Rex Trailer, a renowned figure, emerged into the world in Fort Worth, Texas, a city steeped in rich history and culture. His formative years were marked by a series of idyllic summers spent at his grandfather's quarter horse ranch, nestled in the picturesque town of Thurber, Texas. It was during these halcyon days that Rex Trailer's affinity for horses began to take shape, and he was fortunate enough to learn a multitude of skills from the seasoned rodeo riders who frequented the ranch. Among these skills were the art of trick roping, the precise handling of a bullwhip, and the soulful strumming of the guitar. Additionally, Rex Trailer's versatility was showcased through his ability to serve as a square dance caller, and his rich vocals were a staple of the group "The Rambling Rustlers."
The life trajectory of Trailer took a sudden and profound departure from its original course when he crossed paths with the illustrious movie star, Gabby Hayes, whose unwavering enthusiasm and encouragement played a pivotal role in steering him towards a career in the realm of children's television.
In the year 1947, a pivotal moment in the life of Rex Trailer unfolded as he took on the esteemed role of host for his very own children's television program, "Oky Dokey Ranch". This groundbreaking show featured Rex Trailer himself embodying the persona of a rugged cowboy, alongside a lovable and endearing cowboy puppet named Oky Dokey. The show's immense popularity served as a springboard for Rex Trailer's subsequent hosting endeavors, culminating in the creation of another beloved children's program, "Ridin' the Trail With Rex Trailer", which aired from 1950 to 1956, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of young viewers across the nation.
As the television station underwent a significant change in ownership, being acquired by the prominent network NBC, Trailer was presented with a career-defining opportunity to join Westinghouse, a renowned broadcasting corporation, in either Cleveland or Boston. After careful consideration, Trailer opted for the Boston location, where he embarked on a new creative endeavor, conceptualizing and bringing to life a show that would captivate audiences for nearly two decades, from 1956 to 1974.
This groundbreaking program, aptly titled "Boomtown," revolved around the charismatic cowboy persona of Trailer, accompanied by a diverse cast of colorful sidekicks, including the memorable Pablo, the rugged Cactus Pete, and the stalwart Sergeant Billy.
Trailer, a charismatic and well-loved character from the popular TV show "Boomtown", left a lasting impact on the Boston community during his time on the series. His extensive appearances and numerous interactions with the public earned him a special place in the hearts of many Bostonians.
One of his most notable endeavors was a collaborative effort with a local travel agency, which allowed him to share his enthusiasm for adventure with children from the area. Together, they embarked on exciting journeys to California's renowned theme parks, creating lifelong memories for the young travelers.
Beyond his on-screen persona, Trailer was also a dedicated advocate for children with disabilities. His tireless efforts to raise awareness and promote inclusion helped to create a more compassionate and understanding environment for these exceptional individuals.
Following the conclusion of the television series "Boomtown", Dennis Trailer embarked on a new professional endeavour, hosting a syndicated science program titled "Earth Lab" until 1979.
Trailer, a prominent individual, entered into a lifelong union with Karoline "Cindy" Trailer in 1956, a partnership that endured until Cindy's untimely demise in 2010.
Throughout his life, Trailer remained committed to his role as a public figure, consistently attending various events across Massachusetts, even after Cindy's passing.
As the years went by, Trailer continued to thrive, maintaining his reputation as a respected and beloved individual in the community.
However, all good things must come to an end, and Trailer's remarkable life was eventually brought to a close by his own passing, at the ripe age of 84, on January 9, 2013, in Florida, a location where he had presumably retired to spend his golden years in peace and tranquility.
