the Cowboys of the Physics Forums

eNtRopY

My ancestors came to the US during the latter half of the nineteenth century. They were Midwestern cowboys and cowgirls. I want to get back to roots and explore what it means to be a true American cowboy. For this reason, I starting a club for people who want to explore this avenue with me.

I have a vision. Next summer, a bunch us get motorcycles and ride from Milwaukee to the plains of South Dakota. We will sleep under the stars, eat baked beans cooked over an open fire, and hopefully leave with some valuable life experiences.

For those of you interested here is first homework assignment. I want you to watch the movie Easy Rider... 'cause that's exactly how our trip is going to be... minus the killing.

eNtRopY

Artman

Also check out Mel Brook's "Blazing Saddles" especially the campfire scene.

And don't sit too close to the open fire.[g)]

Zantra

What? No killin? Bahhh what a killjoy! Can we at least do some maiming and general mayhem?

eNtRopY

Don't worry, WE can kill. I just mean that unlike the Easy Riders (from the movie) we won't be killed by southern rednecks.

eNtRopY

Zantra

Can you say deliverance?

eNtRopY

What's worse Deliverance-style or Pulp-Fiction-style?

eNtRopY

Zantra

Deliverance for sure! Hey they got away in Pulp Fiction!

megashawn

Old west was a cool time. Sounds like an interesting project entropy. I personally love outdoors, and I ride dirtbikes. IMO, this is the closest thing you can get to a modernized cowboy expieriance minus a heard of cattle and riding horseback.

To actually adventure through forests, creeks, mountains sides, etc is an awesome rush, and a new story to tell after each trip.

I've wondered if it would be possible to go cross country on powerline trails.

RageSk8

You mean we get to participate in drug trafficing, go to a whore house, and visit hippie communes? I'd be in if I had a bike.

Ivan Seeking

thats good!

My cousin follows the [New] Harley crowd around the world. We cruised Holland on a Harley. Now I never thought I would say that!

Also, my family once owned much of land around them Black Hills of SD; even some of the gold! My great great grandfather floated to New York from Finland. He then walked to South Dakota and homesteaded tens of thousands of acres. From then, most of that side of the family consisted of cattle ranchers; beef and milk. To feed the cattle, they grow corn and other crops. Life is hard: The cows need you everyday - at least three times. You can never leave. You work really long days. And you really, really, really hate cows!

Also, as a kid, if you happen to work the summer in the slaughter house, you will not eat beef for several years. [g)]

My dad's was the first generation to break away and go to college. This may have had much to do with summers at the slaughter house.[:D]

eNtRopY

Well, my mother's family immigrated to the US from Germany. They were horse ranchers in South Dakota. Before coming to America, my great-great-grandfather spent a few years in Russia where he was trained by the army as a quartermaster. He was one of the most skilled horse trainers in South Dakota at that time. His ranch had a reputation for being the best in the state.

eNtRopY

Zantra

Oh really? this is shaping up to be pretty good after all! I'm in!

Ivan Seeking

Entropy, there is little doubt that my family knew your family.[;)]
In fact, they probably fought Indians [native Americans] together.

Note that this is interesting since some of my other relatives are native Americans.... I am about 1/16 native American. I am also about 30% German. That's the other side of the family.

Also, I ran into an old gent in Oregon that was on the last great cattle drive - circa 1930 I think. They rode from Portland Oregon, to Belle Fusche SD. This was also the big town closest to my family's homestead.

eNtRopY

So anyway, who here considers themself an American cowboy?

I know I do!

I'm not saying I wear ponchos or cowboy hats or cowboy boots for that matter. I don't even listen to western music. I think being a cowboy is more of an attitude. I think it involves the mindset of being self-reliant, strong, and free.

eNtRopY

Andy

Ha funny that you should ahve found this thread. I dont consider myself an American Cowboy, But maybe a Knight of the Round Table.

Integral

Any of you read the Sackett stories by Louie L'Amour?

My Grandfather, his dad and brother ran the Mora county ranch from the turn of the century to after WWI, All the boys were in excess of 6' tall. I say they ARE the Sacketts

eNtRopY

Well, don't you have to have an appointed from the queen for that title? Like the one she gave Sir Anthony Hopkins or Sir Elton John?

eNtRopY