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Johnson, Ben, 1896-1952

 Person

Dates

  • Existence: 1896-02-19 - 1952-09-15

biographical statement

Ben Johnson (Sr.) was born in Harrison, Arkansas. His family soon moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Growing up, he developed an interest in cowboys and at age 14 (1910-11) he left home to work for the 101 Ranch. By 1913-14 he was breaking horses for the British and the French, leading up to WWI. In 1923, 24, 25, he was a world record holding Rodeo rider. In 1927 he was a world champion for roping 3 steers in 18s. About 1928, he became foreman of the Chapman-Barnard Ranch, a position he held until his death in 1952. In 1961 he was inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame.

Citation:
Various sources.

Found in 1 Collection or Record:

Leta McFarlin Chapman papers, 1918-1967

 Collection
Identifier: 1987-008
Scope and Contents

Collection of family photographs, memorabilia, and two scrapbooks of newspaper clippings from daughter of Robert W. and Ida McFarlin and wife of James A. Chapman. One scrapbook records the philanthropy of Robert McFarlin; the other deals solely with the death of Ida (Mrs. Robert W.) McFarlin.

Dates: 1918 - 1967