Age: 62 | 1870 - 1932          Induction Year: 1997

Located at:
Exchange Ave E. Cowtown Coliseum

Bill Pickett, African-American cowboy credited with developing the rodeo event now known as steer wrestling. He developed a style of grabbing a steer by the horns, biting the lip or nose of the steer, and then falling back with his arms in the air. In 1905 Joe Miller of the 101 Ranch saw Pickett perform his feat in Fort Worth and immediately hired him to join the 101 Wild West Show. He traveled the world throwing steers and became a celebrity. He was the first African-American inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame. A bronze statue in front of Cowtown Coliseum commemorates Pickett and his accomplishments.

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