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James & Gwenda McDaniel
James and Gwenda McDaniel are the foundation of the McDaniel Ranch and the 7= Brand. The McDaniel Ranch is a cattle ranch built on hard work, love, faith in the Good Lord, and unwavering dedication to the land and family. James, the visionary, began his journey with a dream of continuing the ranching legacy that Gwenda’s father had built. After going to college at New Mexico State and graduating with a degree in Range Science with a dream of taking over the ranch, he returned with a commitment to carry on that tradition. His passion for ranching and deep respect for the land shaped not just the ranch itself, but the values that instilled in it today.
Gwenda, who grew up on the ranch, has always been the heart of it. She and James worked side by side to keep the ranch thriving for years. Gwenda worked in town and drove the local school bus for years as James worked on the ranch to help support the family. When James passed in 2011, Gwenda stepped up to carry on their shared dream with the same strength, love, and work ethic they both lived by. Her commitment to the ranch and its legacy is the backbone of McDaniel Ranch today.
Together, James and Gwenda raised three children, each of whom carries forward their parents’ values and love for the ranch. Now, as their five grandchildren grow up surrounded by the ranch's traditions, the McDaniel legacy continues to live on, passing from generation to generation. Their dedication to family, tradition, and the land has created a lasting legacy that will inspire and guide the future of McDaniel Ranch for years to come.
James, Gwenda, their children, and their five grandchildren have built something much more than a ranch. They’ve created a family legacy rooted in love, faith, resilience, and respect for the land. We are forever grateful for the vision and love that James and Gwenda instilled, which will continue to live on through their children, grandchildren, and beyond.
Ella Gossett
As the granddaughter of James and Gwenda McDaniel, I have grown up with a deep love and respect for the land, our family’s legacy, and the traditions that have shaped McDaniel Ranch for over a century. As a little girl, I was surrounded by artists in my family and spent countless hours drawing and sketching, influenced by the beauty and stories of ranch life. Growing up, I spent my days working cattle and learning the true meaning of hard work alongside my family, which has shaped my deep connection to the land and ranching lifestyle. It was there that my passion for agriculture and creativity first began to take root.
Currently, I’m studying Agricultural Communications with a minor in Journalism at New Mexico State University, where I will graduate. Through my studies, I’m working to bridge the gap between modern agriculture and the wider world, sharing our stories and traditions with a broader audience. I’m also blessed to have built a platform as "The Hippie Cowgirl” on social media, where I connect with others who share a love for the western lifestyle, ranching, art, and my relationship with God.
My connection to my Grandpa James runs deep—he was not just my role model, but my best friend. His wisdom, strength, and unwavering passion for the ranch have shaped who I am today, and his influence continues to guide me as I carry on the McDaniel legacy.
With every step I take—whether in the classroom, through my social media, or on the ranch—I’m honored to continue the work my grandparents started, while also blending in my love for art, storytelling, and the agricultural industry. This journey is about preserving the past while building a future that celebrates both tradition and creativity.
Yours truly,
The Hippie Cowgirl.
