“Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch: The Secrets That A Rock Can Tell” by Kris McGuire is now available for purchase

“Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch: The Secrets That A Rock Can Tell” by Kris McGuire is a captivating memoir that intertwines the journey of ranch restoration with the rich tapestry of Wyoming’s history. When the author and her husband purchased a picturesque ranch south of Laramie, Wyoming, they had no idea they would soon become experts in barn restoration. Proudly published by Citi of Books, this book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.

Kris McGuire is a product of growing up on a military base. She attended ten different schools before graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in Forestry, specializing in Wildlife Disease. After graduation, she teamed up with two partners to run an environmental consulting firm. When the family bought a small ranch south of Laramie, Wyoming, Kris turned her skills to raising cashmere goats and managing the cattle herd. With the experience of dealing with the provincial attitude rampant amongst the Cowboy culture, she learned a lot about the local rules pertaining to grazing rights, water rights, and bragging rights. Kris is retired and lives in the mountains near Laramie. 

“Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch: The Secrets That A Rock Can Tell” was not just the physical restoration of the ranch that captured her attention; it was the delicate sandstone arch on the property, inscribed with the names of early visitors, that sparked a deep dive into the history of the region. This memoir chronicles her quest to uncover the stories behind those names, revealing the fascinating lives of the individuals who left their mark on the rock over the span of 80 years.

As Kris McGuire embarked on the rehabilitation of the Old Oxford Ranch headquarters, she skillfully blends practical knowledge of architectural restoration, ranching methods, and livestock husbandry with the historical context surrounding the sandstone arch. Her narrative unfolds like a detective story, as she meticulously researches the signatories—trappers, pioneers, ranchers, and railroad workers—who once roamed the area. Through her extensive reading of history texts, she discovered that many accounts of Wyoming’s past lacked the engaging detail and intrigue she sought. By profiling these eighteen rock signatories and their connections, she aims to create a historical text that not only informs but also captivates readers with gripping, albeit obscure, facts about early Wyoming culture.

One of the most remarkable aspects of “Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch” is the realization that these eighteen individuals, each with their own unique stories, all visited the same small rock. Their inscriptions serve as a testament to the diverse lives that have shaped Wyoming’s history. The author’s approach to storytelling is both tasteful and witty, allowing her to present factual information while maintaining an engaging narrative style. She navigates through environmental and political issues with a balanced perspective, ensuring that the memoir remains ideologically neutral while still addressing relevant topics.

The memoir is not just a personal account of ranch life; it is a celebration of the rich history that surrounds the author’s home. By sharing her journey of discovery, she invites readers to explore the lives of those who came before and to appreciate the significance of their contributions to Wyoming’s heritage. The stories of these early visitors are not only fascinating but also serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of people and place throughout history.

Ultimately, “Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch: The Secrets That A Rock Can Tell” by Kris McGuire is a must-read for anyone with an inquisitive mind and a passion for history. It offers a unique blend of personal narrative and historical exploration, making it a compelling addition to the literary landscape of Wyoming. As readers delve into the memoir, they will find themselves not only learning about the past but also reflecting on the enduring impact of those who have come before them. This book is a heartfelt tribute to the ranch, the rock, and the remarkable stories that continue to shape the identity of Wyoming.