Yes, you read that correctly! Local authorities recently reminded RVers and other folks that bear wrestling is illegal here. So, you’d best not add bear wrestling to your planned camping activities—at least not while RVing in Missouri!
Population surge
The black bear population in Missouri has seen a great resurgence in recent years. Bears have been sighted in my own subdivision—and we’re only a 30-minute drive from St. Louis! Last year, a black bear even made his way inside a local school!
While the highest population of Missouri black bears live in the Mark Twain National Forest, subadult males of the species are wandering farther and farther from their previously known habitat. This spring there have been five separate bear sightings within 10 miles of my home. It’s amazing to me because I’ve lived in Missouri for decades and never gave a thought to black bears before now. And I’ll admit I’d never heard of “bear wrestling” until local officials issued their stern reminder.
Bear wrestling
I had to find out more about this unusual pastime! Turns out, bear wrestling traces its roots back to the early days of the American frontier, where settlers encountered bears in their wilderness explorations. These formidable creatures, known for their strength and ferocity, intrigued and intimidated the pioneers. As the westward expansion gained momentum, settlers started organizing wrestling matches between people and bears as a form of entertainment.
Can you imagine that very first conversation? “Hey! I’ve got an idea. Let’s wrestle bears! It’ll be fun and entertaining. We can invite friends to watch. Who’s with me?” (I have to think that alcohol had something to do with this idea, don’t you?)
Bear wrestling gained popularity as an attraction at circuses, traveling shows, and fairs, where daring individuals faced off against captive bears in makeshift arenas. These events drew large crowds, eager to witness the spectacle of man versus bear.
From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, bear wrestling gained in popularity. These events were often advertised as thrilling displays of courage and strength at traveling shows like Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
Decline in popularity
As time went by, attitudes toward animal welfare changed. Soon, more and more folks demanded stricter regulations, which led to the eventual decline of bear wrestling.
I was surprised to learn how long the “sport” of bear wrestling lasted! I figured the practice ended well before entertainment inventions like movies, radio, and television came to be. But no! The Philadelphia 76ers featured a halftime bear wrestling show as late as 1976! (In case you’re wondering, Victor, a Kodiak bear, defeated all challengers.)
Watch for them, but don’t wrestle!
A word of caution for RVers—and not just when RVing in Missouri: Conservation efforts have resulted in successful animal repopulation in many areas of our country. Housing expansion has also caused some species to move away from their previously established habitats. This means you might see some animals in places you don’t expect! Take special care to follow all posted signage (and use your common sense) to keep yourself, traveling companions, and animals (yours and those in the wild) safe.
##RVT1111
Gail thanks for the warning. We’ll be leaving home in WI tomorrow on a short trip that includes a few days in my home town in MO. One day will be at an event in Cuivre River State Park where there might be a bear or two. And I still haven’t gotten used to seeing roadkill Armadillos north of the Missouri River!
Just as long that they have not outlawed donkey basketball.
I fixed the original bear wrestling conversation for you:
“Hey! I’ve got an idea.
Let’sYOU should wrestle bears!”And, yes, alcohol was likely involved, just as in, “Here, y’all hold my beer and watch this!”