PIPE SPRING Cultures at a Crossroads: An Administrative History

The VIP Program

Volunteers in the Parks (VIPs) continued to contribute to the monument's interpretive program during the summers. [2182] Men and women took part in distinctly gender-differentiated activities during the 1970s, much as they did in the 1870s. (For additional information on VIPs, see "Interpretation" section.)

Cattle Branding Demonstrations

Male volunteers were responsible for cattle branding demonstrations. It is not known how many branding demonstrations were given in 1971; in 1972 there were four branding demonstrations. The cost for the roundup and branding demonstrations in 1971 and 1972 was $600 each year. Two branding demonstrations were offered in 1973 and again in 1974. Three were given in 1975. During 1977, VIPs participated in branding demonstrations and in the monument's third annual wagon trek. Due to a shortage of funds for VIPs, only one branding demonstration was held on Saturday, May 27, 1978. Two demonstrations were held in 1979, one on Memorial Day and the other on Labor Day.

Although quite popular, not everyone enjoyed the branding demonstrations. Superintendent Heyder observed the demonstration firsthand on May 20, 1973, and later wrote to Tracy:

Personally, the branding, castration and dehorning, marking of the ears, and the general handling of the stock, which was quite rough, I found repulsive. I do realize it is a way of life, which is required in the cattle business. It is an historic fact that these methods were employed by the cattle industry and will continue. From a Park Manager's standpoint, the brandings provide an individual with an excellent education concerning the operation of the cattle industry. And I am quite sure that if individuals were polled who visit the Park on a day of such an event, we might well find many in favor and many in disfavor. But, when weighing all the facts, it is a good living history presentation. [2183]

Heyder recommended that the demonstration be continued but forbade the VIPs to allow youngsters to mount and ride the animals. He had observed one boy thrown off a young steer. "This cannot be tolerated at any further brandings," he wrote. [2184] Fearful of tort claims against the Park Service, he advised Tracy to make one of the monument's employees (either Rick Wilt or Mel Heaton) a safety officer to ensure that only VIPs entered the corral during demonstrations. He also recommended that an operational plan be developed for the branding demonstration.

Domestic Arts Demonstrations

During the 1970s, costumed female VIPs primarily participated in demonstrations of quilting, baking, soap and candle making, spinning, weaving, and churning. (CETA girls also participated in these demonstrations.) Female VIPs were paid $1.60 per hour for the quilting program and the monument paid for the cost of materials for their dresses ($10 each). The cost for the women's quilting program in 1972 was $450. [2185]