Wyoming: The Governor Goes Broke

The Governor Goes Broke

A prominent name has joined the ever growing list of beleaguered American farmers and ranchers: Governor Ed Herschler of Wyoming filed for bankruptcy this month, becoming the first sitting Governor in his state to do so. His trouble stems from the 18,500-acre Yellowstone Ranch near Lander, Wyo., which Herschler and three partners bought in 1977 for an estimated $4.5 million to $5 million. After the partners were unable to collect a $1.5 million payment for 3,000 head of cattle they sold in 1981, they were forced to borrow at high interest rates to make debt payments. Meanwhile, beef prices and land...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!