Impresarios of the Rodeo Arena: The Story of the Beutler Stock Contracting Legacy

For more than 90 years the Beutler name has been synonymous with professional rodeo livestock, colorful shows, and first-class productions.  Brothers Elra, Jake, and Lynn Beutler began this long, successful journey in September 1929, when they trailed ten horses to the Custer County Fair Rodeo in Clinton, Oklahoma, and decided that this would be their life’s endeavor. Five generations later, the Beutler name remains the most respected in the rodeo livestock contractor business.

With unmatched professionalism, a keen business sense, and skillful handling of rough stock, the brothers produced some of the most popular rodeos across the United States. They grew their herd, controlled the livestock-contracting business in Oklahoma, and became the most prominent in the national rodeo circuit. They also were known for incorporating celebrities, including television actors, movie stars, and singers, into their productions.

By the 1950s, the brothers were the largest stock contractor in the country. They were producing the most well-known and respected events, including Cheyenne [Wyoming] Frontier Days; Snake River Stampeded in Nampa, Idaho; Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo in Colorado Springs Colorado; New Mexico State Fair Rodeo in Albuquerque, New Mexico; National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver, Colorado; and the Oklahoma State Fair Rodeo in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The brothers also were instrumental in forming the first National Finals Rodeo in Dallas, Texas, in 1959.

Known for their good eye for bad bulls and broncs, the Beutler stable was revered. Old Spec, a spotted, cross-bred Brahma bull, was only ridden seven times in more than 350 attempts. Their Palomino gelding Descent claimed the title “Bucking Horse of the Year” a record six times. According to rodeo authorities, "Beutlers' stock was a cowboy's nightmare."

Five generations later, operated as Beutler & Son Rodeo Company, the family continues the tradition of award-winning livestock sought out by cowboys, rodeo committees, and fans and annually provides quality livestock to the National Finals Rodeo.