A group of Amarillo businessmen, united by a shared passion for horses, established a riding club.
The History of the Will Rogers Range Riders
1937
1938
On July 4, 1938, Amarillo celebrated the opening of the Will Rogers Memorial Highway, also known as US Route 66. Later that year, those Amarillo businessmen, traveled to Oklahoma City to request permission from the Rogers family to use the Will Rogers name to name their club.
1941
In response to the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Range Riders volunteered to help defend the area. Each member was issued a Winchester rifle, though their services were ultimately not required.
1947
The Range Riders purchased 50 acres west of Amarillo, marking a significant step toward establishing a permanent club facility. That same year, they represented Amarillo at the inaugural parade for Texas Governor Buford Jester in Austin.
1951
The club relocated the original Fairgrounds stable building to their new land, and repurposed it as the Recreation Hall. They also acquired and moved the historic Mills Bivins home to serve as the clubhouse, which solidified their presence on the property.
1952
The club launched an annual Easter egg hunt for the children of Amarillo, a tradition that continues to this day.
1969
The Range Riders were again invited to represent Amarillo at the inaugural parade for Texas Governor Preston Smith, and took part in a celebrated journey to the state capital.
1970s
2006
2012
The Range Riders were again invited to represent Amarillo at the inaugural parade for Texas Governor Preston Smith, and took part in a celebrated journey to the state capital.
The club was approached by investors wanting to purchase the property that is present day Lowes and Walmart, off Bell and Amarillo Blvd. With the proceeds, Will Rogers Range Riders moved to their current location and built the existing facility on the 90 acres.
Will Rogers Range Riders and Rope for the Cure (a jr diabetes foundation) had mutual benefits from forming a parent foundation which is now the WRRR Foundation. A monetary giving back organization to the local community in Amarillo.
PRESENT DAY
Now celebrating 86 years, the Will Rogers Range Riders have grown to over 100 members from varied professions. They continue to uphold the club’s founding values, supporting the Amarillo community through events, charity functions, and as a welcoming space for riders.