Organized in 1922, the Sweetwater Hereford Breeders Association and Auction Sale, now the Sweetwater Area Hereford Association, is considered Texas' third oldest group formed to promote the Hereford beef breed. Its first officers were Walter L. Boothe, president; G.E. Bradford and J.D. Dulaney, vice presidents; and E.P. Neblett, secretary. The Texas Hereford Association assisted local breeders in early sales. The first sale was held on March 1, 1922. After semi-annual events at first, sales are now held annually. Some consignors to the Golden Anniversary Sale on December 4, 1972, came from families of the organizers.