Richmond Pearson Hobson Jr. was an American-Canadian author known for his memoirs about life as a rancher in British Columbia. Born in Washington, D.C., in 1907, he was the son of Grizelda Houston Hull Hobson and Richmond Pearson Hobson, a congressman, U.S. Navy admiral, and a Spanish–American War veteran. Hobson Jr. attended Stanford University before moving to Wyoming, where he formed a partnership with Panhandle “Pan” Phillips.
In the early 1930s, Hobson and Phillips ventured north to British Columbia, establishing the Frontier Cattle Company and setting up Home Ranch north of Anahim Lake in the Chilcotin region. Their ranching journey, marked by numerous challenges and adventures, became the central theme of Hobson’s later memoirs. The partnership ended in the 1940s, and Hobson relocated to the Vanderhoof area to continue his ranching endeavors. He married Gloria and lived on River Ranch, south of Vanderhoof.
Hobson’s literary contributions include three notable books: “Grass Beyond the Mountains” (1951), “Nothing Too Good for a Cowboy” (1955), and “The Rancher Takes a Wife” (1961). These works chronicle his experiences from the early days of establishing a ranch in a remote area, through the struggles of World War II, to his life as a married rancher. His first book was initially serialized in Maclean’s magazine, gaining significant attention.
Richmond Pearson Hobson Jr. passed away on August 8, 1966, due to a coronary attack. His life and works have had a lasting impact, inspiring the CBC drama series “Nothing Too Good for a Cowboy,” and leaving a vivid account of the ranching lifestyle in mid-20th century British Columbia.
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Grass Beyond the Mountains: Discovering the Last Great Cattle Frontier on the North American Continent, by Richmond Hobson
$40.00Grass Beyond the Mountains by Richmond Hobson is a non-fiction book that takes readers on a journey to discover the last great cattle frontier on the North American continent. The author, an adventurer and rancher himself, shares his experiences and insights into the challenges and rewards of cattle ranching in the remote and rugged regions of British Columbia and Alberta. Through vivid descriptions of the landscape, people, and animals, Hobson paints a picture of a world that is both beautiful and harsh, where nature and human determination collide.
The book offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of the Canadian West, as well as the challenges and opportunities of ranching in a changing world. It is a tribute to the pioneers who carved out a living in this challenging environment, and a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.