About the Program
The Legend of Rawhide is an annual celebration of the, legend, and heritage of Niobrara County.
The Legend of Rawhide is a community performance in the truest sense of the word. Each year residents of Niobrara County and surrounding communities volunteer their time, energy, and determination in service of the Legend of Rawhide pageant.
The original script for the Legend of Rawhide was written by EvaLou "Bonnie" Paris in 1946 based on old stories passed down through the years. This script is still used today to wow audiences and show them a slice of our western heritage.
The Legend of Rawhide has made numerous contributions to the community over the past 50 years. Following the 1950 performances the Board was able to make a $6,000.00 donation which is equivalent to $60,000.00 today! The money was used to put up buildings on the Fairgrounds. Since 1986, the Legend Board has been able to donate $24,000.00 to Fairgrounds improvements. We have no permanent records before 1950 for the Legend of Rawhide. The Board works diligently for two weeks before the Pageant to prepare the grounds, fix electrical problems, repair picnic tables, and any other odd jobs that need to be done.
The most important thing that the Legend of Rawhide does for Niobrara County is to promote community spirit and goodwill. One for all and all for one is the Legend motto, and we all strive to make Niobrara County a place we are proud to live and call home!
With over 50 years behind us, we look forward to the future. To "Doc" Reckling and EvaLou "Bonnie" Paris we owe our dawn, to today's audience we owe our existence and from our youth will become our tomorrow. The Legend will be our lasting legacy, a tribute to our heritage.
Location
Lusk, Wyoming is located on the eastern edge of the state at the junction of Highways 85 and 20. The county seat and largest population center of Niobrara County, which is itself the least populated county in the state of Wyoming. Lusk and Niobrara County are situated between several major tourist attractions and makes a wonderful stop off point on one's trips to see the wonders of the American west. Whether you're headed to Yellowstone National Park, Mount Rushmore, Devil's Tower, or any of inumerable other locations Lusk is on your way! So on your family outing this summer, make plans to stop through Lusk and experience a piece of Western heritage at the Legend of Rawhide.