MICKEY THOMAN
Cowgirl, mentor and ranching matriarch of the Thoman Ranch in Sweetwater County, Wyoming
Mickey Thoman is a cowgirl, mentor and genuine leader. At 89 years old, she operates the W&M Thoman ranch with her three daughters. Together, the Thoman women run a sheep and cattle operation, as well as raise thoroughbred-quarter horses in Sweetwater County, Wyoming.
“You’re kind of in control of your life to a point, but what’s gotta be done, you do it.”
Mickey Thoman working her animals on the Thoman homestead in Sweetwater County, Wyoming.
Listen to Mickey’s story.
A cowgirl, mentor, and leader, Mickey Thoman epitomizes the grit that defines the spirit of the American West. A living legend and ranch matriarch, Mickey and her three daughters operate the W&M Thoman Ranch in Sweetwater County, Wyoming. The Thoman women raise fine-wool Rambouillet sheep, a uniform herd of Hereford cattle, and spirited Thoroughbred-Quarter horses. Throughout personal and business hardships, Mickey and her family have remained relevant in the ever changing and ever challenging world of agriculture with a spirit of tenacity and togetherness. Over the years, Mickey has lost her husband and ranching partner, Bill Thoman, as well as two of her seven children.
When asked if she would give up her operation after her husband passed, she said, “Why would I sell it? This has been my whole life. I’m still here, and I’m still enjoying it. I think that’s what he would have wanted.” Mickey is one of the thirty-three founding members of the Green River Valley Cowbelles. She has also been a member of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association Board of Directors and Guardians of the Grasslands. She’s been an integral part of 4-H and a continuous 4-H key leader for half a century, with years of service and numerous dedicated leader awards.
Mickey was inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2018.
Cowgirl, mentor and matriarch of the Thoman ranch in Sweetwater county, Mickey Thoman epitomizes true western grit and spirit.
At 89 years old, Mickey Thoman finds her greatest joy when she’s working alongside her family, with her animals and on the land she’s called home her entire life.
“My favorite time of year on the land is probably spring, when everything starts to turn green. And, the rest of the year is my favorite time, too.”
Scenes from sheep camp at the base of the Wind River mountains with the Thoman family.
“I don’t think about being a boss. I just think about working together with my family. I just enjoy that they’re still here.”
Three generations of Thoman women. L>R: Mickey Thoman with her daughter Kristy Wardell, granddaughter Taylor, and daughters Mary and Laurie Thoman.
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