D. Barrus

The Absarokas

 

Teddy Roosevelt called it the ‘most scenic fifty miles in America’  Originally called the ‘Stinking Waters’ this drainage holds wonder and amazement. Much of the volcanic formations along its route have been christened by man, The Laughing Pig, the Old Woman and her cabin the Elephant Head, Henry Ford Rock, and Castle Rock are but a few scattered up and down the Shoshone River.

      The history behind these landmarks and their owners is the setting for this tale. The mountains are forever but what will they look like for generations to come. Forest fires, Cloud Bursts, Mining, Farming, and Highway access all contribute to change. Can man live with his involvements?

      Elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, wolves, bears, and pronghorn antelope all call the Absarokas home. Each are trying to establish their own territories. Can they all live with Man’s established borders? Can the Park Service manage their part, with the Forest Service, and BLM looking over their shoulder?

      This story in the twentieth century evolves around Ansen Eddie. He is a real live character that lived along the Northfork and the Southfork of the Shoshone River. Most of his story is true but the early childhood and adult years have been enhanced to fit the story. Ranger Paxton is a fictitious character created to match many Forest Service Rangers that I have known.

      The beauties of the mountains and god’s hand in their creation is manifest to me daily. The Absarokas are indeed the ‘Most Scenic in America’ as I have experienced them. I love these mountains!

      Thanks to my mother, I have been allowed to explore and adopt these very specific mountains and rivers. Every place mentioned in this setting is an actual place that I have visited and explored.

      I love the Absarokas!