Frank J. Buchman

Cowboy • Horseman • Writer

Matfield Green Cowboy Recognized As Tough Competitor Ready To Help Another

“A cowboy and a competitor best describe Darwin Bailey.” Those words were eulogized as his ashes were scattered over a Flint Hills pasture not far from where he was raised and lived his life at Matfield Green. The comment was often repeated when acquaintances reflected on the cowboy who made a positive impact with everybody […]

Increase Can Be Bad And Good

Multiplying has its pros and cons. It’s the same as what some call the domino theory, when after setting a jillion dominoes in a slant formation, one is pushed to fall and all the others follow. That is the negative aspect of the equation, which we’ve been reminded about since the recent rains. But, there […]

Trick Riding And Roping Put Native Kansan Into Pro Rodeo Hall Of Fame

“I’ve had a great life.” Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame inductee J.W. Stoker summarized 83 years in just five words. Quickly, the Kansas native who was recognized last month with what’s considered the highest distinction in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, added, “To be honest, I haven’t had any problems whatsoever.”

Cowboy Is What Rodeo Buckle Series Steer Wrestler Always Has Been

“What else could he have done?” That’s the reply Wayne Bailey’s dad gave when asked why his son became a cowboy. While some might think it a smart-alecky reply, the response was sincere, honest and correct. Raised deep in the Flint Hills the son of a cowboy, with cattle as livelihood and a horse as […]

Appearance Only On The Outside

“Pretty is as pretty does.” We’ve trained several driving horses, but we’ve never had one exactly like we want. That is the color, looks, ability and disposition to pull a vehicle whenever we desired without any hassle.

Flood Waters Bring Increased Threat Of Anthrax Disease In Horses

Anthrax is back in the sad horse news. Traveling four states to horse activities in recent days, the Missouri River continued flooding rich farm ground to destroy millions of dollars in crops along with inestimable real estate damage. Twice over the Mississippi River revealed similar destruction, but it has such a large natural water flow, […]

Cool Temperatures Not Always Important

“We decided to stay home with the air conditioner instead.” That’s the response heard several times when we asked others why they weren’t at a horse show. Those who thought it was too hot will likely be the same ones who think it’s too cold when the thermometer drops to 32.

Flint Hills Are Good Life For Cowboy Nutritionist

“Come on in whenever the gate’s open. I’ll be there.” The cattle guard rattled while crossing onto the graveled road through green pasture to the picturesque homestead where Dr. Phil Phar sure enough answered the doorbell.

Heavy Throttle Not The Best Way

Ole Leadfoot sure is going slow. That’s the way it seems now as everybody passes us while we make a daily commute for our job. Traffic speed has far surpassed posted limits for some time. Increased number on signs since the first of July has expanded driver pace further.

Still Always One Writing To Believe

“Don’t believe everything that’s in print.” “Just take it all with a grain of salt” is another way of looking at it. There are logical reasons to make those contentions.