National Cowgirl Hall of Fame Honors Female Success in the West

The induction luncheon for the 2018 National Cowgirl Hall of Fame was held on November 1 at the Will Rogers Memorial Center’s Round Up Inn in Fort Worth, Texas. The event honored women of the past as well as the present. This year’s inductees, like those before them, exemplify courage, independence, and resilience, as well as a trailblazing spirit. This year’s class included a medical doctor who is also a Paralympian, a horse master whose work can be seen in “Wonder Woman” as well as the “Game of Thrones” series, a champion barrel racer, an early trailblazer and newspaper owner, and a master engraver.

Photo: Facebook/National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

Dedicated to celebrating and honoring the women who have exemplified their own brand of resilience and independence, the 43rd Annual Induction Luncheon and Ceremony held by the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame featured two women as international inductees. This was the first time that anyone residing outside of the U.S. had been honored. With a focus on preserving the history and impact these women had on the American West, the international inductees were recognized for their efforts specific to elements of that lifestyle, coupled with the spirit and enthusiasm with which they pursued their dreams.

Photo: Facebook/National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

In past years, many of the inductees have been ranchers, competitive performers, writers and artists, entertainers, and leaders of industry. Since its inception in 1975, over 200 amazing women have been inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame. Four to five ladies are chosen annually for this honor, selected from hundreds of excellent nominees. This year’s inductees included Sherry Cervi, Caroline Lockhart, Camilla Naprous, Diane Scalese, and Dr. Angelika Trabert. Bios for each of these women and overviews of their successes can be found at the link provided here.

Photo: Facebook/McIntire Saddlery

In addition, the event features a holiday shopping market showcasing western gifts, décor, clothing and accessories, and much more, as well as a champagne reception and viewing of custom-designed table centerpieces. Market participants feature items that reflect the style and spirit of the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame as well as its inductees, and the selection is unsurpassed in terms of quality and authenticity – much of which has been made right here in Texas. Businesses that are owned and operated by women entrepreneurs, such as McIntire Saddlery, are an exemplary highlight of the event. These businesses carry on the same passion and resilience in their craft that the inductees to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame also exhibit. It’s a unique event and one that fosters an appreciation for these women, past and  present, while recognizing role models for the future in the process.