Book excerpt: "This book delves into the complex, compelling and seldom explored history of southern Albertan ranch women. Spanning the years 1880-1930, this book sheds light on the significant roles ranch women played in the evolution of the Alberta agricultural industry. The book encapsulates an era of change on the Prairies, from the time of large cattle operations covering thousands of acres to family-owned ranches that subsisted on much less, but with arguably greater success. The role women played in ensuring the economic viability and social harmony of their families, ranches and communities should not be underestimated. Having to shoulder a variety of tasks and roles, ranch women of this era, while perhaps having more freedom and independence than their urban or European counterparts, faced a myriad of challenges. For some, these previously unimaginable challenges proved too much, but for others, it was simply part of the adventure. This book pays homage to the brave and talented women who rode out in the hills, carving out a role for themselves, during the dawn of the family ranching era."-- Provided by publisher.