“A man’s got to have a code, a creed to live by, no matter his job.”
~ John Wayne
When I decided to move west from my clothing retail living by a code older than barbed wire.
First chronicled by the famous Western writer Zane Grey in his 1934 novel The Code of the West, the ideas and principles of the independent spirit found in the American West in the mid to late 1800’s were more than a hello to strangers and a “thank you” when a cowboy was paid a kindness. In addition to the Code of the West, there were other ideas that helped celebrate this independent spirit such as Gene Autry’s Code of Honor, the Lone Ranger’s Creed, and Roy Rogers Riders Club Rules. All of these could be learned by watching Western TV shows every Saturday morning growing up as a kid. Now that ‘m grown up, I’ve found the cowboy code isn’t just for cowboys, I’ve found it to be a wonderful guideline for the ranch.
In the end, the cowboy way isn’t just about where you live—it’s about how you live.
Live each day with courage
Take pride in your work
Always finish what you start
Do what has to be done
Be tough, but fair
When you make a promise, keep it
Ride for the brand
Talk less and say more
Remember that some things aren’t for sale
Know where to draw the line
The Code of the West was always unwritten and alongside were additional guidelines that cowboys lived by. Here’s some i find honorable and amusing:
Remove your guns before sitting at the dining table.
Never order anything weaker than whiskey.
Don’t make a threat without expecting dire consequences.
Never pass anyone on the trail without saying “Howdy.”
When approaching someone from behind, give a loud greeting before you get within shooting range.
Don’t wave at a man on a horse, as it might spook the horse. A nod is the proper greeting.
Don’t look back at him after you pass someone on the trail. It implies you don’t trust him.
Always fill your whiskey glass to the brim.
Cuss all you want, but only around men, horses, and cows.
Complain about the cooking, and you become the cook.
Always drink your whiskey with your gun hand to show your friendly intentions.
Do not practice ingratitude.
A cowboy always helps someone in need, even a stranger or an enemy.
Never try on another man’s hat.
Be there for a friend when he needs you.
A cowboy is loyal to his “brand,” his friends, and those he rides with.
Never shoot a woman, no matter what.
Consideration for others is central to the code, such as: Don’t stir up dust around the chuckwagon, don’t wake up the wrong man for herd duty, etc.
