Western Day offers glimpse into ‘Old West’

One would need a time machine to experience the true ambiance of the Old West.

The Dusty Riders Second Annual Western Day, however, offers a veritable facsimile of the rustic era.

The event will be held Saturday, Nov. 17, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the E.D. White Plantation Museum , located at 2295 Louisiana Highway 1 between Thibodaux and Labadieville.

Festivities will include roping, saddle-making, whip-plaiting demonstrations, petting zoo, arts and crafts, a musical lineup, concessions and games for children.

“It (Western Day) is something to keep the past alive and make sure people don’t forget how people used to live,” said Dusty Riders member and event co-coordinator Jake Granier. “Things were a lot harder back then compared to how they are nowadays.”

Western Day is the brainchild of Mike Naquin, president of the Dusty Riders. As a self-proclaimed Louisiana history buff, Naquin felt compelled to create a festivity that showcased an important chapter of American history.

“Last year was our first year, and we had 267 people show up in the middle of June,” he explained. “It was really hot and muggy – the heat was really bad. But it was (still) the second-highest crowd that ever showed up at the (E.D. White Plantation) museum.”

Naquin hopes a more favorable November climate will attract even more interested cowpokes.

“It should be a lot more pleasant for people to be out here,” he added.

The Dusty Riders is a non-profit group comprised of 28 members. The small ensemble of cowboy aficionados raises money for people needing medical assistance.

Western Day is a fund-raiser that enables the Dusty Riders to conduct benefit trail rides and other philanthropic activities.

It also enables its members to pursue their passion.

“It’s basically a get-together for horse people,” Naquin said. “The American cowboy is a dying breed.”

One of the event’s primary attractions will be Emil Hebert as “Panhandle Pete.”

“He (Pete) does really well with kids and even captivates the interest of adults with some history,” Naquin said.

Western Day will also feature authentic games that were played by kids more than 100 years ago.

“It (Western Day) is a step back in history, into the plantation and also the Old West and probably, the old cowboy days,” Naquin said.

For more information, call Naquin at (985) 665-5251, Granier at (985) 859-5514 or Tony Stein at (985) 859-5993.