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Tell us what you think >>
Selected submissions will be posted here, so check back regularly.
10/28/05
Cricket Krengel
Pendleton, Indiana
I really enjoyed this film's honesty and bravery to tell a real family's story, hardship, grit, missing teeth, mud, and all. Well done. Thank you to Jon Alept for his perserverence and to Vern and his family for allowing America to see a raw look at what it means to be a real cowboy.
10/28/05
Carolyn Kimberlin
Austin, Co.
My husband usually sleeps through the news, but when he ran across " The Last Cowboy" he was wide awake. He grew up on an eastern Kansas farm. Weather is horrid in winter and also in summer. The two main times for a farmer to be out in the elements with crops and animals. I know the film was about Vern but he would not have lasted out there as long as he has without his wife. Sure hope there was a way for them to compromise and to be together.
My mother-in-law worked right along side dad and the kids. She would help milk and then go fix supper. Or, drive the tractor and bail while the boys picked up the hay. She was an angel.
My heart goes out to Vern's wife. Her decission was a very difficult one.
They are in our prayers.
10/28/05
Marvin Walther
East Tawas, MI
As a fellow cowboy, I found myself almost in tears at the thought of what has happened to this man and his family. I have spent a small part of my life raising horses, although not cows, I sympathise immensely with Vern's position. My family came through many rural hardships, and I still long to keep alive the ranching life but at the same time I have to have a "high tech" job to make my real bread and butter. So my hat is off to Vern, his wife and children. I blame our government for making pacts with foreign powers to ship our jobs overseas, and I blame the power brokers who manipulate rural working families like pawns in some some financial chess game, where they let the families stay one move ahead in the game, but all the while playing the match to a stalemate, or worse a checkmate where the family must sell the ranch just to survive. I ask those who have the power to change things, if you're in the business of putting working farm families out of business, then tell me that you won't choke on the next hamburger that might come from China? Vern's story is an indictment of an American culture that seems to not care if the American cowboy disappears forever. Shame on us for letting it happen!
10/28/05
Dan Sweigart
Doraville, Ga
The best hour and a half I've ever spent watching TV. The dedication shown by Vern and Jon should inspire anyone. It was on late but I just couldn't change the channel or turn it off.
I am telling all my friends and anyone reading this, you have to watch it. This is REALITY television. Congratulations to PBS and Jon Alpert for getting it right.
Best wishes to Vern and family and I hope he gets his couple acres and couple cows and a bull.
10/28/05
Scott Eady
Dothan, AL
Thank you public television and John Albert for showing us what a true Cowboy life is like. I was scanning the t.v late the other evening and stumbled upon the film. After the first few minutes I knew I would be up for a while, and when I discovered the format it made it even more intriuging. I wish Vern and all of his frieds and family the very best.
10/28/05
Carbondale, Colorado
Funny, kinda tuned in in the middle, surfed away, came back, surfed again, came back and did'nt/could'nt leave. I am always fascinated by un-edited (almost) studies of everyday life of something unfamiliar. Usually these lives are not found in North America. To watch Vern Sager live a life that would wear me down to a nub in no time, and thrive, is admirable.
I have to complement Jon Alpert, I did'nt know it was his film until credits ran. I was always a fan of his when he worked for NBC. You have a great ability to do wonderfully intimate work without gettin in the way.
Thank you
10/28/05
dustin keyser
lansing, mi
This was great. it really tells how hard it is to make in that kind of field. All the hard honset work just for a meal and a few bucks if your lucky. Its to bad the family would not take over the ranch, thats how it all ends
10/28/05
Roger Barnes
San Antonio, Texas
The Last Cowboy is an extraordinary film. Every american should see it...to understand our history and mythology and to get a glimpse of the self sufficiency that made this country. I take my hat off to Vern and his family for their dedication, perserverance, good humor, and stewardship of the land. Like Hank said......"a country boy can survive."
10/28/05
Craig Rogers
Now there's a REAL man, and a real American too!
I just flipped to PBS to see what was on, and ended up sitting in my chair and not moving. Such honest filmmaking is rare and compelling.
PBS and Mr. Alpert hit a home run here.
One must respect and admire Vern Sager for his tenacity and independence. I feel bad that there are people who don't work nearly as hard as he does, have more to show for it, and still complain about their lot in life. Everyone ought to see what real work is. I was laughing out loud at Vern's wit. What a guy. Best wishes to him and his family, and thanks for sharing their lives with America. I feel a tinge of sadness for what is surely a vanishing way of life.
10/28/05
James Diaz
Cypress, Texas
What a great documentary. Wow. The report striped away the superficial world and presented life in its most basic form between man, family, and the land. It brought me back to those principles that I try to live by on a day-to-day basis.
It's my belief that Vern was/is a very happy man because he loved what he did. I tended to judge his standard of living but recognized that I am biased to the world I live in. A world on "easy street" - quoting a prior posting. As long as there is love and family I would go out on a limb and say Vern was a happy man. I did feel for him when his son left him to pursue his dreams, followed by the separation of his wife because that's when the family unit seemed to be falling apart. I also took offense to his son looking up to role models outside his family. Family is first. That's one lesson I was able to observe and will pass on to my children. On a business level, I do think I can judge the arena in which Vern was trying to compete in and that is a global agri-economy where scalability is rule-one by multinational corporations. Vern is a carbon copy of what I'd see in third world countries. Unable to make a living off the land as a private rancher/farmer. What is the solution? I truely don't have an opinion on it. Do we subsidize our people and allow them to continue an "artificial" existence - which sounds crude especially when we've come to know Vern on a personal level to the point I wish I was there lending him a hand - or do we come to the conclusion that American agriculture is most effeciently produced by large corporations? Vern could have easily provided us his opinion on this issue as he seemed very astute to political and economic issues. I do think that people like Vern should have the ability to compete and make a good living by living off the land because that's what they love. I would even tend to argue that they live a much simpler, happier ñ again, remember most of us are biased when we think of what constitutes a happy life - life that does not focus too much on retirement, 401Ks, savings, promotions, "keeping up with the Jones", but just living. Living life.
For Jon Alpert, you have affected not only me, but my children who will learn from this film. You have impacted people's lives.
Thank you
10/28/05
sdiming
waco, tx
I'm glad to see i'm not the only one who enjoyed this show. It was great i hope to see more of this family!
10/28/05
Corliss Anne Littlefield
Fort Morgan, CO
The Last Cowboy was such a moving piece not just about the world of ranching in forbidding country, but it also told of relationships growing and changing. And we understood the lure of the life as well as the difficulties that finally forced Vern's wife into town. Masterfully produced and filmed, The Last Cowboy reminded me of the gripping story of the Buschkoetters in The Farmer's Wife. We in eastern Colorado still have this lifestyle not far from us.
10/28/05
Johns Island, S.C.
It was a great accident that I changed the channel in time to watch The Last Cowboy. Vern was great and I felt like I was part of the family. I had to stay up and watch it all. Thank goodness for TiVo, becsuse I watched it again today. Vern has that honest dry humor that is a special gift. His hard work should get him more monetary support. I wanted his son to help him more but Mark had to make his own way also.My husband and I raised cattle and horses for a few years. That is real work and no money at all. I would love to say that this country is producing more like Vern but he is truly a disapperaing breed of human. I understand why his wife moved to town. I believe a person like Vern would rather turn to dust than give up the ritual of work that is all he has known. He has his schedule whether day to day or season to season and that keeps him going. He is wise beyound his education and truly unique. Vern's humor had me rolling with laughter. Where do I find the S.D. Club for my steering wheel?
10/28/05
Toulon, IL
when i came across 'the last cowboy' on a insomnous night i thought, "oh, no. another documentary about the poor farmer."
within minutes, i understood that this documentary was different. the anthropologist in me sat up and took notes as i quickly invested in the sager family and the lifestyle born to them through generations of ranchers.
alpert truly brings humanity to a cliched existence. this film is a great contribution to our culture. through it, i developed an immediate understanding of my own family and friends who have lived in similar situations. fascinating!
10/28/05
Ron Dorr
Lansing, Michigan
Last night after watching two absorbing hours of PBS called DESTINATION: AMERICA, I was about to turn off the t.v. Then THE LAST COWBOY appeared. It was even more absorbing--a fine complement to, and contrast with, the immigrants' and refugees' stories.
Having grown up on an Iowa farm but having left it to go to college, I could remember, and relate to, so many things: the incredible hard work, the loneliness, the divergent path of parents and children, the castrating of young animals, the pounding down of fence posts, the cold, cold winters, the bellowing of cattle, the swings in market prices, the rapid words of the auctioneer (and his fine farewell, "Thanks, Vern"), mowing hay, putting a grandchild in the tractor seat, even the sight of Bill Clinton (who visited our campus four times in the 1990s).
The film combined realistic details with warm touches of humanity. One telling fact after another revealed the core of Vern Sager's character, his family, his strengths, and some of his weaknesses. His sense of humor was wonderful--wise in its own way.
I was awed, watching Vern help deliver calves, yet he also knew when to call on the vet. I was impressed by his physical strength, hoping he would never get hurt, yet not surprised to learn in the update that he, like Mark, had been injured. I was moved by the portrait of Vern's wife, who supported her husband yet finally found the house and isolation unbearable. Both Carol and Vern demonstrated an emotional restraint that helped and hurt them.
The excerpts from cowboy songs added a special touch.
The entire film was so well-composed, coming full circle with the "last cowboy" pushing hay and riding on horseback. From beginning to end, Vernon Sager was welcoming us into his world. And what an honest and hospitable host!
Many, many thanks to Jon Alpert for such a fine film.
10/28/05
Cheri Cruze
Knoxville, Tennessee
And I thought I was married to the last cowboy. Actually I may be. My husband and I run a Jersey dairy in Knox County Tennessee and tomorrow we will sign a conservation easement on our land that will make sure it remains a farm forever. Seeing your documentary only confirms our decision. Vern's life, while hard and monetarily unrewarding, is one of the most personally rewarding. I understand his wife's position too. That old stubborness that keeps you farming forty years can make it difficult to retire, change gears, turn it over to the next generation. Thanks for the great peak into a culture that is dying. Here's to the last cowboys and their families.
10/28/05
J. SCHOONOVER
ELKINS, WV
What a great film. This is the way I grew up, minus the rodeo. My parents have farmed for as long as I can remember. As I watched Vern age throughout the film, I was reminded that my father was no longer the "spring chicken", I'm sure he works harder now than 20 years ago.
I felt a strong sense of loyalty towards Vern. And just like my father, he enjoys what he does.
Farming gave me everything I needed as a young girl, everything from my first pair of shoes and barbie dolls, to my prom dress and my fisrt car.
As with Vern's children my siblings and I do not farm. I would have liked to remain on the farm, but my husband is not a farmer and my heart won out. I miss it though. I really wish my son could have the experience of growing up on a farm and all the knowledge that it imparts.
I have and always will have the greatest respect for farmers and cowboys. They are the cornerstone of this nation.
This film was a wonderful look into a world that so few of us get the chance to veiw.
Thank you so much for showing the world the life of a REAL COWBOY!
10/28/05
Jeff
Utah
Jon, Vern saw something in you or this never would have happened. Most Verns I know don't have time to pamper some camera fellow. My hat is off to you....You must be a hand.
Thanks
10/28/05
ROGER BROWN JR
SUNBRIGHT, TN
THE OTHER NIGHT I WAS WATCHING THE BASEBALL GAME, AND FLIP THROUGH THE CHANNELS DURING A BREAK. I CAME UPON YOUR SHOW AND COULD NOT LEAVE IT TILL THE END. THIS IS A GREAT SHOW, AND I THINK EVERY KID SHOULD WATCH IT TO SEE WHAT IT TAKE FOR EVERY DAY LIVING, AND HOW MUCH HARD WORK IT TAKE TO MAKE IT. I THANK YOU FOR DOING THIS, AND WOULD LIKE TO SEE A FOLLOW UP. AGAIN THANKS AND THANK YOU MR. SAGER FOR BEING A REAL COWBOY THAT CARE FOR HIS CATTLE NOT BECAUSE THEY JUST MAKE HIM MONEY BUT IS PART OF HIS LIFE
10/27/05
Cody Provost
East Lansing, Mi
"The last Cowboy" was an exceptionally well drawn out biography. It captures all of the hardships ranchers had to face from the early 1980's to the twentyith century. This is by far THE BEST biography I have seen about a farmer or cowboy's way of life. This movie needs much more exposure, and as far as im concerned Jon Alpert deserves some kind of award for his mastery. It is very frustrating to see just how little ranchers earn and manage to survive on. The working man makes pennies compared to most others. It's a dirty shame!
10/27/05
Melissa White
Newalla, Oklahoma
Flipping through the channels the other night I happen upon The Last Cowboy. I watched it until the very end. I fell in love with Vern and his family. I know alot of ranchers and cowboys and they are a special breed of people who I am honored to know and love. Best wishes to Vern and his family.
10/27/05
Darlene Ridgeway
Williamston, SC
Vern and his family opened their home and their lives and what a fantastic result!! I could not move or go to bed. I want all my children and grandchildren to see this hard working family and this wonderful film. There is nothing on tv to compare to this LAST COWBOY! Show it again and share it with the world. What a treasure! Film more and show more of the family.
10/27/05
mare arthur
paradise, CA
I absolutly LOVED this program, and it amde me wanna go help that poor man with his cows..it was last taped in 2003, is he doing o.k.? Silly but i worry about the old guy.
10/27/05
Diane Marsalis/Marge Catches
Pine Ridge, SD
We saw The Last Cowboy last night, totally by accident. We live on Pine Ridge Rez and enjoyed seeing our neighbors' story. What wonderful people these are, great sense of humor, Vern.
10/27/05
I absolutely loved the documentary. I found myself praying for Vern. He is a bit stubborn, but he is a wonderful man. He had me laughing with his humor. I read the update and I am sorry to hear about his accidents. I know children need to go their own way, but I really wished is son took more of an interest in helping Vern with the ranch. I understand his son also had his own passion with rodeo's and had to follow his dream. My heart really goes out to Vern and I hope he is able to sell the ranch and get back with is wife. People in their golden years need to be together. May God Bless Vern and his family.
10/27/05
George Heintz
Pana, Il
Was a wonderful program. The old "Cowboy" was a hard worker. He also was a wise and bright man. I enjoyed the entire show .He was surprislingly up-to date about the world today and had many good "takes" from comments about the human race to US politics. Life is pretty fragile and this "last cowboy" shows us all it is true!
10/27/05
Lorrie
Milwaukee, WI
This film has touched me so deeply. I wish everyone could see this. So many of us have lost track of our roots. We all pretty much came from this and now most of us live life on easy street, concerned with shallow, trivial matters. Men aren't men any more. God bless the cowboys. It's sad that this lifestyle isn't more profitable for the families that devote their lives to it.
10/27/05
Fargo, ND
I was deeply touched by the program, "The Last Cowboy". My Family and I used to live on a ranch in North Dakota, and sadly, we were forced to sell out and move to the city. It was moving to see how the family coped with the ranch and I am proud of Vern for sticking to it even if he didn't know if it was the right decision to make. I wish the family all of the best.
10/27/05
Mary
Kamuela, HI
By accident, I caught the intro. to "The Last Cowboy" and kept myself up until midnight (pst)watching it. I've grown up amongst many cowboys and Mr. Sager is the real deal. The story kept me wanting more and I was moved by the unbiased hardships of the film. As the story progressed, I was more captivated by what would happen next. The ending was a great choice. The honesty of this film, brought laughter and tears. May God Bless the Sagers. God willing, one day, may Vern and his wife once again, ride, or drive, off into the sunset TOGETHER. I commend the Sagers for their honesty and spirit. What a great tribute the Real Cowboy's Life and Independant Filming!
10/27/05
Toni Cook
San Antonio, TX
It was a rare priviledge to get a chance to look at the real west and what it has come to mean to so few now-a-days. I can't help but admire Vern for his toughness, and hie wife, Carol for her brave decision to strike out on her own. I know it was painful for them both, but I could tell the mutual love, respect, and care the had evolved for those years together had never really waned. No one blamed the othr, they still welcomed each other and whether they get together again or not, each has been true to themselves, no apolpgies and no wuestions asked--just patient acceptance. I'm so impressed and I wish that the hard work that ranchers and farmers put into their business paid off fairly for them for the effort they put into it. Being choked out by conglomerates, high gas prices, and youth going into other professions, maybe it is the sunset of the private agri-business men and women. God help us all.
10/27/05
R S Fleming
Eureka, California
I turned on the TV to check up on the score of game 3 of the World Series. During the commercial I changed the channel and happened upon the scene of Vern and his son and cowhands looking for lost calves in the snow at night. I was struck by how direct and matter-of-fact he was talking about how important each one of his heard was as the snow crunched under his feet in the cold twighlight. As I went back and forth between the extra innings and the ducumentary I became more and more interested in Vern's rural world of South Dakota and less interested in the tired baseball players and boring announcers on Fox television. Eventually I left the game altogether because Jon Alpert's film was so compelling. Particularly impressive to me was the absence of any narration or background music. The subject matter spoke for itself.
Watching Vern Sager labor long back-breaking days in harsh weather with little finantial reward has not changed my ideas of what life on the range is really like because I had no previous ideas of what life on the range was really like. This documentary has given me an important perspective on how a person can stick with their lifestyle and livelihood. Really stick with it, and lean into it as the challenges to keep going mount up. I admire Vern Sager's tenacity. I hope that he can meet his needs as he gets older and older with dignity and in a way that suits the lifestyle he has chosen for himself. I am grateful to the filmmakers who produced this film and to my local pbs station for broadcasting it. I hope every community in America has a local public television station that shows programming with substance.
10/27/05
Phoenix, Arizona
The Last Cowboy was fantastic. I did not want to turn it off. Vern reminded me so much of my father, he even talked and walked like him. Like Vern, my father was hard working, loved the animals, and would not think of doing anything else. He was still riding his horse at 72, mending correls, etc. when he was suddenly taken away from us. But the film brought back some wonderful memories. Vern, you are a true cowboy in every sense of the word. Thank you.
10/27/05
idaho falls, ID
I grew up in a town in Nebraska about 50 miles from Porcupine, and have rodeoing cousins in Martin, SD. I've been away from there 30 years and it was fascinating to see and hear scenes and voices so familiar.
Is there any way to make people understand that "Survivor" isn't some scripted crap, but what people do day to day? Thanks for the reality TV.
10/27/05
Montana
Thank you PBS, The Sager family and thank you John Alpert for such a wonderful programme, 'The last Cowboy'. What a tough life, Vern has spent so many long hard years as a rancher but I think he needs to spend time with the woman who loves him and his children/grandchildren, before it's too late.
No-one can say he didn't give it his absolute all, and his wife stood patiently behind those cows for 40+ years waiting for that 'sunset'. What a great couple and a great sense of humor. Put your arms around your wife Vern and go for that beautiful Sunset trip,heck you both deserve it!
Thank you PBS, I think you're going to be the 'Last Best Channel',
(just don't add anymore commercials please).
Hey, Ted Turner! what's a guy like you need with nearly 300,000 acres or more of land? Are you preserving it for Americas' children of the future?
Anyway, thanks again to the Sager family(not forgettin' the cows of course!)
10/27/05
Turner Jones
Houston, TX
I too could not stop watching the Last Cowboy. A clearer depiction of ranch life could not be told. What was more important to me was the philosphy and humor of life that Vern has in his day to day existence. I grew up around people like Vern and I had forgotten it until I saw the documentary.
The only comment that I would have is that I don't think many of your viewers understand that the Sager's ranch is in the middle of a Sioux Indian reservation. Vern leases the land from the reservation. It is not his to sell. In fact, it maybe somewhat controversial to some Indians that a white man has a ranching business on Indian land.
However, Mr. Sager does own the cattle business and he can sell that and his interest in the lease of the land. Therein lies the conundrum of how much is somebody willing to pay for his business. And ultimately, when there is an asking price, it is a business, not a way of life.
I wish the Sagers every success in the future and hope to see a follow up. Mr. Alpert has done an outstanding job. I hope to see more of his work.
10/27/05
Karen
Eureka, California
My husband put the channel on Independent Lens because he knows I like cowboys, horses and cows. We were riveted through the entire show. My mother-in-law was from Lemon, South Dakota. Vern has a sense of humor and way of living his life that touches others. Yes, I like HIGH NOON. But I have a love of The Seven Samuri. You know, the great japanese western!
10/27/05
Marie Kennedy
Oblong, Il.
I enjoyed the movie about Vern Sager and his ranch so much. It was the best show I've seen for a long time.
I can really relate to him and his cows as I have horses, mostly rescued from abuse and slaughter so I understand his love for them and his land.
Is Vern still on his ranch and did his wife or family ever come back?
10/27/05
Rita McWhorter
Eldorado, TX
THE LAST COWBOY was one of the best shows I have ever seen. History being written as it was happening and not something a writer sat at a desk and wrote about years after the fact.
I will have good dreams tonight, this is what American is all about.
GREAT, thank you.
10/27/05
Dan Holdhusen
Sioux Falls, SD
I was very impressed and moved by the documentary about Vern and his family. It reminded me of the reality series with the young farm family in rural NE that appeared about 10 years ago.
One thing that makes THE LAST COWBOY so believable and intriguing is that it takes place over 20+ years...THAT is a very impressive commitment by Jon Alpert...hard to match and impossible to duplicate.
Although there were many parts that moved me - particularly in the 'later years' of filming - the most compelling aspect to me was Vern's genuine and tender love for his grandchildren, and the poignant interaction with them in several scenes. That was priceless!
10/27/05
ernesto galindo
Lenader, Texas
I was surfing the channels last night and I came across your documentary. I enjoyed the program so much I intend to recommend to as many people as I can.
What is the laters with Vern, and the rest of his family. To you great job!
10/27/05
Teresa Eiler
Bixby, Oklahoma
this is for Ted Turner, if you read any of this web site, Buy Vern's Ranch, we all know you got the money, Honey, But poor Vern just an't got too much time!
10/27/05
Houston, Texas
Loved It! I was really touched by this film on Vern's dedication and hard work. Would love to see it again.
10/27/05
June Hagen
Fitchburg, MA
A great program! Vern really loves his life his land and his cows. This is a documentary about a cowboy so we see little of his wife's life. Having been a farm wife myself I was so thankful not to have lived out there in that vast open land with Vern always off working and neighbors and town so far away. Don't blame her for going into town.
10/27/05
Gary Klinsmann
Redding, CA
Arriving home we turned on PBS and The Last Cowboy was on. We sat and absorbed all of the story without even the thought of taking a break. We don't watch much tv but look to PBS for solid programing. The Last Cowboy is one of the all time best films we have seen--real life--and we felt a part of Vern's life. We thank Jon Alpert and all involved in this story.
"And thank you to all in the film for sharing your lives and experiences with us!"
10/27/05
Jesse
Elizabethton, TN
Truly one of the finest films I have ever seen. Vern and his wife are real life heros. I just wanted to say thanks to Jon and the entire Sager family for this tremendous effort.
10/27/05
Shirley Sisler
Garrettsville,OH
The story of Vern & his family was just wonderful. We certainly enjoyed it, just wish this type of programming would be on more. My questions are: how many cattle did Vern have? Also did some of his land belong to the Indian Reservation, and if so, what does he pay to farm this land? Would love to have a follow-up as to his health, and does his wife continue to stay in the town? Thank you so much for the time and work that you spent doing this film, it was very worthwhile to watch. Forgot to ask, how many cattle does Vern own?
10/27/05
crystal
tazewell, tn
i watched the show last night. i couldn't turn it off. it reminded me of my dad somewhat. loved it.
10/27/05
Carol Turner
Corpus Christi, Tx
I was flipping channels very late last night and just a glimpse of the horses caught my attention. I was hooked within a minute and actually lost sleep as I was glued to the set watching this incredible film. Vern's humor & witty comments kept me laughing while I admired his love of his land, his animals, and his family. I hope that he and his wife get back together. Maybe Ted Turner will see this and pay him well for his land. Maybe Ted Turner could leave Vern a small amount of the land and build him a comfortable home so that Vern & his wife could live out their days with a few horses & cattle to take of. Best wishes to Vern & his family and I look forward to seeing this film again.
10/27/05
Allison Caldwell
Columbia, SC
Watching Vern through the years reminded me an awful lot of my grandfather.
When I was six years old, we moved from suburban city life in SC to rural North Georgia. My grandfather managed a large dairy farm for Atlanta Dairies, and my parents moved to try and help him save it.
It was a hard, humble life, but we never knew we were poor. The farm was eventually lost, but I'm so grateful to have grown up "on the farm." My four brothers and I have fond memories of feeding calves, crawling up on huge bales of hay, riding and driving tractors just like Vern and his grandson. All the carefree innocence with no clue about all the pressure and worries the adults were going through. The farm was a great place to be a kid.
I'm 32 years old now, and even back then the true, old-fashioned American Farmer was becoming a thing of the past. It's a shame that today's generation has no idea of this nation's history or of the back-breaking, thankless work that goes into feeding and clothing all of us every day.
Thank you, Jon, for an absolutely incredible film. How much it must mean to have been a part of this.
A very special salute and thanks to Vern for your courage, humor, dedication, and for doing the work that needs to be done. God bless you and your family for sharing your lives with us. We are better for it.
10/27/05
Dan Mackey
Camden, SC
I'm 66 years old, a USMC vet in my younger days, and I have always been fascinated by cowboys and ranchers. Vern and his family captivated me. His steel resolve, his energy and compassion and his wonderful sense of humor in light of such adversity touched my heart. I thought I knew some tough people...Vern takes the cake. How is he doing? Has he joined his wife? Did his son get a set of dentures for the missing? Thanks for a grand story.
10/27/05
Gail Novak aka barngoddess
Long Lane, MO
I found this show by accident, and LOVED IT! I and my family have a dairy farm, and it was so nice to see farming of any kind being put on TV. I rejoiced with Vern in his triumphs, and understood in the defeats.
10/27/05
Spartanburg, SC
Laying down for bed last night (10/25/05) I decided to watch some TV before dozing off. Despite being dog-tired from a very long day I simply could not turn off The Last Cowboy. It was very informative and interesting. Can I get an update on how the Sager family is doing now? I had long thought about visiting the Dakota area for some quiet R & R and had to smile when the newly married son and wife wanted to begin a business aimed at just that. Maybe in the future that dream will come to light for them.
Thank you so much for making The Last Cowboy. I would like to see the movie worked into school curriculums.
10/27/05
christy martin
brush creek, tn
Thanks so much to everyone involved with this film. I watched this doc with 2 of my 5 children and we were all mesmerized. Vern and his family are exactly the kind of people I want my children surrounded by and I am very grateful to them for allowing us a glimpse into their lives. Vern is one of the last cowboys who has worked hard and really deserves some rest. I will keep him and his family in my prayers. I hope things are going well for Mark and his family, and I pray Vern and his wife have been reunited in 1 house. Thank you Sager family, Jon Alpert, and PBS.
10/27/05
high river alberta
Jon Alpert did a wonderful job of getting the story told & it rings true `cuz it is. My wife & I live in ranching country here in Alberta running a small operation. I sure wouldn`t call us ranchers/cowboys but I have a whole lot of respect for those who have answered the "call".
Vern reminds me greatly of the ranchers that I knew 30 years ago who ran outfits like his. Tough when toughness was what was needed, gentle when the situation called for it. AND that wonderfully dry cowboy sense of humour that comes with observation of life around them & not taking themselves too seriously.
Congratulations to PBS for showing a quality documentary on life in rural America(could have easily been Canada). Bring us more!
10/27/05
Kim Lapham
Phoenix, AZ
Looking at Vern, I am reminded of my Grandpa John, a farmer from Ill.. My mother fought for years to get away from the farm and I, in my own way, am fighting for life ON the farm. I own a small animal petting farm doing birthday parties. That pays for our real passion of rescuing Bureau of Land Management Wild Horses, having eggs from ducks and chickens for sale as well as goat milk and cheeses. I am part of a dying breed like Vern!
98% of the population is fed by 2% and yet when these cookie-cutter housing developments go up on all the previously agricultural land...those hold-outs, the family farmers, are pushed out with new Zoning restrictions, not to mention the Neighborhood Preservation people who harass, take you to court, take your picture (from THE NEIGHBORS ROOF!!!!), climb your fence and do other un-american, un-lawful things.
I have started a non-profit called Utopia Agricultura; it's mission is to promote diversity in agriculture. We will be starting to take select families and teach them square-foot gardening, raising ducks and chickens for eggs among other small farm-related tasks. These families will be receiving Food Stamps and the help we give will make them more self-sufficient!
We go to Farmer's Markets around the Valley and see up-close and personal, the REAL life of a Farmer. Hard, backbreaking labor for 20-plus hours a day, everyday of the week, then selling to the public, explaining when they complain about prices being similar to grocery store prices.
If you'd like to join us in our fight to save Farms, please call us at 602-251-3695 or see our web-site at www.fowlfarms.net or write to us at fowlfarmskim@hotmail.com. You can donate time, feed, tools and, of course, money.
Utopia Agricultura thanks you for watching and feeling something for Vern. Maybe his story along with others will show the plight of the Farmer, whether s/he farms food, animals, etc..
10/27/05
Bert Vance
Edmonton Alberta Canada
What an admirable man Vern Sager is. I have met many similar cattlemen here and admired their independent spirit. Most ranch families here have been reasonably prosperous, but their number is diminishing. The overblown reaction to "mad cow" has put the final nail in the coffin for too many.
Very sad, because the diminishing number of young people raised with similar families is a very serious loss for our society. This Canadian is an enthusiastic viewer of PBS.
10/27/05
narciso garcia
dickinson, tx
the show took me back to my childhood, to happier times. going to my uncle's farm on the weekend and not wanting to go to back to the city. If fox, abc, cbs, nbc or cable had anything close to this maybe kids would show more intrest in whats real. growing up with gangs, drugs and the negative morals is what's effecting our children. television is so into what hollywood thinks life is. Your show truly touched me. People dont realize how important our farmers and ranchers are when we go grocery shopping. thank you pbs
10/27/05
Daniel Yates
Bonner Springs, Kansas
How do I feel about Vern Sager? Well I own and run a small const co. just so I can afford my 80 acre farm. I am personally aquainted with folks like Vern. They are usually the topic of conversation around here , because they command the most respect and admiration. I know some powerful people in the city, but I would rather sit and drink a beer or a cup of coffee with guys like Vern. God bless him, and god bless you Jon for your perseverance in showing a bit of reality. Just imagine, there are thousands of guys like Vern out there, and they are responsible for the tough American reputation the rest of the world has come to admire.
10/27/05
Corwin Waswick
Gwinner, North Dakota
My wife and I stumbled upon The Last Cowboy while channel surfing. What a great documentary. We loved Vern's sense of humor. We grew very interested and sympathetic to the plight of the cowboy and the people of southwest South Dakota. We wish our best to the Sager family. We hope and pray that all is well with them. We live within driving distance and would love to visit them someday.
10/27/05
Juanita Perez
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
I stumbled across The Last Cowboy program last night while trying to avoid the World Series-sitting in a hotel room in Austin, Texas, I was riveted by the program that took me back to images of my childhood.
Raised on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, I couldn't help but be glued to the television screen w/ clips of Vern allowing his grandson to drive the tractor...I have pictures of my little brother doing just the same with his grandpa.
Although my brother would love to continue his grandpa's legacy, grandpa discourages it as there's no money in it anymore and he doesn't want my brother to struggle...the cattle have been sold, the tractors are up for sale and the hay-mow is empty as the only thing that blows across the cement floor of stanchins is some dust, there's no more hay or feed in the barn.
However, there's still a problem, my brother is struggling...struggling to get back to that way of life w/out his grandpa's help. He hauls cattle working 7 days a week, 12 hours a day to earn enough money to buy the tractor his grandpa has up for sale-he wants to milk cows and there's no stopping him. It's a cowboy's way of life...
So you see, those of you who have posted such sweet sentiments about Vern and his family, hoping that Ted Turner or some other wealthy individual will buy up Vern's ranch that is for sale to help him out...it's not helping Vern, he doesn't REALLY want to sell the ranch, or it wouldn't be for sale at such a hefty amount...he wants the way of life back where American's buy American products, eat American beef and drink American milk so the farmers and cowboys can live the life they know and love all while supplying Americans with what they need to survive!
How do we help them is the question?
GOD BLESS YOU, Vern! ...and to all those farmers/cattlemen/cowboys that are left and determined to become, God Speed!
10/27/05
Richard Harris
Greensburg, PA
Like many, I happened to catch this program and couldn't stop watching. It was exactly what I needed to see.
I thought I wanted to have land and raise some beef cattle, grow some hay, and keep some horses. I've just recently become very serious about buying some land and giving it a go. I bought a bunch of books to do some serious research, mainly just make sure I knew what I'd be getting into. Had I seen this program sooner I could've saved over a hundred dollars in books!
I have a tremendous amount of respect for the Sager's. It's obviously very easy to romanticize the life of a farmer/rancher. This film does an excellent job of peeling off the shiny layer of our perception and showing the harsh reality of the daily work. Jon Alpert does an admirable job of showing the good with the bad. Some parts of this film remind you of picturesque photos of cowboys in a Western Horseman magazine. Other times you can smell the mud and your body aches. It's simply a lifestyle not suited for everyone.
Vern and his clan are classic. I truly appreciate them sharing their lives, and I'm grateful for Jon Alpert's effort.
This film is fresh and honest.
Thank you.
10/27/05
Mark Harper
Muncie, Indiana
I think we all saw something special last night in The Last Cowboy. This film should eventually go to the Smithsonian. I saw no real anger from Vern, when Mark told him he indeed did like horses better than cows. The humor, lack of pretense, and minimal approach to film making really came through. Clinton at Pine Ridge was historic, and Verns comment was better than Leno.
10/27/05
Michelle Welch
San Francisco, CA
We were riveted by this amazing story!
Having an 88-year old mom/mother-in-law who was born on a farm in Nebraska intensified our interest and reinvigorates our intention to visit the state and hopefully meet some folks like Vernon Sager. His sense of humor IS awesome!
Great film!
10/27/05
Sara Q
It was so nice to sit back and watch a true American man at work. Vern earns my respect for his mix of long days, hard work and good humor. It's difficult to watch someone work so hard and struggle for so long while at the same time, Exxon executives count their $8.7 billion in profits, made by sticking it to the honest workers like you, me and Vern. The rich continue to get richer, while Vern continues to honestly work the farm. He, at least, deserves to sleep well at night! Thank you for such an inspiring documentary.
10/27/05
Kathy
Hawaii
I felt like my grandfather was telling me a story.
10/27/05
Allison
Columbia, SC
Watching Vern through the years reminded me an awful lot of my grandfather.
When I was six years old, we moved from suburban city life in SC to rural North Georgia. My grandfather managed a large dairy farm for Atlanta Dairies, and my parents decided to move to try and help him save it.
It was a hard, humble life, but we never knew we were poor. The farm was eventually lost, but I'm so grateful to have grown up "on the farm." My four brothers and I have fond memories of feeding calves, crawling up on huge bales of hay, riding and driving tractors just like Vern and his grandson. All the carefree innocence with no clue about all the pressure and worries the adults were going through. The farm was a great place to be a kid.
I'm 32 years old now, and even back then the true, old-fashioned American Farmer was becoming a thing of the past. It's a shame that today's generation has no idea of this nation's history or of the back-breaking, thankless work that goes into feeding and clothing all of us every day.
Thank you, Jon, for an absolutely incredible film. How much it must mean to have been a part of this.
A very special salute and thanks to Vern for your courage, humor, dedication, and for doing the work that needs to be done. God bless you and your family for sharing your lives with us. We are better for it.
10/27/05
Beverly
Willsboro, New York
What a story, it was so interesting, I sat in my chair the whole time.
To think that these ranchers love their home and their animals and just want to make a go of it.
To see how hard they work and the hardships they have to encounter, I say, You are very brave individuals.
I am a woman and can see how the wife would be so fed up and had to make the dicision to leave her beloved husband.
I can see the sadness in her face.
I feel sad too.
I wish this man can leave soon and try to enjoy the rest of his years.
10/27/05
Charles
Austin, Texas
Great Show,
Stay up till 10:30 watching the show.
Did his son with his newly missing front teeth take over the ranch. Got to know!!
I do a lot of Quail hunting on ranches all over Texas and Kansas. Run into a lot of "Real Ranching" Folk like Mr. Sager.
Great story.
10/27/05
Deborah and Travis Rhodes
Kansas City, MO
What a riviting program. We watched fasinated by the life of Vern, The Last Cowboy. Long may he prosper. We could relate to the hardships and rewards of ranch life, very much like our own. Now that's REALITY TV! Thank You all, for such a wonderful story.
10/27/05
Joyce Myers
San Francisco, California
Never looked up anything about a program before but Vern Sager and his family touched my heart... When my Dad was alive he left Ohio every November to hunt deer in South Dakota. I don't like venison - or hunting animals for sport. Vern not only reminded me of my father in his looks and stubborn ways but what I had always wished my father was like in his innate kindess and cheerful humanity.
10/26/05
Barbara DeNoble
St. Clairsville, OH
I wanted to tell you that in looking for something to watch last night, we came across your "Last Cowboy". Both my husband and myself were mesmerized with the show.
We felt so bad that Vern's wife left the ranch toward the end and wondered if they did get back together and where they are today.
THANKS for a wonderfully done human interest story !! Vern was such a "character"....so warm and honest..a good man !
10/26/05
Erika Brooks
Tiburon, CA
I just couldn't shut the tv off last night. "The Last Cowboy" was such a revelation and Vern Sager and his family and friends,so approachable open and honest. Seeing them all over the 24year span of their lives was far more riveting then any HBO series. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to get to know all of these wonderful, salt of the earth, hard working people. They seem to have the right answers. I didn't see any prejudice, avarice, feeling sorry for one's self, that is such a predominate part of our culture today (unfortunately). it brought tears to my eyes and opened my heart to these people and others like them!
I only wish that I had an answer to how to help preserve their way of life (and give them a better financial reward). This film has certainly inspired me to think about the issue and talk to others about it.
10/26/05
V. Ker
Dallas, Texas
I was sitting at home watching 3rd game of the World Series and happen to tune in to PBS during the commercial break. I'm not a huge fan of ID Lens, but I'm sure am of Vern. He is absolutely hilarious! Believe it or not, I actually lost focus on the game and watch this film to the end. What a delightful documentary and I wish everyone get a chance to see it. Vern should be an inspiration to us all. Thank you to Jon, Vern, and his family for sharing this.
10/26/05
Whitewood, SD
The film brought back many sad memories of the last 25 years. I recall living through some of the same struggles that Mr. Sager went through, especially with the calving losses, low prices and high interest rates. Thank you for telling the world what our lives are like out here on the prairies of South Dakota.
10/26/05
Connie Marsh
Rowlett, TX
I loved this film. I was taken out of my city home- with the long commutes in traffic everyday and sounds and sights of the big city, into a world that is simple and calm. I fell in love with Vern Sager- he made me laugh and cry. I wish him the best in everything, Jesus bless you. I wished his wife would move back with him, he and the family need her back at their farm home.
I love Jon Alpert for making this film-24 years what a treasure! I hope that many people can see this film. Vern made a good life for himself by the sweat of his brow, humor and much patience.
10/26/05
Judie Elliott
I loved The Last Cowboy. I've watched it twice now...and hope to see it on again, so I can see the entire thing.
I've been around cowboys all my life. The bitter-sweet lifestyle is always part of the package.
The only part of the story I didn't enjoy...was when it ended. I had hoped to see whether he and his wife reunited.
We live in the country and raise/rescue horses. I hope to live out my days here, too. It was easy for us to understand why Vern didn't want to move into town....
Better a small house, surrounded by open spaces...than a new home that sits 30 feet away from the next one on the block.
Thanks for filming this program....it was truly enjoyable.
10/26/05
Drema Corbett
Alameda, CA
The Last Cowboy was truly Wonderful & Inspirational!!! Made in America. Can't get any better than that!
I was spellbound by this beautiful film. I did not want it to end. The film was so inviting and open that I felt like I was part of the family. During the film, I thought of my two young grandsons as I watched Vern singing and riding on the tractor with his grandson. How great is that! Vern, his family and friends, and yes, the animals are true inspirations.
In this world of disconnect, it was a chance to connect with something real. I have so much respect for what Vern has done with his life. Not only is he really, really hard-working, but he is a patient Dad and gentle Grandfather. A quiet and extremely capable man. No macho ego that I could detect. Great sense of humor and I liked his comments when President Clinton came to town. He seemed informed of what's going on in the country, but his focus was his farm.
There was no hiding who he is and it came through loud and clear. Vern is one American who deserves recognition from our government for his many years of dedication and his true American Pioneer Spirit.
How fortunate his family, friends, and all who know him are. They're all very special people.
I send my very best wishes to all and hope all are doing well. I had hoped that there would be an update on the website as to the farm, if Vern moved to the city (not), etc.
A Big Thank You to Jon Alpert for maintaining his relationship with Vern and his family over the years. His dedication to this film and the gifted manner in which he presented it is very much appreciated and respected.
The Best to All!
10/26/05
Saline, MI
Best programming I've seen on any television station, bar none. Engaging, thought provoking, and entertaining. This is what "reality TV" should be.
10/26/05
Carl Keprta
Leander, Texas
What a wonderful show. Its good to show that Americans can still work the land. That some are still the salt of the earth. I enjoyed seeing Vern do his job day in and day out with happiness. He doesn't need a TV with Satellite or cable to entertain himself. He is a real man. Someone to be proud of. The show was an inspiration to me and to continue with my small farm. Thank you.
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