Bonham -- The 58th edition of the Kueckelhan Ranch Rodeo will pay homage to the man who created the longest running family-owned rodeo in history.

From humble beginnings in 1955 as a friendly competition between Fannin County cowboys comparing skills in a make-shift arena comprised of hog wire strung up on a rough board fence while spectators watched from borrowed church pews, Kueckelhan Ranch Rodeo grew into an annual event that attracts thousands of rodeo fans each year.

All that happened under the guidance and watchful eye of Haynes Kueckelhan.  Mr. Kueckelhan, 77, passed away Friday, July 19 in Plano, Texas from lingering effects of a fall he had suffered a couple of weeks earlier.

The 58th annual Kueckelhan Ranch Rodeo, slated for July 27-29 at the arena on Hwy. 78 north of Bonham, will include a tribute to the vision and perseverance of the man who made this possible.

This year's rodeo will include an appearance by singer Susie McEntire on Thursday night, along with nightly appearances by trick roper Anthony Lucia as well as Trish Lynn and the All American Cowgirl Chicks.

Gates swing open at 6:30 p.m. each evening and the rodeo performance will begin at 8:00 p.m.

photos by Allen Rich