Braehead Memories

At the core of this personal journal of George Harry Cross lies the raw story of Wyoming's early days. From the last of the Indian Wars to the passing of the Frontier and beyond, Cross shares his life experiences in a manner that no researcher today could ever hope to duplicate. Enhanced by his straight-forward writing style, this book is not only informative but entertaining as he describes his encounters with people from every walk of life, the ups and downs of pioneer family life, and the trials and tribulations of cattle ranching. George Harry Cross was born into a family of bankers, lawyers and other professional men. Although he was assured of a bright future by following this family tradition, he chose to fulfill his dream of becoming a cowboy. He traveled from his home in Montreal, Canada to Colorado where his adventures began. As a "greenhorn," he learned the hard way how life was lived in a land of few comforts and even fewer laws. He trailed his first herd of cattle from Colorado into Wyoming and, by 1883, had established his Braehead Ranch in Upper LaPrele Valley near Douglas. At the time of his death in 1946, his was the largest shorthorn cattle ranch in the country. He was also involved in the betterment of his community, establishing a school and post office in the valley. He later helped with the organization of Converse County, serving on the first board of commissioners. In addition, Cross served as senator from Converse County in the third, fourth, fifth, ninth, tenth and eleventh State legislative sessions, earning the respect of his fellow legislators as they enacted the necessary laws to govern the new state of Wyoming. His was truly a life well-lived.