Eugene Manlove Rhodes, a literary luminary, was born on January 19, 1869, in the picturesque town of Tecumseh, situated in the heart of Nebraska, a region renowned for its rolling hills and vast prairies. As the offspring of Hinman and Julia Manlove Rhodes, a devoted couple who would significantly influence his life's trajectory, he was destined for greatness. His father, a man of unwavering integrity and distinction, had initially pursued a career as a skilled tailor, but his true calling lay in the realm of military service, where he fought with valor and distinction as a colonel in the American Civil War. This noble endeavor not only showcased his bravery but also his unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom and unity. Later, he would continue to serve his community in various capacities, including as a Nebraska state legislator and superintendent of the Mescalero Indian Reservation in New Mexico, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those around him.
New Mexico Rancher, Rhodes, Embarks on a Life-Long Journey in Equestrianism
As a young and ambitious individual, Rhodes began his equestrian odyssey by acquiring his very first saddle, a tangible representation of his burgeoning passion for horsemanship. This significant milestone was made possible through the meticulous efforts of his family, who carefully collected and saved soap coupons, ultimately funding his initial foray into the world of horse riding.
This humble beginning marked the start of a remarkable journey that would see Rhodes hone his skills as an expert horseman on the vast ranches of New Mexico. His travels took him to the storied Bar Cross on the Jornada del Muerto, where his reputation as a master of the range would grow exponentially. Over time, Rhodes' expertise and knowledge of horsemanship would become renowned, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the world of equestrianism.
Rhodes' journey, which began with a simple saddle, would eventually lead him to become a master of the range, a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport.
As he entered his late teenage years, Rhodes had already demonstrated a truly remarkable proficiency in the art of stone masonry, his dexterous hands moving with a gentle, rhythmic precision as he coaxed intricate shapes and forms from the rugged, unyielding rock. His exceptional skills in this domain were rivaled only by his remarkable ability to construct sturdy, well-engineered roads, a talent that he would go on to utilize to great effect in the construction of the road between Engle and Tularosa, New Mexico, a testament to his impressive versatility, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his craft. By the time he had reached the tender age of 16, Rhodes had already established himself as a highly skilled and capable individual, his reputation as a master craftsman and expert horseman spreading far and wide across the vast, expansive landscape of New Mexico, earning him widespread recognition and respect.
Following the completion of his initial two-year tenure at the University of the Pacific, located in the vibrant city of San Jose, Rhodes embarked on a profound journey of self-exploration, where he immersed himself in the unforgiving yet captivating world of prospecting and hauling freight, a path that would ultimately lead him to make the bold decision to strike out on his own, and in doing so, establish a vast and sprawling 6,000-acre ranch in the breathtakingly beautiful Sierra County, nestled deep within the majestic landscape of New Mexico.
Cecil Rhodes, a renowned figure, embarked upon a significant life milestone in the year 1899 by entering into a marital partnership with May Davison, a widow of considerable charm and beauty, hailing from the picturesque town of Appalachian, which is situated in the state of New York, a region renowned for its natural splendor. This union, marked by a notable turning point in the couple's life, was precipitated by the ailing health of May's father, which necessitated a relocation to the bustling metropolis of New York, a city that would undoubtedly present the couple with a plethora of new opportunities and experiences.
Biography of Cecil Rhodes:
Cecil Rhodes was a British businessman, politician, and philanthropist, born on July 5, 1853, in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, England. He is best known for founding the De Beers mining company and playing a significant role in the formation of the state of Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe. Rhodes was also a prominent figure in the British South Africa Company, which he founded in 1889. Throughout his life, Rhodes was driven by a vision of a British Empire that spanned the globe, and he was willing to take bold action to achieve this goal.
Despite his many accomplishments, Rhodes was also known for his ruthless tactics, including his role in the Jameson Raid, a failed attempt to overthrow the government of the Orange Free State in 1896. Rhodes was also a vocal advocate for the idea of "expansion and never contraction," believing that the British Empire should continue to grow and expand its territories.
Rhodes died on March 26, 1902, at the age of 48, due to complications from pneumonia. He was buried in the Matopos Hills in Rhodesia, which he had always considered his true home. Despite his controversial legacy, Rhodes remains a significant figure in the history of the British Empire, and his legacy continues to be felt to this day.
Noted author Rhodes has penned an extensive array of novels and short stories that have captivated the hearts of numerous readers, leaving a lasting impression on the literary world.
His impressive repertoire of works includes the esteemed "Good Men and True", a critically acclaimed novel that has garnered widespread recognition.
He has also authored "Bransford in Arcadia", a thought-provoking tale that delves into the complexities of human nature.
In addition, Rhodes has written "Desire of the Moth", a captivating narrative that explores the intricacies of the human psyche.
Furthermore, his literary contributions include the esteemed "West is West", a poignant exploration of the human condition.
Rhodes has also penned "The Come on", a gripping tale that masterfully weaves together themes of love, loss, and redemption.
His oeuvre also boasts "Say Now Shiboleth", a mesmerizing narrative that delves into the mysteries of the human experience.
In addition, he has authored "Stepson of Light", a captivating exploration of the complexities of family dynamics.
Rhodes has also written "Copper Streak Trail", a thrilling tale that masterfully blends elements of adventure and suspense.
Moreover, his literary contributions include the esteemed "Once in the Saddle", a poignant exploration of the human condition.
He has also penned "Paso Por Aqui", a captivating narrative that delves into the intricacies of human relationships.
In addition, Rhodes has authored "Beyond the Desert", a thought-provoking tale that explores the mysteries of the human experience.
Despite the widespread popularity of his stories, Rhodes unfortunately failed to achieve the financial success that his talent and dedication deserved.
Rhodes and his cherished partner in life, his wife, collectively made the conscious and deliberate decision to relocate to the picturesque state of New Mexico in the year 1926, initiating their new life journey in the culturally and artistically vibrant city of Santa Fe, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and plethora of artistic attractions.
Following a brief yet memorable stint in the quaint and charming small town of Alamogordo, they eventually discovered their forever home at White Mountain, a serene and idyllic location nestled near the tranquil and breathtakingly beautiful Three Rivers, where they could live out their days in peace and harmony.
The move to New Mexico marked a significant turning point in their lives, as they traded in the hustle and bustle of city life for a more relaxed and peaceful existence, surrounded by the natural beauty and majesty of the New Mexican landscape.
Eugene Manlove Rhodes, a celebrated individual of great renown, succumbed to the inevitable on June 27, 1934, within the walls of his modest yet meaningful residence in Pacific Beach, a place that had borne witness to numerous pivotal moments throughout the trajectory of his life.
As news of his passing spread, it was met with profound sadness and grief by those who held him dear, including his devoted and loving wife, a son who had been fortunate enough to have had him as a father figure, and a step-son who had been blessed to have had him as a positive influence in his life.
