$3.50 newsstand price
Vol. 11, No. 1 • February 2006
Nomination and Voting Process - Page 6 NDCHF Interior Photos - Page 8
Talkin’ with Trustees - Pages 12-13 Plaques - Pages 14-15 Native American, Ranching and Rodeo Galleries - Pages 16-21 Contributions - Pages 26-27 Memorials - Pages 28-29 Obituaries - Pages 30-33 NDCHF Exterior Photos - Page 34
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Published bi-annually by the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
Page 2 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
2006 NDCHF Hall Highlights The 11th NDCHF Annual Meeting and Banquet is scheduled for Feb. 24-25, 2006, at the Seven Seas, Mandan. Call 701663-7401 or 1-800-597-7327 for room reservations and banquet tickets. Banquet ticket for a new and exciting menu are $30/person. The ticket sales are a fund raiser for the NDCHF. Be sure to mention you are with the NDCHF to receive the special room rate discount.
If you have items for the live or silent auctions held at the Annual Meeting, please contact the NDCHF office at 701-2501833 or 701-623-2001. You may drop off the items ahead of time or bring them with you to the Annual Meeting.
The opening date for the 1st full season is May 1. Make sure you plan a trip to Medora during the summer of 2006 to see the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures. The Center is open for tours by appointment during the off season.
The 2006 NDCHF Hall of Honorees Induction ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 5 in Medora.
Bit From The Board Dear Members and Friends: Sometimes, great things come from small packages. Legacies and legends can also unfold from that greatness. I was reminded of this when visiting recently with J.R. Foote, a former rodeo competitor from Parshall, N. Dak. We were talking about possible bucking horse nominations for this year’s induction in the Rodeo Livestock category. Here’s an example of great things in small packages: In the 1970s, a little pack mare was gifted by Tommy Morrison from Montana’s Crow Tribe to Cynthia Fredericks and Maurice Danks of N. Dak.’s Fort Berthold Reservation. J.R.’s father, Adrian Foote, Sr., purchased the animal, which proved she loved competing in the rodeo arena. After winning N. Dak. Bucking Horse of the Year honors, the mare was leased and later sold to Harlan Gunville of White Horse, S. Dak. He was developing his rodeo company with these types of acquisitions and, by the late 1970s, he had gathered up a superb bucking horse string. Gunville was distinguished at the time as the only American Indian rodeo stock contractor in the PRCA. Back to the little mare and her story. She continued to build her reputation bucking at college and pro rodeos throughout the northern Great Plains. Bronc riders were happy to draw her since, more times than not, when you rode her you won money. She helped me earn a check once at a rodeo in Pierre, S. Dak.
Racking up her credentials, the horse qualified during the 1980s for the National Finals Rodeo and the Indian National Finals Rodeo. She continued to buck honest and true. When her talent began to ebb, she eventually came back to N. Dak. when Joe Harrison brought the mare to her final home on the Standing Rock Reservation. But her legacy didn’t stop there. With the progeny produced throughout her rodeo career, stock contractors like Harrison, Calvin Nelson and others are raising award-winning bucking horses from the mare branded #80. Rodeo stock producers in the U.S. and Canada have come to appreciate, and seek, the bloodline of the legendary Crow Woman. So, yes, great things can come from small packages. And our North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, although not as big as most heritage centers, is destined for greatness. Why? Because the Hall is about legends like Crow Woman and, told properly, the stories will demonstrate a good measure of greatness. In May, we open for our first full season of the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures: Native American, Ranching and Rodeo. Please join us and come learn about the legends and their stories. Your continued support will ensure a legacy of greatness for your children and grandchildren to know. Phil Baird, President Mandan, N.Dak.
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 3
A Few Words From Darrell This is a busy time of year at the Cowboy Hall of Fame office. We’re traveling to several cities with our North Dakota Humanities Council- and Reiten Televisionsponsored history programs and getting ready for the Annual Meeting in Mandan. The history programs are always fun. We get to meet lots of new people and see old friends across the state. We’re also fundraising and making improvements in or finishing new exhibits for this summer at the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures in Medora. The 2006 activities at the Center officially begin on May 1 when we open for the summer. May is also when we’ll kick off the first annual Wild West Series. Activities begin on Saturday, May 20, with the Badlands trail ride and barbecue. On Sunday, May 21, we will sponsor a Children’s Showdeo. We will hold a Team Penning and Ranch Sorting event on Saturday and Sunday, June 3 and 4. The next weekend (June 10 and 11) is Team Roping and, on Saturday and Sunday, June 24 and 25, we will sponsor Barrel Racing. Pam is busy working on the details for all of these events. Except for May 20, all of the events will take place at the Medora rodeo arena. With all these events, there should be something
for everyone in Medora during May and June. Lots of people have purchased patio tables and memorial plaques as a way of honoring loved ones or making a contribution to the Cowboy Hall of Fame. Sherry Plummer from Dickinson bought a table for her grandparents, Pat and Edna Plummer. Karen Hogue of Bismarck and her children bought a table for Pete’s birthday. Al and Donna Wolf of Medora bought a table for Placidus and Eva Wolf. Dudley and Michelle Stuber of Belfield are putting their ranch’s name on one table, and they bought a second table in memory of “Bob” Stuber. Al and Karen Wolf of Bismarck have put their family’s name on a table, too. A patio table costs $1,000, and we put a nice plaque on each one noting who purchased the table. It makes a wonderful memorial or gift. There are still 16 patio tables looking for owners and, if you’re interested, please give us a call in the Bismarck office at 701-2501833 or in Medora at 701-6232000. Several people have also purchased Memorial Wall plaques for loved ones. These plaques are displayed in the conference room and in the front stairwell at the Center in Medora. Manfred Signalness, who produced the wonderful 50 Years in the Saddle books, will have a plaque on the wall this spring. So will Dwight Dronen, Jim Jefferies, Jim and Jean Neshiem, Lloyd A.
“Red” Wherley and Henry “Hank” Baker. There’s already a memorial plaque for inductee Dean Armstrong who died last year, but Fran Armstrong has also purchased memorial plaques for her parents, Jacob and Margaret Schield, and Dean’s parents, Hugh and Gladys Armstrong. If you’re planning a family event or are involved with an organization that is planning a meeting this summer, please call Pam Reinarts in Medora (701-6232000) about room or patio rental. The facilities are wonderful, and members are entitled to discounts for patio and meeting room rentals and on gift shop purchases. Please consider joining us for our 11th Annual Meeting on Feb. 24-25 at the Seven Seas Inn and Conference Center, Mandan. It will be a great time for everyone.
Your Executive Director, Darrell Dorgan
Page 4 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
NDCHF sets February Annual Meeting Seven Seas taking banquet and room reservations now! Cowboy poet and writer and North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Trustee Ryan Taylor will entertain attendees at the NDCHF Annual meeting banquet on Saturday, Feb. 25. The author of a syndicated column, Cowboy Logic, carried in publications throughout the Upper Midwest and of several books based on his columns, Taylor offers audiences a homegrown insight into ordinary things.
Ryan Taylor
His humorous look at rural and ranch life is entertaining and often thought-provoking. Taylor brings the lessons of everyday together with a few rope tricks. A fourth generation rancher from Towner, he continues to raise cattle, horses and hay on native prairie first homesteaded by the Taylors in 1903. He lives on his family’s century old ranch with his wife, Nikki, and their son, Bud. To supplement his ranch income, Taylor is a book-peddling publisher, a public relations man for a beef coop and a road-weary sales rep for an animal health company. He also serves as a North Dakota State Senator. Farmers, ranchers, small town
folks and even big city dwellers who appreciate rural life will find a connection with Taylor’s cowboy logic. Weekend starts with meetings The weekend begins with a Board of Directors meeting on Friday, Feb. 24, and a free social for all members and guests at 7:00 p.m., Friday evening, at the Seven Seas Inn and Conference Center, Mandan. The informal social offers plenty of time to visit and get reacquainted. The Annual Membership meeting at 1:00 p.m. Saturday presents an opportunity to hear about the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures in Medora and the success of its first season. The Trustees will meet at 2:30 p.m. Saturday to discuss plans for the 2006 horse raffle, the nominees for 2006 induction and other business. Banquet offers fun for all The banquet activities Saturday evening begin at 5:00 p.m. with a no-host social and live and silent auctions. The auctions will continue after the banquet. The fabulous Seven Seas buffet will be served at 7:00 p.m. Because of space limitations, only 300 banquet tickets will be sold. Tickets can be reserved for $30 each by calling the Seven Seas at 701-663-7401 or 1-800-597-7327. Rooms can also be reserved through the Seven Seas; ask for the special rates available to NDCHF members.
NDCHF welcomes auction items Anyone with auction donations can call the NDCHF at 701-250-1833 or 701-623-2000 or bring the items on Friday, February 24, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. or on Saturday, February 25, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Proceeds from the auctions go to the Cowboy Hall of Fame.
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame CEO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Darrell Dorgan Medora Site Manager . . . . . Pam Reinarts Board of Directors President. . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Baird, Mandan Vice-president . . . . . . Robert Tibor, Hebron Secretary . . . . . . Russ Danielson, Harwood Board Members Virginia Eck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bismarck Laura Griffin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Medora Shirley Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dickinson Ray Morrell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Valley City Robyn Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pembina Evelyn Neuens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bismarck Walter Piehl, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minot Winston Satran . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bismarck Willard Schnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dickinson Arlen Sommers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Valley City Editor………………….. Cathy A. Langemo WritePlus Inc., Bismarck Layout…………………United Printing Inc. Bismarck Advisory Committee Phil Baird Ray Morrell Willard Schnell Robert Tibor Send Letters, Address Changes, Memberships and Contributions to: North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame 1110 College Drive, Suite 216 Bismarck, North Dakota 58501 Phone: 701-250-1833 Website: www.northdakotacowboy.com E-mail: heritage@northdakotacowboy.com
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 5
Hall of Fame Receives Major Grants
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he North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame received two major grants in Dec. 2005 and Jan. 2006.
Leach Foundation grant award luncheon. L-R: Phil Baird, Gilbert Olson, Darrell Dorgan and Frank Bavendick.
The Tom and Frances Leach Foundation of Bismarck approved a $250,000 grant to be paid over five years, and the first payment was received at the Leach Foundation awards luncheon on December 19. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT) has approved another $150,000 in funding, bringing to $400,000 the total of ISTEA funds for the project. NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says the grants are a great way to start a new year and will enable final exhibit work to be
completed before the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures opens this spring in Medora. He says, “The added funding means we’re nearing our goal of having commitments to pay for the $4-million project. Hopefully, within the next year, we will have the rest of the money in hand and begin seriously funding our endowment to ensure long-term stability.” Dorgan says the Leach Foundation grant is especially gratifying. He says, “The Leach Foundation traditionally funds educational projects. The Awards Committee reviewed the story we tell and agreed we are educating the public about the plains horse culture, ranching and rodeo.” The 50year-old Leach Foundation is based in Bismarck Tom Leach and was founded by Tom and Frances Leach. The Leaches were pioneers in the state’s oil industry. Tom, who died in 1966, was often
referred to as the “Father of North Dakota Oil.” Frances Leach, who died in 1981, taught at Bismarck State College and was interested in numerous arts, social and educational causes. Since 1955, the Leach Foundation has provided more than $10 million to educational, medical, human services and arts and humanities projects in North Dakota and the Midwest. Frances Leach The Leaches also had a major interest in ranching and began ranching near Towner in 1953. Foundation Board member Frank Bavendick says the Leaches were proud of their 12,000-acre McHenry County Hereford ranch and often entertained visiting oil industry officials and friends at the ranch they called their N. Dak. home. Bavendick says, “Tom Leach was a cowboy at heart and a charter and patron member of the National Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City, Okla. He would (Continued on page 10)
NDCHF Commemorative Pistol We are now taking orders for this limited edition commemorative pistol. For more information call or visit us online at:
1-800-619-5729 www.sspromotionalgroup.com
Page 6 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
NDCHF receives 58 nominations
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his year’s nomination and selection processes for the 2006 class of NDCHF inductees are well underway. Once again, the NDCHF Trustees have performed a major responsibility in identifying 58 prospective inductees in 9 rotating categories: • pre-1940 and modern-era rodeo, • pre-1940 and modern-era ranching, • ranches, • leaders of rodeo and ranching, • rodeo livestock, • special achievement and • cowboy long rider. NDCHF Board President Phil Baird says, “The critical part of the nomination process is using the official form so that information about each nominee is standardized and fairly complete. It also makes the review process much easier.” The NDCHF Board oversees the initial review and, if more expertise is needed, individuals and organizations are called upon to validate information. After the Board’s review, a formal slate of nominees is presented to the Trustees at the Trustee meeting on Saturday, Feb. 25. Trustees then have the opportunity to discuss, in a public forum, the merits of each nominee on the slate. Baird says, “Here is another great opportunity to capture history. Trustees will add another dimension with story-telling about people and events of the past. This
gives folks an opportunity to become a little more familiar with nominees they may not know.” An official ballot will be sent to Trustees in May, with a voting deadline of late June. An announcement about the 2006 inductees will be made over the 4th of July weekend and, of course, the induction ceremony will be held on Aug. 5. Baird says, “The induction process is one of the most challenging aspects of the NDCHF’s work. There are so many worthy candidates, but not everyone can be inducted at the same time. It’s certainly a great honor to be nominated.”
Baird said the Board did previous research about nomination processes used by other organizations and determined the best approaches for the NDCHF. He says, “Right now, standards have been set for the future. It’s important to maintain those standards and, with that, the integrity of the process.” Baird gives the Trustees a good share of the credit for ensuring that the best of the best get recognized in the NDCHF Hall of Honorees. He says, “We very much appreciate their efforts.”
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 7
NDCHF participates in ND Horse Fest NDCHF, along with Cloverdale Foods Company of Mandan, will host a concession booth at the North Dakota Horse Fest in Minot on Mar. 4-5. Featured will be the Cloverdale/NDCHF all-beef franks and all-beef sausage. The 5th Annual North Dakota Horse Fest provides an annual, comprehensive exposition that promotes all aspects of the U.S. horse industry. It offers a wide variety of educational opportunities for horse, mule and pony enthusiasts of all disciplines and a wide selection of saddles, tack and accessories, working apparel, home and barn items, gifts and crafts for the horse enthusiast. District 5 Trustees Bob Knudson and Paul Christensen are lining up volunteers for set up on Mar. 3 and for the booth on Mar. 4-5. Call them at 701-839-5359 or 701-852-1923, respectively, if you are interested in helping.
Thanks so much to those volunteers who have assisted
Volunteer r ecognition
the NDCHF in various capacities recently, including: Mary Ann Durick Betty Morgan Darlene Turitto Your time and energy are very much appreciated.
Page 8 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
donated horses. Hall of Fame Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says, “Our Trustees have done an incredible job selling the $5 tickets.” Distribution of the raffle tickets will begin in March, with the drawing held at the annual HOTR Champions Ride on Sunday afternoon, August 6.
Froelich family donates filly Hall of Fame members Rod and Kathryn Froelich are donating a brand new Blue Roan filly (yet to be born!!) for the 2006 NDCHF Horse Raffle fundraiser. Sired by Blue Star McKeag, the foal will be a performance-bred Quarter horse, versatile to many uses around the ranch. The Froelichs ranch near Selfridge on the Standing Rock Reservation. The ranch was established by Rod’s grandfather in 1928, and they’ve been raising
championship Quarter horses there since the early 1950s. Rod and Kathryn hold a colt sale in September each year at their ranch, selling to buyers from across the U.S. The NDCHF Trustees have raised more than $60,000 with raffles the past three years with other
James Odermann Photography
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 9
NDCHF continues patio table fundraiser
James Oderman photograph
The beautiful new 5,000square-foot patio on the Center’s west side can handle up to 200 people for weddings, dinners, dances and special occasions. Thirty-three beautiful, heavyduty patio tables with umbrellas grace the patio, and anyone who would like to buy one of the tables and put a family name on it can do so for $1,000 by calling the Cowboy Hall of Fame office in Bismarck at 701-250-1833. District #7 Trustee Co-chair George Marback and his wife Virginia stepped forward and bought the first table last July and raised money for a second one to honor Father William Fahnlander. To date, about 1/2 of the tables have been claimed. Contact the Bismarck office if you would like to honor someone with a patio table. Extra money collected for the tables will be used to pay for a stage and food-service area to be built on the patio.
Patio tables have been purchased for/by the following: • Amvets Post #9, Bismarck, ND. • Bahm Brothers—John, William, Charles, Emil, Henry – Given by Their Families. • Father William Fahnlander – Given by Family & Friends. • Inez & Maynard Fritz – Given by Jim & Jean Neshiem, Fargo, ND. • Randy & Laurie Hatzenbuhler, Medora, ND. • Vernon C. Jacobson, Dickinson, ND – Given by Family.
• George & Virginia Marback, Mandan, ND. • Louis Pelissier – Given by Jim & Jean Neshiem, Fargo, ND. • Pat & Edna Plummer – Given by their granddaughter, Sherry Plummer, Dickinson, ND. • Don & Jan Rustad & family (Ronda, Rock, Rick & Rochelle), Kindred, ND. • Beverly Jean Wenger, West Fargo, ND. • Ted & Dolores Will & children—daughters Sharol, Patricia & Linda & son Randy, Mandan, ND. (Continued on page 10)
Page 10 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
(Patio Tables... continued from page 9)
Jo and David Hogue, Bismarck, ND. • Placidus & Eva Wolf – Given by Albert & Donna Wolf, Medora, ND. • In Memory of Robert D. “Bob”
Stuber – Given by Dudley, Michelle, Dustin, Suzi, Mikki & Bobbi Stuber, Belfield, ND. • River Run Ranch – Given by Dudley & Michelle Stuber, Belfield, ND.
The Leach Foundation funding will be used to finish the Hall of Fame theater which, along with the orientation movie, will be dedicated to Thomas W. Leach. The ISTEA grant through the state DOT is the second received by the Hall of Fame. An earlier $250,000 grant was used to fund construction-related activity. The Federal program is administered by the state DOT and is used for projects that can demon-
strate transportation-related themes. Dorgan says Governor John Hoeven, State DOT Director Dave Sprynczynatyk and DOT program head Ben Kubischta were instrumental in getting the grants for the Hall of Fame. Dorgan says, “They’ve taken a real interest in the Hall of Fame and in preserving history on the plains.”
What are people saying?
tories of ‘Special Horses?’”
“I felt like it was congested and visitor traffic didn’t move well.”
What are people saying about the new Center of Western Heritage and Cultures in Medora? Check out some of their comments:
“I was proud to see the reality of a dream come true. It was great to see Sitting Bull’s headdress. Loved the patio—I think it will be used a lot.”
• Albert & Karen Wolf & daughters Gretchen, Heidi & Anna, Bismarck, ND. • Peter & Karen Hogue and their children—Rita, Janice, Kellie(Hall of Fame Receives... continued from page 5)
certainly have wanted to promote a Cowboy Hall of Fame in N. Dak.” He says, “Tom and Frances believed in N. Dak. and, with the foundation they created, they have been able to help thousands of people and hundreds of dreams come true. Through the Leach Foundation, their legacy of caring and sharing continues.”
“It was just grand. I just walked around it amazed.” “It would be nice if someone could research and/or remember outstanding studs and mares that have contributed to our presenthorses. How about requesting his-
“I’d enjoy seeing more of the early ranch history.”
“I’m concerned we will run out of room for future honorees in the Hall of Honorees.” “Children should be accompanied by a responsible adult.”
“You need a wall for Brad Gjermundson, Wayne Herman and Alvin Nelson, the World Champs. And then for college champs, high school champs, NFR champs, etc.” “It is a great place to see and visit and understand our way of life.” “You could possibly add more emphasis on the role of women in the early years.”
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 11
Rodeo community loses inductee
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earl Cullen, 95, Mandan, died Dec. 1, 2005, at a Mandan care center. A memorial service was held in Washburn on Dec. 6. Pearl was born Oct. 4, 1910, near Hazen, the daughter of Henry Edwards and Maggie Mae (Clark) Edwards. She graduated from Hazen High School in 1928. She attended Dickinson State Teachers College, received a teaching certificate in 1934. She taught elementary and secondary school in the Center and Hensler areas for 14 1/2 years. Pearl grew to love horses and riding became her favorite pastime. She and her friends organized an eight-horse quadrille team that displayed its skills at a Hazen dedication and across the region. A long-time fantasy, Pearl’s first appearance riding side saddle was on July 2, 1947, in the Mandan parade. She created her own riding dresses for the era of her saddle—1887-1900. Her last appearance was at the Taylor Horsefest on July 30, 1994. Darrell Dorgan, NDCHF executive director, said at the memorial service, “She was an avid side-saddle enthusiast, and you could always count on her wearing a special outfit as she rode in parades across the state until 1994.” He said, “Her dress and hat and other accessories are now on display at the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures in Medora.” Pearl eventually met a calf roper and horse lover M. Clair
Cullen, and they married on Mar. 21, 1940, at Bismarck. The couple ranched from 1940-1979 near Hensler, and Clair brought many ranching and rodeo experiences into Pearl’s life. As a friend once said, “Pearl and Clair were like bacon and eggs; they go well together and you hardly ever think of one without the other.” The couple made a great impact on the North Dakota Rodeo Association. In 1953, Clair was at the organizational meeting of the NDRA, at which he was elected as the group’s first secretary/treasurer.
He didn’t really accept the position, but said he would “find the right person for the job.” When he returned home, Clair announced to Pearl that she had been elected secretary/treasurer. For 11 years, she faithfully kept excellent rodeo records. Pearl enjoyed the many lifelong friendships she made with rodeo participants and fans. In the 1940s and 1950s, she and Clair
attended hundreds of rodeos. Clair was often a contestant, and Pearl kept the records. She also took care of the kids. When there was a Neuens or Childs in the arena, Pearl made sure kids towed the line and gave them pep talks. It was Pearl who kept the NDRA together in the early years, and it’s because of her we know the NDRA’s history. She started the NDRA newsletter and chronicled high school, college and professional rodeo performers from N. Dak. In 1958, Pearl became Hensler postmistress and was active with the local 4-H and the Hensler Community Club. Clair died in 2001, and Pearl moved to Bismarck, but she always thought about rodeo and horses. In Aug. 2002, she became one of the first women inducted into the NDCHF and served as a trustee since then. As Dorgan said at her memorial service, “Pearl and her family carved a life out of the plains of N. Dak. . . . Today Pearl is off to get a fresh start. She has joined Clair, is back in her side saddle on her favorite horse and the two are riding off into that big arena in the sky.” Pearl is survived by her nieces and nephews Luayn Lehmkuhl, Calif.; Maybelle Deach, Wash.; Jerry Edwards, Ida.; Robert Edwards, Ore.; and Charles Cullen, Bismarck. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clair, her sister Mildred and her brother Vivian. Memorials can be sent to the NDCHF at 1110 College Drive, Suite 216, Bismarck, ND 58501.
Page 12 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
TALKIN’ WITH TRUSTEES Delbert Eszlinger, Ashley NDCHF District: 6 Family: Wife-Donna; SonRodney; Daughters-Darcy & Garland. Occupation: Rancher-commercial Angus cattle and registered Quarter horses. I have a registered Quarter horse program with a colt production held every year. Line of work: I grew up in it, along with being active in the local FFA Chapter. I grew up on the ranch that was started in 1940 by my parents. First horse: Shetland. Rodeo event: Bull Riding. Special ranching memories: Trailing cattle with my uncle at age 13. When you were a teenager, what did you want to be when you grew up: Just what I am doing today.
Your first job: Brand Inspector for ND Stockman’s. Your hero: Lyndon Johnson. Advice for young people: Work hard and never give up. Free-time activities: Going to horse sales. Name five things you like most: Living in rural America, horses, cattle, sheep and family. Last book you read: Angus Legends Volume I. Your greatest learning experience: My 17 years with McIntosh County Farmers Union, 7 of those as president. If you won the ND lottery, how would you spend your winnings: I would build an indoor horse arena. Honors and accomplishments: Leadership award-McIntosh
Best Weste 2 6 11 O l d R e d Tr a i l Mandan, ND 58554 1-800-597-7327
County; Leadership award-Ashley Chamber of Commerce. I have shown horses for many years and have judged and announced horse shows. Also, I was a 4-H horse leader for 12 years. My involvement in Gold Star Saddle Club of Ashley started in 1962 when I was 16 years old as a charter member. Why do you support the NDCHF: Cowboys and ranchers are a great culture, one that started N. Dak.
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 13
TALKIN’ WITH TRUSTEES Wilfred “Sonny” Ehr Jr., Minot & Texas NDCHF District: 5
I got fired for tying the calves down.
Family: Wife-Mardean; Daughters-Ashlee, Miller & Melissa Allen. GranddaughterShila Allen.
Your hero: My mom – she was the toughest and biggest hearted lady in the world.
Occupation: Ex-rancher/exfarmer. Now I train calf horses and team roping horses.
Advice for young people: Have the courage of your own conviction.
How did you choose your line of work: I was born to it.
Free-time activities: Hunting and roping.
Did you grow up in ranching or rodeo: I grew up ranching and farming and just started rodeoing.
Name five things you like most: Hunting; roping with my family; cookouts with friends; fishing; and playing with my dogs, cats and horses.
First horse: Oakie. Rodeo event: Calf roping. First rodeo experience: Roping calves at Bantry-Upham, N. Dak., rodeo in 1956. I took 3rd and won $7.60. Special rodeo memories: When I qualified for the NFR in steer wrestling – 1970. When you were a teenager, what did you want to be when you grew up: A good cowboy because “my heroes have always been cowboys.” Your first job: Night watchman at a cattle rest stop in Tucson, Ariz., where I was paid $10 for 12 hours.
Last book you read: Fool’s Gold by Chris LeDoux. Your greatest learning experience: Just plain life. If you won the ND lottery, how would you spend your winnings: Doing the same thing I’m doing, only more of it. Honors/accomplishments: 8 semesters on the Dean’s Honor Roll in college; National High School calf roping champ in 1959; NIRA steer wrestling champ in 1962 and 1963; Badlands Circuit steer wrestling champ in 1978; and NFR steer wrestling in 1970.
Why do you support the NDCHF: It’s an important thing to do to keep track of the people, animals and events that made so much history in the western heritage of N. Dak.
Page 14 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
NDCHF honors eight with memorial plaques
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he following individuals are being honored with plaques through the NDCHF Memorial Wall program.
Hugh Hunt Armstrong was born in Shelby County, Iowa, on Oct. 8, 1884, to Maria Theresa (McCallister) and Isaac Albertson Armstrong. He attended veterinary college in Iowa City. He filed on a homestead claim in Kidder County near Steele and
married Gladys Bell Smith on Nov. 17, 1909, at her home near Steele. Hugh participated in the Steele Cavalry and, in 1918, Hugh, Gladys and some friends formed a Wild West Show. They toured the country putting on rodeos, trick and fancy riding, roping, bucking exhibitions and contests of all kinds. The show brought the crowds “out of the hills in wagons and buggies.” Hugh was severely burned while trying to save two men dur-
(Ricketts) Bakker. Hank changed the spelling of his last name in the 1920s. He attended Garrison schools and married Alice L. Tower on Oct. 12, 1927, at Garrison. They had eight children—Sylvia, Doris, Bob, Darrow, Terry, Faye, Roger and Betty. Hank was a rodeo bronc rider and later a rodeo judge. He did construction work, including on the Garrison Dam, Minot Air Force Base and missile sites in ing a prairie fire and, after spend- northern N. Dak. ing a year in the hospital, he He retired in 1972 and, in 1977, returned home. Gladys died on built a log cabin at his home in Nov. 30, 1937. Minot. In 1991, it was donated by He then moved to the the family to the Garrison Badlands and bought the old TL Heritage Park Foundation. Ranch in Billings County. He and Hank was a member of the AFLhis son, Dean, restored the historic CIO, the Carpenter’s Union and log cabin on the ranch. the Democratic-NPL Party. Hugh’s three children—Bettie, Hank died on Aug. 23, 1982, Mary Lou and Dean—all graduat- at his home in Minot. He and ed from high school in Sentinel Alice are buried in the Coleharbor Butte. Cemetery. He was admired and loved for his sense of humor, stamina, hard work, congeniality and willingness to help neighbors and friends. He loved music and singing. Hugh suffered a heart attack in 1955 and died on Sept. 9, 1959. Dean bought the ranch, and it is still a working ranch with a bed and breakfast today. Henry G. “Hank” Baker was born Mar. 10, 1907, in a log cabin five miles southeast of Garrison, was the son of Albert and Lena
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 15
value nature and to obey God and about the importance of education and work. They were ranchers at heart and were up early and knew each animal on the ranch. Sometimes they brought newborn calves into the house to save them. In the fall, Jacob rode the freight train to St. Paul, Minn., to sell his cattle. Jacob died on July 11, 1970, and Margaret on Feb. 19, 1978.
James “Jim” and Jean Neshiem were dedicated to Medora and North Dakota. After high school, Jim worked as a medical lab technician. He later became an electrician and started Neshiem Electric and Aerial Contractors.
Russia. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1910 and staked a homestead claim near Manning. He married Margaret Armbrust, a rancher’s daughter, on July 6, 1914. Margaret was born on Mar. 16, 1896, at Richardton. Jim and Jean married on July 17, 1949, and had two daughters—Paulette (Milli-kin) and Pamela (Hahn). Jean worked as a medical lab technician, as well as serving as the bookkeeper and partner in the business. She was involved in volunteer work in Medora and donated funds to build the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation employee housing. She also put markers on 23 graves in the Medora Cemetery. Jim enjoyed hunting and was very interested in the history of the Medora area. He died May 17, 1988, and is buried in the Medora Cemetery. Jean lives in Fargo. Jacob Schield was born Oct. 30, 1884, in Crimea, South
The couple ranched north of Dodge from 1925 to 1958, running Hereford cattle, sheep and horses on the Fort Berthold Reservation open range. Jacob and Margaret loved the rustling prairie, spring-fed creeks and wells that never dried up. They taught their eight children to
Lloyd “Red” A. Wherley was born July 24, 1928, at Croff to Vincent A. and Annie (Breker) Wherley. Red was a rancher and farmer. He served during the Korean War and married Lila Braun on June 5, 1953. They had four children— Victor, Marianna, Julie and Sherrie. Red died in Bismarck in 1990.
Page 16 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
N ATIVE AMERICAN Gallery The Common Tie – The Horse (Portion of article by Deana Wiese, Clearwater Communications, and reprinted by permission from Summer 2005 issue of North Dakota Horizons magazine.) The heritage and culture preserved in the hearts of those involved with and those within the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame have one common tie - the Plains horse. Although it is a familiar story that the horse was introduced to North America by the Spaniards during the 16th Century, fossils of the Mesohippus, an ancestor of the horse that existed over 30 million years ago, have been found on the North Dakota plains. North Dakota paleontologist Dr. John Hoganson says the Mesohippus existed in North Dakota millions of years ago and then disappeared from the Plains. The modern-day horse was reintroduced by the Spaniards in the 1500s. According to Hoganson, the Mesohippus was similar in appearance to the modern-day horse. However, it was only 18 inches tall and had 3 toes. It roamed the Plains, along with camels and rhinos, during a time when North Dakota’s climate was that of an African savanna. The story of the Plains horse
culture, told through the Hall of Fame, began with the unparalleled relationship between Native American tribes and the horse. During the 18th Century, Native American tribes existing in North Dakota, such as the Cheyenne and Lakota, were first introduced to the horse. These tribes, along with the Assiniboine, Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara, were the first to claim the Dakota Plains with horses. North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Executive Director Darrell Dorgan expresses the feelings of many when he says Native Americans were truly the first North Dakota cowboys. The acquisition of the horse greatly enhanced the way of life
for Native American tribes. According to the North Dakota Centennial Blue Book, nomadic tribes such as the Assiniboine and Lakota relied on vast herds of American Bison for their livelihood and quickly adapted to the usefulness of the horse. Hunting was considerably easier and more efficient, and their overall quality of life increased dramatically. The horse became the foundation of the Plains Indian culture and a symbol of power and honor. In the late 19th Century, military defeat and confinement to reservations began a traumatic era for the Indian cultures of the Plains, defeating George Custer’s
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 17
troops at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876 was the last great victory by the Indians. However, by winning the battle, they lost the war. Carole Barrett, an associate professor of American Indian Studies at the University of Mary in Bismarck, says 1876 also went down in history as the year they lost the horse. This happened because the pursuit of the tribes by the Army caused their pony herds to disperse, and they were unable to continue their nomadic lifestyle. Barrett says many Native Americans mourned the loss of their
horses more than the loss of their land. The Indian horse culture was replaced by the beginning of the ranching era. Cowboys began driving cattle via horseback from Texas in the late 1870s. Horses were a necessity in this open-range period. Homesteading began in the 1880s in eastern North Dakota and spread west to encompass the entire state by 1905. This period led to the modern-day ranching era that continues to consider the horse a valuable and essential contribution to the industry.
ND Legislature approves Heritage Center expansion The State Historical Society of North Dakota looks forward to a $30-million addition to the state’s largest museum and headquarters for the Society. Six of North Dakota’s governors helped kick start the effort through a resolution and a sevenpoint plan. The 2005 Legislature appropriated $5.7 million toward the project. The expansion will mean more assistance for county and local historical organizations, as well as
more programs and exhibits for children and families. The expansion also means more space in the main museum gallery to display artifacts and materials showing the growth and development of the state to present day. It would be added past the auditorium toward State Street. Other planned improvements will be more space for storage of the state’s rare archives, artifacts and archeological items, much of it currently being stored off site.
Welcome to the North Dakota Winter Show March 7-12, 2006 Valley City, N. Dak. Check out this year’s Winter Show schedule at www.northdakotawintershow.com today.
Throughout each of these eras, the sport of rodeo has evolved. It began with the Native Americans first learning the art of horsemanship, to cowboys gathering on Sunday afternoons at the ranch, to the organized rodeo associations of today. Over the centuries, the horse has remained a central fixture in the culture and evolution of North Dakota. The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame recognizes and respects the impact that the Plains horse culture has had on the state and strives to keep the legend of the horse alive.
NDCHF Trustee receives honor Jimi Lou Woodard, NDCHF District 9 Trustee, and her husband, Gary Woodard, received the President’s Award from Kampgrounds of America Inc. The award recognized the Woodards for outstanding facility and operation of their Bismarck KOA.
Page 18 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
R ANCHING Gallery Patterson ranches have long history in Burleigh County The Patterson Ranches of Burleigh County got their start in 1901 when Eugene Patterson, along with four associates, purchased 1 1/2 million acres of Northern Pacific grant lands. The land was mostly in oddnumbered sections following for 25 miles to the north and south of the railway tracks between Bismarck and Jamestown. They paid $1.05/acre. Patterson was the son of Lester Patterson, whose Mankato, Minn., wholesale house sold groceries to Earnest A. Duemeland’s General Store in St. Clair, Minn. Duemeland’s sons, George and Henry, had recently graduated from the Mankato Business College. George became a clerk in the
grocery house and later in Patterson’s land enterprise. He
Land and Hereford Company. Special railroad cars were
received 20 shares of the Patterson
bringing immigrants to N. Dak.
Land Company’s 1,820 shares.
where they purchased much of the best land. Many of the immigrants
Duemelands join Pattersons in Bismarck George Duemeland traveled regularly from St. Paul to N. Dak. He, his wife and young son, Lorin, came in Bismarck and helped open the Bismarck office. When the Pattersons returned
wanted more than the 160 acres allotted by the Homestead Act so it was a good situation for both sides. In 1905, the original partners divided the remaining lands. Henry Duemeland was more interested in starting his own gro-
to Minn., George was left in
cery business than in selling land.
charge of the Bismarck business,
In 1902, the Bismarck Grocery
which became the Patterson Land
Company opened at 6th and Main
Company and later the Patterson
in Bismarck.
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 19
Henry was with the business
Albert and Lydia Bossert took
The Patterson cattle attracted
from the time it opened in Bis-
over the “South Patterson Ranch”
marck. He was also known for his
in 1937 and ran it until 1962.
interest in the arts, financing sym-
Other managers were Wayne and
known, so were the Duemelands.
phony performances and other area
Sylvia Belile, Marion and Mary
Lorin once served as president of
art ventures.
McPeak, Vernon Guthmiller and
the American Hereford Associa-
David and Ann Forth.
tion, and his wife, Olga, served as
“North Patterson Ranch” started first The “North Patterson Ranch” was built in 1918-19 in Richmond
buyers from across the country. Not only were the cattle well
president of the National Ladies
Times tough in land business Eugene Patterson died in 1924
Auxiliary. By 1987, the only remaining Patterson land was the 8,000-acre
Township north of Wing. Mac
and, during the Depression, the
Apple Creek Ranch about eight
McKenzie, with his three sons,
Pattersons lost all of their land. A
miles north of Sterling.
moved from Oakes to the ranch.
few years later, they bought much
Two purebred Herefords were brought in from the Eugene
of it back for $4 an acre. During World War II, times
It was the site of the Annual Spring Judging Contest where the Dwarf-free cattle were sold to buyers from 22 states.
Patterson farm near Oakes and
were tough again, and land sales
were the start of a 70-year breed-
were very slow. The Pattersons and
ing business for the Pattersons.
Duemelands often accepted chick-
with an L on top and is still used
ens, cows or pigs in lieu of land
today.
“South Patterson Ranch” developed
The original brand was a P
payments. When the Pattersons offered to
Today, George “Skip”
sell their remaining shares, George
Duemeland, Lorin’s son, is still in
was formed in 1927 on Apple
Duemeland and his son, Lorin,
the land selling business through
Creek near Sibley Buttes. Alfred
pulled together all of the money
Duemeland’s Commercial Real
and Evelyn Larson ran the 8,000-
they could to buy them.
Estate, with some of the land that
The “South Patterson Ranch”
has been in the family for over 100
acre ranch until 1932 when they moved to the “North Patterson Ranch.” George Duemeland purchased
Patterson Hereford cattle known nationally The purebred Hereford cattle
one of the purebred Belgian hors-
raised on the Patterson ranches
es, Shaeffer’s King, from the
gained a national reputation
Pattersons. The horse was so large
because they were free of the
that a special adjustable collar had
Dwarfism gene that had become a
to be ordered from St. Paul.
problem in cattle nationwide.
years.
Page 20 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
R ODEO Gallery White Earth Valley Rodeo celebrates 49 years The White Earth Valley Saddle Club, in northwestern North Dakota, will celebrate 49 years of rodeo fun in June 2006. And cowboys and cowgirls continue to come from across the Upper Midwest to compete each Father’s Day weekend. The Saddle Club has organized and managed the White Earth Valley Rodeo since its inception. A unique rodeo, it is held in a rural, outdoor arena located 3 miles from White Earth and 10 miles from Tioga. The Saddle Club members work hard to put on an exciting NDRA rodeo. Cowboys come from as far away as Fargo and Lemmon, S. Dak., to experience this special, old-fashioned rodeo and the beauty of the White Earth Valley. A couple of years ago, Ernest Ramberg, one of the original Saddle Club members, said, “I’m glad we bought this quarter back in 1957. This has got to be one of the prettiest spots in the state. It’s a good place to come to on Father’s Day.”
Food brings visitors, too Besides the rodeo competition, one of the main attractions is the great food at the old wooden grandstand concession area under the seats. Rodeo participants and spectators can start out the day with a big country breakfast and strong Norwegian coffee prepared by Saddle Club members. Sand covered the floor until 1973 when cement was poured. Vera Bergstrom, who’s been active in organizing the rodeo for many years, says, “People have a good time. I remember when the women had to do a lot more work. We cooked pancakes for hundreds of people.’ She says, “I also remember when I was a young girl, and I accepted a bet from some cowboys
who said I couldn’t ride a steer. I won that bet.” The rodeo isn’t all that goes on during the annual Father’s Day weekend event. There are the dances on Friday and Saturday nights, with local musicians entertaining the crowd.
Club started in 1956 The first meeting of the White Earth Valley Saddle Club was on Sept. 1, 1956, at Pete’s Arrowhead Souvenir Shop. The decision was made to organize a saddle club, with memberships at $25 per family, and to build a rodeo arena. The first president was Lloyd Blowers, with Bud Rice as secretary, Gilbert Raan as treasurer and Lee Addicott, Frank Crimmins, Martin Hegland, Arnold Krogen,
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 21
Nick Garas, Willard Hanson, Roy Nelson, Odell Knashaug and Charles Slemin as directors. Some land was leased from Cliff Law to the east of the Hub property and on the east side of the White Earth Valley road. Fiftyseven acres were later purchased from the Bank of North Dakota. Some of today’s members are the second generation to be involved in the Saddle Club. But like most organizations, more members and volunteers are needed to keep the rodeo going.
First rodeo held in 1957 In the spring of 1957, the Club purchased lumber and wire to build the arena and chutes. Volunteers did most of the work to prepare for the first rodeo held on July 28, 1957. Ben Johnston of Watford City was the main stock contractor, along with George Slemin, Nick Garas, Jim Marmon and Frank Crimmins. The stock costs came to $473. The rodeo events included saddle bronc, bareback, calf roping, barrel racing and team tying, with a total pay out $1,286 and about 3,000 spectators attending. Other stock contractors over the years have been George Canfield, Emerson Chase, J.C. Stevenson, Figure 4 (Darrel
Meyer), Calvin Nelson, Walt Moran and Jim Mosbrucker. Announcers were Myron Ruland and Walt Bieri. In more recent years, Shannon Dean of Bismarck has been the announcer.
Improvements keep rodeo ground up to date In 1964, a covered grandstand was added to seat about 500. In 1969, a Roping Club as organized. New Powder River chutes were installed in 1975 and the arena changed. A flash flood in the spring of 1979 brought about five feet of water that tore down most of the arena fence. A lot of repair had to be done to get ready for rodeo that June.
Rodeo Bulls” bull ride event. Vera Bergstrom says, “The event uses miniature bulls provided by Chad and Michelle Rotenberger of Ludlow, S. Dak. They have 50 of the small bulls that they use in rodeo competitions around the region.” The Rotenbergers bought the bulls from world champion bull fighter Donnie Landis of the Bucks Rodeo Company. Even though the biggest bull is only 900 pounds and the smallest 500 pounds doesn’t mean they are easy to ride. Riders for the “Lil Rowdy Rodeo Bulls” event must be between 8 and 14 years of age and weigh less than 125 pounds. The new event was added to keep the rodeo fresh and fun.
Other events support club
Letting people know that the rodeo will be around for a while is the new sign at the rodeo grounds entrance. Saddle Club members made it and raised it themselves.
Saddle Club adds new feature to rodeo An added feature to the rodeo in 2005 was the “Lil Rowdy
The Club’s other fundraisers during the year include the August steak supper and trail ride involving about 80 to 100 people and turkey bingo in November. There are also horse shows, Little Britches Rodeos, annual trail rides and Fun Days. With such a strong history behind it, competitors and spectators alike can look forward to continued fun at the annual rodeo in the beautiful White Earth Valley of northwestern N. Dak.
Page 22 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
Land Crazy: North Dakota’s Homestead Era (Excerpts from Dr. Jerome Tweton’s history presentations sponsored by the NDCHF, the N. Dak. Humanities Council and Reiten Television) The cry was, “Get some land and get it quick or you may get left.” Those words of Irving Gardner, who hailed from Connecticut and homesteaded in 1881 near Hope, Dakota Territory, captured the spirit of the Great Dakota Boom. Between 1878 and 1890, the population of northern Dakota skyrocketed from about 16,000 to 191,000.
Growth comes from bonanza farms Several developments worked together to create this phenomenal growth. First of all, the railroads opened up large sections of northern Dakota Territory to white settlement. Second, the demand for hard spring wheat rose sharply after 1870 when “Minnesota-patent” flour became a staple of the market. Third, the huge bonanza farms of the Red River Valley proved that northern Dakota was indeed superb spring wheat country. These spectacular farms, as large as 63,000 acres, produced staggering amounts of spring wheat. The seemingly endless fields attracted worldwide notice. Fourth, conditions in the states to the east of Dakota and in many European countries combined to cause people to find new lives in what was the farmer’s last frontier: Dakota. Lastly, the availability of cheap and free land in the United States
made Dakota an attractive alternative for both Easterners and Europeans. The lure of land was terribly powerful.
Land acts bring Great Dakota Boom Government policy allowed newcomers three ways to gain Dakota land. In 1841, Congress passed the Pre-emption Act which allowed a person of at least 21 years of age, who was a citizen or declared intention to become one, to purchase 160 acres of land for $1.25 an acre. The person had to live on and improve the land within a year. Two credible witnesses had to swear that a dwelling had been lived in and the land had been cultivated. In order to promote the Jeffersonian dream of a West populated by small farmers, Congress enacted the Homestead Act in 1862, which allowed a person who was at least 21 and a citizen or would-be citizen to claim 160 acres of public land absolutely free, except for nominal fees. Within six months the person
had to move onto the homestead, build a residence, break 10 acres of sod and plant a crop. After living on the 160 acres for five years, but no more than seven, upon paying a $4 fee, the homesteader received a patent (title) for the land. After two years, the homesteader could purchase the land for $1.25 per acre, a process called commutation. Realizing that, on the semi-arid treeless Great Plains, 160 acres might not be enough land upon which to make a living, Congress passed the Timber Culture Act in 1873. Under its terms, a person could claim 160 treeless acres (in addition to a homestead or a pre-emption). The settler had to raise 5 acres of crop and plant 10 acres in trees. After 8 years, if conditions were met and 675 trees had survived, the settler received title to the land with the payment of a small fee. In order to induce the westward building of railroads, the government granted the Northern Pacific 10.7 million acres within
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 23
North Dakota, about 25 percent of the state’s land mass. Although large tracts went into bonanza farms and were sold to land companies, the company recognized the need to populate the countryside with small farms of 160 to 320 acres. Such farms sold for about $5 an acre east and $3 west of the Missouri River. The conditions of railroad expansion, spring wheat demand, bonanza farm success, eastern America/European situations and land availability combined to produce “the perfect storm” for rapid settlement—the Great Dakota Boom. The Great Dakota Boom transformed northern Dakota into a prosperous wheat-producing region. By the end of the 1880s, 27,611 farms were harvesting just under 40 million bushels annually. Good prices for wheat buttressed the Boom. By the late 1880s, the Boom began to ebb; by the 1890s, the Boom had busted.
Final settlement of state comes with Second Boom That all began to change after 1898 when North Dakota entered
into the Second Boom which, by 1915, saw another 250,000 settlers buy or homestead land. Three factors worked in concert to stimulate the final settlement of the state. First, the Northern Pacific, the Great Northern and the Soo Line railroads pushed their rails into all corners, increasing trackage from 2,662 to 5,226 in miles. Hitherto unreachable territory could now be homesteaded. And the railroads, as well as the state, waged intense campaigns to lure new settlers to what was labels “the farmers’ last frontier” and “the place where wheat is king.” Second, the Boom was sparked and intensified by a significantly greater national demand for the products of the farm as city populations increased dramatically. Consumption was outstripping production. The Golden Age of Agriculture had arrived. Wheat prices stabilized at the $1 or better level but, more important, the prices that farmers received remained in a very favorable ratio to prices that farmers had to pay for their goods. The Second Boom was North Dakota’s most prosperous era. Third, a new wave of foreign
immigration brought thousands, especially Norwegians and Germans from Russia into the state. During the Second Boom, North Dakota’s population rose an astounding 135 percent from 270,000 to 637,000. The number of farms increased from 45,000 to 74,000; acreage from 14.4 million to 28.4 million; wheat production from 69 million to a spectacular 160 million bushels.
Homesteader’s life not easy Once on the land, the settler faced a myriad of difficult tasks: constructing a livable house of sod, logs or clapboard; clearing the rocks and the occasional stump from a potential field; breaking 10 or 20 acres of tough plains sod; seeding and harvesting, often by hand; searching out a supply of water, usually a well. This was dawn-to-dusk toil, not for the faint of heart. Elwyn B. Robinson points out that “many people who came to North Dakota soon gave up and left” and that “many people who acquired land in the boom were speculators who had no intention of staying.” Abuses of the government’s land-law intentions, especially the Homestead Act, were not uncommon but, in the end, this made little difference to the development of North Dakota. By 1915, 75,000 farms, averaging about 400 acres, had turned North Dakota into the national’s leading wheat-producing state. Wheat was king and the foundation for a prosperous economy. The farmer’s last frontier had come of age.
Page 24 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
Andrews captures Miss Rodeo North Dakota title Ashley Andrews of Bowman proudly took over the reins as Miss Rodeo North Dakota on Jan. 1, 2006. Andrews competed in the pageant during the Minot Y’s Men’s Rodeo last Oct., where she captured the horsemanship, personality and appearance categories, as well as receiving the speech and scrapbook awards. The daughter of Bob and Rita Andrews, she is a 2003 Bowman High School graduate and attends the University of Mary, Bismarck. She is working toward a communications/public relations degree. Always interested in horses, she participated in stick horse races soon after learning to walk. Following her five siblings’ interests in rodeo and roping, Andrews concentrated on barrel racing, pole bending and goat tying, her favorite event being goat tying. “The idea of being a rodeo queen wasn’t considered,” she says, “until after my sister, a cousin and a friend became involved. After that, I became serious about becoming a rodeo queen.”
Andrews was successful her first time out of the chute—being selected as the North Dakota High School rodeo queen as a sophomore and placing in the top 10 at the national competition. She also served as NDHSRA president. The rodeo queen bug really bit after that first success, and Andrews began following the necessary steps toward becoming Miss Rodeo North Dakota. Her first title in that route was as Miss Rodeo Mandan. As MRND, Andrews received a saddle and is loaned a Dodge pickup during her reign. Her duties include working with fans, sponsors, committees and rodeo competitors to promote the sport of rodeo around N. Dak., the Midwest and at national events. While serving as MRND, Andrews knows she’ll have less time to spend with her two Quarter horses, Chancy and Teeto. Chancy serves her well as her rodeo queen and goat tying horse, while Teeto is used for barrel racing. In addition to college, Andrews works as the financial manager for the N. Dak. Democratic-NPL
Ron Wanner’s friends rebuild Knife River Bridge When a family loses someone special, it’s often hard for friends and neighbors to know what to say or do or how to help. Some of Ron Wanner’s friends, however, found a way last Thanksgiving. (Ron is the former NDCHF District 6 Trustee
Chairman.) The day after Thanksgiving, Kim and Debbie Sabot and their Thanksgiving company showed up to rebuild the Knife River Bridge on Lois Wanner’s ranch. Though a crucial transportation path for getting around on the
Ashley Andrews - Miss Rodeo North Dakota ‘06
Party. Both that position and her MRND position fit right into her public relations goal. Dedicated to her responsibilities as MRND, Andrews says her No. 1 goal is to be a national winner. She says, “Rodeo has been a huge inspiration in my life. It has taught me many of life’s lessons and has given me many wonderful opportunities.” Andrews goes on, “I am thrilled to have the honor of representing the sport than runs deep in my veins and so close to my heart.” She says, “I would not be here today without the help of my gracious sponsors and supportive friends. But, most of all, I extend thanks to my loving family who has always been there for me.” ranch, the bridge was a difficult and gradual project for the Wanner family, as that was the site of Ron’s death in Dec. 2004. The bridge was rebuilt as Ron watched over the project from his favorite spot on the hill above. (For more information on the bridge building project, see article and photos in Dec. 22, 2005, issue of the Hazen Star.)
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 25
North Dakota Rodeo Queens Over the Years As a follow up to the Miss Rodeo North Dakota article in the November 2005 Chronicle, here’s a complete listing of North Dakota rodeo queens since 1954: 1954 – Audrey Hall, Halliday 1955 – Vonny Young, Bismarck (1st Miss Rodeo ND) 1956 – Pat Shipley, Bismarck 1957 – Kaye Van Dyke, Watford City 1958 – Jamie Childs, Bismarck 1959 – Barbara Kennedy, Mandaree 1960 – Ellen Trotter, Grassy Butte 1961 – Sharon Burkhardt, Medora 1962 – Joan Hecker, Belfield 1963 – Virginia Eck, Bismarck 1964 – Bonita Bohnsack, Sheldon 1965 – Janice Brettin, Beach 1966 – Terilynn Todd, Westhope 1967 – Kathy Sandberg, Pettibone 1968 – Celeste Hill, Fairdale 1969 – Janet Mutchler, Aneta
1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982
– – – – – – – – – – – – –
1983 – 1984 – 1985 – 1986 – 1987 – 1988 – 1989 – 1990 – 1991 –
Cathy Moon, Fairmount Bonnie Kuntz, Bismarck Patty Backhaus, Linton Pat Carlson, Bismarck Katie Osborn, Bismarck Karen Paulson, Bowman Vickie Solheim, Bismarck Judi Fischer, Dickinson Deb Sterns, Bowman Nancy Jo Rustad, Kindred Sue Vuylsteke, Bismarck Lynn Brokaw, Forbes Brenda Lee Bonogofsky, Carson (1983 Miss Rodeo America) Tammy Schaubert, Fargo Shauna Rangen, Devils Lake Tracy Pearce, Bismarck Janet Voight, Halliday Melissa Berger, St. Anthony Jessica Severson, Dickinson Tammy Peterson, Dickinson Ellen Thomas, Mandan Leah Mecklenberg,
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997
– – – – – –
1998 1999 2000 2001 2003 2004
– – – – – –
2005 – 2006 –
Lisbon Tanya Jo Zahn, Ellendale Ashlee Ehr, Minot Larri Pfliiger, Bismarck Nacole Needham, Parshall Korrey Tweed, Binford Sonya Dee Froelich, Selfridge Jamie Erhardt, Mandan Shanda Doan, McKenzie Robyn Nelson, Pembina Shannon Rustad, Kindred Melanie Marquart, Wing Amanda Schaff, New Salem Cara Ness, Bismarck Ashley Andrews, Bowman
The MRND Pageant Association is updating its records on past MRNDs and would appreciate your contacting Jamie Krous at mrndpa@missrodeond.org or at 701-255-3326 with updates for yourself or any of the MRNDs.
Page 26 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
Members contribute to NDCHF The following are new or renewing NDCHF members. To contribute to the sustaining drive, the building fund or the NDCHF Foundation, please complete and mail the form on page 27. (Information is current through Jan. 3, 2006, deposits.)
Pledges to Building Fund
Pat & Edna Plummer – Given by their Granddaughter, Sherry Plummer
Bank Center First Brady, Martz & Associates (John
Albert & Karen Wolf & daughters Gretchen, Heidi & Anna
Mongeon, Lonnie & Dianna Kindseth, John & Tania Schell, Patrick &
In memory of Robert D. “Bob” Stuber –
Doreen Brown, Don & Patricia
Given by Dudley, Michelle, Dustin,
Clement & Kevin & Jack Hay)
Suzi, Mikki & Bobbi Stuber
Arnold* & Sharon Burian
River Run Ranch – Given by Dudley & Michelle Stuber
Rex* & Anne Cook Dickinson Ready Mix Co.
Harry P. Anderson* William Diss Glenn* & Joanne McCrory H.L. & Shirley Meschke Kenneth* & Marlys Radenz Trophy Spurs ($200-$249 annually) Terrald* & Carol Bang
Placidus & Eva Wolf – Given by Albert & Donna Wolf
David Dunlop*
Silver Buckle ($250-$499 annually)
Lyn* & Al Bjornson Joyce Fossum* Gary* & Charlotte Griffeth
Rose Howard* Thomas & Frances Leach Foundation
Memberships
Grace Hart*
L. Curtis* & Jill Luchsinger
Diamond Saddle ($1,000-$4,999 annual-
Gordon Jensen*
Alvin Nelson*
ly)
Doug Johnston* & Emily Tescher
Kenneth* & Marlys Radenz
Stephen & Denise McDonough
Jerry & Carla Schnell
Walter & Hattie Piehl Sr.
Johnston Byron* & Deloris Langley Dennis Lewellyn*
Marvin* & Barbara Semrau Steve Tomac*
Gold Buckle ($500-$999 annually)
Jim* & Dona Lowman
Duaine Voigt*
Tex* & Pauline* Appledoorn
Lowell Malard*
Weinreis Brothers*
Russ** & Helen Danielson
Eloise Ogden*
Bette Krabbenhoft*
Jerry Schlosser*
Patio Tables
Todd Hall* & Patti Jo Thomas
J.D. Van Horn*
Randy** & Laurie Hatzenbuhler
Sherry Plummer
Frances Werre*
Peter & Karen Hogue and children—
Doris Slaaten
Rita, Janice, Kellie-Jo and David
Allan Thompson
Ranch Boss ($100-$199 annually)
Hogue
Judy Tibbetts*
Daniel & Norma Baranick
Join the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame! The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. All contributions are tax deductible. • Kid Corral –––––––––––––––– $10-49 annually
• Gold Buckle Club –––––––– $500-999 annually
• Wrangler Club ––––––––––––– $50-99 annually
• Diamond Saddle Club –––– $1,000-4,999 annually
• Ranch Boss Club –––––––– $100-199 annually
• Trail Drivers Club ––––– $5,000-9,999 annually
• Trophy Spurs Club ––––––– $200-249 annually
• Bronc Rider Club –––––––––– $10,000+ annually
• Silver Buckle Club –––––––– $250-499 annually
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 27
Steve & Barbra Burian
LeNore Wagner
Don & Betty Rehm
James Chamley
Lloyd Weckerly & Virginal Brockel
John Riley
Dale Chilson*
Shayne Yetter
Steve & Barbara Rogalla C.A. Schmidt
Charles & Karen Dahl
Collin Schnell & Michelle Avelar-
Janet & Richard Elkin
Wrangler ($50-$99 annually)
Bettie Erickson*
Tammy & Troy Backhaus
John German
Brian Bartz
John & Laura Shipley
Roy Gilbreath*
C.J. Bloomquist
Linda Steve
Jim & Sharon Goetz
Du Wayne T. Bott
Dan & Sheila Zachmann
Kenneth Halvorson*
Rodger & Mavis Buchholz
Ronda & Carl Zeltinger
Rosemary Hanson
James Clement*
Dan & Mary Zimmerman
David Hendrickson
John Combs & Ferne Nordin Combs
Norris & Bev Hildre
Fred & Gladys Eberle
Kid’s Corral ($10 annually)
Arnold & Lois Hilleren
Dick & Mary Goldberg
Chance Appledoorn
Janet Holt
Fredrick & Ruth Green
Kailey Appledoorn
Denver* & Bobbi Jorgenson
O.L. “Hoot” Harr
Jaime Gietzen
Russell Kleppe
Robert & Karen Huether
Alex Giffen
Loren Kopseng
Donald & Jannene Janssen
Benjamin Giffen
Odean & Karen Olson
Gloria & Harold Johnson
Kazanne Gjermundson
Phyllis O’Neil*
Gregory Lardy* & Lyane Hansen-Lardy
Thadd Hall
Calvin* & Diane Pfeilschiefter
Gene & Susan Melgaard
Tommy Hall
Stan* & Joan Pope
Betty Morgan
Tristan Hall
David Reistad
Larry & Lyda Nelson
Danielle Knutson
Lenard Ressler
Norma Nelson
Destinee Knutson
Wally & Marlys Rustad
Gerald & Nona Nunn
Kathleen & William Ryan
Myles & Ranelle O’Keeffe
* Denotes NDCHF Trustees
Ray & Beverly Sandness
Richard & Sharon Olson
**Denotes NDCHF Board Members
Winston & Barbara Satran
Kevin & Cheryl Pavlish
Elmer Skogen
Vivian Pennington
(Please notify the NDCHF of any errors
Vonne & Morris Tarnavsky
William & Mary Lee Randall
or omissions by calling 701-250-1833.)
Wes & Linda (Shipley) Vettel
Connie* & Glenda Redmond
Schnell
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Membership/Memorials Membership Contribution of $ _______________________ Category ____________________________ Memorial gift of $ _________________ in honor of ___________________________________________ Patio Table Fund $ ________________ Name Address
Building Fund $ ________________
Foundation $________________
_______________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________
City ___________________________ State ________ Zip Code ________ Phone __________________ Credit Card ___________________________________________________ Exp. Date ______________________ Mail this form (or a copy of it), along with your check, to: North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, 1110 College Drive, Suite 216, Bismarck, N.D. 58501
Page 28 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
NDCHF Gifts Honor Loved Ones The NDCHF has received honorariums/memorials for the following individuals. Information is current through the Jan. 3, 2006, deposit. To honor a loved one, see the memorial/contribution form on page 27.
In memory of Lavern Anderson Bill & Pat Meyer In memory of Dean Armstrong Burns & Lois Abernethy Rella & Donald Abernethy Betty & LeRoy Aipperspach Albers sisters Evelyn Allram Evelyn Anderson Fran Armstrong Wes & Marilyn Allerdings Nel & Shirley Atkinson Hilda Backfish Phil Baird Mary Beth & Craig Becker Ben, Eileen, Strad & Kent Benjamin Ruth Benjamin Beulah Elementary School staff Elaine Bodvig Violet & Marvin Bodvig Bruce & Ruby Bowerman Lucille Bowerman Leona Brecht Rod & Mandy Burman Charles Clinton Bush Colin & Jean Cameron Marga & Lonnie Carlson Jill Chase Ceil Anne Clement John Combs & Ferne Nordin Combs Sidney Connell Jim Cook Ward & Rita Cook Ed Cornelius Floraine Dougherty Sonny Ehr Audrey Erickson, Four A’s Farms Arly & Lynette Flemmer Pat Franezen Queda & Joseph Fritz Nora & Guy Gamber Dale & Eleanor Gilje Colette & Casey Gjermundson Mark & Debra Glauvitz Fern Goldsberry Harris, Ron & Karen Goldsberry Steve & Patti Goodall Jay & JoAnn Gorrell Marge Gratton, Butte Antiques & Collectibles
Marilyn Greenshields Laura & Bud Griffin George & Sydney Hegge Vera Heine Dean & Arlene Helling Betty Helm Amy, Darrell & Tyler Hinger Harry & Toni Hoff Duane & Orpha Howard Gary & Colleen Hutchinson Glenn Hutchinson Tm Irish & Sheila Marie Larry & Shirley Jablonsky Floyd Jacober Gary & Mavis Jepson Charles & Beverly Johnson Jim & Jay Johnson Bonnie & Chuck Jones Charlotte King Ted & Beverly Kirkpatrick Theodore & Olga Klein Duane & Deanna Knudson Larry Kryzsko D.W. Kukowski Richard & Kay Kuske Kent & Mary Jo Larson Ruth & Orville Larson Denny & Carmen Latka Bernelda & Randall Lehmann Bill & Joann Lowman Jim & Dona Lowman Ron & Lucy Luff Calda & Blande Lunde Linda, Kirk & Allen Maize Sheila Marie Jeanette Martin Ione Melling Dean & Shirley Meyer Connie & Jack Mindt Gary & Marjorie Murray Alvin & Kaye Nelson Pauline Northrop Bert Nreswaag Phyllis O’Neil Ida Olheiser Douglas & Janice Olson Pat & Duane Otto Sodie Peabody Beth & Bill Pearson Charles & Norma Peterson Betty Pfliger
Edna Raber & Eleanor Akidakis Ann & Fritz Rehbein Gary Reile Vivian Rickertt Kerm & Lorraine Rink Don & Janice Rustad Walt & Betty Sauther Sheila Schafer Lorene & Laura Schield Mert & Louis Schlautmann Willard & Linda Schnell Steve & Dana Schroder Sandy Schulz Jim & Joan Schumaier Neta, Mark, Arielle & Cameron Seibold Laura Shield & Ronald Jyring Lorene & Laura Schield Charles & Tillie Shipley John & Laura Shipley Wanda Smith Jerald & Inez Sommer Clarence Starr Aaron, Sheyne & Cassidy Strommen Al & Joyce Stude Don & Alice Such Raleigh & Sandy Svensrud Jocelyn & William Tescher Troy & Joanne Tescher Leo & Ruby Tisor Theodore & Beverly Trinka Elsie & John Trotter Gordon & Cheryl Ueckert J.D. Van Horn, Dory’s Antique Auto Museum Jim Van Horn & Janice Abraham Kay Voigt Delbert & Patsy Waters Lois & George Welsch, Big Hat Society Bill & Helen White Gene & Carol White Gary & Pam Willz Jim & Margery Wyckoff Lyle & Vicki Yeager Derwin & Carmen (Connell) Zuroff In memory of L. Ray Baird Brian Baird Hail Baird Mary Baird Phil Baird Santee Baird
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 29
Sonja Baird Elaine Beaudreau Darrell & Kathy Dorgan Jean Katus Tom Katus Dean & Shirley Meyer Winston & Barb Satran Gloria Sly
Charlotte King
In memory of Virgil Carmichael Colleen Carmichael
In memory of Pearl Cullen Frances Armstrong Phil Baird Bob & Virginia Bubel Greg & Debbie Childs Charles & Anna Mae Cullen Pearl Cullen’s estate Erna Engelbretson Arnie & Sandy Fisher Robert & Wilma Freise Gail Landgren Margaret Martin Steve & Marie Martin DeDe Melby Ella Murray Evelyn Neuens & family Phyllis O’Neil Vivian Rickertt Willard & Linda Schnell Lee Selland Robert & Bonnie Tweeten Vonny Young
In memory of Joe Chase Arthur Lee Scott
In memory of Carmen Day Federenko Harold & Patricia Jacobson
In memory of Manfred Signalness Darrell Dorgan Willard & Linda Schnell
In memory of Laura Connell Nelson John & Rose Alls House George & Patricia Bustruck Fay & Lynn Connell Guy & Carol Connell Helen Connell & family Sid Connell Don & Cindy Cross Lola Fong Barbara Giese Marjorie Gratton Robert & Laura Griffin Sydney Hegge Erling & Charlotte Hodenfield Lucille Jacobson & family Willis & Inez Johnson Michael Kimbro Patrick Kimbro Olive Kinmark Garrett & Kristen Morel Jim & Cathy Murphy Darlene Nelson Roger & Betty Nelson Dean & Renee’ Rettinger Veronta & Paul St. Clair Leo & Ruby Tisor Roberta Williams Dona Wood
In memory of Raymond Erhardt Nita & Jason Wirtz
In memory of Ole Solberg James Solberg
In memory of Ollie Mae Fritz Evelyn Anderson Steve & Patti Goodall Laura & Bud Griffin Peter & Betty Malkowski Leah Ray Allan Thompson
In memory of Howard Southwick Rick & Mindy Sigvaldsen
In memory of Henry “Hank” Baker Rodney & Diann Baker Roger & Bettelu Baker Shirley A. Baker Mr. & Mrs. Tyrone W. Baker William & Betty Lou Dunagan Shane & April Ettestad Phillip G. Hentsch Alice Faye Stein Kathy Wilkinson
In memory of Art Hagen Alan Huseth Irvin Huseth In memory of Carrie Johnston Jewell John & Mareldine Boomsma Bobbie & Allen Gatzke Ulla & Lee Gatzke In memory of Violet Jorgenson Clarence & Hazel Jorgenson Faye A. Stortroen In memory of Albert Irwin Fred & Gladys Eberle Gary & Lynn Russell In memory of John Lee Tex & Pauline Appledoorn
In memory of Don Lindberg Robert & Wilma Freise In memory of Dave Matson Family & friends of David Matson Lois Matson In memory of Leighton & Mildred Nunn LeNore Wagner In memory of Maurice Otto Donald & LaDonna Wanner In memory of Chris Sand Steve & Patti Goodall In memory of Gerald Schwede Bill & Pat Meyer
In memory of Jim Tescher Loretta Tescher In memory of Joseph Thomas Lois Krueger In memory of Esley Thorton Sr. Phil Baird In memory of Ron Timm Cary & Margie Hande In memory of Ron Wanner Archie & Ann Marie Wanner In memory of Margo Warren John & Marilynne Mayers In memory of Lloyd W. Wherley Kenneth & Mary Mann In memory of Allen Woosley Randall & Rebecca Robison
Page 30 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
OBITUARIES Raymond Baird – Louis Raymond Baird Jr. died Dec. 17, 2005. He was born Apr. 11, 1935, to Louis Baird Sr. and Irene Red Owl at Rosebud, S. Dak. He attended the St. Francis Indian School and graduated from Haskell Institute in Kans. Ray studied for a year at the S. Dak. School of Mines and Technology before serving in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years. He worked in electrical engineering and manufacturing in Calif. and returned to S. Dak. where he managed several programs for the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, taught Lakota studies classes at Todd County Public Schools and started a consulting firm. He enjoyed beadwork and traveling the pow wow circuit as a traditional dancer. Ray is survived by his 10 children, including Phil Baird, NDCHF Board president. Jack Chesrown – John William “Jack” Chesrown, 87, Carson, died Dec. 22, 2005. He was born Aug. 9, 1918, in Good Thunder, Minn., to Joseph and Mathilda (Mielke) Chesrown. He grew up on the family ranch in Grant County and graduated from McIntosh High in 1937. He worked in Minneapolis and attended the University of Minnesota, returning to the ranch in 1939. Jack married Phyllis Spicer on Aug. 28, 1942, at Baker, Mont., and they had four children. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942, served in the Air Commandoes and earned the
Distinguished Flying Cross with Clusters. Jack returned to the ranch, operating it until 1954. He also owned and operated the JJJ Rodeo Company with John Stevenson and Jim Weekes and worked for the ASCS, co-owned the IH dealership until 1964 and was the local brand inspector for the ND Stockmen’s Assn. for over 35 years. His wife, Phyllis, died in July 1988. He is survived by his son, Vaughn and family of Carson; his daughter, Lori Cada, and family of Gillette, Wyo. Hazel Doan – Hazel Delilah Doan, 81, MacKenzie, died Oct. 3, 2005. She was born May 12, 1924, near Morristown, S. Dak., to John and Eldora (Dokken) Peterson. The family moved to the Jacob Peterson farm, Bismarck, in 1928, and she attended the Apple Creek Elementary and Bismarck High schools. Hazel married Jewell “Babe” Doan on Feb. 21, 1945. They lived and ranched at the Black Leg Ranch, McKenzie. She enjoyed taking care of others, spending time with her grandchildren, dancing, walking, the outdoors and visiting with friends. Hazel was active in her community, including serving as District 5 Cowbelles president. Hazel is survived by her son John, Wichita, Kan., and her son Jerry, McKenzie. Ollie Mae Fritz – Ollie Mae Fritz, 85, Dickinson, died Oct. 12, 2005. She was born Mar. 27, 1920,
to George Smedley and Orpha Hagler at Fox Island, Wash. In 1942, Ollie worked in Tacoma and Colorado Springs. She moved back to the Belfield area and married Leslie Fritz on Sept. 20, 1945. They ranched in Billings County for 42 years on the Evangelical Lutheran Church Ranch, purchasing it in the mid1960s. In 1987, they retired to Dickinson. Ollie was active in community activities and enjoyed bowling, horseback riding, sewing, dancing, traveling and playing cards. Ollie is survived by her husband, Les; daughter Connie, Reva, S. Dak.; and sons Larry and Rocky, Belfield. George Hartman – George Hartman, 85, died Aug. 17, 2005, in Gilbert, Ariz. He was born Apr. 23, 1920, in Fayette, N. Dak., the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Schmaltz) Hartman. He attended school at Fayette and then served in the C.C.C. in Medora. On Nov. 24, 1941, George married Stella Thomas in Fayette. They farmed in the area and then farmed/ranched north of Killdeer. They moved to Killdeer in 1976, retiring from farming in 1980. Stella died in 1993, and George married June Leahy on June 7, 1997. He enjoyed spending time with family. George is survived by his wife, Mesa, Ariz.; his sons Dennis, Killdeer; Kenneth, Fargo; and Myron, Las Vegas; his daughters Phyllis Miller, Sandy, Utah; Diane Hill, Fargo; Elaine Klusmann,
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 31
Mesa; and Char Hartman, Phoenix. Palmer Hilleren – Palmer Arnold “Buzz” Hilleren, 84, died Nov. 26, 2005, in Parshall. He was born southwest of Parshall on Mar. 30, 1921. He attended rural school and graduated from Parshall High School in 1939, attended Minot Business College and the N. Dak. Agricultural College, Fargo. Buzz married Lois Hay on Feb. 22, 1947, in Parshall. They raised registered Polled Herefords and small grains. They moved into Parshall in 2002. Buzz was active in Farmers Union, 4-H and various livestock organizations. He is survived by his wife; his daughters Kristi Cabbage, Seattle, Wash.; Barbara Dramstad, Binford; Nancy Brown, Washburn; Lynda Childress, Rugby; Marci Koepplin, Elgin; and Kari Christenson, Plaza. Albert Irwin – Albert Devere Irwin, 90, died Dec. 2, 2005. Born Apr. 16, 1915, he was the son of Earl and Julia (Bowen) Irwin of Trenton. He was raised on the family ranch in Williams County and attended school in Trenton, graduating from Williston High School. In the 1930s, he established the Irwin Horned Hereford Ranch. Albert married Lillian Krogen on Oct. 17, 1941, in Williston. They ranched in the Trenton area until his retirement in 1977. Lillian died July 9, 2002. He loved playing baseball, pitching horseshoes, square dancing and playing cards. Albert is survived by many nieces and nephews and other family members. Almer Isaak – Almer Isaak, 74, Richardton, died Nov. 29,
2005, in Dickinson. He was born Aug. 22, 1931, at Dodge to Henry and Kathrina (Zeiszler) Isaak. Almer served in the N. Dak. National Guard from 1951-1953 and married Gladys Allmendinger on Jan. 2, 1957, in Dodge. They farmed/ranched in the area until 1980 and then moved to Richardton. Almer worked for the county and the high school. He was a member of the Dodge Saddle Club and the N. Dak. Stockmen’s Association. He enjoyed playing cards. Almer is survived by his wife, Gladys, of Richardton; their children Wayne of Hector, Minn.; Carmen Bohn and Daryl, both of Richardton; and Neal of Ames, Iowa. Raymond Isaak – Raymond H. Isaak, 77, Arnegard, died Dec. 18, 2005. He was born June 16, 1928, in Golden Valley to E.C. and Anna (Radke) Isaak. He graduated from Golden Valley High School as valedictorian at age 16 and attended the N. Dak. Agricultural College, Fargo. Ray returned to Golden Valley and worked at Isaak Implement & Service Co. and owned Ray’s Cash Store. He married in 1948. From 1957-1967, Ray worked with Meyer Broadcasting Co., Bismarck, and helped put the KFYR-FM on the air. He was regional marketing manager for Curtis Industries, Inc., in Denver and retired in 1980. He wrote and published a book of short stores and a collection of trivia from encyclopedias and wrote and emceed a musical revue for the Bismarck Sweet Adelines. In 1995, he published his autobiography, “Up Until Now,” wrote a
newspaper trivia column and presented historical interpretations of Judge Roy Bean and N. Dak. pioneer Charles Shafer. On Sept. 1, 1990, Ray married Arlene Schultz, and they moved to rural Arnegard. He is survived by his wife, and nine children, including David, Barnesville, Minn.; Janel Golderg, Denver; Laura Stoen, Byers, Colo.; Steven, Aurora, Colo.; and Daniel, Northglenn, Colo. Carrie Johnston Jewell – Carrie Johnston Jewell, 84, died Nov. 20, 2005, in Kalispell, Mont. She was born July 22, 1921, to Peter and Clara (Johnson) Johnston of Watford City. Carrie graduated from Watford City High School and Dickinson State Teachers College and taught in rural schools in eastern Mont. and western N. Dak. Carrie married James O. Jewell in Dickinson on Sept. 20, 1944. They ranched north of Watford City. She was involved in community activities. Carrie and Jim helped establish the first McKenzie County Fair. In 1960, they moved to Mont. and Ida. After Jim’s death in 2002, she moved to Kalispell. Carrie is survived by her daughters Beverly Terry, British Columbia; Mary Gatzke, Kalispell; and Marj Dahlstrom-Cardwell, Spokane, Wash. Mark Kenneweg – Mark J. Kenneweg, 56, Bismarck, died Dec. 18, 2005. Known as the “Face of Fort Lincoln,” Mark was born Sept. 28, 1949, in Columbus, Ohio, the son of Harold and LaVerne (Farnen) Kenneweg.
Page 32 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
He attended the Columbus College of Art and Design and worked for the FBI in D.C. He married Claudette Obenauer in Mandan and had two children, Eric and Alex. Mark moved to Dickinson, worked for KDIX-TV and married Danielle Kudrna on Nov. 20, 1979. They had two children, Lucas and Adrienne. In 1985, they moved to Bismarck. He loved military history and volunteered at Fort Lincoln and helped establish the 17th U.S. Infantry Reenactment Group. He later worked for the Fort Abraham Lincoln Foundation as interpretive director. He was also active as a community volunteer and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, deer hunting and drinking Moose Drool. Mark is survived by his wife; two sons, Eric and Lucas; and daughter Adrienne.
Duane “Bob” Pennington – Duane “Bob” Pennington, 78, New Town, died Feb. 26, 2004 in Minot. He was born Nov. 24, 1925, to Earl and Lillian (Halvorson) Pennington near Sanish. He graduated from Sanish High School in 1943. Bob served in the U.S. Navy. He married Vivian Lund on June 7, 1951, at Van Hook, and they farmed/ranched in Mountrail County. Bob was active in church and community activities and the N. Dak. Stockmen’s Assn. His family was named the F.H.A. Family of the Year. Bob loved horses, building and fixing machinery, and spending time with family. He is survived by his wife and sons Lauren, Fairbanks, Alaska; Kent, Big Horn, Mont.; and Jerry, New Town.
Dawn Kos – Dawn Kos, 57, died Nov. 21, 2005, in Richland, Wash. She was born June 14, 1948, in Philadelphia to Dr. Paul and Penny Johnson. She moved with her family to Cleveland, Ohio, and then to Bismarck. She earned a degree in physical education, certification as an X-ray technician and advanced training in nuclear medicine. She devoted herself to critically and terminally ill patients until her early retirement. Horses were Dawn’s lifelong passion and she was a champion barrel racer, chosen as North Dakota High School rodeo queen and competed at the National High School Rodeo Finals. She is survived by her daughter, Heidi Kos, Seattle; and her son, Ben Kos, Boise, Ida.
Lloyd Rockeman – Lloyd Rockeman, 84, of Grassy Butte, died Dec. 6, 2005. He was born near Donnybrook on Jan. 13, 1921, and graduated from high school there in 1938. Lloyd entered the U.S. Army in 1946. He and his brother, Howard, formed the Rockeman Brothers farm/ranch partnership where they raised cattle. He was a founding member of the MonDak Polled Hereford Assn. Lloyd married Eunice Dell Wheeler on Mar. 11, 1951, in Minot. She died in 1964, and he married Betty Kay Chisholm on Sept. 6, 1965. They bought the Rockeman Pine Hollow Ranch in Mont. in 1968 and raised registered Polled Herefords. In 1984, he began selling Western art, rocks and antiques. He moved back to
McKenzie County in 2000. Lloyd is survived by his sons Kurt, Watford City; Kenneth, Big Timber, Mont.; Keith, Grassy Butte; Carolyn Neumann, Castroville, Tex.; and Kimberly Proffitt, Winthrop, Maine. Joseph “Joe” Thomas – Joseph “Joe” Thomas, 80, of Glen Ullin, died Dec. 11, 2005. He was born June 19, 1925, near Glen Ullin to Adam and Melchina (Hoerner) Thomas. He worked on the farm and joined the U.S. Army in 1945. He returned to the area and married Frances Hellman on Jan. 7, 1946. They lived on the Nick Kuhn farm and, in 1951, purchased the Joe Fitterer farm. Frances died in 1976, and Joe married Charlene Huber Miller on Nov. 12, 1982. They lived in Glen Ullin. He is survived by his wife, his daughters Irene Wetzel, Jan Ziegler and Kim Thomas, all of Bismarck; his sons Allan, Bismarck; Jeffrey, Hazen: and David of Achworth, Georgia; and his stepchildren Sherrie Gietzen, Glen Ullin; Loren Miller, Pallyup, Wash.; and Candace Seabury, Bismarck. Irvin Torgerson – Irvin “Tuffy” Torgerson, 79, Pettibone, died Aug. 26, 2005, in Bismarck. He was born Nov. 13, 1925, in Pettibone to Martin and Clara (Anderson) Torgerson. He attached Pettibone schools, graduating in 1943. He farmed with his stepfather, John A. Johnson. Irvin married Jan Kaczmarski in Valley City. They lived on the family farm and raised registered Polled Herefords. He was a mem-
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 33
ber of the Pettibone Saddle Club, ND Stockmen’s Assn. and various Hereford assns. Irwin received the ND Polled Hereford Assn. Man of the Year in 1978. He is survived by his wife; daughters Joni Britton, Underwood; and Nancy Morlock and Robin Rewald, Pettibone. Cora Young Bird Baker – Cora Young Bird Baker, “Mhaxuetsa (Sweet Grass), 92, died Nov. 22, 2005, in Albuquerque, New Mex. She was born Jan. 22, 1913, to Joseph Young Bird and Susie Walker Young Bird at Lucky Mound. She married Paige Baker Sr. and had five children. Cora and Paige ranched on the Fort Berthold Reservation, and Paige was one of the first Cowboy Hall of Fame inductees. She is survived by her daughter May Barthelemy, Albuquerque; and her sons Frederick, New Town; Paige, Badlands National Park, S. Dak.; and Gerard, Mount Rushmore National Monument, S. Dak. She was preceded in death by one son Joseph.
OB I T U A RY POLICY If you are aware of the recent death of a NDCHF member; a N. Dak. cowboy, cowgirl or rancher; or a friend of western heritage, please inform us and, if possible, provide an obituary. Obituaries can be sent to: NDCHF, 1110 College Drive, Suite 216, Bismarck, ND 58501. Space availability may determine inclusion and length.
In 2005, NDCHF Board President Phil Baird received an Honorary Doctorate from the Sinte Gleska University, recognizing his work in education, cultural history preservation and western heritage. The United Tribes Technical College faculty hosted a surprise reception for Phil, presenting him with “Thunder on the Prairie,” a bronze sculpture of three wild horses. NDCHF Board members Evelyn Neuens and Ginny Eck attended the UTTC celebration in Bismarck. Congratulations, Phil!
NDCHF Trustee joins Mandan economic development Ellen Huber, NDCHF Trustee and 14-year director of communications for the N. Dak. Wheat Commission, was selected in Dec. 2005 to fill the newly created Business Development Director position for the City of Mandan. The Mandan City Commission saw the need for improved communications with the city’s residents and businesses and bolster the city’s flagging business sector. Huber says, “This is a great opportunity to help Mandan become a better place to live, work and do business.” She started in the new position on Feb. 1 with a goal to meet with the businesses downtown and
along Memorial Highway during the first three months and with all other Mandan businesses within her first year. Huber says, “I recognize the importance of getting the information regarding the diesel fuel contamination clean-up effort out to the public.” She realizes not everyone can use or has access to the City of Mandan website for information. Huber lives in rural Mandan and is a graduate of NDSU and a former Miss Rodeo North Dakota.
Page 34 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
NDSA honors George Wolf The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association presented its Brand Inspection Achievement Award to George Wolf of Medora last fall. Wolf served as a brand inspector for 49 years. North Dakota Stockmen’s
Association Executive Vice-president Wade Moser says, “Award winners are people who have been long-time brand inspectors, who do flawless work and are a great asset to the community.” Wolf is a long-time cattlemen and an NDSA member. He’s the one whom producers call when they need an inspection done. His first brand inspecting job
was in 1957 in Fargo. In 1958, he transferred to Dickinson and worked at the cattle markets. Then he leased two ranches and bought the second one along the Little Missouri River. His volunteer work with brand inspecting keeps him quite busy. He says, “When any livestock changes hands it must be done legally with proof of ownership.”
February 2006 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 35
Order Your NDCHF Gifts Today Denim button shirt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$33 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Adult sizes - S, M, L, XL. Logo stitching - navy.
Cookbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15 each + $2.50/book s&h Three-ring binder, 248 pages.
Sweatshirt, adult’s long-sleeved . . . . . . . .$24 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Sizes - S, M, L, XL. (Size 2X - $27 each, Size 3X - $28 each)
“40 Years of North Dakota Rodeo” . . . . . . . . .$5 each + $2.50/book s&h 76-page book by Phil Baird.
T-shirts Adult’s short-sleeved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$16 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Sizes - S, M, L, XL. Assorted colors. Adult’s long-sleeved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$17 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Sizes - S, M, L, XL. Assorted colors. Child’s short-sleeved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Sizes - XS, S, M, L. Assorted colors.
Cowboy Chronicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1.50 each +$2.50/order s&h Newsletter, specify publication date.
Polo Shirts Adult’s short sleeved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Sizes - S, M, L, XL. Assorted colors. Child’s short sleeved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$21 each + $2.50/shirt s&h Sizes - XS, S, M, L. Assorted colors. Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$8 each + $2.50/cap s&h Assorted colors. Cup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$8 each + $2.50/cup s&h Navy blue or black w/white logo.
Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$20 each (no s&h) Specify “Incredible Six” or “induction” and year. Bumper sticker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$2 each (no s&h) Navy blue w/white logo. Window decal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1.50 each (no s&h) Clear w/blue logo. Glass Christmas ornament . . . . . . . . . . .$10 + $2.50/ornament s&h Teardrop-shaped, 4” tall, with red ribbon and gold lettering. NDCHF logo, number and year “2005.” Brass Boot, Cowboy Hat and Saddle Christmas ornaments . . . . . .$5.50 + $2.50/ornament s&h 3 1/2” tall, with red ribbon and red lettering.“Happy Holidays - North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame”
Glass Mug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$22 each + $2.50/mug s&h Hat pin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5 each (no s&h) Gold with brown logo, 3/4” tall. Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1 each (no s&h) Tan w/brown logo, 3” round. Poster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15 each + $4/order s&h “Sunday Afternoon at the Ranch” circa 1903, Horizontal, 35” X 23.”
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Merchandise Order Form To order NDCHF merchandise, please complete this form (or a copy) and mail to: NDCHF, 1110 College Drive Suite 216, Bismarck ND 58501. If you have questions, call the NDCHF office at 701-250-1833.
Name_________________________________ Address________________________________ City___________________State_________Zip__________Phone________________________ Visa or Mastercard____________________________ Card Exp. Date_____________________ Item
Size
Quantity
Color
Price
Plus s&h
Total
Total Enclosed
Page 36 • The Cowboy Chronicle • February 2006
Planning ahead!! The NDCHF celebrates the horse with the First Annual Wild West Series at the Medora Rancho-rama arena. Events run from May-Sept. 2006. • Saturday, May 20 - First Badlands Trail Ride & NDCHF Barbecue • Sunday, May 21 - Children’s Showdeo • Saturday, June 3 - Team Penning • Sunday, June 4 – Ranch Sorting • Saturday & Sunday, June 10-11 - Team Roping • Saturday & Sunday, June 24-25 - Barrel Racing
Other NDCHF- and/or horserelated activities for the 2006 season include: • Mar. 4-5 – ND Horse Fest Minot, ND • May 27-28 – Cowboy Poetry Gathering • June 3 – Patio Dance with the “Prairie Dogs” • June 14 – Flag Day Parade • July 1 – Patio dance with the “Prairie Dogs” • July 1 - Medora Parade • July 4 – Medora Parade & Fireworks • July 9 – Veterans’ Day – Medora • July 20-23 – Taylor Horsefest • July 22 – National Day of the Cowboy
• Aug. 4 – Patio Fundraiser Dinner • Aug. 5 – Annual Induction Ceremony • Aug. 5 – Patio Dance with the “Prairie Dogs” • Aug. 6 - Home on the Range Champions Ride • Aug. 31-Sept. 1 – ND Barrel Racing Futurity & Derby Bismarck, ND • Sept. 9-10 – Art Show & Badlands Balloon Rally For more information on the above events, contact the NDCHF Center of Western Heritage and Cultures in Medora at 701-6232000, the NDCHF office in Bismarck at 701-250-1833 or check the NDCHF website at www.northdakotacowboy.com.
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