Party On the Trail

2011 Trail Boss Award went to Governor Bill Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Nation.  Governor Anoatubby's leadership of the Unconquered and Unconquerable Chickasaw Nation reflects the spirit of the Chickasaws during the Chisholm Trail Era, 1867-1877.  The alliance of two diverse cultures, the Chickasaw people and Texas cattlemen, resulted in millions of longhorns passing thru the Chickasaw prairies along the Chisholm Trail.  This massive migration of cattle ushered in the beginnings of America's Modern Livestock Industry.

2011 Point Man Award went to Dr. Chris Jefferies for the years he has dedicated to the preservation of the legacy of the Chisholm Trail, the American Cowboy, and the American West.  He aided Bob Klemme in placing prominent historic Chisholm Trail markers in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Dr. Jefferies, first executive director of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, provided leadership to the formative years of this dynamic and vital organization.  His direction has aided in the success and popularity of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center.

2010 Trail Boss Award went to Terry Stuart Forst of Waurika, Oklahoma.  She was honored for her management and guidance of the 45,000 acre Stuart Ranches, Oklahoma's oldest continuously operated family ranches, dating back to 1868. 

Her expertise and knowledge of cattle and horses has earned her great respect among her peers.  Forst is the first woman to be elected President of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association, a reflection of her dynamic leadership and acceptance by those in the livestock industry.  She has also been elected to the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame.

2010 Point Man Award went to Boots O'Neal for dedicating his life to the livestock industry; as a cowboy, wagon boss, and other responsibilities with America's largest and most famous ranches including; JA Ranch, W. T. Waggoner Estate and Burnett (6666) Ranches.

The legacy of the American Cowboy which began with the movement of millions of Texas longhorns up the Chisholm Trail is epitomized by his reputation, character, and lifestyle. 

2009 Trail Boss Award went to the internationally recognized King Ranch Inc. and the King Ranch Family, headquartered in Houston, Texas.  

2009 Point Man Award was given to Red Steagall, nationally recognized singer, songwriter, television star and great voice of our Experience Theater.