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Poet,
Quilter, & Entertainer
Yvonne Hollenbeck performs
her original poetry throughout the United States, captivating
audiences in her wake. She is one of the most published
cowgirl poets in the West and is not only a popular banquet and
civic entertainer, but also co-writes songs with many western
entertainers. Yvonne also pens a weekly column in the
“Farmer-Rancher Exchange” and writes articles about life in
rural America in various publications throughout the West.
Historian
A three-generations-old family ranch is home to Yvonne and her husband,
Glen. Together they raise angus beef cattle and quarter horses. More
specifically, they live 30 miles from Winner, South Dakota, and 50 miles
from Valentine, Nebraska, the closest towns with a post office, fire
department and grocery store.
South
Dakota Ranch Wife
Yvonne's poetry reflects everyday experiences that arise while sharing the
range with Glen and their neighbors. However, a fleeting moment or simple
event may also stir her pen to action. Mostly humorous in nature, her
poems take a turn toward the serious side, especially the stories of her
mother's and grandmothers' lives. From homesteading to the present, Yvonne
often writes about women on the ranches of the Great Plains.
"Patchwork
of the Prairie"
In addition to her
presentations of cowboy poetry, Yvonne's program entitled
"Patchwork of the Prairie" is one of the finest
presentations in the heartland. Yvonne shows her collection of
family quilts, spanning 140 years, including her own prize-winning
creations. Poetry about quilts and quilters is presented throughout
this awesome trunk show, which is enjoyed by men and women alike.
Throughout the presentation, you will see power-point photos of the
quilt makers as well as their homes (some of sod).
Hollenbeck’s “Patchwork
of the Prairie” is also included on the roster of Humanities programs for the States of Nebraska
and South Dakota.
"Prairie
Patchwork *New"
A
collaboration between noted cowgirl singer, Jean Prescott, and Yvonne
Hollenbeck’s “Patchwork of the Prairie Program”, where Jean weaves
songs about prairie life into the generations of quilts being presented,
resulting in an outstanding presentation for audiences of all ages.
“Tying One On With Jean and Yvonne” can be included or used as a
separate program where, entering the feed sack era, audience participation
is included in a style show of feed sack aprons as well as a sing-along
that highlights the program...a great way to share some history of the
depression years experienced by our elders. |