Near Tatum in Lea County, New Mexico — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Lea County Cowgirls
Dessie Sawyer (1897-1990)
— Fern Sawyer (1917-1993) —
Photographed By Bill Kirchner, April 28, 2014
1. Lea County Cowgirls Marker
Front of Marker
Front of Marker
Dessie Sawyer was a rancher, philanthropist and political activist. Her work with community and charitable organizations advanced her into politics. She became the National Committee Woman of New Mexico's Democratic Party. Her advocacy of the western way of life was recognized by her induction into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 1981.
Back of Marker
Dessie's daughter, Fern Sawyer, became a celebrity cowgirl. She was the first woman to win the National Cutting Horse world title. She also became the first woman appointed to the State Fair Commission and the State Racing Commission. She was inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 1976.
Erected by New Mexico Historic Preservation Division.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Animals • Sports • Women. In addition, it is included in the New Mexico Women’s Historic Marker Initiative series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1981.
Location. 33° 15.422′ N, 103° 14.835′ W. Marker is near Tatum, New Mexico, in Lea County. Marker is on U.S. 380 at milepost 231, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 1 other marker is within 5 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Dallas Cash Grocery (approx. 4.1 miles away).
Photographed By Bill Kirchner, April 28, 2014
2. Lea County Cowgirls Marker
Back of Marker
Photographed By Bill Kirchner, April 28, 2014
3. Lea County Cowgirls Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on November 25, 2019. It was originally submitted on May 6, 2014, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. This page has been viewed 753 times since then and 35 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 6, 2014, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
