Elmer Kelton

Elmer Kelton, born on April 29, 1926, in Horse Camp, Andrews County, Texas, was a highly acclaimed American author and journalist, best known for his western novels. Kelton was raised on a ranch near Crane, Texas, where he developed a deep appreciation for the western way of life, which would later become the inspiration for many of his works. He pursued higher education at the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in journalism.

Kelton's writing career began in 1956 with the publication of his first novel, Hot Iron. Over the course of his career, he wrote more than forty novels, including The Time It Never Rained, Other Men’s Horses, Texas Standoff and Hard Trail to Follow. His works were set in Texas, the state he called home, and drew from his personal experiences growing up in a rural setting. Kelton's ability to capture the spirit and struggles of the American West earned him numerous accolades, including seven Spurs from the Western Writers of America and four Western Heritage awards from the National Cowboy Hall of Fame.

In addition to his accomplishments as a novelist, Kelton had a successful career as a journalist, working as an agricultural journalist for 42 years. He also served in the U.S. Army during World War II, an experience that likely influenced his writing. Kelton's novel, The Good Old Boys, was adapted into a television film starring Tommy Lee Jones, further solidifying his status as a leading voice in western literature.

Kelton's impact on the western genre is undeniable. He was voted the greatest western writer of all time by the Western Writers of America, a testament to the enduring appeal of his works. Kelton passed away on August 22, 2009, leaving behind a legacy as a master storyteller and champion of the American West. His novels continue to inspire and captivate readers, serving as a lasting tribute to his talent and passion for writing.