Woodlake is a small town
nestled within the foothills of the central Sierra Nevada
Mountains, a mere 20 minutes from the gates of Sequoia National
Park. A city with true western hospitality, Woodlake is situated
in some of the San Joaquin Valley's richest fertile agricultural
farmlands. It is also host to the widely renowned Woodlake Lions
Rodeo, taking place annually every May. The Rodeo has been a big
draw for rodeo fans and professional rodeo cowboys for what has
now been over 50 years.
Originally the home of the
Yokut and Wutchumna Indians who lived around Bravo Lake, Woodlake
area was known for its herds of elk and antelope. The area became
a significant agricultural producer during the 1870's when
ranchers moved in and began raising cattle and sheep. Irish
cowboys used to drive their cattle from here to Carson City,
Nevada where beef was slaughtered and sold to miners. Portuguese
sheepherders from this area transported wool by wagon to The Port
of Stockton. |