History:
No history of the Livermore Rodeo would be complete without mentioning that in 1918, World War I was still raging. The Red Cross was in dire need of funds, so California cities and towns were assessed. Livermore's quota was $1,200, which was quite a large amount at that time.

John McGlinchey, president of the Livermore Stockmen's Protective Association answered the challenge by proposing that a rodeo be held to earn the money. He appointed a committee, consisting of Joseph Concannon, Chairman, and James Gallagher, John Flynn, A. W. Ebright and Charles Graham to help with planning the event. They would work with the officers of the Stockmen's Protective Association including John J. Callaghan, Peter Connolly, Patrick Connolly, H. T. Holly, M. C. Mulqueeny, and Peter Moy.

A portion of the James Anderson ranch, located near what is now 580 and Portola Ave. off-ramp, was the logical choice for the location of the rodeo, because there was a natural basin for holding stock and a rim that served as elevated seating for spectators. A fence was constructed around the basin to form the arena. Circus seats were leased. Cars were allowed to park in the back of these seats and many people watched the rodeo from their cars.

From eye witness accounts, the Grand Entry was a most thrilling event. Two horses posed at the top of the hill east of the arena. Christine Thiel was on a white horse and carrying the American flag. James McGlinchey, on a bay horse was carrying another flag. At a given signal, the horses raced down the hill - the white horse in the lead. At the foot of the hill, many other horses followed the first two into the arena forming a colorful grand entry. Much of the stock came from local ranches, but some was brought in from other areas. Due to the efforts of the Livermore G. F. Madsen, proprietor of the Bell Theater, Universal Studios filmed the event. The newsreel was shown throughout the country - Livermore was on the map!