Vel was gruff, lived in a trailer, and had skin the color of saddle leather. Her hair was salt and pepper and boy short. She probably cut it herself. The sun and living conditions took a toll on her, but she never mentioned any discontent. She was kind and firm. She expected a lot from us kids and taught us to care for those beautiful animals. Hers was the rag-tag crew that showed in local events on second-hand horses, crappy tack, and hand-me-down helmets, but we did not care. And yes, she rescued me along with the horses.

I made the move with her to the ranch on Santa Susanna Pass Road, near the Spawn Ranch where the Manson clan lived years before. There I was able to lease a Morgan pony -Little Joe. When I got too big I started riding her sorrel mare. My best friends on the Ranch were Claire and Carol. Unfortunately I got them and myself in trouble, and my parents never let me go back.

I last time I saw Vel when she at the Stony Point location, probably in the early 80’s. I was picking up a saddle that belonged to my niece. I was happy to see her. Yes, Vel collected troubled teens. I only wish she knew how much she meant to me.

My Friend Flicka with Roddy McDowell

Kentucky with Walter Brennan.