In a land once ruled by cattle drives, I crossed paths with three cowboys who embody a fading way of life. This ranch, which borders one of Texas' most legendary, has a deep-rooted history tied to those epic cattle drives. Tucked away in the rugged mountains of Alpine, it's a place that attracts photographers and film crews alike. The landscape itself, with its storied past, stands as wild, untamed, and unyielding as the cowboys who call it home.
Their mission was clear: First, make sure the photographer (me) doesn't do something dumb and get himself killed. Second, care for the animals with the respect and dignity they deserve. And lastly, ensure that everything stays authentic.
But these men stood for more than just those tasks. They carried with them the wisdom of a lifestyle that's slowly being forgotten. Sure, there's a new generation picking up where they'll eventually leave off, but it’s just not the same.
Every day, they approached their work with respect, professionalism, and a no-nonsense grit. These men rode their horses better than they walked, and when it was time to cut loose, they did that with the same intensity. Uncompromising and capable, they got things done their way. It's hard to fully understand a cowboy until you've known one—and once you do, your perspective on them, and on life, is forever changed.
