A Local Favorite

By Mike Simmons

St. Anne’s Roundup in Pensacola was a beloved annual event hosted by St. Ann Catholic Parish. It was a Western-themed festival that brought the community together for fun, food, and entertainment. The Roundup featured various attractions, such as carnival rides, games, live music, and delicious food stalls. Families could enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, and even cowboy shows. It was a time-honored tradition that celebrated the spirit of community and provided an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and enjoy a festive atmosphere.

Every October or November, a 20-acre pecan orchard was transformed into “Bellview Junction” thanks to many volunteers, one of the first being Thomas “Buddy” Godwin. Many hours were spent building a live ghost town, a schoolhouse, a post office, a newspaper shop, a pawn shop, a bakery, and a country store.

Each year, a celebrity was featured at the roundup. Names like Rocky Marciano, John Schneider, Angie Dickinson, Tony Danza, and Peter Breck served as guest celebrities.

The event not only provided entertainment but also served as a significant fundraiser for the parish, helping to support various community initiatives and charitable endeavors. Volunteers from the church and local community played a crucial role in organizing and executing the event, showcasing their dedication and teamwork. Over the years, St. Ann’s Roundup became a cherished memory for many Pensacola residents, symbolizing the strong bonds of fellowship and the joy of shared experiences.

One of the original reasons for creating the event was to raise funds for a social hall and a new school bus for St. Anne’s Church.

A highlight of the event was the shootout. When the event first began, Escambia County (FL) Sheriff Bill Davis was a huge proponent. In fact, he and several of his deputies would put on a western shootout in front of Miss Kitty’s Saloon.

Thanks to those folks who spent many hours making the event special – fond memories.