Discover Cowboys, Culture & More in the American West!

The Great American West with its ruggedly beautiful natural landscapes, wild west history and vibrant Native American culture has produced some incredible characters in bth the past and the present. Here we share some of their fascinating tales depicting their lives and influence. As we unravel these stories, the Great American West emerges as a living tapestry woven by diverse and inspiring individuals who have each left an indelible mark on its history, culture, and spirit.

The region beckons visitors to delve deeper into its rich weave, each thread contributing to its unique and enduring narrative.

The Great American West is an awe-inspiring region of the USA including the beautiful states of Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.
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NORTH DAKOTA: The Native Ways of Pemmican Patty and Fargo’s Cider Pioneers

Patricia Mabin, founder of Pemmican Patty Food Company, an indigenous North Dakota business, strives to promote healthy lifestyles while preserving Metis and Ojibway traditions. Growing up outside the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation, she felt a disconnection from her culture and yearned to reconnect with her roots, eventually sharing them with others. Moving beyond entry-level jobs, she sought a more meaningful path that would honor her Native American and Metis heritage, inspired by her mother’s advice. She also aimed to pay homage to her people’s entrepreneurial spirit, adapting to change and creating new opportunities for themselves and future generations.

Pemmican Patty’s food products draw inspiration from family tradition, the Native ways of her grandparents and ancestors, and the desire to revive pemmican’s glory—a food that sustained her people for centuries. Using natural ingredients like maple water, bison, and berries, the products reflect Patricia’s Native American culture and history, embodying health, cleanliness, and deliciousness. They tell a story of how she upholds the traditional ways and values such as community, food sovereignty, and pride in her heritage.

Breezee Hennings, Owner of Fargo’s Wild Terra Fruit Lab Cider Bar

Wild Terra Fruit Lab, Fargo’s cider haven founded in 2017 by Ethan and Breezee Hennings, has become a focal point for cider enthusiasts. Pioneering North Dakota’s first cider bar, the couple faced legal challenges while shaping their unique business model. Initially experimenting with ciders, the cidery evolved into crafting innovative cider-wine hybrids, seamlessly blending the sophistication of wine with the playful spirit of cider.

Wild Terra’s portfolio showcases inventive blends, from effervescent apple-infused Chardonnays to bold Cabernet ciders with apple crispness. Their commitment to premium grapes and locally grown apples ensures luxurious yet approachable libations. Beyond beverages, Wild Terra serves as a community hub, hosting events like harvest festivals and educational workshops on cider-making, fostering local camaraderie.

Dedicated to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, Wild Terra Fruit Lab transcends its role as a mere beverage producer, becoming a vibrant focal point, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a genuine and flavourful journey through their exceptional cider-wine hybrids.

For more information on Fargo-Moorhead, visit www.VisitFargoMoorhead.org.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Native American artistry & 6th generation ranchers

Native American artist Del Iron Cloud CREDIT Visit Rapid City

Del Iron Cloud, an accomplished acrylic and watercolor artist, breathes life into vibrant Native American scenes, drawing inspiration from historic books and the local environment. Del’s artistic journey began in childhood, with his first mural on his grandmother’s door – a race car scene that, though scrubbed off, ignited his passion. Throughout school, Del’s love for art flourished, leading him to the Institute of American Arts in Santa Fe. However, seeking a style rooted in realism inspired by great artists like Michelangelo and Da Vinci, he continued his art education at the American Academy of Art in Chicago.
While in Chicago, Del enlisted in the United States Air Force and served in Vietnam, where his artistic talent found expression in creating murals throughout the Air Force building. Today, Del works from a studio in Rapid City’s unique and Native American-focussed Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries, offering visitors a chance to witness his creative process during the summer and explore his artwork displayed throughout the store.

For more information on Rapid City, visit VisitRapidCity.com.

Lyndy Ireland CREDIT Travel South Dakota

Lyndy Ireland, the sixth-generation owner of Triangle Ranch Bed & Breakfast, a working ranch just outside Badlands National Park, takes pride in her family’s heritage. The main home, a testament to her great-grandparents’ legacy, is a four-bedroom house renovated by Lyndy and her husband, Kenny, along with a separate bunkhouse and a new cabin. As guests wake to the breathtaking landscape, Lyndy and her daughter warmly welcome them, preparing a hearty breakfast before embarking on a day of hiking, ranch exploration, and animal interactions. Approaching her 28th year as owner, Lyndy’s passion for hospitality continues to grow, fueled by the joy of sharing her family’s story and learning about visitors from around the world. At Triangle Ranch, guests don’t just stay; they become part of the family.
For more information on South Dakota, visit TravelSouthDakota.com.

WYOMING: Cowboys, Custodians, Blacksmiths and Pioneering Women

Jess Oldham CREDIT Wyoming Office of Tourism

Wyoming, with its rugged landscapes and iconic wild horses, holds many intriguing tales of individuals who have shaped its history and culture. Among them is Jess Oldham, the guardian of the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary. Nestled in the heart of Wyoming’s untamed beauty, this sanctuary is a haven for wild horses, offering not just space but the freedom to roam unrestricted. As we explore this sanctuary, we are introduced to Jess and his family, the devoted custodians preserving the legacy of Wyoming’s wild horses. Their stories, intertwined with the spirits of these majestic creatures, paint a vivid picture of harmony and resilience.

For more information on Wyoming, visit TravelWyoming.com.

Lilian Heath Nelson CREDIT Carbon County Museum

Moving through Wyoming’s historical tapestry, we encounter the trailblazing Dr. Lillian Heath Nelson, who emerged as the West’s first licensed female doctor. Born in 1865, Lillian defied societal norms by pursuing her passion for medicine. Her journey led her to witness Big Nose George’s infamous dissection, an event etched in the annals of frontier history. Graduating in 1895, she opened her own practice in Rawlins, navigating the challenges of frontier medicine while dressed in men’s clothes and carrying a gun. Lillian’s pioneering spirit continues to inspire generations of female doctors, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Wyoming’s medical history.

For more information on Carbon County, visit WyomingCarbonCounty.com.

6th US Infantry Re-Enactors CREDIT Visit Caspar

In Casper, we encounter living historians reenacting the life of the 6th U.S. Infantry during 1855-1867. This group, formed in 2012 and extending its reach to multiple states, dedicates itself to portraying the experiences of soldiers, families, and civilians during this pivotal period in American history. Through school parades, presentations, reenactments, and demonstrations, they breathe life into the past, connecting communities with the rich heritage of the American frontier and Civil War.
For more information on Casper, visit VisitCasper.com.

Chronicles Distilling CREDIT Visit Cheyenne

Cheyenne introduces us to Chronicles Distilling, a small-batch haven masterfully crafted by brothers Chase and Aaron Lesher. Situated in a historic building, Chronicles exemplifies the brothers’ dedication to the art of distilling, evident in their self-built furniture and distilling setup. Their story, filled with humour and mishaps, unfolds in every distinctive spirit they create, such as the Tart Lemon Vodka and Berry and Barb (strawberry rhubarb) Whiskey. Chronicles Distilling invites visitors to share stories, savour creative concoctions, and partake in the genuine fun that defines their establishment.
For more information on Cheyenne, visit Cheyenne.org

Pat”s Brew House CREDIT Cody Yellowstone Country

Norfleet Gifford is the owner of Wyoming’s only female-owned-and-operated brewery, Pat’s, in Cody. In collaboration with Ariel Fishman, Norfleet turned her dream into reality in 2021. Pat’s not only serves ale-style beers developed from Cain’s original recipes but also boasts a creative menu reflecting seasonal changes. As a stop along the Cody Yellowstone Sippin’ Trail, Pat’s Brew Hpuse stands out as a testament to the vibrant entrepreneurship and culinary innovation thriving in Wyoming.
For more information on Cody Yellowstone, visit www.CodyYellowstone.org.

Dave Osmundsen CREDIT Johnson County WY

Journeying to Buffalo, we encounter David Osmundsen, a blacksmith, gunsmith, and teacher at the Arrowhead Forge School of Blacksmithing. With almost 50 years of experience, Osmundsen imparts his knowledge to students from across the globe. Beyond crafting ornamental iron pieces for dignitaries and renowned institutions, Osmundsen’s focus remains on education, ensuring the preservation of the blacksmithing craft for future generations.

For more information on Johnson County, visit JohnsonCountyWY.com.

James Jackson leather-carver CREDIT Sheridan County Travel & Tourism

Sheridan introduces us to James F. Jackson, renowned as the world’s best leather carver. A National Heritage Fellow, James specializes in the “Sheridan Style” of leather tooling, leaving an indelible mark on the global leathercraft community. His contributions have shaped the predominant style of carving in Japan, where his work is celebrated alongside other icons. Sheridan Travel & Tourism recently witnessed the impact of James’ work in Japan, further cementing his status as a cultural ambassador for Wyoming.
For more information on Sheridan, visit SheridanWyoming.org.

Quilts by Miracle Seminole CREDIT Miracle Seminole

Miracle Seminole, a traditional Native American quilter, brings us to Wind River Country. Her workshop reflects a sacred space where prayer and positive thoughts precede the creation of blankets adorned with traditional eight-sided stars. Each quilt, taking about two weeks to complete, symbolizes the cardinal directions and stages of life. Miracle’s artistry goes beyond aesthetics, infusing blessings into every piece—a testament to the spiritual connection between craft and creator.
For more information on Miracle and her quilts, visit https://windriver.org/miracle-designs/.

For more information on Wind River Country, visit WindRiver.org.

IDAHO: Pioneering Women Lead the Way, Then & Now

 

 

Polly Bemis Ranch near Riggins CREDIT Idaho Department of Tourism

Polly Bemis’ legacy lives on in Idaho thanks to her tenacity and kindness in the remote and unforgiving Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.

Born in Peking, China, in 1853, Polly arrived on horseback in Warren, a small mining town, in 1872. Her journey to the U.S. was long and traumatic after her parents, facing drought and famine, sold her to be a concubine.
After leaving her Chinese owner, she met and married Charlie Bemis, whom she lived with and nursed back to health after he suffered a near-fatal shot to the face in a gambling dispute. Polly managed Charlie’s boarding house while being the only woman living in Warren at the time.
As homesteaders, the couple’s ranch, nicknamed “Polly’s Place,” became a refuge for locals and travellers. Polly sold produce from her garden and served as an ambassador to the area until her passing in 1933.
The Polly Bemis Ranch is now a National Historic Site where travellers can visit via a jet boat or whitewater rafting trip to see her cabin and historical artifacts from her life.

Samantha Maxey Snake River Wine Tours CREDIT Southwest Idaho Travel Association

Snake River Wine Tours, led by Samantha Maxey, stands as southwestern Idaho’s top wine tour operator. Samantha’s remarkable hospitality, diligent work ethic, and talent for making connections earned her company the title of #1 Best Wine Tour in North America by USA Today in both 2022 and 2023.

Relocating to Marsing, Idaho, in 2016 to be with her husband, Samantha initially entered the local hospitality industry at a winery. In the following year, she crafted personalized Idaho wine country tours for family and friends, recognizing the potential to transform her passion into a thriving business. Taking a bold step in 2018, she launched Snake River Wine Tours, acquiring their first Sprinter Van and swiftly becoming a notable entrepreneur in Southwest Idaho.

Presently, Samantha offers tours to over 20 wineries in the Snake River Valley Wine Region, using three vans in her fleet. She takes immense pride in ensuring guests have an exceptional wine tour experience. Meet Samantha and delve into Idaho wines during your visit to Southwest Idaho.

For more information on Southwest Idaho, visit VisitSouthwestIdaho.org.

Randy L’Teton CREDIT Southeast Idaho High Country Tourism

Randy’L Teton is a Shoshone-Bannock tribal member from the Fort Hall Reservation in southeastern Idaho. Teton graduated from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art history with a minor in Native American studies.

While in college, Teton was chosen as a model for a new coin by New Mexico artist Glenna Goodacre. In 2000, the United States Mint released the new Golden Dollar coin to honor Sacajawea, a Shoshone girl from Salmon, Idaho, who guided the “Corps of Discovery” known as the Lewis & Clark Expedition of 1804-1806. Sacajawea became the first Indigenous woman on a U.S. coin, and according to the U. S. Mint, Randy’L is the youngest and only living model on U.S. currency.

Teton traveled the country promoting the Sacajawea dollar and Sacajawea’s story. One of the things she loves about promoting the Sacajawea coin is teaching others about the historical and modern history of Native Americans and breaking down common stereotypes of American Indians and women. Teton recently wrote a children’s graphic novel, “It’s Her Story: Sacajawea,” about Sacajawea’s journey from a tribal perspective.

For more information on Southeast Idaho, please visit IdahoHighCountry.org.

MONTANA: Bear-handler, the Beast and Hatters to Hollywood

Brad Tilden of Rand’s Hats CREDIT Visit Billings

Montana’s authentic essence is embodied in Billings, home to Rand’s Hats, a custom hat-making shop since 1973. Owned by third-generation citrus farmer Brad Tilden and his family, Rand’s Hats boasts a rich legacy, notably affiliated with Hollywood Westerns and their illustrious stars. Tilden, a local celebrity, continues the tradition of providing iconic hats for films featuring legends like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. Even today, Hollywood names such as Dennis Quaid and Tim McGraw seek out Rand’s Hats for custom creations.

Rand’s Hats, under Tilden’s guidance, preserves the artistry of cowboy hats, originally customized based on real cowboys’ preferences—whether grabbing them by the top or brim. These personalized touches have shaped the diverse styles we see in contemporary cowboy hats. For those wanting an authentic Montana cowboy or cowgirl look, a visit to Rand’s Hats promises a Hollywood-worthy topper.

For more information on Billings, visit VisitBillings.com.