FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Feb. 1, 2016

CONTACT:  Jeff Mammenga, Media Coordinator, (605) 773-6000, jeff.mammenga@state.sd.us

Bestselling State Historical Society cowboy biography now in paperback

PIERRE, S.D. —The popular biography of a cowboy who saddle-handled more cattle than any other man is now available in paperback. Published by the South Dakota State Historical Society, “Controlled Recklessness: Ed Lemmon and the Open Range” by Nathan Sanderson of Pierre features Lemmon’s accomplishments and escapades as one of the most noted cattlemen in the West.

The “Midwest Book Review” calls Sanderson’s book “an impressive work of seminal scholarship that is exceptionally well written, organized and presented.”

Born in 1857 into a hardworking and resilient family, Lemmon was the consummate cattleman. Starting as a common range cowboy, he rose through the ranks to become range manager for one of the largest cattle outfits on the Northern Great Plains. As the unfenced open range disappeared, Lemmon helped to transform the region from a network of dusty cattle trails to one of thriving towns linked by railroads. The town of Lemmon in northwestern South Dakota’s ranching country is named for him.

“The hardcover edition of “Controlled Recklessness” has been very popular,” says State Historical Society Director Jay D. Vogt. “We are excited to offer readers a new paperback edition as well.”

In “Controlled Recklessness,” Sanderson explores what motivated one of the greatest cowmen on the plains to saddle up time and time again. Using Lemmon’s own vibrant accounts, historical records and corporate and government documents, Sanderson separates myth from reality. The result is a complete look at Lemmon’s eventful life and his perspective as both a cowboy and a cattleman at the end of the open-range era.

“Controlled Recklessness: Ed Lemmon and the Open Range” can be ordered for $19.95, plus shipping and tax, directly from the South Dakota Historical Society Press. Visit sdhspress.com or call (605) 773-6009. “Controlled Recklessness” is also available through most bookstores and online retailers.

Contact jennifer.mcintyre@state.sd.us for publicity information or to schedule an interview or event with the author.

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The South Dakota State Historical Society is a division of the Department of Education. The State Historical Society, an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is headquartered at the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. The center houses the society’s world-class museum, the archives, and the historic preservation, publishing and administrative/development offices. Call (605) 773-3458 or visit www.history.sd.gov for more information. The society also has an archaeology office in Rapid City; call (605) 394-1936 for more information.