June 24, 2011

Living Amongst the Cowboys from the Past


This ranch was once the Thode Ranch and home of the TL cattle company. Earl Thode, one of 12 Thode Children, grew up cowboying, breaking horses and riding broncs down here. He went on to be the first cowboy to earn the title of World Champion All-Around Cowboy in 1929 as well as World Champion Saddle Bronc '27,'28',29',31. He entered his first rodeo in 1920 - down the road in White River and won all around and was on his way. My Pony and I cross his path daily and mingle with thoughts and memories of cowboys from the past. ©JEAN LAUGHTON 
(photograph by the fabulous Ralph R. Doubleday)