History of the Jackson Hole Rodeo

In 1890, Sylvester Wilson brought the first group of settlers over Teton Pass into what is now Jackson Hole. He came with his family to raise cattle on the fertile grass, which grew abundantly in the valley. 120 years and six generations later, the pioneer spirit lives on through the Wilson family who continue the western heritage and traditions of the rodeo. They invite you to enjoy it with them.

Rodeo also runs three generations deep in the family, starting back with Clark Wheeldon riding broncs in the rodeo before it was moved to Wilson (yes it is named after the family). Uncles Chet and Chancy continued in their fathers footsteps riding bareback and saddle bronc horses. In 1976, Chancy earned a spot among the top fifteen saddle bronc riders in the world and a chance to compete in the superbowl of rodeo, the NFR. The Wilson boys and cousins followed as well with Bodee, Brandon, Shawn, and Jason all riding broncs, while Buskin and Coby took the more dangerous route with bull riding. Buskin finished as high as 26th in the world bull riding standings. Not to leave the girls out, Karissa and Sadee barrel raced professionally winning several trophy saddles along the way. Philip, meanwhile, stuck to the business side of rodeo and worked as a director to the Wyoming High School Rodeo Association for twelve years, five of which he served as President and Chairman. Phil now spends much of his time with Wyoming Cowboy Church bringing the word of God to cowboys. The family still competes in the team roping event at Jackson Hole Rodeo.