Wagon
13
"Desperados"
Wagon
Boss: Beverly Wilson Smith
Assistant Wagon Boss: Joe Bennett
Mule Skinner:
Biography
The Desperados wagon has made the Salt Grass Trail Ride for more than 20 years. Member Welcome Wilson has made the ride for more than 35 years, longer than any other Desperado. The Desperados have welcomed distinguished riders including former Houston Chief of Police Harry Caldwell. The Desperados have won many awards over the years including Best Appearing Wagon for the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo in 1981, 1982, 1984, 1988, 1998, 2000, 2002, and 2003, and Best Show Wagon for the HLS&R in 1995, 1997 & 2003. The Desperados were 1st Place Best Wagon for the Salt Grass Trail in 1981, 1984, & 1986 and 2nd Place in 1985. Desperados riders have been awarded with the Longest Distance Awards: Outside the US - Ethan Burke from Saudi Arabia in 1994, Dave Smoot from Singapore 1005 & 1996, and for inside the US - Ethan Burke from Maryland in 1995, Rick Popper from Hartford CT in 1999 and John Nahas from Cortelane, ID in 2003. Sam Parker won a belt buckle as 1st Place Best Muleskinner in 1994 inb the competition held in Cat Spring for the Salt Grass Trail Ride. In 1994 Archie "Pa" Bennett, Sr. was awarded the Oldest Rider for the Salt Grass Trail. Other awards outside of the Salt Grass Trail are Best Wagon in 1998 for the 1st annual Cy-Fair VFW rodeo parade.