Twenty Miles of Fence: Blueprint of a Cowboy

Twenty Miles of Fence is a memoir about Bob West, a westerner who abandoned his unfulfilling architectural life to become a cowboy. He learned that owning two horses did not equal twenty miles of fence, 3,200 deeded acres, 400 BLM acres, 154 head of black angus, and two and a half miles of the North Laramie River.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Twenty Miles of Fence is a captivating tale that chronicles a decade-long journey of transformation undergone by Bob West, a man with a deep-rooted Western spirit. Determined to break free from the pretentious confines of his unfulfilling architectural career, West embarked on a quest to become, in his own words, a cowboy. The decision to purchase the Devil's Washtub Ranch in Wyoming marked the beginning of a series of lessons that would challenge and inspire him in equal measure.

Already owning two horses, housed in a stylish stable near the affluent yuppie enclave of Boulder, Colorado, West quickly realized that owning two horses did not equate to twenty miles of fence, 3,200 deeded acres, 400 BLM acres, 154 head of black Angus, two and a half miles of the North Laramie River, and the extraordinary experiences that would shape his life.

Little did West know that these years would put his resilience, determination, and character to the ultimate test. They would inspire him to rediscover his true essence and propel him back to the path he was meant to walk.

The Devil's Washtub Ranch, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Wyoming, became the embodiment of West's dream. It was a vast expanse of untamed wilderness, teeming with wildlife and offering endless opportunities for adventure. West embraced the challenges that came with ranching, from tending to the cattle to mending fences and navigating the rugged terrain.

Through his experiences on the ranch, West developed a deep connection with nature and a profound respect for the land. He learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and resilience, and he discovered the joy of living a simple, fulfilling life.

The ranch also became a haven for West's family, who joined him in his pursuit of a cowboy lifestyle. Together, they experienced the joys of horseback riding, camping, and exploring the vastness of the Wyoming wilderness. The family bond grew stronger, and they cherished the time they spent together, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

However, the journey was not without its challenges. West faced financial setbacks, logistical hurdles, and personal struggles that tested his resolve. But he never lost sight of his goals and remained steadfast in his commitment to the ranch and his newfound lifestyle.

As the years passed, West's passion for ranching grew stronger, and he began to explore new opportunities to expand his operations. He invested in breeding programs, improved his management practices, and sought partnerships with other ranchers and conservation organizations.

Through his dedication and hard work, West transformed the Devil's Washtub Ranch into a thriving business. He became a respected figure in the local community, known for his commitment to sustainable agriculture and his dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Wyoming.

Twenty Miles of Fence is a testament to the power of determination, the importance of pursuing one's dreams, and the transformative impact of living in harmony with nature. It is a story that inspires us to embrace the unknown, to step out of our comfort zones, and to pursue the things that truly ignite our souls.

In conclusion, Twenty Miles of Fence is a captivating tale that showcases the remarkable journey of Bob West, a man who dared to break free from the expectations of society and embrace the cowboy lifestyle. Through his experiences on the Devil's Washtub Ranch, West learned the value of hard work, resilience, and connection with nature. He transformed the ranch into a thriving business and became a respected figure in the local community. His story reminds us that pursuing our dreams and living in harmony with nature can lead to extraordinary experiences and personal growth.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496233578