“The old west is still living, ripping and snorting at the Old Settlers Reunion”, describes the 1972 Reunion held on Saturday, April 22. On this date Cheyenne celebrated with the greatest event in its 80 year history. There were people present from many states to enjoy the festivities of the day as they visited with old friends.
The highlight of the day was the parade, which required two hours to pass in review before the grandstand. There were 14 riding clubs, 7 bands, old cars, decorated floats, wagon trains, cavalry men, a Mounted Boy Scout Troop, the 1972 C&A Queen Faye Ann Churchill, Indian Princess Phillis Hart and Pioneer Woman Mrs. W.L. Chalfant, all climaxed by George Foster, Jr. riding a Brahma bull. Oldest old timer to register was 93 year old Ed Casady of Tulare, CA. Spec Lester was President and Mel Danner served as Secretary. An estimated 20,000 people attended the festivities. Over 190 cowboys participated in the Rodeo with Beutler & Son Stock and announced by Sen. Clem McSpadden. The McAlester Prison Band entertained.
C.E. McCoy won the whiskers contest, Dad dye the boys pioneer dress contest; Mrs. Leland Chandler placed first wit her pioneer dress and Bully Martin stole the fiddler’s show. All of these events were part of the pre-reunion events attended by hundreds of people. They also included a music festival sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
C&A Queen Faye Ann Churchill had attendants: Gail Merrick, Alexia Reynolds, Janie Shaw, Kathy Churchill, Flo Daniels, Susan Gilliland, Donna Porter and Valerie Bonser. Winners of events: Unusual Ray Young’s Threshing Machine; Old Cars by Larue McEntire; Bands from Sayre; Riding Club of Elk City; Commercial by Convalescent Home; Organizations by AMPI.