Jim Shoulders – Henryetta’s Legendary Rodeo Champion

Jim Shoulders, widely celebrated as the “Babe Ruth of Rodeo,” stands as one of the most accomplished cowboys in the history of the sport—and proudly called Henryetta, Oklahoma his home.

Born in 1928, Shoulders rose to national fame through extraordinary talent, grit, and determination. Over the course of his career, he earned an unmatched 16 World Championships, including titles in bull riding, bareback bronc riding, and the coveted All‑Around Cowboy category. His dominance throughout the 1950s helped shape modern professional rodeo and set standards still admired today.

After retiring from competition, Jim Shoulders chose Henryetta as the place to build his ranch, raise his family, and invest in the future of rodeo. From his Henryetta ranch, he operated one of the country’s first rough‑stock rodeo schools and raised world‑class bucking bulls—including the legendary Tornado. His commitment to the sport and to the community made him a beloved local figure and an ambassador for Henryetta across the nation.

Jim Shoulders passed away in 2007, but his legacy continues to live on. Henryetta honors him not only as a world champion, but as a neighbor, mentor, and hometown hero whose impact still inspires generations of cowboys and cowgirls.

The Henryetta Chamber of Commece proudly features an extensive collection of rodeo memorabilia generously donated by the family of world‑renowned champion Jim Shoulders. Visitors are invited to stop by during Chamber office hours to explore this unique display and take a closer look into the life and legacy of Henryetta’s own World‑Famous Cowboy.

_{(918)658-3331}

_{415 West Main Street}

_{Tuesday-Friday 12pm-5pm}

Join us during Labor Day weekend for the Jim Shoulders Living Legends Rodeo, a proud Henryetta tradition since 1993. As you enter the rodeo grounds, you’ll be greeted by the Jim Shoulders Monument, standing proudly at the Nichols Park gates in honor of Henryetta’s world‑famous cowboy.