From the gritty No Country For Old Men to the more recent The Power of The Dog, cinema has kept the Wild West alive. This historical period, characterized by ruggedness, ended several years ago in the 1890s.
But the mystique of the era lives on in many ways in America. The legacy is almost palpable in Prescott and other parts of Yavapai County.
It is not surprising that remnants of the Old West persist in Arizona, from the Stetson black cowboy hat to dude ranches. After all, the territory housed some of the most famous figures and landmarks of the time.
Today, America has evolved. The lawlessness and robberies of back then are a thing of the past. And yet, the charm of bygone days persists in quaint shops and fashion choices.
Here are some ways to experience the Wild West in present-day America, if only for the thrill and magnetism of a dynamic time.
Ranches, Now Transformed Into Tourist Spots
Horses are synonymous with the American frontier, a bonus for tourists who love these affectionate and hard-working animals. While we no longer depend on horses as much as before, life on farmsteads continues to be enthralling.
Arizona has several ranches repurposed into full-purpose resorts. You can ride horses all day long or enjoy rodeos with stunning performances. You may also milk cows and watch cattle herded through fragrant forests and grasslands.
It is heartening to see entrepreneurs strive to preserve essential elements of US history by integrating them with tourism opportunities. For example, the Arizona Black Rodeo recognizes the contributions of African American soldiers and presents fascinating shows like bull riding and barrel racing.
In fact, these celebrations have a cross-cultural beginning – a beautiful emotion to respect in today’s divisive times. CNN notes that many black rodeos now celebrate the culture by integrating hallmark elements from music and cuisine.
Cowboy Hats and Denim, Now Timeless Fashion
Another enduring aspect of the Wild West is its distinct sense of fashion. Whether through theme parties or music concert attire, elements like cowboy hats and denim have proved timeless.
Arguably, the prime objective back then wasn’t fashion. The cowboy hat was a necessity to protect against sunshine and rain. The cotton shirts were breathable and comfortable for long days working in the fields. Even the vests were functional – all those pockets allowed people to carry multiple tools.
Today, the fashion world continues to be inspired by these clothes and boots. On a standard day out in Prescott’s touristy areas, you will likely find at least some people sporting Western belts and footwear.
As for the hat, even Bey wore it last year for Cowboy Carter, her music album. It came across as a genuine tribute to the culture, syncing well with her image as a maverick and rodeo queen.
According to Starr Western Wear, cowboy hats continue to offer durability and elegance even in modern America. Standout elements like silver-tone buckles and leather sweatbands build an eye-catching fashion statement.
Wild West Museums and Landmarks
Another immersive way to explore the Old West is by visiting historic sites where groundbreaking events have occurred. For instance, you can enter the home of Wyatt Earp, the legendary frontiersman. The restored home in Tombstone, Arizona now hosts an impressive collection of memorabilia.
Museums like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Wyoming offer a historically accurate and meticulous account of the times gone by. The research library can open up new avenues for study and expose you to frontiers you didn’t consider before.
For example, some people feel that the romanticization of cowboys was propaganda for a divided America. How much of the purported heroism is fiction?
Besides museums and restored homes, you can experience ghosts of the past in places like the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The sand formations and arid landscape seem right from an Old Western film. Indeed, John Ford filmed his 1939 film Stagecoach here. Since then, the territory has witnessed many shoots, including Back to the Future and Forrest Gump.
Visiting such places brings a feeling of being transported back in time. It awakens us to how the world has evolved. It also inspires a balance between preserving the legacy and moving on from negative erstwhile behaviors.
History has a habit of repeating itself. The Wild West, so replete with lawlessness and social conflict, was an undeniably difficult period for people. But it also stood for courage and adventure, and staying strong in adverse circumstances. Many regions in the US preserve the legacy to honor these much-needed traits.
Look out for striking remnants of the American frontier when you walk around town. History lives on in surprising ways, from our clothing choices to our tastes in music.
