Lifetime Leaders of Rodeo & Ranching Rodeo Ranching Great Westerner Western Entertaiment & Arts Rodeo Producers & Livestock Special Achievement Cowboy Long Rider Legacy Award

Ranching

William "Bill" Hamann
2004 Inductee

 For 50 years, William "Bill" Hamann was a familiar figure in western North Dakota's cattle industry. Born near Richardton on March 26, 1904, Bill began his livestock career in that area in the late 1920s, buying cattle through auctions and over local scales throughout western N. Dak. and eastern Mont. During the 1930s, he established many accounts in the Corn Belt and south. Bill and his family moved to Dickinson around 1940. He and other associates established Western Livestock Co. in Oct. 1948, developing it into the largest auction in N. Dak. Bill traveled extensively throughout the area, gaining many loyal customers over the next 30 years. Many people remember Bill for his trust and honesty in dealing with fellow ranchers and businessmen. When the market was hot, there were many willing livestock buyers, but when the prices took a dive, Bill was always there--sometimes standing alone--to put a floor under the livestock market. Bill also owned farms, ranches and feedlots across several counties. He was a well-known source of cattle for numerous ranchers just starting in the business. He received numerous awards from state and regional livestock organizations. Bill and his wife, Viola, married in 1936 and raised 10 children. Bill never really retired, but a stroke slowed him down the last six months of his life. He died July 27, 1979, at age 75.