A new exhibit at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California, invites visitors to explore the captivating intersection of cowboy culture and Hollywood storytelling. The exhibition, titled “Cowboys: History & Hollywood,” showcases how the archetype of the cowboy evolved from a hardworking cattle driver to a legendary figure embodying strength and freedom.
The library describes the exhibit as an immersive experience that highlights the cowboy’s transformation, stating, “Discover how the cowboy — once a rugged laborer driving cattle across unforgiving terrain — became a larger-than-life legend symbolizing strength, self-reliance, and freedom.” Among the diverse collection, attendees can view rare photographs, historic artifacts, and costumes from iconic Western films.
One of the standout attractions allows visitors to engage interactively by picking up a replica rifle that uses light technology to electronically knock down targets. This innovative exhibit element appeals to both young audiences and Western enthusiasts alike.
Melissa Giller, chief marketing officer for the Ronald Reagan Foundation and Institute, emphasizes the blend of history and Hollywood in the exhibition. “The exhibition merges into the Hollywood and silver screen story of the cowboy, from costumes and props to objects, including Roy Rogers and Dale Evans’ actual horses and a taxidermied dog,” she noted.
The exhibit features a range of authentic items that deepen the connection between history and popular culture. Among them is a fur jacket worn by President Theodore Roosevelt, a Robinson R22 helicopter adorned with the Ronald Reagan Rancho del Cielo brand, and a .22 caliber revolver that once belonged to Roosevelt. The display also includes President Ronald Reagan’s red 1953 Willys Jeep CJ-6, used during his time at Rancho del Cielo, his former ranch located near Santa Barbara.
In addition to these significant artifacts, visitors can examine a Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle that was once associated with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West shows, further illustrating the rich history of the American West.
The exhibition runs until the end of the year, making it a timely opportunity for both locals and tourists to delve into a captivating narrative that intertwines the rugged allure of cowboys with the glamour of Hollywood. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library continues to serve as a vital cultural institution, preserving and presenting the stories that have shaped American identity.
For those interested in history, film, or the enduring legacy of the American cowboy, “Cowboys: History & Hollywood” offers a unique and engaging experience that celebrates both the myth and the reality of this iconic figure.
