Cowboys on the open range are captured in this watercolor by Marty Busch. Long before the Intracoastal Canal bisected Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas, herds of Longhorn cattle would roam the vast prairies and marshlands. This hardy breed proved to be the strongest to endure the hostile swamp environment with its deep bayous, cheniers and uncharted marshes. Cowboys could only count on their horse, an oil riding coat and their weapons to deal with the daily struggles while out on the range.

Herman Martin ''Marty'' Busch, III of Sulphur, Louisiana received his degree in Advertising Illustration from East Texas State University, in Commerce, Texas. Our special thanks to Travis ''Cowboy'' Moss (1911-1994) who participated in his first roundup and cattle drive at the age of seven. He shared his memories of his cowboy days to create this painting.