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Vol. 12, No. 2 • July 2007

•

Published by the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

hall of honorees 2007 Induction Activities - Page 2 & 4 Tourism award - Page 5 Inductee bios - Pages 8-11

07

Henry "Almit" Breuer at Garrison Rodeo in 1960.

20

ND Horse Park - Pages 30-31

To No ur r of ist A th th ttr D e ac a Ye ti k ar on o ta

Contributions & memorials - Pages 24-26

Page • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

2007 INDUCTEES:

Helping Preserve Yesterday and Today for Tomorrow Friday, August 3, 2007 Social Hour – 5:00 p.m. MDT BBQ & Program – 7:00 p.m.

Patio, Center of Western Heritage and Cultures, Medora Reservations required by calling 701-623-2000

Saturday, August 4, 2007

Induction Ceremony Tjaden Terrace, Medora

10:00 a.m. MDT – Trustees Meeting 12:00 p.m. – Entertainment 1:00 p.m. – Welcome Phil Baird Invocation Robert Tibor Introduction of Keynote Speaker Darrell Dorgan Keynote Speaker Jack Zaleski, Editorial Page Editor The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead

Donald "Don" Stevenson Pre-1940 Ranching Jacob L. "Jake” Larson Modern-era Ranching

Introduction of Ranching Honorees Russell Danielson

John F. "Johnny” Quilliam Pre-1940 Rodeo

Introduction of Rodeo Honorees & Rodeo Producer Honoree Dean Meyer

Henry "Almit" Breuer Modern-era Rodeo

Introduction of Arts & Entertainment Honoree Ross Rolshoven

Harold "Harry" Olson Modern-era Rodeo

Closing Phil Baird

Samuel "Sam" Rhoades Rodeo Producer

8:00 p.m. – Patio Dance Music by Lon Davis, Golden Valley Outfitters, Beach

Tibor Brothers Arts & Entertainment

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page

BIT FROM THE BOARD Dear Members and Friends: The history of North Dakota’s western legacies exists beyond the borders of the Rough Rider state.

This spring, I was in Abilene, Texas, on a mission to find any kind of evidence about a story I had heard about a N. Dak. cowboy arriving there some time ago to enroll at Hardin Simmons University (HSU).

The first snag in my mission was the fact that HSU was on spring break.

There were few people on the campus to help me, let alone anyone who knew the history I was searching for.

However, someone suggested going to the horse barn. Say what? HSU is no ag school. So why would she send me to the horse barn?

Then I remembered—HSU has the famous cowboy marching band with white horses. The band tours all over the U.S. I made my way to the white horse barn and found the manager, Deb Jones. After introductions and a brief tour, I laid out the story behind my search.

In the early 1950s, HSU decided to organize a rodeo team. Their goal was to knock off the national college rodeo powerhouse, Sul Ross University, and its top hand, all-around cowboy Harley May. In the search for talent, HSU connected with an Indian kid from N. Dak.’s Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. He had already made a name for himself by winning the state bronc riding championship at age 16.

The Indian cowboy arrived on the HSU campus and spent three years pursuing the college education his mother insisted upon. He not only read books and studied, but he also rode broncs and wrestled steers.

By the time he finished at HSU, he had won two national college saddle bronc championships in 1952 and 1953 and one national runner-up title in 1954.

But the main coup was in 1953 when the HSU rodeo team toppled Sul Ross for the national team title.

It must’ve been a pretty remarkable

event, especially for a kid from N. Dak. Now I was in search of some evidence of that achievement. Jones guided me to the white horse history room in the barn.

There were exhibit presentations nicely organized like in our Hall of Fame.

I read over the newspaper clippings.

However, there wasn’t anything about the rodeo story I had heard.

Somewhat befuddled, Jones said there might be one other place to look.

We went into the tack room of the white horse barn.

And there it was. Sitting against some shelving was a row of trophies.

In a quick sweep with squinty eyes, I finally focused on a tall trophy with a faded inscription on the tarnished metal plate that said “1953 NIRA national college rodeo team--Hardin Simmons University.”

As I took pictures of the trophy, a mix of emotions came over me-excitement, satisfaction, a lil’ sadness and pride. Yeah, mostly pride.

Glancing at the trophy one last time, I thought about how that Indian kid from Halliday, N. Dak., must’ve felt.

Actually, I already knew the answer.

Having interviewed him, I know Joe Chase was very proud of that accomplishment and the rodeo history he was a part of.

There are many stories like that one that take N. Dak.’s western legacies beyond our borders. You can learn more by coming out to Medora this summer. In fact, come out for the 2007 NDCHF induction ceremonies the first weekend in August.

We’d appreciate your patronage.

And thank you, again, for your continued support of the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Phil Baird, NDCHF President P.S. Hey, Joe Chase--mission accomplished!! Rest in peace, cowboy.

North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . Darrell Dorgan Medora Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Reinarts

Board of Directors

President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Baird, Mandan Vice-president . . . . . . . . . . . Robert Tibor, Hebron Secretary/Treasurer . Russell Danielson, Harwood

Board Members

Virginia Eck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bismarck Laura Griffin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Medora Shirley Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dickinson Ray Morrell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mandan Robyn Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pembina Evelyn Neuens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bismarck Walter Piehl, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minot Ross Rolshoven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Forks 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 Pat Grantier 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

Vision “People of all Nations and cultures will come to understand and appreciate North Dakota’s ranching, rodeo and Native American cultures through the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.”

Mission Statement The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame will strive to preserve and educate about the western history and cultural heritages of North Dakota’s Native American, ranching and rodeo communities.

Page • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

A Few Words From Darrell We've had a wonderful couple of months at Cowboy Hall of Fame. The February annual meeting was a success, and the rains this spring have everyone smiling.

The only fly in the ointment is the high gas prices, but we had to put up with that last year, too.

We’ve sold all of the patio tables.

Members and others paid $1,000 to put names on the tables, and we could have sold 100 if we’d had them.

Now, we’re selling the chairs in the Tom Leach Theater. If you have a loved one or someone else you want to honor or if you want to put a brass

plaque for yourself on one of the theater chairs, the cost is $500.

NDCHF President Phil Baird became the first to do so, putting his dad’s name on one of the chairs.

Looks nice and will be a way for people to remember Ray Baird for years to come.

If you want to buy a chair, please contact me at 701-250-1833 or Pam Reinarts at 701-623-2000.

The NDCHF Trustees are busy selling raffle tickets on the beautiful horse donated by Trustee Roxanne SolbergGillespie and her sons, Dakota and Colton.

The horse raffle is a major fundraiser for us, and the money helps cover administrative expenses.

Last year, we raised about $25,000 on the colt given by Trustee and State Representative Rod Froelich and his family. We hope to do as well this year with Roxanne’s outstanding colt.

If you would like to sell some of the

$5.00 tickets, contact Judith Hammer at the Bismarck office (701-2501833). The tickets come in books of 25.

The art show in the changing exhibit gallery is beautiful. We have originals by Sheila Reiman, Monte Yellow Bird, Gary Miller, Kaye Burian and Walter Piehl Jr., to mention just a few.

Can’t afford an original? I can’t either, but we also have prints of the originals for sale.

See you at the National Day of the American Cowboy event on July 28, the Induction ceremony on August 4 and the HOTR Champions Ride on August 5.

Darrell Dorgan Executive Director

NDCHF hosts 10th annual Induction Ceremony

BRING IN YOUR BRANDING IRON Preserve your brand for posterity on the NDCHF patio fence.

It will be there generations to come. $100- members $200- non-members (includes a oneyear Ranch Boss membership)

• Call Pam Reinarts today at the Hall of Fame (701) 632-2000 to arrange your branding.

The 10th Induction weekend festivities begin on Friday, August 3, in Medora.

Activities start off with a social hour Friday evening at 5:00 p.m.

MDT on the beautiful Center of Western Heritage and Cultures patio.

Special guests will be the 2007 inductees and their families and friends, and invitations will be sent to all previous Hall of Honorees inductees, also.

At 7:00 p.m., the folks from Eagle Ridge Lodge will serve a wonderful rib eye steak dinner. A brief program will follow the dinner.

Reservations are required for the dinner, and the $35 tickets must be reserved by calling the Medora facility (701-623-2000).

NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says the Friday night banquet has been a big hit the past two years.

He says, “The food was marvelous, and everyone had a chance to meet the new inductees and visit

with friends from across the state and country.”

Saturday’s activities begin with a Trustees meeting at 10:00 a.m. MDT at the Tjaden Terrace. The 2007 induction ceremony begins at 1:00 p.m.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Jack Zaleski of The Forum of FargoMoorhead.

Topping off the day will be a dance on the Center’s patio, beginning at 8:00 p.m. The dance will feature Lon Davis of the Golden Valley Outfitters, Beach. If you like to dance, this will be your night.

Medora lodging is always in short supply on Induction weekend so make your reservations early by calling the Medora Chamber of Commerce at 701-623-4910.

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page

Hall of Fame receives 2007 tourism honor Year.”

Tourism is one of the state’s largest industries, and eight individuals or organizations were recognized at the conference.

Presented at the annual North Dakota Tourism Conference in May, the honor is a testament to the hard work of many NDCHF members and staff.

The award was a surprise to Executive Director L-R: Phil Baird, Shane Goettle of ND Department of Commerce and Darrell Dorgan.

Darrell Dorgan and other NDCHF staff.

The Hall of Fame opened for its second full season on May 1, and Dorgan is thrilled by the prestigious award.

He says, “It’s a great way to begin the 2007 season.

Having this recognition means we’ve arrived. It means we did something and did it right.”

Dorgan adds, “Everyone 1st row (L-R): Ross Rolshoven, Pam Reinarts, Julie involved should be very Tescher and Russell Danielson.

2nd row (L-R): Arlen Sommers, Phil Baird and proud. More than 1,000 Darrell Dorgan. members worked for years to make the project a realThe North Dakota Tourism ity, and the award says the job of Division recently named the Center preserving yesterday and today for of Western Heritage and Cultures as tomorrow is getting done.” the “2007 Tourist Attraction of the

NDCHF Board President Phil Baird attended the awards ceremony, along with Board members Russell Danielson, Arlen Sommers and Ross Rolshoven.

Baird says, “This honor is testimony to the tremendous support of our vision to weave the unique heritage of our Native American, ranching and rodeo cultures in N. Dak.” He adds humbly, “When the Hall’s efforts were started in 1995, we never imagined such recognition, let alone that it would come so soon after opening the Center two years ago.”

The North Dakota Tourism press release on the awards says of the Cowboy Hall of Fame, “. . .

Professionally designed and completed exhibits, detailing the cultures and the people of the past and the present, provide enriching educational, heritage and tourism opportunities for residents and visitors . . . .”

Dorgan says, “The Hall of Fame is a tourist attraction, built as a cultural center to tell the story of the settlement of the plains and the plains horse culture. It is a culture that fascinates people around the world.”

Congratulations go out to everyone involved in the Cowboy Hall of Fame project. It took a lot of people to make it happen and to achieve this award.

Jack Zaleski to give induction keynote Award-winning editorial writer Jack Zaleski of The Forum of FargoMoorhead will give the keynote at the 2007 annual Induction Ceremony in August.

A native in New Britain, Conn., he was educated in New Britain and at the University of Connecticut. Zaleski came to N. Dak. about 40 years ago as a reporter for the Devils Lake Daily Journal, working his way up to editor/general manager.

Zaleski moved from Devils

Lake to Fargo in 1987 to become editorial page editor of The Forum.

In addition to The Forum, Forum Communications (a N. Dak. company) owns the Grand Forks Herald, the Jamestown Sun and The Dickinson Press.

He has been honored for his editorial writing, editorial pages and personal column by state, regional and national press associations. Most recently, he received a first place for editorial writing from the ND Newspaper Association.

Zaleski is the first N. Dak. editorial page editor to serve on the Board of Directors for the National Conference of Editorial Writers and NCEW’s Foundation board.

He married Sandra Davidson of Sentinel Butte in 1970. She was raised on a farm/ranch northeast of Beach, where her family has been for several generations.

He says, “Over the years, we’ve spent a lot of time in western N. Dak.” The couple has a son, Jeremy, manager for a large farming operation near Comstock, Minn., and a daughter, Jessica, an attorney in Vermont, who will be moving back to N. Dak. in July, along with her husband and triplet daughters.

Zaleski’s interests include fishing, hunting, cross-country skiing, sailing, old movies, gardening and putting up firewood for the winter.

Page • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

Horse raffle tickets sell themselves

Hall of Fame Hancock with Colton

Hall of Fame Trustee Roxanne Solberg-Gillespie and her sons, Dakota and Colton, are donating a one-yearold bay roan gelding named Hall of Fame Hancock for the 2007 horse raffle fundraiser.

The colt is from Joe Sage Hancock, a blue roan stallion, and Sonita’s Holly Bar, a chestnut mare.

Judith Hammer, raffle project coordinator at the NDCHF’s Bismarck office, says, “Almost 10 percent of the 9,500 tickets that have distributed so far have been returned to the office. The proceeds total $4,500.”

The NDCHF Trustees have raised more than $80,000 through horse raffles the past four years.

NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says, “Our Trustees have done an incredible job selling the $5 tickets.”

Last year’s champion seller, Vic Wilhelm is on a roll, vowing to sell tickets in more states and Canadian provinces than he did last year.

Sue Mosser is keeping us in suspense so we don’t know how her sales are racking up.

Solberg-Gillespie is capturing the territory between Devils Lake and Grand Forks, while Joyce Kitt is all

over Coal Country.

Arlen Sommers has staked a claim around Valley City, though DeVerne Hoggarth is giving him a run for his money.

Hammer says there are more tickets available for distribution. If you would like some, call the Bismarck office (701-250-1833) to pick up or have more tickets sent to you.

She asks that you remit your ticket stubs and proceeds prior to Induction weekend if at all possible to avoid a bookkeeping crunch at the last minute.

NDCHF receives donations The North Dakota Farmers Union has awarded the Cowboy Hall of Fame with a $50,000 grant.

The grant, to be paid in installments over five years, will be used for administrative and exhibit design work.

The Jamestown-based farm organization has more than 40,000 members in N. Dak., and education is one of the group’s purposes.

Farmers Union officials have used the Hall of Fame facility in Medora for meetings and barbecues the past

two years.

Former Governor Art Link and his wife, Grace, have again stepped forward with a major gift, presenting the NDCHF with a $10,000 check in May. Previously, Link started an endowment fund to provide long-term security for the Hall of Fame. He also served as the NDCHF’s honorary fundraising chair.

The fund, administered by the American Bank Center Trust Department in Bismarck, has more than $50,000 in assets.

Artists display their work

The goal is to get $100,000 in the fund, let it earn interest and have it available for repairs, updating and emergencies at the Medora facility.

The NDCHF received a $24,000 grant from the State Tourism Division.

Shane Goettle, of the State Department of Commerce, made the announcement at the February Annual meeting.

The grant funds will be used for additional exhibit work and special projects.

Odermann Communications Company photos: James Odermann, artist

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page

E vents

NDCHF hosts book signing The NDCHF will celebrate the 3rd annual National Day of the American Cowboy on Saturday, July 28.

This year, we’ll kick things off a bit early with a special book signing at the Fame patio on Friday, July 27, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. MDT. Our featured guest is Merle Aus of Glendive, Mont., who recently finished a wonderful book.

Aus, now in his 80s, grew up on the family homestead near Scranton.

For years, he also ranched near Amidon before making the move to Mont.

Dorgan says "This cowboy did

what everyone should. He’s written about his life as a saddle maker, actor, rancher, rodeo hand, truck driver and anything else you can think of."

It’s Better to Be Lucky than Good is an autobiography of a real cowboy a story written by a man who’s in love with life, his family, the land he grew up on and the people he knows.

Aus seems never to have met a man he didn’t like, never found anything he couldn’t handle and tells a wonderful story about a good life.

NDCHF hosts Day of the American Cowboy activities The U.S. Senate approved the National Day of the American Cowboy Resolution 130 sponsored by the former Senator Craig Thomas (R-WY).

The resolution sets July 28, 2007, as the official 3rd annual celebration.

Designated to honor and remember the contributions of the cowboy in the history of the American West, the day encourages Americans to live the values and code of the American cowboy.

After the resolution passed, Thomas said, “I’m pleased the Senate has once again recognized the need for a National Day of the American Cowboy.”

He added, “Cowboys and cowgirls hold a special place in American lore, and they continue to provide an invaluable link in our nation’s strong agricultural system. It is appropriate that we celebrate their contributions.”

Special July 28 activities at the Hall of Fame in Medora include: • Exhibits and demonstrations from 10 a.m.-5:00 p.m. MDT; • Jewelry making, leatherwork and rope making; • Art & music; • Roping; • Horse & ferrier demonstrations; • Cowboy poetry; • Quilting demonstrations; • Book signing & sale of Better to Be Lucky than Good by Merle Aus; • Pit BBQ dinner by Dave Watkins – $10/person - 5:30-7:30 p.m., with bar service by Iron Horse Saloon; and • Free patio dance (8:00 p.m.-midnight), with music by Lon Davis of the Golden Valley Outfitters.

Ongoing efforts continue to make the 4th Saturday in July a perpetual holiday for honoring the American cowboy.

Support from local communities and individuals is important in accomplishing this goal.

This is a book about virtues and values. There are a lot of these books around, but this one is special. He wrote it in a conversational style, making for a wonderful read.

His goodness and unique outlook on life make you want to continue turning the pages as he talks about life in southwestern N. Dak. in the dirty ‘30s and his years of ranching, horse trading and rodeos.

Please join us for free refreshments at the book signing and sale on July 27 at the Hall of Fame.

It’s a chance to find a good book and meet Aus and his friends from Scranton, Bowman, Amidon, New England, Glendive and Medora and across the plains.

A good horse is a nice ride, and this book is a great read.

NDCHF participates in Flag Day Parade

Page • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

2007 Inductees

Donald "Don" Stevenson Pre-1940 Ranching

Donald “Don” Stevenson, one of the state’s best known early ranchers, was born April 12, 1833, in Kilberry, Argyllshire, Scotland.

He immigrated to Ontario with his parents in 1842 and to Minnesota in 1856. By 1860, Stevenson was on the way to Texas to herd cattle and do some freighting.

He returned to Minnesota in 1861, purchased a farm on land that became Osakis in Douglas County and married Lydia Ann Stone in March 1863 in St. Cloud. They raised cattle, sheep, horses and hogs until 1872 and had seven children.

Stevenson served as the town’s postmaster and owned the town’s first grist mill.

While farming, Stevenson was also hauling freight, supplies and people from St. Cloud to the forts in northern Dakota Territory.

Stevenson continued freighting until 1882, put up hay with as many as 125 mowing machines, and cut firewood.

Stevenson moved to Dakota Territory in May 1872 and established

the D.S. Ranch in Emmons County, ranching there until 1886.

By then, he had about 800 head of longhorn and beef cattle and horses.

He lost about half of them that winter of 1886-1887.

Using mostly oxen and later some Missouri mules and horses, he also ran a regular line of freight teams between Bismarck and the Black Hills, bringing out the first gold nuggets showing that there was gold in the Hills.

From 1882-1886, Stevenson operated a butcher shop in Bismarck, supplying it with beef, pork and mutton from his Emmons County ranch.

He relocated to Morton County in 1877 where the Deadwood Stage Road crossed the Cannon Ball River, about 50 miles south of Mandan.

His ranch, believed to be the first on the Cannon Ball River near the town of Timmer, had, at one time, as many as 1,600 head of horses and cattle.

He ranched full time from 1885 until retiring in 1906 because of poor health. He also operated the Stevenson Post Office at his Cannon Ball ranch from 1894-1908.

Stevenson was elected to the state legislature in 1896 and 1898. He was an imposing figure in the House chambers, standing well over six feet tall and weighing more than 300 pounds.

He was big-hearted, jovial and active in community and county affairs. He was a member of the Masons, Clan of the Caledonian Society of North Dakota, church trustee, a postmaster and the first elected Emmons County treasurer.

After retiring from ranching, Stevenson moved to Shields in western Grant County and later to Dickinson.

He died on December 28, 1908, in Dickinson and is buried in the Mandan Union Cemetery.

Jacob L. "Jake” Larson Modern-era Ranching

Jake Larson was born on February 16, 1931, at the Larson Ranch near Almont in 1931. The TL Ranch has been raising quality cattle since his grandfather started it in 1881.

Larson took over the operation in 1949, starting with Hereford cattle and adding crossbred Hereford/Angus/ Charolais cattle in 1952. In 1969, Simmental cattle came to the ranch.

Larson operated with 320 cow/calf pairs, 4,000 acres of grassland and 1,200 acres of farmland. His cattle sold in 13 states and in Canada.

The goal at the ranch is to raise easy calving, usable, efficient cattle with a moderate frame. The cattle have sold in 13 states and Canada and at several national sales with very good results.

In nominating Larson, NDCHF Trustee Jerry Schlosser said, “Jake has been instrumental in creating and developing the ranching business, traditions and lifestyles of the North Dakota western heritage. The TL Ranch has been raising quality cattle for over 100 years.”

Larson conducted his own production sales for many years and was the

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page

recipient of many awards and much recognition in the ranching world.

He took first place carcass at the State Fair in 1971, ND Simmental Association “Promoter of the Year” and Beef Cattle Improvement Association “Seed Stock Producer”.

Larson enjoyed amateur rodeo and competed in the NDRA from 19531968 and the RCA rodeos from 19531957.

He took first place in calf roping at the Home on the Range Champions Ride in 1957 and was a state champion team roper in 1959 with Pete Mitchell.

Larson has been active in the ND Stockmen’s Association, the North Dakota and American Simmental associations, the Beef Cattle Improvement Association and the Sims Lutheran Church.

Along the way, Larson married a local gal, and he and Virginia raised four children.

Larson was active in community and school organizations.

He has earned many awards over the years for his outstanding stock and his ranching practices, including 1981 ND Simmental Promoter of the Year and 1997 ND Simmental Pioneer Award.

In 2002, Larson stepped down from active ranching, but is always willing to share his wealth of knowledge about raising cattle. He is always ready for conversation and enjoys riding horse.

John F. "Johnny” Quilliam Pre-1940 Rodeo

John “Johnny” Quilliam was born December 3, 1905, in Morris, Minnesota.

He started his rodeo career in 1919 at age 14 and, for 16 years, he was spurring wildly from the bareback chutes at the local rodeos. He once said that he was never quite as showy in the saddle bronc.

Quilliam started a horse-breaking business in 1922 and trained horses for ranch and team use.

Mert Buckley and Alex LaSotta taught him rodeo skills, and he tried out all of the events, from saddle bronriding to team roping, tying and calf roping.

He married Marvel Chapel in 1929 in Miles City, Montana, and they had two children.

From 1919-1940, Quilliam entered rodeos throughout southwestern North Dakota, Montana and South Dakota.

He partnered with Louie Pelissier and Gene McCormick in the 1950s and ‘60s. He and McCormick took first place in team roping at the Killdeer Mountain Round-up Rodeo in 1963.

He won numerous buckles and trophies throughout the years.

His proudest moments came in 1975 and 1976 when, at 70 and 71, he received the trophy for oldest contestant in the Cowboys Reunion Rodeo in Medora, where he partnered with his grandsons. Those boys took over their grandpa’s place when he retired.

Quilliam ran a riding stable and trained cart horses in Rochester, Minnesota, from 1937-1938.

He took up ranching with his father and uncle near Mound in 1938 and moved to the Killdeer area in 1940 and began his lifelong venture in the cattle business.

Quilliam ranched 25 miles northwest of Killdeer from 1940-1970, running about 100 head of horses and over 400 head of cattle.

He preferred to trail his herd of Herefords between Marmath and Killdeer.

Proud to be a cowboy, Quilliam was seldom seen without a western hat perched on his head.

Quilliam started the first Quadrille (a square dance on horseback) at the Killdeer Mountain Round-up Rodeo in 1944 and the first polo team in Killdeer.

He was an active member of the

North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, the Dickinson Elks and Killdeer Masons.

He and Marvel lived on the ranch near Killdeer until their retirement in 1970. They retired to Washington state, where he died in Everett on May 17, 1981.

Henry "Almit" Breuer Modern-era Rodeo

Henry “Almit” Breuer was born Nov. 3, 1935, in Elbowoods. He grew up on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, where he has rodeoed, ranched and farmed his entire life.

He married Marlyne Bayer on Sept.

27, 1953, and they had three children.

Breuer started riding exhibition bareback horses with a loose rope for $3.00 a head and steers for $1.00 a head at the Sanish Rodeo when he was just 9 years old.

Breuer began competing in the NDRA in 1954, riding bareback, saddle broncs and bulls.

Over the years, he competed in every rodeo event, including barrel racing and wild horse racing.

Breuer went pro, joining the Rodeo Cowboys Association in 1956 and 1957. With only three RCA-sanctioned rodeos in the state at the time, he went back to the NDRA in 1958 to stay closer to home for ranching and farming.

Breuer first joined the North Dakota Rodeo Assn. in 1954 and won the saddle bronc championship in 1954,

Page 10 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

1955, 1960 and 1962. He also won the NDRA all around in 1960.

Breuer began bulldogging and team roping in 1962 and continues to team rope today. He won the steer wrestling in 1965 and has maintained an NDRA membership from 1955-1974.

One week after Joe Chase rode Whiz Bang, the great saddle bronc owned

by Jim Barnhart, Breuer rode him, too. He was also the 6th person to ride Blaisdell Blue.

Breuer went off to auctioneer school in Billings in 1961 and is still calling sales. He won the North Dakota Auction Market Buckle and has auctioned all kinds of sales and set the state record in Montana for the largest oil lease tract auctioned.

He served as a director and a saddle bronc rep to the NDRA, as president of the High School Rodeo Association for two years, has been a member of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association for 45 years and served as a director of the Fort Berthold Cattlemen’s Association.

Breuer is known as a good rancher, cowman and horseman and is respected as a “real” cowboy. Honest and hard working, he moves his cattle from pasture to pasture on horseback.

Harold "Harry" Olson Modern-era Rodeo

"Harry" Olson, born June 28, 1940, has been at home on the range near Killdeer his whole life, save for travel time to RCA, PRCA, CRA and NDRA rodeos.

At various times, he entered each category of rodeo competition and qualifying, winning or placing at many events.

Olson’s rodeo career started in high school in1957. In 1958, he qualified for the National High School Rodeo Assn. Finals in steer wrestling.

In 1960, after competing in high school and NDRA rodeos, he began his professional rodeo career.

He was named Bareback and Allaround Champion at the Killdeer Mountain Round-up Rodeo in 1960.

Olson specialized in bareback riding, but also competed in the saddle bronc, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping events.

He perfected a style of bareback bronc riding that has since become the chosen style of many successful bareback contestants.

Alvin Nelson is one of the legion of young cowboys that Olson took time to mentor and introduce to pro-rodeo described it as “throwing caution to the wind”.

horses, Olson also worked as a sales representative for Prairie Breeders out of Canada and Montana.

He was also a ring man and field representative for Stockmen’s Livestock, Dickinson.

Samuel "Sam" Rhoades Rodeo Producer

Samuel Flemming “Sam” Rhoades was born in Tennessee on March 6, 1872, and relocated to Texas with his parents in 1874.

His father worked for the Miles outfit and, when Sam was big enough, he earned his room and board by working for Miles, as well.

He took up bronco busting because it paid better than being a regular cowpoke.

Rhoades found his way to North Dakota when he rode up the trail from Texas with 4,400 head of cattle from the AHA outfit in 1892 to McKenzie and Dunn counties.

Nelson says, “Harry was a tough bareback bronc rider. He could spur Bear Den and get him rode, something I and many more couldn’t do.”

A PRCA Gold Card holder, Olson traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada from 1960-1978, competing in PRCA and CPRA rodeos, winning and/or placing at many of them.

Along with competing, he worked as a contract bullfighter from 19621970 for Fettig Rodeo, Jerry Myers and Brookman Rodeo Company; flank man for Foy Reynolds Rodeo Company of Florida; and rodeo judge for various PRCA stock contractors and rodeo committees.

Olson was a founding member of the first high school rodeo club in North Dakota. He was active in civic and community affairs.

He also chaired the Cowboy Reunion and Barbeque for the 75th Anniversary of the Killdeer Mountain Round-up Rodeo.

Olson has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Cowboys, ND Farm Bureau, Killdeer Mountain Elk Unit Land Owners, Killdeer Strategic Planning Tourism and Marketing Committee and a NDCHF Trustee.

Along with raising his family, beef cattle and ranch and performance

It was an arduous four-month trip, during which the herd was quarantined for Spanish Fever.

The next year, Rhoades trailed 2,500 head of Texas cattle from Moorcroft, Wyo., to Grassy Butte.

He married Hulda Mott in Dec. 1900 in Dickinson, and they had five children. The family moved to the T5 north of Grassy Butte in 1902 and then to Killdeer in the fall 1916 and then to Oakdale.

Rhoades ran a livery business in Killdeer that kept him busy until 1928

when gasoline and cars replaced horses and buggies.

In 1928, Rhoades became foreman on the Figure Four Ranch, and Hulda was the cook. They continued working there until 1935.

He organized the Dunn County Fair and Rodeo in 1922. Partnering with Mike Goodall, Rhoades put on the first Killdeer Mountain Round-up Rodeo.

The event proved lucrative and famous, and Rhoades ran it privately for several years.

He bought acreage from Mike Cuskelly and built a house and barn near the Oakdale rodeo site.

Rhoades staged other rodeos in Grassy Butte, Sanish, Lost Bridge and Beulah. He sold out to the Killdeer Mountain Rodeo Association in 1945, but continued as manager.

He helped his son-in-law in the sales yard until he was 85 years old.

Rhoades died of pneumonia in 1962 at age 90, after being hospitalized for the first time in his life.

Tibor Brothers

Arts & Entertainment The Tibor Brothers, members of a family of 14 children, began playing for local events when they lived south of Almont.

It all started when Grandpa Leonard Hecker gave the family some of their first musical instruments and arranged for accordion lessons for Albert. Their mother, Margaret, performed with the children early on.

Though not musical, their father, Joe, offered advice, reminding the boys that the music must be danceable and varied.

First known as the “Rhythm

Get

noticed

Todd's Photos, Medora, ND

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 11

Cowboys”, Albert, Charlie and Bernie played on the KDIX radio and for barn dances, music shows and local talent shows.

The Tibor Brothers won a number of talent contests in Bismarck and, in 1948, they were featured with Patsy Montana in a special Mandan performance.

They were, at times, known as the “Country Cousins”, the “Mavericks” and now as the Tibor Brothers.

Generous with their time and talents, they performed back-up music and a closing show for the Dickinson State Rodeo Club’s Country Music Jamboree for many years, helping to keep the rodeo active.

Over the years, the Tibor Brothers have performed for many rodeo shows and dances in Medora, Sentinel Butte, Wolf Point, Mont., and at the North Dakota State Fair in Minot.

For many Christmas seasons, the “Country Cousins,” the Tibors raised donations for underprivileged families.

As the Mavericks, the band appeared many years for KFYR’s “Open Your Heart” campaign.

with

brochures

5000 brochures for 440 Prices based on disk provided artwork. Layout & Design additional.

For a limited time, United Printing is offering an 8.5 x 11 double-sided, full-color, glossy brochure at this reduced rate.

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The Tibor Brothers have also organized numerous benefit dances for people with catastrophic medical bills and many other causes.

Their 1976 hit, It’s So Easy Loving You, made the Billboard’s Top 100 and was the springboard for starting their own studio and record label.

Jomar Records (named for their parents) has recorded more than a hundred albums, also featuring other North Dakota groups and artists.

The Tibor Brothers have been featured in many articles over the years and performed throughout across the country.

Last July, 60 years in the music business was celebrated in a big way in Hebron, with 3 stages and 13 nonstop hours of music, featuring most of the musical offspring of the Tibor Brothers.

Today, the group includes Kurt, Harvey, Gerard, Francis and Larry.

Page 12 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

NDCHF Inductees (1998-2007): Ranchers 1998 Vic Christensen 1998 A.C. Huidekoper 1998 Angus Kennedy Sr. 1998 John Leakey 1999 Paige Baker Sr. 1999 John W. Goodall 1999 Frank P. Keogh 2000 Ben Bird 2000 Bill Follis 2000 Ole Solberg 2001 Jay N. Grantier 2001 Andrew Voigt 2001 Frank Kubik Jr. 2002 Freida Bohnsack 2002 William “Bill” Taylor 2002 Harris Goldsberry 2003 Theodore “Ted” Albers 2003 Margaret Barr Roberts 2003 Brooks Keogh 2004 Earl Henderson 2004 Jack Dahl 2004 William “Bill” Hamann 2005 Edward S. Hall 2005 Raymond “R.B.” “Butch” Luger 2006 Andrew Johnston 2006 Leonard Davis

2007 Donald Stevenson 2007 "Jake" Larson Ranches 1999 Cannonball Ranch 2000 Eaton Brothers’ Custer Trail Ranch 2001 Eaton Ranch-Towner 2002 Birdhead Ranch 2003 Nelson Sunrise Ranch 2004 Long X Ranch 2006 VVV Ranch Rodeo 1998 Duane Howard 1998 Alvin Nelson 1998 Jim Tescher 1998 Tom Tescher 1999 Dean Armstrong 1999 Emanuel Chase 1999 Joe Chase 1999 Pete Fredericks 2000 Gene McCormick 2000 Louie Pelissier 2001 Elmer J. Clark 2001 George Defender 2001 Wilfred “Sonny” Ehr Jr. 2001 Delvin Reich 2002 George Bruington 2002 Scott Gore 2002 Dale Jorgenson 2003 Alex LaSotta

2003 Lyndon “Frank” Marshall 2003 Franklin “Tex” Appledoorn

DVM 2001 Earl Northrop 2002 Pearl Cullen 2006 James P. “Jim” Jefferies

2004 Walt Neuens 2004 Jim Johnston

Special Achievement 1998 Killdeer Mountains

Roundup Rodeo 1999 Dickinson Match of

Champions 2000 Home on the Range

Champions Ride 2001 Sanish Rodeo 2003 Minot Y’s Men’s Rodeo 2006 Mandan Rodeo

2005 Joe Wicks 2005 Alvin R. “Gabby” Gabbert 2006 Robert B. “Bob” McLeod 2006 John L. “Jack” Chase 2007 John Quilliam 2007 Henry “Almit” Breuer 2007 Harold “Harry” Olson Rodeo Livestock 2000 Old Shep 2001 Old Fitzgerald 2002 Figure Four 2004 Whiz Bang 2006 Little Yellow Jacket Rodeo Producers 2000 Fettig Brothers Rodeo 2001 John Stevenson 2003 George Gardner 2004 “Badlands Bill” McCarty 2005 Leslie “Jim” Barnhart 2005 Frank Wetzstein 2007 Sam Rhoades Leaders of Rodeo/Ranching 2001 George M. Christensen,

Arts & Entertainment 1998 Louis L’Amour 1999 Ted Cornell 2000 Cy Taillon 2001 Frank Bennett Fiske 2004 Einar Olstad 2007 Tibor Brothers Great Westerner 1999 Theodore Roosevelt 2000 Ray Schnell Sr. 2001 Sakakawea 2005 Sitting Bull Legacy Award 2005 Evelyn Neuens Cowboy Long Rider 2006 Donald W. “Don” Hart

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 13

Generous donors make auction successful

Many thanks go out to all of those who donated items for the 2007 annual meeting auction. Without your generosity, funds would not be available to support the many NDCHF activities each year.

• AmericInn • Eagle Ridge Lodge • TRMF • Iron Horse Saloon • Odermann Communications Company • Western Edge Bookstore, Artwork & Music • Medora Area CVB • Wesley & Sharon Sauer • Gary’s Gallery • Frames Plus • Andy Knudson • Linda Schnell • Capital Trophy • Tom Nelson • Medora Convenience & Liquors • Allan’s Decorating • B&K Electric • Gordon McConnell

• Billings County Historical Society • Ross Rolshoven • RCC Western Stores • Dakota Awards • Ray Erhardt family • Gov. John Hoeven • Joyce Kitt • Lenard Ressler • Great Plains National Bank • Cannonball Company • Glo Westerdahl (MN Twins) • Byron Dorgan • Earl Pomeroy • Don Neuens • Imperial Palace • Greg & Debbie Childs • Newby’s Ace Hardware • Corwin Churchill Appliance • Jerry & Renae Doan

• Brad Forness • LeRoy & Roberta Johnson • Ray Riehl • Starview Enterprises • Vic Wilhelm • A&B Art Gallery • Freestyle Framing • Riddle Jewelry, Fargo • Riddle Jewelry, Bismarck • Merle Clark • Fran Armstrong • Lyn Bjornson • Randy & Sue Mosser • John Hovde • Seven Seas Inn & Conference Center • Bob Bullinger • Kent Conrad • ND Branded Beef • Ashley Andrews

• Pam Reinarts • Stockman’s Ranch Supply • Hearth ‘n Home • Coca-Cola Bottling • Helen & Russ Danielson • Buckles by Norm (Albers) • Gordon Jensen • Cathy Langemo • Karen (Chilson) Pullen • Ryan Taylor • Darlene Berger • Norma Nelson • Home On The Range • Woody’s Feed & Grain • Kukowski family • Don & Janice Rustad • Linda Gale Vettel • Rex Cook • Fort Abraham Lincoln Foundation

NDCHF recognizes volunteers Many thanks to those volunteers and supporters who have helped with the Wild West Series events and other activities so far this season.

Kidz Showdeo: • Deb Rodne & Julie Tescher, co-chairs • Rebecca Rodne • Todd Hall • Patti Jo Thomas • Lori Shypkoski • All parents who brought their children and who helped with the events.

• Paul Douglas, Eagle Ridge Lodge, for preparing the lunch • John Hild and Shawn Hiller, prepar ing the Medora Ranch-O-Rama arena Team Roping: • Monty, Ronnie & Carrie Carson, production • Olie Golberg and the Buffalo Gap

Guest Ranch, use of arena Wild West Series events sponsors: • Stockmen’s Livestock, Dickinson • Fred Berger Trucking, Mandan • Dacotah Bank, Aberdeen, SD • Farm Credit Services, Mandan • Medora CVB Horse Clinic: • John Hild and Shawn Hiller, preparing the arena • TRMF Foundation, use of the arena Medora CVB & Sue Mosser, promotion Artists Reception: • Eagle Ridge Lodge, catering • Medora CVB and Bill Lowman, promotion • James Odermann, photography Activities at the Bismarck office: • Kade & Kieler Langemo • Armin & Joan Lennick

Valley City Public Schools Service Learning Program students clean saddles

Saddle cleaning helpers

Cleaning saddles: • Valley City Public Schools Service Learning Program

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Page 14 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

R ANCHING Gallery Bohnsack Ranch lives on in Ransom County How does one describe the Bohnsack Ranch? Bonita Bohnsack Laske probably said it best with: “Come with me to a beautiful cattle ranch nestled deep in the scenic Sandhills of eastern North Dakota. To me this is the most beautiful spot in the world. The rolling hills, the smell of the sage, the tumbling tumbleweeds, round ups, rodeos, a multitude of memories.”

This was the beginning of a speech Laske gave as Miss Rodeo North Dakota in 1964. It described the ranch she grew up on about 12 miles southeast of Sheldon.

Owned by Laske’s adopted mother, Frieda Bohnsack, the Bohnsack Ranch covered nearly two miles in

Ransom County.

One of three ranches that belonged to Charles and Hulda Bohnsack, it was about 2,000 acres in 1910 and has been known since then as the Bohnsack Ranch.

In the beginning . . .

It all started when John and Marie (Heinke) Bohnsack Germany and came to the U.S. in the 1850s.

In 1879, when son Charles Bohnsack was 19 years old, the family moved to Dakota Territory.

Settled near Hillsboro.

With the proceeds from selling the farm, they bought horses and loaned money to other settlers. They also shared their food with neighbors.

Charles courted Hulda Kreinke, and they married in 1885.

They owned more than one farm at a time, with 4,000 acres of land in Traill, Cass and Ransom counties.

The Fargo acreage, once on the southwest outskirts of town, is still known as the Bohnsack Addition.

During the winter months, Charles and the hired men would stay on the farm, while Hulda and the children lived in town so the children could attend school. They purchased the Ransom County ranch in 1918.

Charles and Hulda had five children—Alvin, Louis, Clara, Eleanore and Frieda. Frieda was born in 1898.

Hulda died in 1943, and Charles died in 1957 at age 98.

Frieda ventures out . . .

Frieda Bohnsack was raised and educated near Hillsboro. She taught school in Minn. and married Orville Kolb.

Later, she went to Minneapolis and

worked for Gamble Skogmo as head of the calculating department.

In 1935, Charles gave his daughter the Ransom County Bohnsack Ranch, along with a large mortgage, a drafty bunkhouse and a rundown barn.

Getting to the ranch involved a two-mile drive over sand dune roads.

Humorous signs along the way said, “Skunk Gulch,” “Miles to Faraway Places,” “Indians Went West, Keep Going” and “You Made It.” In addition to the farm, Charles also gave Frieda six Holstein calves. She earned a living taking in up to 600 head of cattle for summer grazing, with some cattlemen coming as far as 40 miles to bring their herds.

Bohnsack took on the job of rebuilding and operating the ranch during the 1930s and built an Angus cattle herd through the summer grazing program.

Work was saved for the weekends so that the owners, guests and onlookers could help. These “miniature rodeos” included round ups, branding, wrangling and vaccinating.

She loved horses and dogs and was an excellent horsewoman. Bohnsack watched the veterinarians and learned how to doctor the cattle on her own.

And she often slept in her truck with a .22 rifle to ward off rustlers.

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 15

By the 1930s, she called the operation the Bohnsack Dude and Cattle Ranch. She began having showdeos, half rodeo and half horse show.

She was an excellent seamstress, and she sewed clothes for the drill team members.

Bohnsack adopted Laske as a baby in 1941.

About that time, she also began the summer tradition of rodeos on the ranch. One of the events was an endurance ride from Valley City to the ranch.

There were also trail rides through the Sandhills, along the Sheyenne River and in a covered wagon.

Arrowhead hunting was a favorite of the guests, and sometimes boxing was part of the entertainment.

In the 1950s, Bohnsack converted a rural Sheldon school house into a western-decorated lodge for the Sunday Chicken Dinners.

The dinners were open to the public and featured fresh garden vegetables and wild berry pies.

The lodge sported brightly colored buggy wheels for a fence and horns of all kinds hanging around.

Two cabins—Via Con Dios and Grandpa’s Retreat—were available for overnight guests.

Summer also meant picnics and Bible school. Wild berry picking was fun for visitors, and the fresh June berries, raspberries, chokecher-

ries, currants and gooseberries were delicious in the pies at the Chicken Dinners.

Bohnsack started raising Quarter horses, along with the Angus cattle, after bringing a string of 10 mares from Texas.

In 1954, she traveled to Texas again, returning with two purebred Blue Brahma calves she had purchased for $50.

She hauled them in the back of her 1948 Willey Jeep station wagon and, in two years, there was a Brangus calf for Laske’s 4-H project.

Though there was always plenty of ranch work to be done, Bohnsack found the time and energy to organize the Bridle and Saddle Club and the Ranchers and Riders Club.

Each club had a drill team that performed at rodeos and horse shows.

The notable Sandhills Feeders Sale in McLeod signaled the last big round

up of the year. Bohnsack’s Angus calves brought top dollar, with buyers coming from as far away as Illinois.

She opened up the ranch for hunting groups in November. An excellent shot herself, Bohnsack would tan her own kills and hang the skins in the Lodge.

The winters were fun at the ranch, also, with hiking in the woods, checking traps, and watching for tracks of birds, deer and small wild animals.

Lodge She was also involved in ND Stockmen’s Association, Business Women’s Club and ND Angus Association.

She was also a 4-H leader for many years until she became ill with bone cancer in the early 1950s and died on March 13, 1959.

Laske has owned the Bohnsack Ranch since and gets back there occasionally from Oklahoma.

Lester Anderson of Leonard managed the ranch for 15 years after Bohnsack’s death, and then Harold “Hoppy” Glasow oversaw it until 1995.

Various families have leased it over the years, including Augie and Marlys Pfingsten, Don and Sylvia Taylor and Judy and Kent Oland.

The Olands, who have lived there since 1994, enjoy the beautiful Sandhills ranch just as much as the Bohnsacks and others have over the years.

Ranchers and Riders Club

Page 16 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

R ODEO Gallery Rodeo offers ongoing summer event

by Cleo Cantlon, Minot

The rodeo at Blaisdell, held June 23 and 24 some 40 miles west of Minot along Highway #2, has been in business a half-century, but its past stretches back even further.

The tall wooden chutes, from which the rough stock and cowboys sort themselves out, were rescued from one of N. Dak.’s greatest rodeos, Sanish, before that rodeo grounds went under water.

“Sanish was the big one,” Blaisdell organizer George Olson Jr. says.

“It’s been reported as many as 10,000 spectators watched the cowboys there, and it drew all the big names of that time.”

When Olson’s father and his fellow supporters of the event at Blaisdell heard the Sanish chutes were being sold, they quickly laid claim to them.

“The wood pieces have worn out and been replaced,” the younger Olson says, “but the iron is the original. We intend to replace the

chutes with new metal ones, more to the liking of present-day cowboys.

We’re donating the old ones to the Cowboy Hall of Fame in Medora.”

It’s only fitting that the Blaisdell rodeo looks to its history since it represents the best of rodeo tradition: generations of cowboys and cowgirls who continue to honor the western way of life, value their families and come out of the families that established the tradition.

It was concern for family, specifically what activities would keep their sons and daughters close to home, that brought 11 Blaisdell area farmers and ranchers together on August 7, 1956, to form the Blaisdell Rodeo Club.

The early membership included Fred and John Bieri, Alfred and John Erickson, Dean Eversvold, Ray Lindberg, Richard McGregor, Andy Moore, George Olson Sr., Jack

Tatch and Clarence Wirtz.

A few more men joined shortly after that--Walt Bieri, Herb Birdsall, Darrel Hagerud and Darrel and Bill Meyer.

Each member gave $50 toward start-up costs, paid $2 in annual dues and contributed untold hours of sweat equity. Income from dances also helped pay for the facilities.

“We wanted something here to interest our kids,” Olson says. “We looked at the old softball and baseball complex and thought it would be a good rodeo grounds.”

Andy Moore donated three acres on a hill overlooking a broad stretch of western plains and, bit by bit, the facilities grew, as did the rodeo.

The rodeo club contracted with Neil McGrady to furnish four buckles and Nick Gares to bring in 35 bucking horses, at $7 each “for horses that will buck,” the contract read.

Since the first rodeo was held June 23, 1957, thousands of fans have seen some superb cowboys and magnificent horses and bulls challenge each other.

Renowned riders who have appeared at Blaisdell include Brad Gjermundson, Larry Sandvick, the Teschers and others.

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 17

Blaisdell Rodeo Club members are also proud of how many top animals came from the area, horses like Fred Bieri’s Blaisdell Blue or Clarence Wirtz and Walt Bieri’s Anchors Aweigh.

Bulls like George Olson’s Bar Thirty-three and Zebra Dunn and Alan Bieri’s Black Head certainly make that list.

That excitement brought fans back again and again, as the event grew from a few events and 40 or 50 contestants to 9 main events with over 300 contestants in its peak years.

Of course, facilities grew to support the event. A covered grandstand and steel panels enclosed the arena in the late 1990s, bathrooms were added and the announcer’s stand moved.

Organizers are proud that it continues to be a family rodeo. Several third-generation cowboys have taken their places in the chutes like Andy Moore’s grandson, Jaret Cvancara; Herb Birdsall’s grandson, Linus Kalenze; and Gary Meyer; all now club members.

More are joining the family tradition, including Darrel Meyers’ grandchildren; Wirtz’s grandson, Cutter; and Olson’s son, Marshall.

A tradition honoring those who have passed has a saddled, rider less horse led around the arena during the opening ceremonies.

Rodeo Club members do not rest on their reputation and tradition.

They were among the first in the state to sponsor junior barrel racing and steer riding, the kids showdeo.

The showdeo pits young cowboys and cowgirls in down-sized versions of adult contests, using sheep, small calves and, for the tiniest, even stick horses.

The rules for Blaisdell’s famed Wild Horse Race, using unbroken three- and four-year-old animals, sound easy enough.

Simultaneously, six wild horses are turned out of the chutes, and each team has to saddle one, ride it, dismount and unsaddle it.

The major problem is the horses don’t read the rules! One participant says you not only had to watch your own horse, but you also have five other feisty animals and the teams pursuing them. Amazingly, a few

broken bones have been the worst injuries.

A ranch rodeo has been added, where cowboys and cowgirls form teams of four members each to compete in jobs more like real ranch work, such as team penning, wild cow milking, calf branding and steer-trailer loading.

Each team must include at least one woman. “But that is not a handicap,” Olson says. “A lot of these ranch women and girls can work a ring around some of the guys.”

In spite of changes and additions, Olson thinks rodeo remains a favored sport with Americans because it reflects the honest tradition of the country’s favorite workmen.

Olson, who was among the children at the first Blaisdell rodeo, says today’s bulls may be better, but the broncs were just as good then.

“Today, the rough stock riders aren’t ranch kids,” he says. “They are trained athletes who do it for a living. The timed events are really different, too.”

He added that the gear the cowboys and cowgirls use also has undergone changes.

“Us old timers look at the rigs that pull in and are just amazed,” he says.

“We see trailers with sleeping quar-

ters and all sorts of conveniences.”

Rodeo fans can enjoy the show in comfort, with Jim Straight’s concessions and a beer garden. The rodeo club is proud of a line of souvenirs they introduced, including jackets, shirts and more.

Although the population of Blaisdell has diminished from 100 people to about 20 residents, it continues to host an excellent rodeo.

The grounds see other uses, too, including 4-H horse shows, a July saddle club show, horse training and team roping.

The club reaches out to the community, to assist with medical needs and other expenses.

“But the rodeo exists because people and businesses in surrounding towns, from Parshall, New Town, Minot, Donnybrook and right here, have been so supportive,” George Olson Jr. says.

He says, “We couldn’t do it without them and the fans who make our rodeo a summer tradition.”

“Rodeo has changed, but its basics are the same,” Olson says. “It’s popular, even gaining more popularity, I think, because people love that cowboy way of life. So about 24 of us keep working and keep the younger generation coming out for it.”

Page 18 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

N ATIVE AMERICAN Gallery Horse Masks - Lakota Style

by Patricia J. Thomas, Mandaree

This fully quilled horse mask sold for $7,000 in 1995.

American Indian Art has long been admired for its vibrant color, ingenious design and detailed craftsmanship.

Historically, fine works of intricate beauty have become collector’s items and are viewed in museums across the country, such as the Smithsonian Native American Museum in Washington, D.C. Others include the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis, Harvard University’s Peabody Museum and the North Dakota Heritage Center.

Finely crafted horse masks are one form of American Indian Art more often seen on display in a museum, rather than on today’s horse.

Historical accounts reflect that head masks or face masks worn by horses were usually made for the lead warrior

Best of show in Bismarck and in Souix Falls, S. Dak. in 1993

and worn in preparation for battle.

Napé Wasté Win, aka JoEsther Parshall, is a Lakota artist from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe who specializes in designing beautifully handcrafted horse masks.

She says, “The horse masks are created using porcupine quills, natural dyes, brain tanned leather and real sinew. All of the porcupine quills I use are hand pulled and flattened with my teeth.”

Parshall says, “A warrior would often emblazon his horse mask with something, such as a handprint or a bolt of lightning, that had a symbolic meaning to him. This gave him power and strength.”

Other exhibits displaying intricate examples of quillwork masks adorned a favorite horse and indicated the owner’s wealth and standing in the community.

The Sacred Beauty: Quillwork of Plains Women book by Mark Halvorson mentions that the horse masks are reflections of the crafter’s culture and religion.

Parshall is a master artist with the North Dakota Council on the Arts.

She teaches classes at Knife River Indian Villages near Stanton and at Fort Lincoln State Park south of Mandan.

She also has an apprentice each year who must formally apply to study under her and learn the much soughtafter craft.

Parshall received her rights to create porcupine quill horse masks from Carrie Brady, a Hidatsa from the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.

The process involves bringing gifts to someone who already has the rights and visiting with and learning from that person.

Devotion and respect for her subject

Sold to Tom Brokaw

matter has led Napé Wasté Win to the archives at Harvard University’s Peabody Museum to study in-depth the art form of horse masks that were widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

She also studied at the State Heritage Center in Pierre, S. Dak., and the State Historical Society of North Dakota.

Today, private collectors have Napé Wasté Win or Good Hand Woman create and design horse masks for their own private collections, as well as the Robinson Museum in Pierre, S. Dak., where her work is on display.

Celebrities like Tom Brokaw and Kevin Costner have purchased her pieces for their collections.

If you are interested in having Parshall teach a class or design a horse mask for your personal collection, contact her at P.O. Box 215, New Town, ND 58763-0215.

To read more on the horse mask subject, try Vintage Beaded by Mike Cowdrey and Jody Martin or Sacred Beauty: Quillwork of Plains Women

by Mark J. Halvorson.

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 19

Members enjoy annual meeting activities

Talkin’ with Trustees

Page 20 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

Joyce Fossum, Bowman How did you choose your line of work: I did whatever jobs were available at the time because I had young children to support.

When you were a teenager, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a stewardess, but my parents didn’t have the money to send me to stewardess school.

Did you grow up in ranching or rodeo: No. I was raised on a farm.

First rodeo experience: The first rodeo I attended was the Mandan Rodeo.

Favorite rodeo event: I especially enjoyed the saddle bronc event.

NDCHF District: 4 Family: I have 4 children. I grew up in a family of 13 children of William and Selma Jalbert of New England.

Occupation: I’ve worked in a lot of different jobs over the years—in a hospital, an abstract company, a motel, a theater and a bakery.

I owned a professional cleaning company. Now I’m retired and do volunteer work.

Special ranching experiences: I helped on the ranch with my third husband, Albert Fossum.

I picked rocks, raked hay, did summer fallow and drove tractor.

Advice for young people: Be honest with yourself and others.

Free-time activities: I enjoy volunteering, dancing and music. I especially like helping people.

Last book you read: The Secret by Beth Moore. It’s about self-improvement.

Your greatest learning experience: The struggles of marriage and making good choices in mates.

I’m also trying to be more humble.

This comes from a trip to Sweden and my experiences meeting relatives while there.

They were all such good hosts and so humble about what they had.

If you won the ND lottery, how would you spend your winnings: I would try to help people.

One unique thing about yourself that most people don’t know: My daughters were involved in rodeo and rodeo queen competitions, and they did well.

My son is in the music industry and lives in Rapid City, S. Dak. I participated in the Mrs. North Dakota pageant a number of years ago and placed as 4th runner up.

Honors and accomplishments: It’s an honor to be healthy and to have longevity.

Why do you support the NDCHF: It would have been one of my Albert’s wishes.

The younger generation won’t know about the settlement and development of the west and the cowboy way of life unless we save that history now.

Talkin’ with Trustees

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 21

Byron Langley, Warwick

NDCHF District: 6 Family: My wife, Deloris, and 5 children—Maxine, Preston, Gene, Jim and Darla.

Occupation: Ranching, farming and running an elevator. My 3 sons have taken over the farming and ranching.

My daughter, Maxine, lives in Fargo and works at Cass County 4-H. My daughter, Darla, has a dog-grooming business in Bismarck.

I owned and operated an elevator at Warwick for 20 years before selling it to Tronson Grain, Tolna.

How did you choose your line of work: It was hard times in the 1930s and 1940s.

My 2 brothers went into the U.S. Army.

I was going to high school so I helped my parents with the ranching and farming.

Did you grow up in ranching or rodeo: Yes, in ranching.

First horse: I started riding Shetland ponies when I was 5 years old.

My first really big horse was a pinto

named Ginger. I trained her to jump a fence and into the back of a truck; we had no trailers at that time.

was really good with skis on and to use for checking cattle and hunting fox and coyotes.

First rodeo experience: There wasn’t much rodeo when I was growing up because a lot of the boys were drafted into the Army.

The first rodeo I can remember was put on by the Fort Totten Indians.

It was very hard times so we couldn’t afford a saddle. The first saddle I remember was an old Army one.

Last book you read: Jay Cooke’s Gamble: The Northern Pacific Railroad, the Sioux, and the Panic of 1873 by M. John Lubetkin.

It’s about the Northern Pacific and Sioux railroads. The railroad companies were surveying their road tracks. They had some Indian guides and also had to worry about Indian attacks.

Special ranching/rodeo memories: I bought my first calf for $5; 4 years later, I bought my first heifer for $35.

My first cow was Butter Ball. From her, I started my herd and never thought about doing anything else.

Jobs were hard to find, and the pay was next to nothing.

Your greatest learning experience: I served in the State House of Representatives from 1972-1982 and then for 12 years in the Senate.

Getting elected took a lot of time and campaigning, but it was worth it. Usually people were very good to get along with.

It was a great learning experience and doing what you could do for our great state and my home district.

Your hero: My mother was the real hero.

During the hard times, she and my dad had 6 children.

She cooked for all of us and patched our clothes and fed us. At thrashing time, she would cook for 25 or 30 people.

My dad homesteaded on a quarter of land in 1904. He came from Kansas when he heard they were offering homestead land in N. Dak. He homesteaded a quarter on the Fort Totten Indian Reservation where my son, Preston, lives today.

Advice for young people: Don’t be afraid of a little hard work; it will keep you out of trouble.

Free-time activities: Flying a J2 piper cub that my brothers and I bought for $700.

From there, I got a J3 and then a PA18.

The J2 had only 40 horsepower, and the J3 had 65.

The PA18 had 105 horsepower, with a super cab and flaps. It

If you won the ND lottery, how would you spend your winnings: Have fun and help young people.

Why do you support the NDCHF? I support the NDCHF to help preserve the west for future generations to see and to admire.

I’m sure my brothers had more to do with supporting the NDCHF than I did.

There is nothing like the beauty of the Badlands and the real west and the real cowboys who work so hard through all kinds of weather and hard times.

Page 22 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

B

OOK Review

Gamblers & Gunmen Along the Northern Pacific Railroad: Minnesota Dakota Territory, 1870-1880 (Available at the NDCHF Gift Shop and at Western Edge Bookstore, Artwork & Music)

Book Review by Darrell Dorgan, Bismarck Shang Stanton, gunman and master of the green cloth; and “Slim Jim” Shumway (shot by Shang).

Shang and “Slim Jim” ran into each other in Moorhead in ’72. Shang, aware of threats by “Slim Jim,” quickly drew and shot his foe in the stomach. Shumway, although wounded, slipped behind a bar and pulled his own pistol.

by Elmer D. McInnes.

Work on the Northern Pacific Railroad began in Duluth, Minn., in 1870. Big job, lots of money and excitement.

And it drew gamblers, footpads and soiled doves who followed the construction and the money like moths to a flame.

Canadian writer Elmer D. McInnes, whose articles have appeared in True West, Old West and numerous other publications, spent years researching life in the wide-open end of the track towns as the NPRR slowly moved across Minn. and N. Dak. Using newspaper stories from the 1870s, he brings to life a cast of unbelievable characters.

The conmen, sports, gamblers, gunmen, sellers of bad whiskey and fast women were quick to shoot or whatever was necessary to take hard-earned money from railroad workers, immigrants and soldiers.

Many followed the work from Brainerd to Moorhead and Fargo, on west to Jamestown and then to Bismarck, where work halted for six years during the financial crisis of the 1870s.

The names of those reads like a cast of characters from a dime-store novel— “Blinky” Jack Walters (a killer who pistol whipped and nearly beat to death a Swedish farmer for kicking a dog); Dave Mullen, owner of the Live! And Let Live Saloon.

There were Jack O’Neil of Bismarck’s Concert Saloon; Pete Bannigan (gambler and sport) and wife and madam Emma McKey; Jennie Reynolds (who worked for Emma).

There were “Gentle Annie” (no explanation needed); “Spotty” Whalen, gambler; Bob Costello, gunman; gambler

Several shots were exchanged, and Shang ran to a nearby saloon. “Slim Jim” crawled after him and got off a few more shots before he died on the boardwalk.

Shang headed for Bismarck, where he continued his career of three card monte.

Bismarck was fertile ground for people like Shang, Dave Mullen and friends.

Mullen’s friend, “Spotty” Whalen, had a keen eye for a working girl called Maude Seymour.

So did a soldier from Fort Abraham Lincoln across the Missouri River, and “Spotty” shot Pvt. King to death.

Twenty-five to thirty of Pvt. King’s friends heard “Spotty” was hiding at Mullen’s Concert Saloon and Dance Hall (present-day 4th Street and Broadway Avenue).

With their blood up, King’s avenging friends headed for Bismarck. At 1:00 in the morning, they began pounding and

kicking on Mullen’s door.

The St. Paul Daily Pioneer described the event, which became known as the “Battle of Mullen’s Corner:” Mullen came to the door, dressed only in his underwear, and asked what they wanted.

The soldiers said, “Open the door; let us in; we want to search the house.” Mullen said, “Hold on, boys, I’ll let you in.”

As he was taking down the bar of the door, someone outside said, “No shooting, Dave.”

“All right,” said Mullen, “I have nothing on me,” then threw the door wide open and leaned against the jam of the door looking out upon the crowd.

As he did so, someone in the crowd said, “Commence shooting.” They did, and Mullen died. Others in the saloon returned fire, and one of the soldiers died, too.

Spotty Whalen escaped out the back door and turned himself into the sheriff for safe keeping. Apparently he was never tried for killing Pvt. King.

There was more violence in Bismarck during Christmas week of 1876, when gambler William Lawrence shot a soldier during a saloon dust-up.

On Christmas night, there was a killing at Bannigan’s, a house of ill-repute.

A group of soldiers was celebrating the holiday when a fight ensued between Pete Bannigan and Pvt. John Massingale.

Massingale appears to have gotten the best of Bannigan when the Irish tough grabbed his pistol and shot Massingale twice.

Massingale dropped to the floor and gasped, “Oh, my God!” Bannigan growled, “This is a damn pretty time to beg,” as he fired a third shot into Massingale. Merry Christmas!

Bismarck and other frontier towns were tough places, with tough men and women willing to do whatever necessary to make a dollar legally or illegally, peacefully or with whatever force necessary.

If you enjoy stories of the frontier and the toughs who lived there, Gamblers and Gunmen is a book for you. It’s also a good read.

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 23

B

OOK Review

Book Review by Doug Ellison

The West as I Lived It

by George Edward "Ed" Lemmon, compiled by Phyllis Schnmidt.

History is best told by eyewitnesses. It is significant, therefore, whenever a lengthy first-person account of the West appears.

Phyllis Schmidt, of the Grand River Museum in Lemmon, S. Dak., is to be congratulated for compiling the newspaper writings of George Edward “Ed” Lemmon, founder of her hometown.

Ed Lemmon was born at Bountiful, Utah, in 1857 and died at Lemmon in 1945.

Toward the end of his long life, he contributed autobiographical columns to newspapers in Lemmon and Belle Fourche, S. Dak. While some of Lemmon’s writings were used by Nellie Yost to fashion the narrative book Boss Cowman in 1969, the present large and attractive volume presents Lemmon’s writings just as he wrote them, in dated short stories The editor has added a number of historical photos to enhance the book, and an index is also included.

Lemmon certainly had stories to tell. He was proud of the fact that he had never lived east of the Missouri River, other than short stretches near the Chicago stockyards Crippled since his teenage years from injuries received in horse falls, he nevertheless spent a long, active life in the saddle and on the range.

He got his first job as a cowboy near Cheyenne, Wyo., in 1870 at age 13. His career culminated when, from 1902 to 1907, he managed the largest fenced pasture in the world (over 865,000 acres) on the Standing Rock

Reservation, straddling the N. Dak.-S. Dak. border.

Lemmon spent much of his life in the Dakotas, but he was also familiar with nearly every region of the West and the people who lived there He was intimately acquainted with millionaire cattlemen and lowly fence riders; with businessmen and outlaws; with lawmen and gunfighters.

He knew Indian warriors and Indian fighters, painted ladies and hard-working homesteaders. Lemmon knew them all.

Throughout his many narratives, it is apparent that Lemmon endeavored to leave an honest history of his experiences.

Even when telling the same story twice, which he occasionally did, he might offer additional details, but would always remain true to his earlier telling.

His memory was remarkable but, as he looked back over the decades, it was not infallible.

One event that can be readily documented is the Bill Tucker-Bill Thompson gunfight at Ogallala, Neb. (pages 26, 264-265), in which Lemmon claimed an indirect part.

He placed this incident in the “late fall,” whereas the fight actually occurred in early summer—June 21, 1880.

A more glaring example is when he has Wyatt Earp cleaning up the “Dalton Gang” at Tombstone, Ariz. (page 273).

The Earp brothers’ protracted con-

flict at Tombstone was, of course, with the so-called Clanton-McLaury gang.

The Dalton brothers rode into infamy a decade later across Indian Territory and Kansas, meeting their end at Coffeyville in 1892.

Fortunately, such mistakes by Lemmon were rare. And his writings offer a glimpse into his personality.

He possessed a somewhat egocentric nature, as befitting a boss cowman who was used to giving orders, but he could also be self-deprecating.

An example of this is when he revealed that Chief Red Cloud called him “Crooked Rump,” admitting “really he made it more explicit than rump” because of Lemmon’s crippled right hip (page 197).

Lemmon lived for 88 years, from pre-Civil War to post-World War II, but his vivid experiences live on.

So now, when the herd is bedded down and the horses are fed, grab a tin of hot coffee and find a place beside the campfire.

Old Ed Lemmon is telling stories of the West as he lived it, stories you will enjoy again and again.

Page 24 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

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 25. (This information includes deposits made in February-June 2007 only.)

Pledges/Capital Fund

American Bank Center Fran Armstrong*, Diamond Bar B&B James Danks* Ray Gress* Randy & Laurie Hatzenbuhler** Kirkwood Bank & Trust ND Department of Commerce ND Farmers Union Education Foundation Joe & Katherine Satrom

Patio Tables Fred Berger*

Theater Chairs ($500) Phil Baird**

General Donations Greg* & Debbie Childs Art* & Grace Link U.S. Tobacco

Memberships Diamond Saddle ($1,000-$4,999 annually) Greg* & Debbie Childs Madeline Free Sherry Plummer Lawrence G. Ulsaker

Gold Buckle ($500-$999) Fred Berger* Elizabeth Grantier Burton & Etheleen Hoovestol

Silver Buckle

($250-$499 annually)

Harry P. Anderson Kent Conrad & Lucy Calautti Warren Flath*, Southwest Insurance Agency Kay & Bill* Fortier, Willow Lake

Ranch Laura** & Bud Griffin R.D. & Catherine Gruman Dean* & Arlene Helling Nevada* & Wendy Jorgenson Bob Miller* ND Stockmen’s Association Allen* & Tammy Ryberg Lorry & Hariet Vining

Trophy Spurs

($200-$249 annually)

Joe M. Berger, Rafter Arrow Ranch Arnold* & Cleo Charging Merle* & Linda Clark Linda & Thomas* Colquhoun Jock Eaton*, Eaton Ranch LLLP Sonny* & Mardean Ehr Marlene Fortier* Juanita Fredericks Wardon* Rodney* & Kathryn Froelich Victor* & Gail Goetz Lyle* & Marge Hartman George* & Sydney* Hegge DeVerne Hoggarth* Dan* & Kathy Kalil Frank* & Katie Keogh Charlotte King* Robert* & Connie Knudson Joe LaDuke* Lynn & Bonita* Laske Dean & Shirley** Meyer Al Misek* Dick Nelson* Ross Rolshoven, Great Plains Claims, Inc. Robert* & Edna Sand Thorris* & Lynell Sandvick Donald* & Sandra Sivertson Kay Stevenson* Bruce* & Lauren Strinden Dudley & Michelle Stuber, River Run Ranch Ryan* & Nicole Taylor

Judy Tibbetts* Robert** & Janet Tibor J.D. Van Horn*, Unique Auto Museum Joe Wicks* Butch Winkler

Ranch Boss ($100-$199 annually) Beverley Adams Fran Armstrong*, Diamond Bar B&B Robert & Barbara Arthaud Yvonne Bender Herbert & Sharon Bendixson Claudia Berg & Robert Matz James & Elizabeth Berg Wally Beyer Bob Brooks* Bill & Pam Bryan Evelyn Bryant Ronald* & Neva Carlisle Colleen Carmichael Bev* & Steve Christensen Larry Christiansen*, Christiansen Cattle Co. Byron & Kim Dorgan Darrell & Kathy Dorgan Dean & Lila Ellison Jerry* & Beaty Engels Don & Darla Erickson, Ericksons & H. Ranch Robert & Wilma Freise Stan & Sharon Gjermundson David & Debra Harsche Gary* & Kim Renee Hoglund Kent & Marilyn* Hudson Arlene Isaak* Gary & Gayle Jeffrey Gordon Jensen* LeRoy* & Roberta Johnson Roger & Anita Johnson Nadine Jundt Gaylord & Cindy Kavlie John & Dorothy Kolden Ernie Krabbenhoft* Richard* & Kay Kuske

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 • Wrangler Club ––––––––––––– $50-99 annually • Ranch Boss Club –––––––– $100-199 annually • Trophy Spurs Club ––––––– $200-249 annually • Silver Buckle Club –––––––– $250-499 annually

• Gold Buckle Club –––––––– $500-999 annually • Diamond Saddle Club –––– $1,000-4,999 annually • Trail Drivers Club ––––– $5,000-9,999 annually • Bronc Rider Club –––––––––– $10,000+ annually

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 25

Ranch Boss (continued) Gordon & Marlyn Langerud Paul & Sue Larsen Angelen Larson Arne & Tobi Lynne William* & Nancy Noeske Karen Novak Harold & Maureen Olson Jim & Sonja Ozbun, Circle Z Ranch Gilman* & Monica Peterson, Flagstaff Farms Tim Petry Douglas Pope* David O. Reistad Kirt & Rorrie Sabrosky Sheila Schafer Gordon & Sandra Schnell Ann Secrest Hanson Lee Selland Fred* & Ardis Sorenson Robert Spolum Berk & Kay Strothman Elsie* & John Trotter V. Cary & Barb Voss Richard Weber Beverly Wenger William* & Anna Marie Whitmore William* & Carol Winter Florian & Gladys Woroniecki

Wrangler ($50-$99 annually)

Byron Andre John Bearman* Sharon Bendish Neil & Avis Berger Robin & Joe Blankenship Rory & Wanda Brown John W. “Bill” Bryan Dan & Grace Cash Brian Cochran, Dakota Hills Winery Gavin & Kathleen Dietz Paul Ellertson Vern & Dyanne Erickson Clifford & Marion Ferebee P. Dorine Gabbert Allen & Betty Jean Gasho

Gordon Gerbig & Sharon KickertzGerbig Neal Goerger Fern Goldsberry Marilyn Greenwood O.L. “Hoot” Harr Kathleen J. Hockhalter Toby & Ellen* Huber Robert & Karen Huether John & Susi Irwin Poncho & Patti Irwin Robert* & Donna Irwin Joan & Jack Johnson Dale* & Barbara Jorgenson Marvin Kaiser Bethol Knutson Vivian Knutson Jake & Virginia Larson William & Lorri Lengenfelder Edythe & Stewart Lorenz Mandan Progress Organization/ Mandan Rodeo Diana Melvin Roger Minch Gary & Sandy Moran Ella Murray Virginia Nelsen Riley & Betty Neuhardt Evelyn Newton Eunice Nichols Lois Northrop* Karen Obrigewitch Richard & Sharon Olson Thomas Orchard Jr. Marton Orgaard Blanche Pelissier Gene Pelton Jean Peterson Oscar Peterson & Arlette Payne Sig & Marjorie Peterson Pauline Reimer Wesley & Sharon Sauer Allen & Lorraine Schmidt Robert & Jean Steffes John Slag Rogna Solberg Hewitt Dave & Kim Utke

Craig Van Sickle Adam* & Paula Jo Wanner Lois Wanner Dennis & Kay Werre, Dennis Werre Trucking, Inc. Herbert & Lilian Wilson Jason Wirtz* Nita Wirtz* Lee & Carla Wolf, Guys & Dolls Boutique William Wolff John & Sandra Zaleski

Kid’s Corral ($10 annually) Alexandra Allen Conner Allen Chance Appledoorn Kailey Appledoorn Alex Dorgan Brendan Dorgan Haley Dorgan Paige Dorgan Ashley Ellison Jaime Gietzen Chesney Gjermundson Kazanne Gjermundson Caitlinn Harding Garrett Harding Logan Harding Niccolas Harding Colton Johnson Grayson Johnson Jacob Johnson Ryan Johnson Danielle Knutson Destinee Knutson Katya Uecker Grossman Andrew Stevens Bennett Sage Zaleski Crance Harper Dakota Zaleski Crance McKenna Faith Zaleski Crance

* Denotes NDCHF Trustees **Denotes NDCHF Board Members (Please notify the NDCHF of any errors or omissions by calling 701-250-1833.)

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 26 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

NDCHF gifts honor loved ones The NDCHF has received honorariums/memorials for the following individuals. To honor a loved one, see the memorial/contribution form on page 25. (This information includes deposits made in February-June 2007 only.)

In memory of Elmer Agnew Gary & Belinda Maher

In memory of Verlie Aird Clark Agnes Fisher

In memory of Teri Galusha Gary & Gayle Jeffrey

In memory of Donald F. Baertsch Karen Putnam, Medora Convenience & Liquors

In memory of Henry Gerving Ben Gerving family Betty Gerving Brian Gerving family Carol & Betty Gerving Henry J. Gerving family

In memory of Arnold Bendish Sharon Bendish

In memory of Laura Halvorson Bill & Pat Meyer

In memory of L. Ray Baird Phil Baird

In memory of Norma Grantier Elizabeth Grantier

In memory of David “Duke” Bryant Evelyn Bryant

In memory of Katherine Hanssen William & Connie Connolly

In memory of Newton Burr Phil Baird

In memory of Sidney Connell Celestine & Thomas Adams Sonia Bar (Microsoft Matching Gifts Program) Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch Bill & Pat Meyer Tom & Lorraine Tescher In memory of Chris Cornell Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch

In memory of Janice Danielson Kathleen Wachter In memory of Ray Erhardt Jason & Nita Wirtz In memory of Thelma Fenton Tex & Pauline Appledoorn

In memory of John “Buzz” Fredericks Tex & Pauline Appledoorn Jim Danks Kaye & Alvin Nelson Phyllis O’Neil Loretta Tescher Rebecca Tescher Robison, R&R Trading Post Willard & Linda Schnell Michelle (Berg) Schuler Wayne & Lois Swenson Tom & Lorraine Tescher George & Irene Wolf In memory of Cindie Fugere Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch Karen Putnam, Medora Convenience & Liquors

In memory of Russell “Jack” Hatter Russell & Elizabeth Hatter Randall & Sue Mosser

In memory of Harold Heinrich Lawrence & Joan Hoffman In memory of Karen Heinrich Laura & Bud Griffin Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch Karen Putnam, Medora Convenience & Liquors In honor of Lori Howard Tom & Linda Krumwiede

In memory of Leola Hystad Tom & Linda Krumwiede

In memory of Robert Ingstad Jr. Wells Fargo Bank & Wells Fargo Investment Services, Valley City In memory of Richard Irvin Gary & Belinda Maher

In memory of Richard Jensen Marlene Fortier William & Kay Fortier Robert & Cynthia Stauffer In memory of Ralph Jost Sheila Marie & Tim Irish

In memory of Betty Lange Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch In memory of Jerry Lawson Bill & Pat Meyer

In memory of Glenn Lindstrom David & Alicia Spickler Elroy & JoAnn Spickler (Ellingson) Justin & Sara Spickler Nathan & Emily Spickler

In memory of Joan Longmuir Teri Schulte, Joan Longmuir Estate

In memory of Kelly Riskevich Marvin & Wyonne Riskevich

In memory of Marie Maus Tom & Lorraine Tescher

In memory of Richard Schumacher Dean & Debbie Rodne

In memory of Harold “Chuck” Martin Lawrence & Joan Hoffman

In memory of Leonard Mohelski Don & Janice Rustad In memory of Albert Neidhardt Colette & Casey Gjermundson Vivian Knutson Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch Keith & Linda Perhus Willard & Linda Schnell Kathleen Voigt In honor of Alvin Nelson Tom & Lorraine Tescher

In memory of Karen (Kubik) Nelson Darrell Dorgan

In memory of Oscar Overland Joyce Fossum In memory of Dick Patchen Robert & Wilma Freise Riley & Betty Neuhardt

In memory of Mazie Patchen Robert & Wilma Freise

In memory of Florence Pelton Gene Pelton

In memory of Clemins Pfliger Lyle, Claudia, Jonathan & Chantelle Albers Ted & Cathy Albers Stanley & Alice Hanewald Zita & Phil Hunt Judith L. Libby Lowell Malard (Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program) Sheryl Pfliger Charlene Sampson Dale & Bonnie Zieman

In memory of Martha Porter Paasch James & Donna Fritz Gordon Gerbig & Sharon Kickertz-Gerbig Laura & Bud Griffin

In memory of Reland Schulz Harold & Patricia Jacobson

In memory of Louis & Kathryn Signalness Kaye Nelson In memory of Richard L. Slovarp Duane Slovarp

In memory of Ole & Shirley Solberg James R. Solberg In memory of Jim Tescher Loretta Tescher Tom & Lorraine Tescher

In memory of Wesley Tibbetts Sheila Marie & Tim Irish, Painted Badlands Ranch Collin Schnell & Michelle AvelarSchnell In memory of Bruce Van Sickle Darrell Dorgan Robert & Edna Sand In memory of Andrew Voigt Richard & Vicki Clarys

In memory of Kathleen “Kay” Voigt Fran Armstrong Don & Janice Rustad

In memory of John Von Rueden Phil Baird Darrell Dorgan In memory of Lester Wisness Gene & Elaine Fedorenko Donald & Sandra Sivertson Philip & Sharleen Thompson

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 27

NDCHF honors 2 with memorial plaque and card file

Louis & Kathryn Signalness

Louis Signalness was born on Mar. 25, 1888, in Starbuck, Minn. One of 11 children born to Olaus and Anna (Kleven) Signalness.

Louis was educated in Starbuck and lived on the family farm. In 1903, he moved to White Earth, in Williams County.

He worked for his brother, Richard, for one year and then for Hans Christensen of the Figure Four Ranch and Earl Henderson.

Louis filed for his own Dunn County homestead on July 12, 1909. It was near the Little Missouri River in the picturesque Badlands.

His homestead grew to more than 6,000 acres that provided for 500 head

of cattle and 100 head of horses.

On Sept. 4, 1917, Louis married Kathryn Bell Heffington, a widow, who was born Mar. 9, 1887, in Batchtown, Illinois, to Joseph & May (Twichell) Bell.

Kathryn attended Union College in Illinois and homesteaded in Dunn County, joining her mother and brother.

The couple had two daughters, Louise and Anna Lucille, and Mary Elizabeth, Kathryn’s daughter.

Louis raised commercial Herefords and Appaloosa, Quarter and Percheron horses on the Bar U Ranch.

The Bar U has been in the same family for nearly 100 years. Louis and Kathryn’s grandson, Bill Jorgenson, and his family live on and run the ranch today.

On July 12, 1959, the Amerada Oil Company spudded in an oil well about 1/8 mile from his home, the only oil well in Dunn County at the time.

Louis was a member of the American National Cattlemen’s Assn., Masons, Shriners, 50 Years in the Saddle, Lutheran Church and Republican Party.

He served on the

Memorial Wall Program honors family and friends The NDCHF’s memorial wall and registry program is the perfect tribute for family, friends and others. A person’s life and accomplishments will be documented and remembered by future generations.

The card file registry lets you honor someone with a card file for $250. For $1,000, a person, business or organization can be honored with a 14” x 9” plaque. A $5,000 plaque, 18” x 10 ½”, includes biographical information.

For more information, call Cathy Langemo at the Bismarck office (701-250-1833).

ND Stockmen’s Assn. board and North Dakota Beef Council. He also served as president of the Northwest Farm Managers Assn. and was deputy sheriff in Dunn County.

Louis received a plaque from the ND Cowbelles for his many services to the group and was named an honorary member of the NDSA. His heart was always in the horse and cow business, and he took excellent care of his livestock.

Kathryn was a charter member of the ND CattleWomen, first president of the District 1 CattleWomen and a member of the American National CattleWomen, serving as state and national membership chairperson.

She belonged to the Lutheran church, Eastern Star, Order of the Rebekkahs and Republican Party.

Kathryn was a wonderful cook and enjoyed quilting, gardening and playing cards.

Louis died on July 12, 1967, and Kathryn on Jan. 10, 1974.

Page 28 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

O bituaries Donald F. Baertsch, 83, Beach, died Mar. 17. He was born Nov. 25, 1923, in Valley City and raised in Mandan and Bismarck.

Baertsch served in the U.S. Army-Air Corps. He married Donna Stark in 1948, and they had six children.

He worked in banking for many years, serving as president of the Independent Community Bankers of ND in 1971. He received the Distinguished Community Banker Service Award in 2000.

Baertsch enjoyed hunting, the outdoors and boating. He served as director of Home on the Range and on the Golden Valley County Hospital Board.

He is survived by his wife, his sons Steve and Mike, and his daughters Patricia Giorgio, Dee Ann Baertsch and Sandy Baertsch.

Cindie S. Fugere, 48, Belfield, died March 7. She was born Aug. 30, 1958, in Jackson, Mich.

Fugere and her husband, Kevin, ran a successful ranching operation south of Belfield and later purchased a ranch north of Sentinel Butte, developing the Camel’s Hump Lodge.

Fugere worked as a park ranger, owned the Long X Saloon in Grassy Butte and served as Noxious Weed Coordinator for the State of ND. She volunteered for the Democratic Party and on the Stark/Billings County Soil Conservation District Board.

Fugere is survived by her husband and her son, Ian. Karen D. (Anderson) Heinrich, 62, Bowman, died Feb. 7. She was born Oct. 12, 1944, in Minneapolis and raised in Bowman. She attended school in Bowman and earned her GED at age 54.

She married Leo Heinrich in 1961.

They ranched and later lived in Rhame.

They had three children.

Heinrich served on the Rhame School Board, helped start the School of Promise in the 1970s and supported Special Olympics. She owned several businesses, including the Broken Diamond Ranch.

She loved animals, the outdoors, gardening, riding horse and working cattle.

Heinrich is survived by her husband; her son Gaylord; and her daughters LeAnne Rafferty and Lori Heinrich.

Ronald “Ron” Hepper, 58, Bismarck, died Jan. 28. He was born Oct. 3, 1948, in Mandan and raised on the family ranch southeast of Selfridge.

He served in the U.S. Army and received the Purple Heart. Hepper worked with his brothers and married Ruth Krogman in 1972. They ranched south of Isabel, S. Dak., and later near Golden Valley. After retiring to Custer, S. Dak., they moved to Bismarck in 2006.

Hepper enjoyed horses, raising and breaking colts and his cattle.

He is survived by his wife; his daughters Karmen Glaesman and Julie Hornbacher; and his son Darren.

Karen Larson, 63, Bowman, died May 21. She was born June 24, 1943, and grew up on the family ranch southwest of Manning.

She attended Dickinson State Univ. and married David Larson in 1963. The couple lived in Alaska and on the ranch near Manning, moving to Dickinson in 1980.

Larson enjoyed prayer, spending time with family, knitting, crocheting and community activities.

She is survived by her husband; her daughters Julie Schoneck and Nancy Woods; and her parents, Frank (NDCHF Trustee) and Doris Kubik.

Glenn Lindstrom, 87, Glenfield, died Feb. 11. He was born June 6, 1919, near Grace City. After high school, he worked for area farmers and in Calif.

Lindstrom served in the U.S. Army and, in 1951, bought the Sig Holland Ranch. In June 1962, Lindstrom married Marvel Ellingson, and they raised cattle until the mid-1990s.

He served on township, school and county water boards, as church trustee and was a member of the ND Stockmen’s Assn. He enjoyed traveling.

Lindstrom is survived by his wife; his son Byron; and his daughter Leanne Butt.

Kenneth Mann, 93, Dickinson, died May 1. He was born Sep. 27, 1913, in Hebron and raised there and in Dickinson.

Mann attended Dickinson State College and married Mary Wherley in 1937. In 1943, he founded Mann’s

Automotive Supply, which he sold to the employees in 1985.

Mann was a community supporter and a member of the Elks and Rotary clubs. He volunteered at area schools and for the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation and Home on the Range.

He served on the school, Chamber of Commerce and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church boards. He enjoyed singing and playing clarinet.

Mann received the GNDA North Dakotan award in 1982. He and Mary received the Outstanding Philanthropist Award of the West River ND Coalition of Charitable Organizations in 2006.

He is survived by his wife and his daughters Pat Grantier, Shirley Gilles and Mary Gaffrey.

Albert M. Neidhardt, 95, Richardton, died Feb. 5. He was born Sep. 30, 1911, near Hebron and was raised and educated in the area.

Neidhardt married Joan Biereg in 1939, and they farmed and ranched in the Richardton area, where they raised seven children.

In the 1930s and 1940s, they gathered wild horses, breaking and selling them.

Neidhardt leased bucking horses to rodeos and helped as a pick-up man. He built an arena at his ranch where his family and others practiced.

Neidhardt helped establish rodeo clubs and received many honors.

He is survived by his wife; his daughter Joyce Gress; and his sons Jim, Terry, Larry and Jeff.

Martha (Cornell) Paasch, 83, Belfield, died Jan. 11. She was born Oct. 10, 1923, in Billings County and grew up on the Tepee Bottom Ranch south of Medora. She attended country school and in Medora.

Paasch married Willard Porter in 1945.

He died in 1981, and she married Ray Paasch in 1982. They lived on his ranch until 1997 and then moved to Belfield.

Ray died in 2003.

Paasch enjoyed gardening, cooking and baking.

She is survived by her son Dennis Porter and her daughter Kathaleen Kleinsasser.

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 29

O bituaries Sigurd “Sig” Peterson, 97, Almont, died June 12. He was born Sept. 27, 1909, at Sims.

After graduating from Almont High School in 1927, he began farming and ranching with his brother, Barney.

Sig married Marjorie Nelson in June 1937, and they had two children. He continued farming/ranching with Barney until 1946, when the couple purchased his parents’ operation.

Music was important in Sig’s life. He played the fiddle by age 4 and sang in church choirs, community choruses and at local dances. He provided entertainment at various events, with Marge at the piano.

Sig was active in the Sons of Norway, township positions, Morton County and Almont historical societies, Morton County Resource and Development Assn., Morton County Water Management District, beef and commercial organizations and 4-H. Sig is survived by his wife and his daughter Mary Harrelson.

Ruth Fae Ann (Penfield) Saunders, 74, Lemmon, SD, died Jan. 26, in Ariz.

She was born Sep. 13, 1932, in Lemmon, SD. She graduated from high school in 1950 and married Charles Christen. She worked in the family photography business. They had one son, Arden.

She married Richard Saunders in 1957, and they had three children. The couple owned the Hettinger Livestock Market, and she also worked in advertising, the furniture business, owned rental properties and remodeled and resold houses.

Her husband died in 1990, and she married Ron Quail, who died in 2003.

Saunders is survived by her sons Arden and Richard and her daughters Barbara Hauge and Cynthia Howe.

Richard D. Schumacher, 57, Halliday, died May 12. He was born Jan. 8, 1950.

He graduated in 1968 and began ranching south of Halliday.

Schumacher married Paulette Karlson in 1971. They ranched near Halliday, and he was a local brand inspector for 32 years.

He enjoyed working with his cattle and horses, time with his dog and his

grandchildren, roping, riding and helping friends and neighbors.

He was a member of the ND Stockmen’s Assn., Knights of Columbus, Farmers Union and various saddle clubs.

Schumacher is survived by his wife; his son Harley; and his daughters Tina Kahl, Tera Kahl and Rita Tystad.

John Von Rueden, 73, Bismarck, died April 17. He was born Jan. 4, 1934, in Grand Forks. At UND, he was active in football, Varsity Bards, Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity and ROTC. Von Rueden graduated from UND and served in the U.S. Army. He married Joan Schulz in 1962, and they had three children.

He had a long career in sales, including with McCarney Ford, Meyer Broadcasting and KXMB TV. He was involved in advertising organizations, Chamber of Commerce, CVB and as local host for many Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethons.

Von Rueden organized KXMB’s Party of the Century for the ND centennial celebration and served on the ND State Historical, Fort Abraham Lincoln Foundation and NDCHF boards.

He enjoyed politics, serving on the Bismarck Park Board and City Commission. Von Rueden was ND Republican Party vice-chairman and the state’s national committeeman.

He is survived by his wife and his children Jody Estensen, Kurt Von Rueden and Karen Von Rueden.

Kathleen (Schettler) Voigt, 74, Beulah, died May 25. She was born April 29, 1932, in Dunn County and was raised on the family farm near Werner.

She graduated from Halliday High School in 1949 and Dickinson State Teachers College. She taught country schools before marrying Donald Voigt in 1954.

They lived south of Raub and raised seven children. In 1971, they bought the Ralph Murray Ranch and retired to Beulah in 1990. Donald died in 1991.

Voigt was active in the community and the ND Cattlewomen’s Assn., serving as president in 1999-2000. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Red Hat Society, homemakers clubs and

others.

Voigt is survived by her daughters Donalda, Kari Trappen, Karmen Eslinger; and her sons Kenneth, Dean, Casey and Shawn.

Erwin Wells, 82, Selfridge, died May 17. He was born April 7, 1925, at Brisbane, where he was raised and educated. He established a ranch south of Carson and later raised his family.

Wells enjoyed the outdoors and breaking and training horses. He worked for J.C. Stevenson and George Bruington, trailing horses from rodeo to rodeo.

He married Regina Fly in 1955, and she died in 2001.

Wells is survived by his daughters Bonnie Rosencrans and Shirley Weekes; and his sons Randy, Kelvin and Larry.

Lester Wisness, 90, Keene, died April 18. He was born July 7, 1916, and raised on the family homestead near Keene.

Wisness attended Keene schools and, early on, farmed and ranched with his father.

He married Gladys Felland in 1945, and they raised four children on the A.S. Wisness homestead.

Wisness enjoyed his family, pinochle, hunting, fishing and traveling. He was active in his church and the community, serving on school and township boards.

He was a member of the McKenzie County Grazing Assn., 50 Years in the Saddle and the ND Stockmen’s Assn.

Wisness is survived by his wife and his children Paul, Gary, Jane Mangel and Milo.

O b i t u a ry p ol i c y

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.

Page 30 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

North Dakota Horse Park launches 5th season: Racetrack boon to North Dakota horse breeders

by Catherine Jelsing, Rugby

On a bright, blustery day in May, the North Dakota Horse Park is quiet. A persistent south wind howls over the threequarter mile track, the empty grandstand, naked gazebo frames and a cluster of trailers that house jockeys and race officials.

Sprawling east of the track is the magnificent 400-stall North Dakota State University Horse Barn, Don Hart Memorial Cleary Barn and a patchwork of adjoining corrals.

Everything about the facility is orderly and well maintained, even the graveled parking lot. Far from feeling abandoned, the atmosphere at the track on this spring day is one of readiness.

Even with the season opener still two months away, Track Manager Les Schmidt already has 287 stall applications in hand, and he couldn’t be happier.

In a normal weekend of flat saddle racing, approximately 160 thoroughbred, quarter and paint horses circle the track at the North Dakota Horse Park.

Now, with a second weekend of harness racing added to the schedule, he expects the number of harness horses will double to about 120.

“We try to run it as down to earth as we can and yet as professional as we can because we’re not that far away from being the next level of race track,” Schmidt says.

Therein seems to lay the secret of the North Dakota Horse Park’s success. From the top-notch track, to the horse barn shared by NDSU, to the professional jockeys and officials, it’s a class act.

Schmidt loves to tell the story of how his employers first brought him to the horse park site 6 years ago, showed him a 110-acre bean field and said, “This is your race track.”

A lot has happened since then and, on July 26, the North Dakota Horse Park will observe its 5th anniversary.

A big celebration is planned, with free admission, three races, music, special prizes and drawings, and a handicapping seminar for rookies who want to learn about pari-mutuel betting.

Turn out opening night should be good.

“Since we first started out, attendance has been good all the time,” Schmidt says.

Last year, 54,000 people came out for six weekends of racing; this year there

will be 8 weekends.

Harness racing started a little smaller, but Schmidt anticipates attendance will jump to around 2,000 per day in 2007.

Like all major endeavors, the horse park spent a long time in the planning, fundraising and building stages but, through perseverance and vision, it became a reality.

Among the many who had a hand in creating the park was former NDCHF and Horse Park board member Don Hart.

When horse park funding fell short of building costs, the Hart family and others stepped in to fill the gap.

The Harts’ donation allowed the 52stall barn to be named in the horseman’s memory after his death in 2004.

Another person who played a key role in the early years of the horse park was NDCHF trustee, Dale Chilson of West Fargo.

During its first few years, Chilson applied his expertise as a radio and TV broadcaster and rodeo and horse show announcer to promote the horse park.

Today, he makes occasional visits to

the track where he often sees people he knows from horse shows and the rodeo circuit.

“It’s a very natural relationship between those in another segment of the horse industry,” Chilson says. “It’s fun watching the saddle and harness races and betting a few bucks, even though I never win.”

“People naturally relate horse racing to gambling,” Schmidt says, “but horse racing is a sport. Now you can gamble on the sport if you want, but it is a sport. We keep it and run it as a family affair.”

Whether fans have $100 riding on a race or haven’t bet a nickel, Schmidt finds them equally exuberant, whooping and hollering from the grandstand, the shade of canvas-covered gazebos or from lawn chairs and blankets spread along the edge of the track.

This year a hoop-style building, with metal walls and an arched canvas ceiling, is being erected where patrons can place bets, purchase souvenirs or attend one of Schmidt’s handicapping seminars.

Thanks to the growing size of purses for North Dakota-only races, Schmidt said the horse park has not only been a boon to the local economy, but it’s been good for North Dakota breeders.

The first year of racing, the total purse for all races was about $300,000; this year, there’s a $300,000 purse for North Dakota-bred horses and $411,000 more for the open races. And Schmidt would like to see those purses grow even larger.

“Rather than expanding the season,” Schmidt says, “I would like to see the races become more beneficial to the horse people.”

He says, “Instead of running for a $2,500 purse, I’d like to see them run for a $4,500 purse. I want the owners to make some money and leave here with good memories of their time spent at the

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 31

2007 RACE DATES

This Spring, the Carpentry students from the Burdick Job Corps Center (Minot) built a fireplace mantel and bookcase for the Hall of Fame's Hall of Honorees.

ND Horse Park Fargo, ND

Quarter Horse & Thoroughbred Races

July 26 - 5th Anniv. Kick-Off July 27-29 August 3-5 August 10-12 August 17-19 August 24-26 August 31–Sept. 3 Harness Races Sept. 7-9 Sept. 14-16 Gates open: 4 p.m. Fridays and Kick-Off Day; noon Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day.

Post times: 5:30 p.m. Fridays; 1:30 Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day.

Admission: $3 in advance; $4 at the gate on race day; book of 25 passes - $50. Ages 12 and under free.

Refreshments: Food and bever-

ages are available. Friday nights are Buck Nights, with $1 hot dogs and $1 beers. Coolers and outside food and beverages are prohibited.

What to bring: Folding chairs, umbrellas, cameras.

Location: 19th Avenue North in

Fargo, 2 miles west of I-29. Parking is free.

Web site: Standings of horses, jock-

eys and trainers; stakes schedule and conditions book; race results; advance tickets; and other information available online at www.northdakota-

horsepark.org

Phone: (701) 277-8027

(left to right) Brian Olson, Marcus Killscrow, Robert Foster, Joseph Schreiner, and John Doubek (instructor)

Page 32 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

M EMBER News Western Edge Bullriding now annual event in Ryder

Ryder’s 2nd annual Western Edge Bullriding will be held Sat., July 14, with a calcutta beginning at 6 p.m.

and the bullriding at 7 p.m. at the Ryder Airport.

The first Western Edge Bullriding was held last July in conjunction with the city’s centennial celebration.

The bullriding activities were such a success that it is being planned as an annual event for the community.

Jerry Weinberger, NDCHF member and past nominee, will provide the stock for the bullriding.

The purse for the 2007 event in Ryder is $3,000 added. Tickets for the bullriding are $10 in advance and $12 at the gate. Children 7 years old and under are free.

Links celebrate milestones

About 60 friends turned up at the Bismarck Elks Club on May 22 for a celebration for Art and Grace Link.

The former McKenzie County rancher, U.S. congressman and governor was celebrating his 93rd birthday, which was on May 24. That date was also the couple’s 68th wedding anniversary.

Art was born in 1914, and the couple wed in 1938. They are active in numerous clubs, churches and associations.

Both are keen observers of current events and are always on the go.

The events were celebrated two days early because the happy couple was on the way west to visit Art’s three older sisters who live in Sidney, Mont., and in Williston and Killdeer.

Art, NDCHF honorary fundraising chair and trustee, told friends and well wishers, “People told me what to do my whole life. But one thing they didn’t have to do was tell me to marry Grace, and life gets better every year.”

Darrell Dorgan, NDCHF executive director, presented the Links with a NDCHF cookbook and told the crowd, “It looks like the marriage will last but, just in case, the cookbook might help.”

Art also was instrumental in starting the NDCHF endowment fund two years ago, and the Links recently gifted the organization $10,000.

Hosted by the Ryder Community Club and Old Ryder Jaycees, tickets are available from members of those groups and various businesses in Ryder.

A steak supper will start at 5 p.m. for $8/person. There will be a beer garden and concessions, a tractor pull, activities for the kids and school reunions that day.

Firehouse will play for a street dance sponsored by the Ryder Centennial Committee that night on Main Street.

Ryder is located about 40 miles southwest of Minot.

The endowment fund has more than $50,000 in it, with a goal to reach $100,000 to provide for emergencies, maintenance and long-term stability.

The Links were also recently honored with the degree of “Doctor of Leadership and Philanthropy” by the Univ. of Mary.

In a Univ. release, the Links were recognized as “distinguished leaders who have profoundly affected and enriched countless lives through their example of learning, generosity and ethical leadership.”

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 33

Trent Loos and Rick Wheat present clinic

Trustee wins at finals

NDCHF Trustee Rodney Nelson recently won the steer wrestling event at the 2006 National Senior Pro Rodeo Assn. Finals in Nevada.

Nelson started steer wrestling in his

30s when someone dared him to do it. He says, “There aren’t many guys bulldogging after 50 years old.”

At age 58, Nelson is a nationally recognized cowboy poet and author. He is

Cowboy Chronicle receives award NDCHF Cowboy Chronicle Editor Cathy Langemo was recently recognized as one of North Dakota’s media professionals for her communications work.

The Cowboy Chronicle received a second-place award at the 2007 North Dakota Professional Communicators awards luncheon in April.

It was judged in the “public relations printed materials, magazine, one- to three-color” category. Receiving first place in the category was the North Dakota Stockman magazine.

The contest judges wrote about the Chronicle, “The choice between first and second was incredibly difficult. We note

Winter Show Honors Danielson The North Dakota Winter Show Livestock Committee honored NDCHF Board member Russ Danielson as its 2007 Livestock Honoree at the 70th annual show in Valley City.

NDWS Livestock Director Gerry

Gerntholz says, “The NDWS appreciates his advice, support and encouragement through the years.”

Danielson was involved with the establishment and guidelines for the NDWS Performance Steer Classic in 1983 and has

also going strong in ranching and training horses near Almont. Nelson enjoys team roping, reading, telling stories and making coffee.

very good quality in the content, the consistency of pages and usage of standing items . . . “ Langemo has been the Cowboy Chronicle editor for 2½ years and does other contract work for the NDCHF through her writing, editing and research business, WritePlus Inc.

been the chair for the event since 1985.

Danielson is also involved in forming the North Star Classic in 1999, which has grown each year and earned the distinction of “Largest Cattle Show in North Dakota.”

Open Year ‘Round – Mail Order Service

MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY IN CONCERT! Medora Community Center Wednesday, August 22, 2007 – 6:30 p.m. MDT Sponsored by WESTERN EDGE BOOKS, ARTWORK, MUSIC Doug & Mary Ellison, Owners 701-623-4345 or ellison@midstate.net

www.ndhorsecouncil.org Mission Statement: • • • .

To represent a unified equine industry in North Dakota.

To represent and promote all breeds and disciplines.

And to promote the equine through leadership, education, service and communication.

For more information contact us at: ND Horse Council PO Box 931 Bismarck, ND 58502 Toll-free phone: 877-561-9846 E-mail: horsecouncil@ureach.com www.ndhorsecouncil.org

Page 34 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2007

NDCHF 2nd Annual Wild West Series May 13 Winners List Kidz Showdeo Winners List 4 year olds & under Stick Horse Race: Teigen Marmon, 1st; Isaac Clifton, 2nd; Skylar Froehlich, 3rd Boot Race Isaac Clifton, 1st; nd Teigen Marmon, 2 ; Bailey Grove, 3rd Lollipop Teigen Marmon, 1st; Isaac Clifton, 2nd; Skylar Froehlich, 3rd

5-8 year olds

Poles Mason Bice, 1st; Ty Truchan, 2nd; Tommy Hall, 3rd

9-12 year olds

Barrels Morgan LeMieux, 1st; Hayes LeMieux, 2nd; Thadd Hall, 3rd

Poles Morgan LeMieux, 1st; Taylor Dwyer, 2nd; Tristan Hall, 3rd

Flag Race Hayes LeMieux, 1st; Morgan LeMieux, 2nd; Thadd Hall, 3rd

13-16 year olds

Barrels Ty Truchan, 1st; Mason Bice, 2nd; Afton Shypkoski, 3rd

Dummy Roping Hayes LeMieux, 1st; Tristan Hall, 2nd; Lakken Bice, 3rd

Flag Race Mason Bice, 1st; Tommy Hall, 2nd; Afton Shypkoski, 3rd

Goats Tail Untying Morgan LeMieux, 1st; Taylor Dwyer, 2nd; Thadd Hall, 3rd

Dummy Roping Tommy Hall, 1st; Tom Irwin, 2nd; Todd Irwin, 3rd Goats Tail Untying Tommy Hall, 1st; Mason Bice, 2nd; Ty Truchan, 3rd

Team Roping Winners List

June 9 #8 – 5 header 1st Fast time Bruce Northrop/Ron Carson 8.64

Coby Little Soldier/Neil Karlson 62.04 on 5 head Louis Nelson/Scott Rieger 60.00 on head Monty Carson/Neil Karlson 32.05 on 3 head

Barrels Megan Danks, 1st; Jackie Knudson, 2nd; Hannah Rodne, 3rd Flag Race Megan Danks, 1st; Kadee Fowler, 2nd; Hannah Rodne, 3rd Dummy Roping Megan Danks, 1st; Hannah Rodne, 2nd Goats Tail Untying Hannah Rodne, 1st Poles Jackie Knudson, 1st; Megan Danks, 2nd;

Hannah Rodne, 3rd

#6 – 4 header 1st Fast time Coby Little Soldier/Dennis Hintz 7.31

#6 Fast time Lance Haugen/Cullen Quill 7.18 Larry Staal/Travis Weinreis 8.30

Bruce Northrop/Neil Karlson 44.49 Larry Staal/Dennis Hintz 52.88 Chris Arnold/Wendell Viger 53.23

Larry Staal/Chance Rosencrans 44.20 Lane Haugen/Travis Weinreis 51. 26 Bruce Northrop/Reiss Schirado 53.77 Jem Wanek/Chance Rosencrans 61.43 Jim Wanik/Reiss Schirado 65.18

High $ winners of $250.00 & a jacket to each Header - Bruce Northrop Heeler - Neil Karlson June 10 #8 1st Fast time Louis Nelson/Ron Carson 8.18 Chance Rosencrans/Dennis Hintz 49. 17 Chance Rosencrans/Ron Carson 57.05

Winner of $500.00 & 2 jackets - Chance Rosencrans (top header and healer for Sunday)

July 2007 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 35

Calendar of Native American and Rodeo Events Statewide July 8 – Sheyenne Valley Team Penning Assn. Event, Hope 13-14 – PBR Bull-riding Challenge, Bismarck 13-14 - Bowman County Fair & NDRA Rodeo, Bowman 13-14 – James River Rodeo, Jamestown 13-15 – White Shield Pow-wow 14 – Western Edge Bullriding, Ryder 14 – Mandan Horse & Saddle Club Family Rodeo 19-22 – Lewis & Clark Wagon Train, Mandan 20-22 – Mandaree Pow-wow 20-28 – ND State Fair, Minot 21-29 – Belcourt Pow-wow 24 – ND 4-H Horse Judging Contest, Minot 25 – Bull-A-Rama, Minot 25-26 – NPRA Rodeo, Minot 26-29 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo 28 – Taylor Horsefest 28-29 – Northern Plains Indian Cultural Festival & Pow-wow, Knife River Indian Villages, Stanton 28-29 - Fort Totten Days Pow-wow & Rodeo 29 – FM Posse Horse Show, West Fargo 29 – Team Penning, Cavalier August 3-4 – RRA Rodeo, Max 3-4 – NPRA Rodeo, New Salem 3-5 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo 3-5 – Standing Rock Long Soldier Powwow & Wild Horse Stampede, Fort Yates 4 – Hettinger Chamber Rodeo, Hettinger 4-5 – Wild Horse Stampede, Fort Yates

4-5 – RRA Rodeo, Ray 4-5 – NPRA Rodeo, New Salem 5 – HOTR Champions Ride, Sentinel Butte 5 – Red River Valley Horse Show Assn.

Event, Grand Forks 10-12 – Ashley Rodeo Days 10-12 – Pembina Red River Rodeo & Buffalo Days 10-12 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo 10-13 – Little Shell Pow-wow, New Town 11 – Mandan Horse & Saddle Club Family Rodeo 12-13 – NPRA Rodeo, Ashley 17-19 – Cowboy Up for Cancer Ride, Abercrombie 17-19 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo 18 – Grant County Fair & Rodeo, Carson 18 – Sheyenne Valley Team Penning Assn. Event, Jamestown 18 – FM Posse Horse Show, West Fargo 18-19 – RRA Rodeo, Ruthville 18-19 – Parshall Pow-wow 18-19 – Appaloosa Horse Show, Valley City 22 - World Famous Lipizzaner Stallions Show, Bismarck 24 - World Famous Lipizzaner Stallions Show, Minot 24-25 – Killdeer Mountain Memorial Rodeo, Killdeer 24-26 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo 25 – NDHSRA Rodeo, Elgin 26 – Sheyenne Valley Team Penning Assn. Event, Lisbon 26 – Slope County Fair & Rodeo, Amidon 26 – Judged Trail Ride, Towner

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 or www.sspromotionalgroup.com

31-Sep. 3 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo September 1 – NDHSRA Rodeo, Bottineau 1-2 – Arabian Horse Show, Valley City 1-3 – ND Horse Park Races, Fargo 1-3 – 47th annual Badlands Trail Ride, Killdeer 1-3 - ND Barrel Racing Futurity/Derby, Bismarck 1-3 - Turtle Mountain Pow-wow 2 – NDHSRA Rodeo, Fort Totten 6-9 – UTTC International Pow-wow, Bismarck 8 – NDRA Finals Rodeo, Watford City 8 – Red River Valley Horse Show Assn.

Event, Grand Forks 8-9 – Walhalla Ridge Riders Fall Trail Ride 8-9 – Paint Horse Show, Valley City 9 – Sheyenne Valley Team Penning Finals, Fort Ransom 9 – NDHSRA Rodeo, Minot 13-16 – AQHA Horse Show, Valley City 16 – Mandan Horse & Saddle Club Family Rodeo 21-23 – RRA Finals, location unknown 23 – Judged Trail Ride, Towner October 4-7 – Minot Y’s Men’s Rodeo 6-7 – ND Assn. of Competitive Mounted Orienteering, Bottineau 7 – Judged Trail Ride, Towner 13-14 – Bull-A-Rama, Jamestown 19-20 – Great Midwest Horse Show, Valley City 26-27 – PRCA Rodeo, Bismarck

Page 36 • The Cowboy Chronicle • July 2006

Planning ahead!!

2007 Wild West Series July 27 Merle Aus book signing July 28 3rd Annual National Day of the Cowboy, with demonstrations, BBQ and patio dance Aug. 3 NDCHF Patio Dinner and Dance Aug. 4 Annual Induction Ceremony Aug. 5 Horse raffle dragging at 51st Annual HOTR Champions’ Ride, Sentinel Butte Sept. 15 Don Hart Memorial Trail

Ride (tentative) Team Penning/Ranch Sorting Sept. 22-23 ND Cutting Horse Invitational Nov. 9 Chamber of Commerce Hunters’ Feed Nov. 30-Dec. 1 Cowboy Christmas Sept. 15-16

For more information on the NDCHF events listed above, please call the Center of Western Heritage and Cultures in Medora at 701-623-2000, the NDCHF Bismarck office at 701-250-1833, or check the NDCHF website at www.northdakotacowboy.com.

The Cowboy Chronicle

North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame 1110 College Drive, Suite 216 Bismarck, North Dakota 58501 Address Service Requested

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