A traditional West Texas cowboy roundup came to life for the fourth grade students of St. John’s Episcopal School through the stories and photography of philanthropist and historian W.W. (Bill) Caruth III. This is the eighth year the school has asked Caruth to speak to the students about his travels. This year’s exhibit featured photos in the rugged landscape of West Texas, followed by a presentation to students about bygone trade of the cowboy roundup and the tradition of a historical ranch.

Caruth had the opportunity to observe and photograph the skill and art form of traditional cowboys during roundups conducted by the Kokernot 06 Ranch. The origin of the "06," located in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, dates back to the formation of the Republic of Texas in 1836. And not much has changed since then.

“I like that little has changed in the roundups at this historic ranch,” said Caruth. “They still use ropes to lasso the calves for branding.”

Caruth's prior exhibits have featured photos from his travels to China, India, Japan, Texas, Venice, and Alaska and the South Pacific.

Caruth is a born storyteller and when he visits St. John’s, he's known to captivate students with his travel stories and photographs. He hopes his art and lectures will help children gain insight into other cultures and learn to appreciate their own.

Photo by Deborah Brown