Willie Cowan and his family have a long history of ranching and rodeoing in South Dakota, with Willie being influential in creating rodeo events in the state. Growing up in Highmore, South Dakota, Willie and his brother Pat started rodeoing at a young age and were part of the original founders of the South Dakota rodeo Association and the South Dakota 4-H rodeo. Willie competed in various rodeo events and won the South Dakota state high school bronc riding title in 1955.
Willie and his wife Loretta raised six children who were all involved in rodeo, passing down the family tradition to the next generation. The family was instrumental in starting the South Dakota 4-H rodeo program, which has become a significant part of the state’s rodeo heritage. Willie served as the president of the 4-H rodeo committee for 15 years, and Loretta was the secretary, emphasizing the importance of family-oriented and skill-based competition.
The Cowan family’s legacy in rodeo is preserved through their involvement in various rodeo events, including driving wagon teams and participating in community activities. Their family heirlooms and history are displayed at the Casey Tibbs rodeo Center in Fort Pierre, South Dakota, and their stories have been compiled into a book titled “It’s a long story, but a good one!” to ensure their legacy is passed down to future generations.
