Devils Tower to Host a Celebration of the Rich Culture and Heritage of the American Cowboy

Date: August 27, 2015
Contact: Nancy Stimson, 307 467 5283

Devils Tower, WY - Come and celebrate the lifeways of rural America by creating the "campfire" which everyone can come and share in the appreciation of the culture and traditions unique to the Black Hills. The Cowboy Poetry Festival kicks off Sunday, September 6 at 1:00 pm with Robert Dennis, Paul Larsen and Don Hewlit. Each cowboy brings their own unique western experiences to life every time they take the stage and present cowboy culture.

Robert Dennis and his family work their ranch in much the same way their ancestors did. His admiration of good cowboy, stockmen and horsemen rings true in his unique singing and songwriting. Robert writes, recites the poems and sings the songs of the western life from a lifelong love affair with where he lives, Western South Dakota. He comes from a long line of musicians and is thrilled that his sons and grandchildren seem to be following in those footsteps. Robert's songs and poems reflect these traditions and lifestyle. When he sings a song or recites a poem, he is doing his part to pass on the mantle to the next generation who will continue the great cow clan.

Paul Larson, the son of a carpenter, has worked many jobs to earn his way. But when horses and cowboyin' came into his life, he knew he found his true passion. Paul spent many years competing in calf roping and team roping events at rodeos. He places great value on good craftsmanship and good cowboyin'. Appreciated for his honest eye, baritone voice, and some yoelin', he is well known as a singer, song writer, and cowboy musician. He is the cowboy you would hire to ride a circle around a rangy herd of cows to keep them quiet through the night. When in the Black Hills you may find Paul on horseback working cows, attending a chuckwagon or on a porch singing cowboy music.

Don Hewlit, a cowboy in South Dakota, uses teams of horses and mules in his ranching operation. He writes and performs cowboy poetry throughout the Black Hills. His poetry may have you laugh out loud while more solemn words may leave you with a tear.

The Cowboy Poetry Festival will be held in the picnic area near the Belle Fourche River Campground.

To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument visit www.nps.gov/deto or ww.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site or twitter.com@DevilsTowerNM.

www.s.gov/deto