Trigger wasn’t just any horse—he was the King of the Cowboys’ trusted partner.
Born on July 4, 1934, the golden palomino (originally named Golden Cloud) became Roy Rogers’ most famous companion, dazzling Hollywood with his intelligence and talent.
Trigger could bow, walk on his hind legs, and reportedly perform over 150 tricks, making him one of the most remarkable horses in entertainment history.
Trigger passed away on July 3, 1965, just one day shy of his 31st birthday.
Not wanting to bury his beloved friend, Roy Rogers had Trigger preserved and mounted by Everett Wilkens of Bischoff’s Taxidermy in Los Angeles. His hide was carefully stitched over a foam mold of his likeness.
For decades, fans could visit Trigger at the Roy Rogers – Dale Evans Museum, first in Apple Valley, then Victorville, California, and later in Branson, Missouri.
When the museum closed in 2010, Trigger was sold at auction and purchased by RFD-TV for $625,000.
Today, he continues to stand tall as a piece of Western and Hollywood legend, displayed at the John Wayne: An American Experience in the Fort Worth Stockyards, Texas.
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I asked AI why Roy Rogers chose foam instead of taxidermy for Trigger (because I loved Trigger). The amazing answer: “Roy Rogers had Trigger’s hide stretched over a foam likeness rather than using traditional taxidermy methods to create a more lifelike display. This technique allowed for a more dynamic pose, showcasing Trigger in a rearing position, which was fitting for his iconic status.”
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Sounds like an exhibit (the John Wayne…) I’d like to see, and within reasonable driving distance, too!
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Always loved Trigger! He looks pretty good stretched over foam, but looks way better alive, that’s for sure.
I had a Palomino for several years, and of course he reminded me of Trigger, but Prince had a mind of his own. He was comical. Trigger is spectacular. Makes me want to go watch Roy Rogers videos.
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