KNIGHTS OF THE SADDLE Part 2
Description
The original catalog description provided by the Ford Motor Company reads as follows: “Linked with all things that are typically American is the name ‘Cowboy.’ To ride, herd, shoot or throw a lariat with amazing skill is simply a part of his daily life.” Cowboys mounting horses, riding away - herd of cattle. “But greater than all other of his accomplishments is a thorough knowledge of cattle and sheep raising.” Cowboys on horseback herding cattle - herding sheep. “It is the custom with this owner to bring in his herd at frequent intervals --” Cowboys herding cattle into corral. “-- and give them a chemical bath to remove all body inhabitants that might destroy the value of the hides.” Cattle being driven through chute with dip tank. “Thus everyday duty has wrought the cowboy into a true knight of the saddle and, as in the time of ‘Ivanhoe,’ he sallies forth each year to prove his skill at some great tournament.” Cowboys riding around corral at rodeo, spectators in stands. “Here are the noble steeds whose soul ambition is to impersonate a rough sea, a roller coaster and a joy wheel all in one.” Corral full of horses milling about - worker closing chute gate on plunging horse. “King Arthur and all his court were never confronted with a better way for breaking their necks.” Bronc riding. “Where is the knight of yore who could perform so for his lady fair?” Trick riding. “Or in all his armor cared to take a chance at this.” Bulldogging steers. “One of the modern knights of the saddle chooses to ride a wild horse.” Several cowboys holding wild horses in ring, others saddling, mounting, and riding them. “To rope and tie a steer takes but a few seconds, but the experience required to perform the feat is one of years standing.” Bulldogging steers. “Honors he’s won -- he’s satisfied now and a spirit of happiness spreads over the great solitude that the cowboy calls ‘home.’” Cowboy taking off hat and waving it, others in background with horses - view of mountains through pine boughs. “The End.” “Ford Educational Library.” [1921]
Read more