Landon Samilton Sr. has always had a deep-rooted passion for horses and horse riding. However, it is his children who have truly carried on the legacy of being Black cowboys in their family. Their love for horses goes beyond just participating in rodeos.
Samilton, who was 52 years old at the time, was initially doubtful when his two sons and daughter approached him with a request to buy a horse. Living in Oklahoma City, they would have to find a suitable boarding place for the animal. Samilton made it clear that the horse would require daily care, including feeding and watering, with no exceptions. Despite his skepticism, his children made a promise that they would not lose interest in the horse.
More than ten years have passed, but Landon Jr., Jasmine, and Laden remain true to their word. The family diligently cares for their four magnificent horses, ensuring they receive ample pampering and regular exercise. Moreover, the Samiltons have expanded their horizons by venturing into the birthday party business, bringing happiness to others.
When they began their venture, Samilton intended to invest in smaller animals, as their main events were typically youth birthday parties. However, it was the adults who eagerly requested rides. They shared that they had never had the opportunity to ride a horse throughout their entire childhood, and this was their chance to experience it.
What does this say about the magical nature of horses?
“It’s such a stress-reliever,” Samilton expressed. “Once you mount that horse, you instantly feel like you’re conquering the world.”
In early October, Samilton took a trip to Lima for a refreshing five-hour trail ride. It was a well-deserved getaway for him, considering he runs a car dealership with his father.
“There were around 40 of us,” he mentioned. “I didn’t concern myself with striking any deals. I simply enjoyed the ride.”
Samilton’s parents were raised in Clearview, a town that was home to a rodeo founded by Romeo Alford Sr. in 1981. The tradition was continued by Romeo Alford Jr. until his unfortunate demise due to COVID. Samilton actively contributed to the production of the rodeo for numerous years, which involved tasks that were not particularly glamorous. The rodeo took place during the first weekend of August, which meant enduring the sweltering heat while mowing the grass and clearing away stray tree limbs.
During the rodeo season, Samilton and his children would eagerly put on vibrant shirts and participate in the grand entry alongside other members of the Clearview Roundup Club.
Rodeo events primarily cater to athletes seeking speed and adrenaline. However, it’s the pleasure and trail riders who belong to roundup clubs that offer a unique community service. These riders, accompanied by their majestic horses, bring beauty and grace to parades held across the state.
“We attend various parades such as Armed Forces and Veterans Day, 89ers Day, and Oklahoma City Stockyard,” Samilton shared. “And whenever there are parade competitions, we tend to come out as winners.”
Members of the Clearview Roundup Club actively participate in various rodeos and parades throughout the year. They can be seen riding in the parades and grand entries of rodeos such as Boley, Arcadia, Okmulgee, the Cowboys of Color, and Eastside rodeos in Oklahoma City. Additionally, they also take part in the Spencer Country Boys rodeo, which takes place in the town where their horses are boarded.
Black rodeos extend a warm welcome to white competitors.
“The white guys excel in bull riding,” Samilton acknowledged. “They hold their own, I must admit.”
Samilton enjoys sitting in the stands, observing the thrilling bronc riding and exciting relay races. Meanwhile, his younger son has expressed a keen interest in becoming a part of a relay team.
According to Samilton, keeping the Black rodeos going has become increasingly challenging. The expenses for liability insurance and maintaining the arena, as well as renting bulls and broncs, pose significant financial burdens. However, Clearview is determined to organize at least one more rodeo as a tribute to the Alford family.
Samilton expresses his hope that both the rodeos and Black towns in general will cease to vanish. According to him, rodeos play a crucial role in reuniting people like a close-knit family. Despite being competitors, they cheer each other on, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. Additionally, rodeos serve as a meeting ground where individuals from various states, such as Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, California, and beyond, gather together.
Challenges Faced by Oklahoma’s Oldest Black Rodeos in Boley and Clearview
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