”Oregon Cowboy Country” is an oral history of rodeo around these parts.

Compiled by Doug and Cathy Jory of Hines, the book provides the big picture on rodeo through the words of the competitors. There’s Bud Trowbridge of John Day, Ted Billingsley of Madras, Rich and Margie Rollins of Madras, Loren Wood of Bend. And dozens more.

”The average rodeo career lasts 10 years or less – one generation,” the Jorys write. ”After that, with few exceptions, they have to find something else – settle down on a ranch, working in the woods, or steer an 18-wheeler down the highway. Ranch cowboys can spend a lifetime at it, but rodeo cowboys can’t. It’s too competitive.”

”Cowboy Country” is a collection of interviews and anecdotes about rodeo and the colorful cowboys who compete.

”Most of those interviewed in this book would probably agree that when the dust settles, it’s the memories that count,” the authors write.

The Jorys are aficionados of both rodeo and rural ranch life.

Published by Outpost 1, ”Oregon Cowboy Country” is part of the Jory’s Rodeo America Series. Previous titles are ”Oral History of Rodeo – From Pendleton to Calgary” and ”Oral History of Rodeo – The Badlands.”

The 187-page softcover retails for $21.95.

Contact: Outpost 1, P.O. Box 505, Hines, OR 97738.