On this day in 1957, “The Horse of the West” galloped on to the small screen as an episode of the Disneyland television series, following the life of a young filly named Bay Lady. Singing cowboy Rex Allen saddled up as the film’s narrator. His voice is sure to sound familiar to Disney fans, as it is heard in eight Disney films and Disney park attractions as well. The original preview for the “The Horse of the West” episode assured viewers, “Your emotions will be stirred by the tragedy that comes to the little filly when her life has just begun. You’ll surrender your heart to the lame white work mare who gave her foster motherhood. You’ll respond to the swift moving drama when the caprice of fate passes Bay Lady from one to another, yet never losing her proud heritage. Yes, Bay Lady was truly a child of chance. No one can remain untouched by the suspense filled moments when Bay Lady and her first born are trapped in the mountain fastness, alone, helpless with danger closing in.” Also appearing in the film is the character Elena Vasquez, portrayed by real-life trick roper Sammy Fancher. Riding her mother’s horse at the age of three, Sammy had her first chance to drive a band of mustangs into the corral. Although her saddle slipped and she toppled to the ground, leaving her with a mouthful of sand, she was soon back in the saddle again and went on to become an award-winning barrel racer, wild cow catcher, and versatile horseback expert as well as appearing in a number of films, beginning with “The Horse of the West.”