Rodeo!

The Rodeo began in 1952, when an arena was built at Hebert and the Rodeo was “put on for the 4-H boys” according to the Caldwell Watchman. It was held at the Boeuf River Arena in Hebert with night performances on Friday and Saturday night and a Sunday afternoon performance. The Boeuf River Arena was owned by J.N. Warford, a local businessman and livestock owner. Among the events in 1952 were wild horse races, bareback riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel races, bulldogging, the Dubach quadrille, Junior steer riding and a cutting horse contest.
In 1953, new lights were installed and bleachers were built to seat 1200 people. According to a back issue of the Caldwell Watchman, “A few years after beginning the original rodeo, the Lion’s Club had an opportunity to build an arena closer to town, and with the help of just about every able-bodied man they could recruit to help them, the Lions built new spectator stands, arena and stock pens” at its present location. The new facilities helped the rodeo grow into the highly-anticipated event that it is today.
Local citizen, Dick Oliveaux, was instrumental in helping get the Rodeo set up in Columbia and was also instrumental in beginning the well-known Angola Rodeo.
As this year’s Rodeo takes place next week, we are reminded that the Lion’s Club Rodeo is an integral part of life in Caldwell Parish. As with years past, spectators and participants alike still look forward to the annual rodeo event.
The Columbia Lions Club Rodeo will be held on June 2, 3, & 4, 2016. This year’s theme is “This Ain’t Our First Rodeo, It’s Our 65th”. New this year will be the Belles & Boots Drill Team performing each night. Themes for each night will be: Thursday - All Things American; Friday - Native American Night; Saturday - Retro Night (Celebrating the 60’s). If you would like to join the performances, come dressed in costume each night.
The Lions Club would like to ask everyone to come out and help make this the biggest parade ever. Business or individual floats, horses, buggies, 4 wheelers, side by sides and bands are invited. If you are a former rodeo queen, please contact us for more information about possibly riding a float in the parade. Contact Cindy Watson at 789-0298, email Columbialionsclub@gmail.com or visit the Columbia Lions Club Facebook page.