On Thursday, April 25, Hardin-Simmons University will be hosting its 42nd annual Western Heritage Day. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. and concludes at 12:30 p.m. This special day began in 1982 and is made possible through the donations of Guy Caldwell and Lou C. Evans.
HSU students are encouraged to volunteer for shifts. For every shift, student volunteers will receive one chapel credit. This is a great way to get engaged in the community and learn more about our western heritage. The event is targeted towards younger children, and helps them to learn more about what Abilene was like in the early to mid-1800s.
Life in Abilene and the rest of the Big Country was very different from how it is now. Children will have the unique opportunity to experience this with multiple western activities, booths, music and foods.
Cassie Mattern, director of University Events, says the day’s purpose is to, “teach new generations about the integrity, honor, character and hard work of frontier women and men left as a legacy for future generations of West Texans.”
HSU’s World Famous Cowboy Band will be playing at the event. In addition, the Six White Horses will demonstrate their ferrier treatments. This will show children the process of horse shoeing. All stations are designed to be interactive and educational. Some activities include, sheep shearing, a small farm animal petting area, branding pit and the western washing experience. Additionally, Ballet Folkorico and The Cat Claw Creek Boys Band will be performing.
Children get deputized upon entering the event. All kids will get to craft and bring home a toy modeled after toys from the 1800s. At the HSU branding pit some will also receive a branded piece of wood.
All HSU students and faculty are welcome to bring lunch, eat around the Bridges Courtyard and join the picnic. Lunch will be provided in the cafe for student volunteers. Biscuits and beans will be served at the chuck wagon during the event.
The Big Country has a strong history to draw from while providing this educationally enriching experience. HSU students are welcome to volunteer for any shift throughout the day. Come and join us as we embrace our Western roots. You will not regret it.