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The National Western Stock Show (NWSS) officially kicked off Jan. 9 with a parade starting at Denver’s Union Station. Held annually every January at the National Western Complex in Denver, Colorado, the event is one of the region's oldest livestock shows, dating back to 1906.

Tamar McKee with CU ��«����Ƶ's Center of American West

Tamar McKee is manager of programs and operations at CU ��«����Ƶ’s Center of the American West, and previously collaborated with the NWSS in 2020 while running a program series for History Colorado. She provides a unique perspective on the enduring significance of the stock show in Colorado.

“The NWSS has remained relevant for over 100 years because the ranching and agricultural ways of life in the American West are so integral to both the economy and culture of the U.S. and the world,” said McKee.  “People will always need to eat, people will (hopefully) always feel connected to animals, and there are deep roots of personal and cultural heritage for so many in those needs.”

McKee also notes the stock show’s ability to adapt over time: “The NWSS appears to be evolving alongside the West, recognizing that there is power in educating generations to come, and that remaining relevant in a metropolis like Denver means preserving history while also embracing cutting edge technology, techniques, ideas and values.”

McKee is available for media interviews to discuss the history of the NWSS, as well as its cultural and economic significance. Email cunews@colorado.edu to arrange interviews.