This Eastern New Mexico ranch, steeped in territorial history and western folklore, has been in the Elliott/Gates family since 1960. A family owned and operated working cattle ranch offering opportunities for families and small groups to experience cattle work and general ranch chores from feeding "doggie" calves to mending fences. The time honored cowboy ways of great grandfather A.E. "Lonnie" Gates, respected Texas/New Mexico cattleman, combined with the rich traditions of the Llano Estacado ranching community present a glimpse into the past for visiting cowboy wannabes.
Working ranch families seldom realize how romantic and enviable their way of life is to the busy city dweller doomed to face daily traffic jams, competing to climb the corporate ladder or struggling to meet the unrealistic goals of an uneasy world. The Elliott family realizes they can maintain their cherished way of life and share it with visitors simultaneously - thus the decision to open their land for recreation, education, and retreats as well as traditional ranch work
Ranch work in this area of New Mexico continues to be done by "neighboring." This tradition means that neighbors, some driving 20-30 miles, arrive at the ranch as early as 5am for breakfast, take care of gathering, sorting and working of cattle and sharing the noon meal before heading home to their own chores. Ranches usually have a spring work day and a fall work day utilizing the "neighboring" system. The cold, snowy winter months in De Baca County keep ranchers busy feeding cattle and breaking up ice in frozen tanks; springtime brings new calves and foals, fence and windmill maintenance; warmer summer days require cattle work and grazing rotations; and beautiful fall weather chores include round-up and delivery days at the ranch.
Visitors and friends who join the family in work or play always enjoy cook-outs and campfire storytelling. The Llano Estacado's cultural diversity and historical significance is remarkable. New Mexico historians, literary authorities and Southwest artists flourish in the creative atmosphere and are known and recognized nationwide. Agriculture and political leaders are also plentiful and influential in this area of New Mexico, which leads to many interesting conversations around the dinner table.
The future of Gottomitee, Ltd. and El Bigote Cattle Co., LLC. is being created now through innovative planning and marketing by a new generation of cattle and wildlife managers and inventive, talented artists, entrepreneurs and professionals. Their vision and dream to share the work, knowledge, beauty, ambiance and appreciation of the land will usher in a new era of understanding and enjoyment for families and select groups choosing to explore the endless possibilities available.
Seminars, excursions, exploration or training sessions are being designed for photography, geology, entomology, horticulture, wildlife, skeet, firearm safety and training, camping, hiking, and possible AQHA sanctioned trail rides. These interesting fields join already existing hunting and nearby water recreational activities. Of course, some may just want to enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside with no activities at all - this too can be arranged.
Stay tuned for many more exciting ideas from "iwannabeacowboy.com" and thanks for being patient while we develop the website.
A picture slideshow should appear momentarily. These range from scenery around the ranch, to wildlife and work day. You will need Windows Media Player or something that plays .asf files.
