2011 National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Elko, Nevada

Renowned for their horsemanship and animal husbandry, the csikosók have traditionally relied upon the vast grasslands of the puszta for grazing and livelihood. They have much in common with horsemen and cattlemen in other parts of the world, including the American cowboy. The 2011 Poetry Gathering explored this common ground through conversations with Hungarian horsemen, performances of pastoral music and poetry, workshops, and an exhibition on Hungarian csikos and herding culture.
Gail Steiger of Prescott, Arizona, who was instrumental in bringing the Hungarian guests to Elko, pointed out how quickly things can change in the political world and how important it is for us to preserve and understand our traditions and agricultural heritage.
The Western Folklife Center has for years been reaching out to herding cultures around the world, bringing representatives to the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, NV, to sing songs and tell stories or recite poetry about their lives. The WFC has taken Americans on reciprocal trips to visit ranching communities in Mongolia, Brazil, Argentina, and France. These exchanges bring people together, building on things they have in common, encouraging mutual understanding and appreciation. They also help preserve traditions and knowledge about living simply, in sustainable ways.
No matter what country you live in, livestock needs someone to do the daily chores . Hungarian herders are no exception, they tend to their animals.
Article by Mike Laughlin
[email protected]
Photos by Lee Raine
Gail Steiger of Prescott, Arizona, who was instrumental in bringing the Hungarian guests to Elko, pointed out how quickly things can change in the political world and how important it is for us to preserve and understand our traditions and agricultural heritage.
The Western Folklife Center has for years been reaching out to herding cultures around the world, bringing representatives to the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, NV, to sing songs and tell stories or recite poetry about their lives. The WFC has taken Americans on reciprocal trips to visit ranching communities in Mongolia, Brazil, Argentina, and France. These exchanges bring people together, building on things they have in common, encouraging mutual understanding and appreciation. They also help preserve traditions and knowledge about living simply, in sustainable ways.
No matter what country you live in, livestock needs someone to do the daily chores . Hungarian herders are no exception, they tend to their animals.
Article by Mike Laughlin
[email protected]
Photos by Lee Raine