Treasures from Our West: Billy Howell’s Cowboy Boots

Originally featured in Points West magazine in Fall 2009

Billy Howell’s Justin cowboy boots with crossed sabres design

These black leather Justin cowboy boots sport the “Crossed Sabres” brand of J.W. “Billy” Howell, an early Cody pioneer and dude rancher.

What makes these boots so special is not only their unique design, but also that they were owned by Billy Howell himself. He came to Cody in 1900, worked on the Cody Canal irrigation project for seven years, and then became a guide for Holm Transportation Company for dudes and tourists headed to Yellowstone National Park. In 1914, he bought Holm Lodge from its founder and owner, Tex Holm.

Two years later, Miss Mary Shawver became Howell’s business partner. Together, they operated the lodge, located just outside Yellowstone, for close to 35 years. In 1947, the new owners changed the name of the lodge to Crossed Sabres Ranch in honor of Howell’s brand, but continued to provide the same touring opportunities for their visitors. Billy Howell died in 1952 and Mary Shawver died in 1958; however, their legacy lives on since Crossed Sabres Ranch still operates today.

Billy Howell’s boots, ca. 1935. 14 inches high, 10.875 inches long, and 4 inches at their widest part. Gift of Betty Waldron. 1.69.971

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