Bonaparte cowboy Archie Williams will be inducted into the BC Cowboy Hall of Fame in April for his Competitive Achievements.
Williams was born and raised on the Bonaparte Reserve in Cache Creek, where he spent a lot of time with his uncle, coach and teacher Dave Perry.
When not competing he worked as a cowboy and farrier, raised and trained horses, and put on roping clinics. Williams competes mostly in timed events, but team roping is his favorite. He also rides as a pick-up man in bucking stock events. In 1974 he made history as the first pick-up man chosen for Canadian Nationals Finals Rodeo, chosen by the cowboys themselves. He is a five-time BC Team Ropers Assoc champion, and roped with numerous cowboys throughout the years, although for over 15 years with his friend Fred Stevenson.
At 68 years old he is one of the only cowboys of his age still competing in rodeo. Today he ropes with his sons and grandsons. Williams was presented with the BCRA “Sportsman of the year” award in 2010.
He will be inducted at the Williams Lake Indoor Rodeo in April.
Also being inducted into the BC Cowboy Hall of Fame this year are Mike Puhallo for Artistic Achievement; Stephen “Hyde” Archacan for Working Cowboy; the Sammy Pozzobon family for Family; the Pooley Ranch (Nicola) for Century Ranch; John Dodd for Working Cowboy; Frank Teer for Ranching Pioneer; and Larry Ramstad for Working Cowboy and Horseman.
The Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin is located in Williams Lake and is the home of the BC Cowboy Hall of Fame. It is located on the corner of 4th Ave. and Borland St.
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