The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show, a long-standing Oregon event in Union, marks its upcoming 116th year with an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation by the Oregon Heritage Commission.
The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show is the 27th event in Oregon to be designed an Oregon Heritage Tradition. Other Oregon Heritage Traditions include the Great Oregon Steam-up in Brooks, Oregon State Fair, Medford’s Pear Blossom Festival, the Pendleton Round-Up, and the Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana.
“The designation recognizes those traditions that have been ongoing for 50 years or more and that add to the livability and identity of the state,” said Katie Henry, Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator.
In 1908 the event began as the Union Horse Show and included a parade, horse exhibitions, a few horse races, music by the Union Concert Band, bronc busting with the Stanley Bros. furnishing the stock, and a baseball game. Today it draws over 5,000 people from all over the state but especially the Union, Baker, Umatilla, & Wallowa counties. It claims the title of being “The Oldest Show in the Northwest”. It still includes original elements such as rodeos, the parade, and a youth livestock show, but has expanded its events to span over 7 days; the first full week of June.
“Traditions and history are the roots of the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show and we are honored to be recognized by the Commission as a long-standing Heritage Tradition event.” Said Katelyn Smith, a director of the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show. “We are looking forward to continue building our history for many more years to come.”
The main focus of the event is youth and agriculture. The show features a 4-H & FFA livestock auction that generates over $500k annually for the youth exhibitors so they can stay connected to the agricultural roots of the region and continue the practices and traditions.
This year this volunteer run event will have a kick-off on April 8 to start getting organizers and participants excited for the June event. For more information about the kick-off event and the upcoming show in June, visit https://www.easternoregonlivestockshow.com/.
An Oregon Heritage Tradition must have been in continuous operation for more than 50 years, demonstrate a public profile and reputation that distinguishes it from more routine events, and add to the livability and identity of the state. The application process along with a list of designated Traditions is available at http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/HCD/OHC/pages/oht.aspx.
The Oregon Heritage Commission coordinates efforts to solve statewide heritage issues through grants, education, and advocacy, and also promotes heritage tourism efforts. Learn more about the Commission and its efforts by visiting www.oregonheritage.org.
