YORK COUNTY, Pa. — An annual Labor Day rodeo across 20 acres in Warrington Township, York County started more than six decades ago.
Jim Miller was one of the people behind the idea at age 22 and has been around since.
“The idea when it first started was to try to retain the wild west, and that’s what we stick with, we stick with western ways, you have to wear western hats, western gear to be in the arena, and people just love to be a part of the old west,” Miller said.
It's hosted by Wellsville Frontier Days Incorporated, a nonprofit private-riding club.
The event takes place twice a year on Memorial and Labor Day.
Board president, Ron Goforth, says the organization prides itself on being family-friendly.
“Just the look on these little kids faces when they look up and see this big animal, it’s just priceless,” Goforth said.
The rodeo offers a variety of events, including team roping, steer wrestling and bull riding.
Lilly Fisher has competed in rodeos for four years.
On Monday, she traveled from Annville Township to compete in pole bending and finished first place.
“The thrill of the experience and being in the rodeo setting is definitely a fun experience,” Fisher said.
While some are there for thrills, others are there for different reasons.
“We get me toys and then we come home,” said five-year-old Drake Sellard.
More than a thousand people are expected to have attended this year’s Labor Day rodeo.
Profits are used to maintain the property and prepare for next year’s rodeos.
“Without the people coming in through the gates, we wouldn’t be able to operate,” Goforth said.
Future contestants can register online or by contacting Wellsville Frontier Days Inc. directly. Fees are required and registration for the next Memorial Day rodeo is not yet open.