A Cowboy Hero for Joe Gus

My previous posts about my great grandfather, Joe Gus, tells you of his love for all things cowboy. Among my collection of family notes and memorabilia, this always stood out - a sepia-toned postcard of a tall, handsome rodeo rider. It is my favorite, and I can look at these keepsakes over and over, always finding something new to puzzle over. Yakima Canutt is the name written on the postcard of the young bronc buster caught by the shutter in a mid air unseating while riding a fierce looking stallion. Yakima's long legs and arms are outstretched, and his ten gallon stetson flying behind him. As a young girl, I remember the name on the card appeared to be one long name - like an Indian's - Yakimacanutt. I remember trying to pronounce it "YAka micka nut". My childhood fantasies had my grandfather Joe riding the rodeo circuit with these handsome horse jockeys. Truth is, Grandad Joe was a huge fan and admirer and would have given his best pair of boots to be a rodeo star. ( My attempts at scanning the postcard have been less than desirable, but bear with me and I will try this weekend to get it right. Meanwhile, this website will give you lots of info on Yakima).