May 2025 - Note from the Saddle Bench


Buckle by Gary Dunshee for the 2025 Summer Stampede auction.
Photo Courtesy of Mattie Sargent


Happy spring time! Hope you've had rain and lots of wildflowers. There have been some big thunderheads that put out a lot of rain east and north of Fort Stockton. I have talked to a lot of people from North Texas that have received really good rains. Seems like a lot of the state has been blessed with good rains. Hope it continues 'til everyone gets what they need.

 Don't forget the Western Heritage Classic coming up this weekend. It's always a good time. Get to see a lot of good people and a lot of good gear.

The elk are just about through shedding their horns   I try to keep a big bale of alfalfa out for the elk when it's extremely dry and usually a dozen or so will take me up on it. It has been so dry that I've counted as many as 39 at a time eating hay.


We are taking some new wider belts to Abilene. They are one and three-quarter inches wide tapered to one and a half inches. We made them in a plain heavy work belt and in a basket weave design as well. The new horse hide belts will be done in a couple of weeks.  


Don't forget all the events coming up in Alpine this summer and fall. There's always something going on. One of the better events this summer is Viva Big Bend which will be July 23rd-27th. Followed by the Big Bend Ranch Rodeo August 8th-9th.


John Klingeman has taken over the reins at the Museum of the Big Bend. He and his staff are working on the Trappings of Texas show which will be September 18th, 19th, and 20th. They are really committed this year to having the finest gear makers in the industry showing their cowboy wares. It should be the best show they've had in years. If you have any questions regarding the show, you can call me at Big Bend Saddlery or call the Museum of the Big Bend at (432)837-8145 for more information.


Hope to see you in Abilene!


Adios for now!

Gary Dunshee

Comments

  1. Good morning Gary! Hope you're getting some of the rain we're getting in Dallas. I was born/raised in Lubbock and have visited Marfa many times and graced your store several times. I currently am wearing one of your ball caps, advertising your store. Really love your newsletter, as I miss West Texas! Best regards, DJJ

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  2. That’s a good-looking buckle, Gary … I would bid on it!! We’ve had some rain down here and the kids have had a good deal of rain over at their place at Round Top. Here in SA we could surely use much more … but that seems to always be the case! Hope to see you sometime this summer or early fall. Stay healthy and happy. Best to your family! Michael Bell

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  3. Thank you for sharing! I too miss West Texas and loved visiting your wonderful store!

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