World Champion Cowgirl Lady Bareback Rider Ella Merrifield Georgie of Arizona

Description

Mrs. Eva Nichols  of Glenns Ferry Idaho, also known as Ella Merryfield on the early womens rodeo circuit, has worn the Square Dance outfit listed for sale.  Ella was unique being the first World Champion Lady Bareback Rider.  Se left home to start rodeoing at age 16 in the early 1900's.  She rode under the name Ella Merryfield (she did not want her mother to know she was rodeoing).  Her name became familiar with rodeos in Pendleton, Cheyenne, and the Calgary Stampede.  Later she was the featured star of these shows.  She was a trick rider and Roman raced.  After 4 years of rodeoing, she joined one of the circuses of the day.  The dress outfit was given to a lady who helped her in her later years.  Ella wanted her to have something of her past.  Georgie of Arizona made the dress and top outfit late 40's 50's. what a cowgirl