Fort Worth, Texas – October 24, 2024 - The Texas Trail of Fame recently announced that Patrick Gottsch, founder of RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel, will be honored with a star on the Texas Trail of Fame in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. This esteemed recognition will take place during the 2024 induction ceremonies, where Gottsch will join a distinguished group of individuals who have made significant contributions to the Western way of life.
“We are immensely proud to celebrate our father, Patrick Gottsch, with this prestigious honor,” said Raquel Gottsch Koehler and Gatsby Gottsch Solheim, daughters and owners of Rural Media Group. “His unwavering commitment to uplifting rural America and championing the values of the Western lifestyle has always inspired us. This recognition from the Texas Trail of Fame not only honors his remarkable legacy but also underscores the importance of preserving the rich traditions that define our culture. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to share in this significant moment.”
Patrick’s creation of RFD-TV, the nation’s first 24-hour television network dedicated to rural America, and The Cowboy Channel, focusing on the rich traditions of Western sports, has forever changed the landscape of rural television. Even more recently the company launched The Cowgirl Channel and has been actively highlighting women in agriculture and ranching with FarmHER and RanchHER episodes airing on RFD-TV.
Through his visionary leadership, Gottsch has brought vital attention to rural lifestyles, agriculture, and rodeo sports, establishing himself as a pioneer in media for rural communities.
The Texas Trail of Fame honors individuals, organizations, and groups that have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Western heritage. Gottsch’s unwavering commitment to broadcasting the Western lifestyle, values, and culture is perfectly aligned with the mission of the Texas Trail of Fame.
Other 2024 Texas Trail of Fame Inductees Include:
- Jerry Baird - Rancher/Educator/Chuckwagon Cook
- Arvol & Paula Looking Horse - Lakota spiritual leaders
- Paul W. McCallum - Destination Development/Preservationist
- Reba McEntire - Entertainer/Singer
- Kit & Charlie Moncrief - Ranchers/Philanthropists
- Chuck Norris - Actor/Rancher
- Dale Robertson - Rancher/Actor
- Prof. Richard F. Selcer - Historian/Author/Educator
- Leta Smothermon - Stockyards Legend
Schedule of Events
Saturday, October 26, 2024
10:00 AM | Texas Trail of Fame Induction Unveiling Ceremony
Location: Steps of the Stockyards Exchange Building
11:45 AM | Patrick Gottsch Star Unveiling
Location: In Front of The Cowboy Channel / RFD-TV Building
About the Texas Trail of Fame
The Texas Trail of Fame, located in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, was established to honor those who have significantly contributed to preserving and perpetuating the heritage and traditions of the Western way of life. Inductees are recognized with a bronze star embedded in the walkways of the historic district, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
For more information visit, https://www.texastrailoffame.org and to request interviews or a media invite to the Patrick Gottsch documentary screening, contact:
Media Contact:
Heather Krug
PR
[email protected]
310-463-1415