Vanished Worlds, Enduring People

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Joseph Elam Stimson. Souvenir of Cheyenne Frontier Show, 1896-1902. Brooklyn, New York, 1902. [view first image] | [view second image]

Native Americans have been part of Cheyenne Frontier Days, a popular Wyoming rodeo, since 1898 when Buffalo Bill’s entire troupe participated in its parade. Then, as now, visiting Indians performed dances for enthusiastic audiences. The Indian Village at Frontier Park, at first an informal area where Native Americans were encamped for the event, is always a popular attraction. Today, food vendors and booths selling native arts are the backdrop for native performances. Stimson, a local photographer, was noted for his pictures of the town of Cheyenne in its early years.


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