Famous Latter-day Saints

LDS Cowboy, Artist, and Inventor Named One of Wyoming's Most Famous People

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"In a state full of cowboys, Earl Bascom may have been the best."

That's what news commentator Rich Roddam said after LDS man Earl Bascom became one of only 13 people named on a list of Wyoming's most famous celebrities. And it doesn't appear that kind of praise comes lightly. 

Considered the "Father of Modern Rodeo," the legendary Canadian cowboy Earl Bascom was most well-known for his rodeo equipment inventions, which are still used in rodeos today. 

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Though that alone is worth recognition, this award isn't even Bascom's first rodeo, so to speak. 

Born in Vernal, Utah, in 1906, Bascom grew up in Canada and served as a missionary in the Southern States Mission. He also graduated from BYU and competed in rodeo from 1916 to 1940, breaking records and winning several all-around championships before passing away in 1995.

In 2013, Bascom was inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum located in Oklahoma City. He also received the ProRodeo Hall of Fame's "Pioneer Award" for his contributions to the sport.

In 2015, Bascom was the first rodeo champion to be inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. 

► You'll also like: LDS Rodeo Champ Becomes First Cowboy in Canada's Sports Hall of Fame

And last year, Bascom was also named one of Canada's most famous athletes by the Toronto Star and his artwork and sculptures, for which he is also famous, are scattered in museums throughout the U.S. and Canada. 

Before his death, Bascom also served as a bishop and patriarch in California, leaving behind a legacy of service in addition to his incredible achievements. 

Lead image from EWB Museum
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