Branding Iron

Little carries more meaning in cowboy world than brands. They symbolize, not just ownership, but a tradition that grounds a man in something deeper than himself. 

Better yet, are branding irons that have been held in hands and placed on cows for generations. 

This was Great-grandpa Adam's brand and iron. It is little, for calves. And you can see that it was hammered together by a blacksmith. Awesome to see it still in use today. 

# 12 - We call it the Reverse L Drawknife.

With a few calves to brand, Clint got it heating up in the fire. 

While Darin and I rounded up the critters. 

Cows and calves look real good. 

Then both of them put the sneak on, so we could tag, vaccinate, and brand each calf. 

Boot on the rib and brand on the hip. 

Works just as good as it did in 1950. 

Everybody's happy. 

Including Fr. Bryce.

Fun stuff. When I hold this iron, I hold history. I can't help but be thankful for Grandpa Adam, who came over from Russia/Germany and worked hard to buy a farm in Wyoming. And to Grandpa Lloyd, who took up ranching and kept agriculture alive in the family through the tough times of the 70s and 80s. And to Dad who owns this iron and helps support my cattle craze. Long live brands. And long live Catholic Cowboys.