“The ranch was established just over a half-century ago when Charlie and Della Van Norman bought a small homestead called “The Smith Place” near Tuscarora. Charlie had just returned from duty in Europe during World War II, where he served as a decorated captain under the famous General George Patton. Charlie and Della bought two […]
“Decades later, several days’ ride north of Widow Smith’s place, 14-year-old Wayne Hage was fed up with mandatory church attendance enforced by his mother. One night he finally spelled out his good-byes on a piece of paper and ran away from home, dreaming of an adventurous cowboy life. He didn’t run too far, however, and […]
“The view below rolls out beneath the plane’s wings. Miles of sagebrush are interspersed against the vibrant colors of the valley, a spectacular and vast feast for the eyes…and the camera lens. It’s a simultaneously rough and beautiful environment. Winters may be wet and cold, but summers are so dry that Dan’s dad, Robin, spends […]
“Nine days after my departure, Helena, Yelena, and Bryan start out on a typical 65-mile trek from the ranch to the post office, unaware of the tragedy awaiting them. There is a terrible automobile accident. Miraculously, Yelena and the baby survive, but Helen is killed instantly. Sorrow descends over the Monitor Valley, but still the […]
“A year after Wayne Sr. purchased Pine Creek Ranch there was a knock at the door – the U.S. Forest Service was calling to try to purchase the ranch and the water rights. The price they offered was half of what the Hages had just paid for it. Wayne’s refusal to sell brought the full […]
