Thursday, April 25, 2024
The Oglesby Lions Club recently hosted the 52nd annual Rattlesnake Roundup last Saturday and Sunday. Despite cold weather and rain, the event was well attended, and the snake demonstrations were held each day which drew crowds of curious observers.
World famous snake handler, Jackie Bibby, known as “The Texas Snake Man,” was once again on hand to demonstrate his skills when handling and dealing with the venomous snakes. Bibby has spent 50 years handling rattlesnakes and holds five world records. According to Bibby, he got his start at rattlesnake roundups around Texas. “I’ve been bitten twelve times over the years,” said Bibby. Despite the danger, he continues to entertain the crowds with his skills and knowledge. He was assisted in the snake demonstrations by a few members of the Heart of Texas Snake Handlers.
Bibby has five current Guinness World Record titles for rattlesnake handling. Holding the most rattlesnakes in one’s mouth (13), lying in a bathtub with the most snakes (195), lying in a sleeping bag with the most snakes (109), sacking 10 rattlesnakes in the fastest time (17.11 seconds), and going headfirst into a sleeping bag with the most rattlesnakes (24).
In addition to the snake handling demonstrations, the roundup also included food vendors, train and buggy rides, games and live music.
When the first Rattlesnake Roundup occurred in 1970, more than 100 snakes were captured by 22 parties of daring snake hunters. The big winner of the day was Ralph Patterson of Levita who received a prize for catching the longest snake and the most pounds of snakes during a two-day hunt. Patterson received $100 in cash and a couple of trophies.
