DennisMoreland TJGood

Dennis Moreland’s First Tradeshow

DennisMoreland TJGoodDennis Moreland (left) and T.J. GoodIn 1976 I had my first Dennis Moreland Tack exhibit at the NCHA Futurity. There was only one other vendor in ’76, T&S Signs owned by Tom and Sue Reardon. They made the magnetic plaques to stick on your truck and horse trailer. They had been there the year before in ’75 but with the both of us there in ’76 we started the NCHA tradeshows.

In those days we were set up in the Coliseum Concourse. That year I gave bridle reins to all 15 finalists. Olan Hightower won the Futurity on Colonel Freckles. Olan asked me several years ago “do you remember that pair of bridle reins you gave me when I rode Colonel Freckles to the win? That may be the best pair of reins I’ve ever had.”

I remember there was a real nice group of horses at the ’76 Futurity including Freckles Playboy, Doc’s Becky, Doc’s Oak and Doc’s Remedy in the top 5. There were many other great horses that year.

I’d been in business only about six months at the time of the Futurity in 1976. That was my first tradeshow and NCHA’s first tradeshow. I had cinches, bridle reins, a single rope sidepull, my Cowboy Headstall and another headstall I called The Trainer. My products were really well accepted and it made me think my idea to make and sell high quality tack would work. I’m happy to say this is my 38th year at the NCHA Tradeshows.

The NCHA Derby for 4 year olds, now known as the Summer Cutting Spectacular, started in 1970 and is currently under way until Aug. 2. There are 80 exhibitors in the Amon Carter Exhibit Hall this year with everything from boots, western wear and jewelry to videos, artwork, and trailers and of course tack. Free ice cream sundaes, draw parties and great conversation occur throughout the exhibit hall! Please feel free to come visit and enjoy a great shopping experience!

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