The Weak Ones Turned Back, the Cowards Never Started

Book excerpt: This book celebrates the long tradition of ranching in Montana, highlighting the stories of 142 ranch families that have been living and working on the same land for over 100 years. The book honors the perseverance, courage, and forward thinking of those who were able to pass their family ranches down the generations and help shape Montana as it is today. While the heart of the book is the 142 ranch stories and accompanying historical photographs, there are other treasures to be found within its pages, including 37 drawings by Aubry Smith, photographs of Montana Stockgrowers Association presidents and executive vice presidents, historical sidebars, and timelines to help tell the story of ranching in Montana from its beginnings. This collection tells Montana's history, from part of the Louisiana Purchase to a territory to a state, and demonstrates the sustainability of not only an industry, but also a way of life.