The Story of the American Royal

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Kansas City, Missouri, holds a cherished tradition that has spanned over a century—the American Royal.

From its humble beginnings as the National Hereford Show in 1899 to its current status as a multi-faceted extravaganza of livestock exhibitions, horse shows, rodeos, and the world's largest barbecue competition, the American Royal has woven itself into the very fabric of Kansas City's history and identity.

The Birth of a Tradition

The story of the American Royal began in October 1899 when the National Hereford Show graced the grounds of the Kansas City Stockyards. A remarkable 300 Herefords were sold, fetching an average price of $334—a substantial sum at the time. With an estimated attendance of 55,000, it was clear that this show had struck a chord with the people of Kansas City.

The show initially unfolded within a massive circus tent, as the Kansas City Stockyards served as the agricultural hub of the Midwest. In 1908, the Kansas City Stockyards erected a permanent structure to house the American Royal, setting the stage for decades of growth and evolution.

In 1905, the first official American Royal Horse Show took place, thanks to the assistance of prominent horse trainer Tom Bass. The following year, Loula Long Combs, a member of a prominent Kansas City family known for their exceptional horses, made her debut at the American Royal Horse Show.

Her impressive performances, often accompanied by her Boston bulldogs, earned her standing ovations. Loula continued to compete for over five decades, becoming an iconic figure at the American Royal.

Rodeos, Barbecue, and Education

Over the years, the American Royal expanded its offerings. In 1949, the first American Royal Rodeo was held, alongside the dairy show during the spring season. Although the rodeo and dairy show were briefly discontinued in 1951, the rodeo made a triumphant return in 1965, initially as a spring activity.

However, in 1976, the rodeo moved to the fall season, now bearing the prestigious PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) sanction. The rodeo often featured star-studded concerts, with legendary country artists like Kenny Rogers, Crystal Gayle, and Garth Brooks gracing the stage.

In 1980, the American Royal introduced its first Barbecue Contest, which quickly gained popularity. By 1998, it had officially become "The World's Largest Barbecue," attracting 340 competing teams. Today, The World Series of Barbecue® serves as the American Royal's largest fundraiser.

A Timeless Tradition

In 1991, the Kansas City Stockyards closed its doors, but the American Royal continued to thrive. In 1992, a new complex replaced the outdated facilities. The complex includes a museum, exhibition halls, Hale Arena, a theater, a restaurant, and administrative offices.

Today, the American Royal is poised for a new chapter as it plans to move to a new event center in Wyandotte County, Kansas. This state-of-the-art agricultural showcase promises to provide even larger facilities and opportunities for the future.

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This Week in the KC Yesterday Scavenger Hunt

Savoy Hotel and Grill

Once the oldest continuously operating hotel and restaurant west of the Mississippi River, The Savoy closed in the mid 2010s for major renovations before reopening in 2018.

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Municipal Auditorium

Municipal Auditorium was constructed as part of KC's "Ten-Year Plan," a bond program aimed at reviving the local economy during the Great Depression, providing both jobs and new public buildings.

This Week's Featured Home

21 E Concord Ave, Kansas City, MO 64112​
Built in 1910 · $1,349,999
Listing/Photos Courtesy - Kaleena Schumacher, Keller Williams

This exquisitely restored 6-bedroom, 3.2-bath Colonial mansion seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury. Completely renovated, it features new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, while preserving its original oak and Douglas Fir Pine floors.

The custom chef’s kitchen connects to a new patio and detached two-car garage. An updated office/sunroom opens onto a brick paver patio. The primary suite boasts a walk-in wet room with a soaker tub, dual showers, and custom-built closets.

With smart home technology and a full surround sound system, this beautifully restored home offers modern convenience in one of Kansas City's most desirable neighborhoods.

Thanks for reading, Reader!

What do you want to learn about next? Reply and let me know!

-Joe

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