In 1951, the Cascade County Sheriff’s Posse was established by Dee J. Leeper to assist the Sheriff’s Department with search and rescue operations as well as law enforcement tasks. Throughout its history, the Cascade County Sheriff’s Posse has played a significant role in the recovery of drowning victims and the search for individuals lost within the mountainous regions of Cascade County.
As law enforcement, the Posse provided mounted perimeter security during the annual Montana State Fair. Additionally, they assisted the Sheriff’s Office by providing extra manpower for deputy patrols and enhancing security at crime scenes.
The Posse actively engaged in civic activities, including participation in parades and the Montana Jubilee, during which they delivered an invitation from Great Falls to Governor Aronson in Helena, emulating the Pony Express by riding portions of the route.
The organization belonged to the Montana Sheriff’s Posse Association and participated in various associated events, such as cowboy polo and O’Moksee competitions. However, modifications to liability and insurance regulations necessitated the disassociation of the Posse from the Sheriff’s Office. Following the dissolution of the Cascade County Sheriff’s Posse, the remaining members opted to continue their mission by forming the Missouri River Horsemen.
The Missouri River Horsemen have embraced community engagement by welcoming the Cascade County 4-H program to utilize their facilities for dog training classes and other activities requiring substantial space. They have also provided venues for the Rabbit Breeders Association and the Pigeon Breeders Club to conduct their shows, in addition to offering their arena facilities for various equine activities in the region.
Currently, the organization remains affiliated with the State Sheriff’s Posse Association, which has evolved into the Montana Polo Association. They collaborate with the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office as a ceremonial unit, participating in events such as parades and funeral services, while also working toward the capability to assist with mounted search and rescue operations.
The Missouri River Horsemen are currently located at 2900 6th Street NW Great Falls and consist of 15 members. They actively seek new individuals to join and partake in the various activities offered, including trail rides, poker rides, cowboy polo, and O’Moksee events.
If you would like more information on The Missouri River Horsemen, please contact Maureen Nilsen at (406) 866-2774 and let her know you found them in The Great Falls, Gazette.
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
