On Saturday, September 19, community members gathered at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds for a heartfelt dedication ceremony honoring the All‑American Indian Days and the historic Miss Indian America pageant. The event followed the Miss Indian America program held earlier that day at the Museum at the Bighorns.
Celebrating a Shared Heritage
Judy Slack of the MIA Collective opened the ceremony, welcoming the crowd and explaining the significance of the plaque. “This stone was carefully selected, and after several years of planning, it finally stands here for all to see,” she said.
The bronze plaque reads, “All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America Pageant 1951 to 1978. Beginning in 1951 with the crowning of Lucy Yellowmule as Sheridan WYOYO Rodeo Queen Arlene Wesley, and the first Miss Indian America in 1953. This site became the center of All American Indian Days and the Miss Indian America pageant. From 1951 to 1978, these events fostered friendship, goodwill, and mutual understanding among all peoples. May their legacy of community building continue to guide future generations in respect and appreciation for one another.”
Honoring Pioneers
The dedication highlighted the early leaders who helped shape the tradition. Lucy Yellowmule, the first Miss Indian America, was remembered for her role in bridging cultures. Her nephew, present at the ceremony, shared personal reflections on his aunt’s lasting impact.
Attendees also heard stories about Arlene Wesley, the 1951 Sheridan WYOYO Rodeo Queen, whose participation helped launch the pageant’s national prominence. The plaque serves as a tangible reminder of the decades‑long commitment to cultural exchange that defined the events.
Community Impact
Local residents expressed pride that the plaque will be visible to thousands of visitors each year, reinforcing Sheridan’s reputation as a place where diverse traditions are celebrated. “It’s a testament to the friendship and goodwill that have always been a part of our community,” said longtime volunteer Maria Hernandez.
The dedication also underscored the ongoing relevance of the events’ core values—mutual respect, cultural appreciation, and community building. Organizers hope the plaque will inspire future generations to continue these traditions of friendship.
Looking Ahead
While the All‑American Indian Days and Miss Indian America pageant concluded in 1978, the spirit of the gatherings lives on through local cultural festivals, educational programs, and continued partnerships with tribal nations. The fairgrounds’ new landmark ensures that this legacy remains a visible part of Sheridan’s public landscape.
Visitors to the fairgrounds are encouraged to read the plaque and reflect on the historic contributions of the Indigenous peoples and the broader community that made the events possible. The dedication ceremony concluded with a traditional song performed by local youth, symbolizing the enduring harmony between cultures.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
