Montana has long been known for its rugged landscapes, hardworking ranchers, and deep cowboy traditions. But among the men who often dominated the scene, one woman stood out and made history—Fannie Sperry Steele. Born in 1887, Fannie wasn’t just another cowgirl; she was a fearless bronc rider, a skilled horsewoman, and one of the first female rodeo champions in the West. Breaking Barriers in Rodeo At a time when women were expected to stick to more ‘ladylike’ pursuits, Fannie defied expectations and competed in bronc riding competitions against both men