On October 8, 1951, nine men gathered at the Cleburne Livestock Auction Barn to create the Johnson County Sheriff's Posse, a local riding group intended to promote good will among horsemen and other area citizens, create interest in western stock horses, and preserve the traditions of the old west. During its first years, the group leased the fair grounds of the North Central Texas Fair and Rodeo Association and held activities there, then first sponsored a rodeo at the fair grounds in May 1953. In 1962, it purchased 41 acres along State Highway 171/174, soon built an arena, and relocated its clubhouse from the leased property. In 1963, the wives and daughters of members formed the Johnson County Sheriffettes to help with projects, ride in local parades, and represent the Posse, and that group was later absorbed into the regular membership. Community outreach has remained central to the organization's work from the beginning, including an annual Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeo since 1953, toy collections for needy children, college scholarships, the formation of the Junior Sheriff's Posse for local children in 1956, and sponsorship of a yearly youth rodeo. Today, the Johnson County Sheriff's Posse continues to promote western traditions and serve as a good will ambassador throughout the community.