During the exhilarating Silver Spurs Rodeo in Kissimmee, audiences are treated to more than just bull riding and barrel racing. One of the most captivating spectacles is the performance by the Silver Spurs Club’s Quadrille team. Often described as “square dancing on horseback,” these equestrian ballets showcase remarkable horsemanship and precision, becoming a beloved highlight for both locals and tourists. But beyond the dazzling display, the Quadrille holds a deeper significance: it’s the very foundation upon which the esteemed Silver Spurs organization was built.
From Ranch Gatherings to Rodeo Roots: The Quadrille’s Origin Story
The story of the Quadrille and the Silver Spurs began on a relaxed Saturday evening in May 1940. Young ranchers from across Osceola County gathered at Geech and Connie Partin’s ranch for a barbecue. Amidst shared meals and camaraderie, they discovered a mutual passion for rodeo activities and exceptional horsemanship. This shared interest sparked regular gatherings, where these ranchers would meet at each other’s properties, not just for fellowship, but to practice and perfect the intricate movements of the Quadrille Dance.
This informal equestrian group gained unexpected prominence in January 1941. When Spessard Holland was elected governor of Florida, these talented horsemen were invited to perform in his inauguration parade. Their Quadrille performance captivated onlookers and garnered statewide attention, marking a pivotal moment. Inspired by this success and their shared passion, this group of friends formally established the Silver Spurs Riding Club, laying the groundwork for a legacy deeply intertwined with the quadrille dance.
Expanding Horizons: Quadrille Performances for Community and Charity
Throughout the early 1940s, the Silver Spurs Riding Club’s Quadrille team broadened their performance circuit. They showcased their equestrian artistry in various events, traveling to Moultrie, Georgia, participating in the Florida State Kiwanis Convention in Orlando, and even riding in the prestigious Orange Bowl Parade in Miami. By 1942, the club’s mission expanded beyond celebrations and parades. Recognizing the power of their performances to draw crowds, they began leveraging their Quadrille shows to raise funds for vital local nonprofits and charities. Beneficiaries included organizations supporting Crippled Children, the American Red Cross, and the Army-Navy Relief Show. The overwhelmingly positive response to these charitable performances and the funds raised inspired the club to take their community impact even further, ultimately leading to the creation of the Silver Spurs Rodeo in 1944.
A Living Tradition: The Quadrille Dance Today
Even now, as the Silver Spurs Rodeo continues to thrive, the Quadrille remains a central element of the Silver Spurs tradition. Peewee, junior, and adult Silver Spurs Quadrille teams dedicate themselves to weekly practices, honing their skills in preparation for rodeo performances. For these dedicated individuals, it’s not just about putting on a captivating show; it’s about sharing a passion with friends and family and upholding a cherished legacy. For generations of ranching families and Kissimmee residents, the Silver Spurs Quadrille team represents a living piece of Osceola County history, a captivating spectacle that welcomes newcomers and allows long-time city natives to reconnect with their heritage.
