“Queens Tea”

Fort Smith Museum of History
Western Heritage Month
"Queen's Tea"
Thursday, May 28, 2015
1:00 – 3:00 p. m.

In celebration of Western Heritage Month the Museum will host a “Queen’s Tea” on May 28,
1:00-3:00 pm for current and former rodeo queens and Dandies. Meet the lovely ladies who have contributed their talent to the success of the Old Fort Days Rodeo in Fort Smith.

For many years, the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce sponsored the contest for Rodeo Queen.  The winners were chosen for their ability to sell Chuckwagon tickets with the first queen, Margaret Carolan, crowned in 1937.  Many local ladies have fond memories of Rodeo Queen and Sweetheart contests.       

Since 1977, each evening during the Old Fort Days Rodeo, crowds cheer with pride at the appearance of the Dandies, young ladies skilled in horsemanship leading the legendary Grand Entry.  As ambassadors for the Old Fort Days Rodeo, the horsewomen are chosen for their riding skill, character and personality.  A Quadrille performed each evening during the rodeo demonstrates the remarkable skill of the Dandies, acquired through rigorous training.  Organized as a promotional group, the talented young ladies lead the Grand Entry, post the colors, perform the Quadrille, a square dance on horseback, and travel throughout the year to appear at rodeos nationwide.

Enjoy refreshments and meet the Queens and Dandies.  The event is offered free with museum admission.