Historical Marker

Southwestern International Livestock Show and Rodeo

Marker installed: 2004
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Livestock shows and rodeos have a grand heritage in Texas. Drawing from traditions of Hispanic vaqueros and Western cattle drives, organized competitions in the state date from the 1880s, with the first documented El Paso rodeo occurring in 1896. The city hosted the Texas Livestock Association convention in 1902, and within a few years local stock shows and rodeos were common.

In April 1929, the El Paso Commercial Club sponsored a Ranchmen’s Reunion and Rodeo, which proved so popular another event was held in September. The Optimists, Kiwanis and other civic groups began hosting competitions that evolved into the Southwestern Baby Beef, Hog and Sheep Show. In 1934, the El Paso Chamber of Commerce became the sponsor of the growing event, then billed as the Southwestern Livestock Show, which included strong participation from 4-H clubs, the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and other groups. Rodeos sponsored by the El Paso Police Department and Sheriff’s Posse debuted in the late 1930s, with a combined Southwestern Livestock Show and Rodeo taking shape in 1940.

After being held at various locations, including Washington Park, the show has made the El Paso County Coliseum its permanent home since the facility opened in 1942. New activities, including horse shows and parades, were added as the event grew, and in 1964 the expanded festivities were renamed the Southwestern International Livestock Show and Rodeo. This citywide celebration provides support to young people and continues to recall the ranching tradition of the region, and important link between the state’s rural and urban character. (2005)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
What is SWLSR?
The Southwestern International Livestock Show and Rodeo, also known as the SWLSR, is an annual event held in El Paso, Texas that features a professional rodeo, livestock shows and auctions, a carnival, live music, and food vendors. The event draws in thousands of visitors each year and is a significant economic driver for the El Paso region.
When is SWLSR?
The Southwestern International Livestock Show and Rodeo (SWLSR) usually takes place in February or March, although the exact dates may vary from year to year. If you have a specific year in mind, I can look up the exact dates for you.
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
Texas random facts
El Paso County, Texas, has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before the arrival of European settlers, the area was inhabited by various Native American groups, including the Apache, Comanche, and Jumano tribes. They lived off the land, hunting, farming, and trading. The first recorded European exploration of the region occurred in 1581 when Juan de Oñate claimed the area for Spain.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, El Paso County became an important stopping point along the Camino Real, a trade route connecting Mexico City with Santa Fe. Spanish settlers established the town of San Elizario in 1789 as a waystation for travelers. The settlement grew as more people arrived, including Mexican and American traders, and it became a center for ranching and farming.

In the mid-19th century, El Paso County experienced significant changes brought about by the Mexican-American War and the subsequent Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. With the establishment of the new border between Mexico and the United States, El Paso became a strategic area for trade and military operations. Fort Bliss, one of the oldest Army posts in the Southwest, was established in the area in 1848 to protect American settlers and the new border.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, El Paso County experienced a population boom due to the growth of mining, agriculture, and the railroad industry. The city of El Paso, which was incorporated in 1873, played a pivotal role in these developments. As a border town, it served as a gateway for trade with Mexico and witnessed significant cultural and demographic changes as diverse groups of immigrants arrived seeking economic opportunities.

Today, El Paso County continues to be an important region characterized by a unique blend of cultures, influenced by its rich history and its location on the U.S.-Mexico border. With a population of over 800,000, it is a vibrant center of commerce, education, and tourism, attracting visitors from both sides of the border and beyond.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of El Paso County, Texas.

  • 1682: Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate claims the El Paso area for Spain.
  • 1827: El Paso del Norte is established as a new Mexican border town.
  • 1848: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, transferring the El Paso region from Mexico to the United States.
  • 1850: El Paso becomes part of the newly formed Texas state.
  • 1881: The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway reaches El Paso, spurring rapid growth and development.
  • 1888: El Paso County is officially organized, with El Paso as the county seat.
  • 1909: The Chamizal dispute is resolved, confirming the Rio Grande as the border between the United States and Mexico.
  • 1916: The Mexican Revolution spills over into El Paso County, resulting in military clashes and tension along the border.
  • 1924: The construction of the iconic Paso del Norte International Bridge is completed, further strengthening El Paso's role as a major border crossing.
  • 1951: The Korean War leads to increased military presence in El Paso County, with the establishment of Fort Bliss.
  • 1963: The El Paso Museum of Art is opened, showcasing a diverse collection of artwork from around the world.
  • 1993: The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is implemented, further boosting trade and economic activity in El Paso County.