A BRIEF HISTORY OF
CHUCK WAGON TRAIL RIDERS, INC. AND
CHUCK WAGON TRAIL RIDERS FOUNDATION, INC.
1957-2023

The first ride was held in 1957 in the Lincoln National Forest west of Roswell by a group of men from southeastern New Mexico. The principal organizer was Homer Glover. Homer loved horses, his fellow man and the beauty and peace of the mountains of his native state.

All provisions and gear were carried on the saddle or a Welsh pony packhorse named Shorty that stayed with the ride without a lead rope. Camp was moved every night and each rider was responsible for his own food, shelter, horse feed and care. Due to the many hardships and discomforts of the first ride only the boldest and strongest were to participate in future rides. Homer Glover was determined to make this trail ride succeed and the strong organization we have today is a testimony to his vision.

The first rides camped at different locations each night but it soon became apparent that a central base camp would be appropriate. The first cook shack on wheels was provided by Glover Packing Company and was used in its business to promote “Chuck Wagon” products. From this mobile unit came the name of the Ride.

The Ride gradually grew close to 275 riders and over two decades ago it became apparent that it was much too large. Attempts to return to a smaller ride splintered the board of directors into two factions. The supporters of a smaller ride, which was the only one to survive, elected to retain the name, equipment and assets of the organization. The equipment was transported to Santa Fe and stored in Johnny Walker’s backyard.

The organization does not have a membership limit but the Annual Ride is currently limited to 65 riders. Members have the first choice to attend the annual ride. After a certain date, Members are allowed to invite New Riders, who after one ride, provided they conduct themselves within the Spirit of the Ride, are invited to become Members.

It also became apparent early on that a good relationship with the Forest Service is essential and through the years the Ride has developed an excellent reputation for cooperating with the Forest Service and for protecting the environment. The Ride uses only biodegradable soaps and shampoos in the shower trailer and thoroughly cleans camp sites and, where appropriate, re-seeds with native grasses. Under the current atmosphere, it is getting more and more time consuming and difficult to obtain timely approval from the Forest Service and, while continuing to work with Forest Service, the Ride is also cultivating excellent relationships with large landowners. The Foundation and individual members have made contributions of considerable value to improve the campgrounds at popular ride locations; Hopewell Lake, Chama, Valle Vidal and Black Lake that are rotated on a flexible basis. In 2019 a Ride Location committee was started, with Howard Gershon volunteering to be the first Committee chairman, to improve the selection process.

When Ernest Carroll was President of the Ride in the year 2000, he had the vision and insight to conceive of and establish The Chuck Wagon Trail Riders Foundation, Inc. and to secure Internal Revenue Code section 501 (c) (3) certification so that donations to the Foundation may be tax-deductible. The Foundation, in addition to generally promoting the ride, serves as a support organization for the Ride and has expended considerable funds in order to enhance the Ride. Several years ago, Member John Milam designed and built the state-of-the-art water supply trailer. Years later he finished a complete remodeling of the shower trailer and the installation of all new equipment and axles. These units were built by John Milam’s construction company that donated very substantial engineering and labor. Your tax-deductible contributions and aggressive auction bidding made it possible for the Foundation to cover the cost for the actual expenditures with John providing the labor. The Annual Auction affords the bulk of the funds for the Foundation and is enjoyed by all the members. The Foundation also provides entertainment and a great directory for all the Members to have before the ride. For many years, the day-to-day affairs of the Foundation were run by Edwin Alderson. Since his passing in 2017, Russell Bellamy has taken on that position with the assistance of Scott Ackleson, as Secretary/Treasurer.

Edwin Alderson became President in 2003 and completed his third year at the end of the 2006 ride. Art Glenn followed, succeeded by Sam Burford, Russell Bellamy, Scott Ackleson, Sonny Espinoza and Howard Gershon, each serving for two years followed by Brent Cummings serving 3 years during the pandemic. In 2021 the Board elected Russell Shaw who served through the 2023 ride. Michel Chumo has just picked up the reins and will serve a two-year term as President to continue the stable and effective leadership for the organization. Along with the capable and engaged Board members, guidance from the Honorary Board members and participation of the membership, the organization has pulled together with renewed resolve to persevere, grow and be accountable. The Spirit of the Ride and the deep commitment and friendship felt among its members will assure that we will grow, prosper and improve.

Our mission is:

FELLOWSHIP, SPORTSMANSHIP, HORSEMANSHIP and STEWARDSHIP

We will continue to uphold these principles and to preserve the Ride and its traditions for future generations. The Board of Directors appreciates your participation to keep this piece of Americana moving forward.