Charles P. “Chas” Kane

Charles (Chas) Kane is a lifetime Sheridan County resident that has made ranching his way of life, just as his father and grandfather had done. Born in 1932, Chas graduated high school in 1950, married Arlene in 1951, and raised five children on the ranch, four sons and one daughter. Chas was only 34 years old when his father passed away and he had to take full responsibility of the ranch. He not only paid off the debt, but expanded it to what it is today.

While attending a small country school on the ranch, Chas and his brother rode their horses to and from school. Starting at a very early age, Chas enjoyed roping and found the time to participate in local events. At the age of 13, Chas, along with his younger brother Ken, won the team roping event at the PK rodeo. He continually enjoyed the sport and roped in the annual Sheridan County Rodeo.

Chas has always had a passion for good cattle and horses. He is proud of the fact that he raised most of the horses that were used on the ranch. He loved his Hereford cows, but eventually changed with the times and incorporated the Angus breed into his herd, which are now predominantly black. He has always looked for ways to improve and expand the ranch.

Chas has been very active in agriculture and has served on many boards and in many organizations. He was appointed to the first Beef Council by Governor Hathaway in 1971, and served from 1971 to 1976. He served two terms on the Wyoming Livestock Board: 1980-1983 and 1995-2001. Chas has been an active member in the Wyoming Stockgrowers Association and served as its 37th President, from 1983-1985, and is a member of Guardian of the Grasslands and Cattlemen’s Club within WSGA. He was also on the Public Lands Council, serving as President 1988-1989. He is a member of the National Cattlemen Beef Association.

On the local level, Chas has always been a member of the Big Horn Cattlemen’s Association, and has been a long time President, from 1978 to the present. In the community, Chas was on the local Wolf School Board for 34 years until the school closed in 1973, and also served on the Community First Bank Advisory Board of Directors.

Chas was a 4-H member in his youth and has remained a supporter of 4-H while his kids and grandkids were involved. For many years, he could be found in the sale ring taking bids during the annual 4-H and FFA Livestock Sale at the conclusion of the Sheridan County Fair. He has been recognized as a “Partner in 4-H” for his ongoing involvement. Chas and Arlene show their support for all kinds of grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s activities, not only livestock shows, but also football, basketball and soccer games, as well as piano recitals and band concerts.

In 1997, Chas received the “Top Hand Award” from the Museum of the American Cowboy.

Chas is most at ease when he is on his horse, moving or working cattle. He especially enjoys that time spent with his sons and grandsons. He loves to share stories and tell a good joke. For those who know Chas, they know that if he’s giving you a hard time, he likes you. And he has taught his grandkids well, because they give it right back to him.

Chas has seen many changes to the agricultural industry in his lifetime, from haying with horses and big crews to the machinery of today. He has always been innovative and willing to try new things. He has dedicated his entire life to ranching and is always willing to offer advice to anyone who wants to learn. He will gladly share his opinion on matters relating to agriculture as he has lived his whole life with a profound passion for his horses, his cattle and the resources that provide for them.