Spur Story

History of the Silver Spur Ranch

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One of the larger-than-life legends we hold dear is James A. "Ol Jim" York, who joined the Silver Spur Ranch in 1960 when it was owned by Bill Sidley. Ol Jim's pioneering methods in cattle-handling and record keeping helped improve herd genetics and set new standards for quality, inspiring future generations to carry on his progressive practices. Throughout his time with the ranch, which continued until his passing in 2010, Ol Jim not only shaped Silver Spur’s approach to innovation but also influenced its philosophy on hiring cowboys. He valued hands who “go at it like they own it” and take pride in their work. Though Ol Jim is no longer physically with us, his spirit lives on in the ranch’s daily operations, as we continue to honor his wisdom, common sense, and timeless philosophies.


Whose pioneering work and philosophy continue to shape Silver Spur Ranch today.

Honoring the legacy of James "Ol Jim" York

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