Articles and Information
Articles and Information
Code of the West
First chronicled by the famous Western writer Zane Grey in his 1934 novel The Code of the West, no “written” code existed. However, the hardy pioneers who lived in the West were bound by these unwritten rules centered on hospitality, fair play, loyalty, and respect for the land.
Though the Code of the West was always unwritten, here is a “loose” list of some of the guidelines:
Don’t inquire into a person’s past. Take the measure of a man for what he is today.
Never steal another man’s horse. A horse thief pays with his life.
Defend yourself whenever necessary.
Look out for your own.
Remove your guns before sitting at the dining table.
Never order anything weaker than whiskey.
Don’t make a threat without expecting dire consequences.
Never pass anyone on the trail without saying “Howdy.”
When approaching someone from behind, give a loud greeting before you get within shooting range.
Don’t wave at a man on a horse, as it might spook the horse. A nod is the proper greeting.
Don’t look back at him after you pass someone on the trail. It implies you don’t trust him.
Riding another man’s horse without permission is nearly as bad as making love to his wife. Never even bother another man’s horse.
Always fill your whiskey glass to the brim.
A cowboy doesn’t talk much; he saves his breath for breathing.
No matter how weary and hungry you are after a long day in the saddle, always tend to your horse’s needs before your own, and get your horse some feed before you eat.
Complain about the cooking, and you become the cook.
Always drink your whiskey with your gun hand to show your friendly intentions.
Do not practice ingratitude.
A cowboy is pleasant even when out of sorts. Complaining is what quitters do, and cowboys hate quitters.
Always be courageous. Cowards aren’t tolerated in any outfit worth its salt.
A cowboy always helps someone in need, even a stranger or an enemy.
Never try on another man’s hat.
Be hospitable to strangers. Anyone who wanders in, including an enemy, is welcome at the dinner table. The same was true for riders who joined cowboys on the range.
Give your enemy a fighting chance.
Never wake another man by shaking or touching him, as he might wake suddenly and shoot you.
Real cowboys are modest. A braggart who is “all gurgle and no guts” is not tolerated.
Be there for a friend when he needs you.
Drinking on duty is grounds for instant dismissal and blacklisting.
A cowboy is loyal to his “brand,” his friends, and those he rides with.
Never shoot an unarmed or unwarned enemy. This was also known as “the rattlesnake code”: always warn before you strike. However, if a man was being stalked, this could be ignored.
Never shoot a woman, no matter what.
Consideration for others is central to the code, such as: Don’t stir up dust around the chuckwagon, don’t wake up the wrong man for herd duty, etc.
Respect the land and the environment by not smoking in hazardous fire areas or disfiguring rocks, trees, or other natural areas.
Honesty is absolute – your word is your bond, and a handshake is more binding than a contract.
Live by the Golden Rule.
Some of these topics are under construction by various members of the community and will be updated when available
Fire safety / Risk mitigation / Who serves the mountain
Wildlife safety / livestock protection
Road right of way / speed
Colorado state law covers our roads also: Uphill traffic has the right of way, if you see someone coming uphill and you are going down hill, pull over and allow them to get past you. Colorado State law. Max. speed limit on all roads in the community is 20 mph and is posted.
Wood Rats, Ticks, Spiders, etc. (you live in a forest now).
"Be Prepared"
Septic maintenance
The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.
Link to article: How to Care for Your Septic System
Private Lands / No Trespassing
All properties in the community are considered private property. It is wise to post signs stating such. All properties adjacent to BHRA are also private and it is considered trespassing if the owner chooses to press charges.
Walking the roads - enjoying our beautiful mountain
Emergency Communication (GMRS/FRS Radios)
How is access to our sub-division protected?
Who determines the width of the roads?
The Grant of easement ( available under documents) specifies that 30ft from the center of the rd. to either side, is the legal easement. It does supersede your property rights and cannot be changed without legal proceedings. Many interior and access roads do not take advantage of the total easement, but it still exists.
How frequently is the road graded?
Road grading is dependant on many factors: budget , temperature, availability of equipments and materials.
What about snow removal?
Snow removal is the responsibility of the MEMBERS of the community. Historically, the BHRA Board, on rare occasions, has hired a 3rd party to open the roads after a major event. B.H.R.A. DOES / DID have a fund set aside for such emergencies.
What are the current Road Association dues?
Presently $500.00 annually. (2024)
Why do we have a locked gate?
The Grant of Easement, as part of the agreement, we must maintain a locked gate for access to the community. The gate HAS been moved from its original location lower on the road to its location today.
What is the status of the ranch land near our sub-division?
It is private property. The owner to the north ( Dixie) has issued a NO TRESSPASS ORDER for all her property. The property on either side of Otter Rd is also PRIVATE PROPERTY and you must get permission from the owner to access his property.
What is a safe speed to travel the roads?
This is a theoretical question. The posted max speed is posted at 20 mph. Depending on many variables,( snow, mud, washboard, etc) it is practical to drive slower. we have had MANY people end up off the road. Saving 5 minutes is not worth endangering your neighbors or yourself.