From 1947 to 1953, the Sanish Rodeo drew thousands of visitors to the small town of Sanish, North Dakota, from all corners of the state to watch events including Saddle Bronc Riding, Calf Roping, Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, Trick Riding, and a Free-For-All Horse Race. A July 6, 1950 edition of the Sanish Sentinel said the arena was surrounded with humanity about 10 to 15 deep and that the crowd, estimated at about 18,000 to 20,000, was not disappointed. It was often said that the best of the west ride at Sanish because riders from all across the country came to test their luck. Champions in the main events received gold and silver bell buckets, overall champions received a saddle, and prize money was also awarded, totaling $3,600.00 in 1953. The rodeo ended in 1953 when the rising waters of Lake Sakakawea inundated the town. The rodeo grounds, located in a wooded area along the west bank of the river, now lie almost directly beneath the Four Bears Bridge. In 2001, the Sanish Rodeo was inducted into the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame in its Special Achievement Division in tribute to its role in North Dakota history and the state's cowboy legacy.