Once dominated by large cattle operations covering thousands of acres, Alberta in the 1880s-1930s saw a shift as small, family-owned ranches began to dot the province's southern plains. While this era of agriculture might conjure images of cowboys riding through the foothills or ranch hands tilling the prairie fields, women, too, played an integral part in this rapidly changing industry. Ranching Women in Southern Alberta explores the world of these women, and their efforts to ensure the economic viability of their family ranches and the social harmony of their families and communities. Rachel Herbert examines what life was like for ranching women, who faced a myriad of challenges while at the same time enjoying more personal freedom than their urban and European contemporaries. This book pays homage to the brave and talented women who rode the range, carving out a role for themselves during the dawn of the family ranching era.

Rachel Herbert was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. The great-granddaughter of pioneer ranchers, she returned to her roots and the family ranch near Nanton, Alberta. At historic Trail’s End Ranch she raises and markets old-fashioned grass-fed beef and chases her two free-range kids. When she’s not feeding cows, or kids, she can be found reading, riding, or getting her hands dirty in the garden or on the ranch.

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