This site is home to the award winning Bill Kitt book and the MC Chuck Wagon
Western Heritage Exhibit located in Lakeview, Oregon.
Both are based on the extraordinary life of William Kittredge "Bill Kitt."
Thirteen interpretive boards walk visitors through the story of the wagon, the enormous ranching operation it served, and the many famous bronc riders and buckaroos who called the wagon home. Saddles and riggin' belonging to the MC cowboys are also on display.
The exhibit is viewed from under the covered porch, through the windows surrounding the building. The covered porch is accessible by way of a ramp leading from the sidewalk. Entertaining recordings featuring famous rodeo announcer, Bob Tallman, play with the touch of a button on three sides of the exhibit building.
Stop by any time during daylight hours to enjoy the exhibit and landscaped park setting, complete with picnic tables and resting benches.
Oregon Brownfield Award
from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award
'Outstanding Partnership'
from Oregon Main Street
Bill Kitt is a biography of William Kittredge (1876-1958) and his mercurial rise from every day cowboy to one of the largest ranchers in the West. It also includes a history of the areas in Oregon, Nevada, and California where he operated; and the old methods, equipment, and jargon used in raising livestock. It's a look back into the lives of many people including Cowboy Hall of Fame and Rodeo Hall of Fame inductees, a movie star, All-American football player, Congressional Medal of Honor Ace, Hollywood stunt man, U.S. and state leaders, and the tragic death of Oregon's top three officials.
featuring over 500 historic Western photographs
including 60 in full color
ISBN 978-0-615-28626-6
We are grateful for the overwhelming support of our book. Stock copies of Bill Kitt are now sold out. Used copies are occassionally available on Amazon.