Remembering Buck

Buck loved to hear singing, especially foolish songs that told stories of his bold adventures.  When he felt he could let down his guard, he purred like some gigantic cat.  The promise of grain up at the pasture gate made him gallop.  Warm sun on a clear fall day brought his best daydreams.

 

He loved his brother Ike, his pasture, and along cold drink.  As nigh ox, Buck took his job seriously.  He had to keep up with long-legged Ike, and keep him out of mischief.  He was the boss of the hay. He thought donuts were sublime.

 

Buck was wary when two-leggers first approached him about serving his town, but soon realized he was born for the work.  He loaded into the trailer willingly, and quickly adapted to each new situation.  He stood very still to receive tentative pats from the smallest ones, and quieted his head when the big ones with babes in arms came to scratch behind his ears or hold his warm horns.  When the youngest cast members of The Old Homestead took over his grooming, he was in paradise.

 

Behind the scenes, Buck helped record 50 episodes of adventures for friends to view on YouTube.  He inspired children to draw, write letters and perform community service.  He taught middle-aged women the proper way to drive a team, and gave young folks a chance to practice as well.  Sometimes he was uncomfortable – he was famously plump – but he never complained.

 

Our town’s biggest rural characters, Buck and Ike served Swanzey as ambassadors of open space protection.  With humor and charm, Mike Johnson’s enormous oxen helped celebrate Old Home Day and The Old Homestead.  With their many public appearances, Buck and Ike reminded us of what we cherish in Swanzey – our community, traditions, and beautiful open land.

 

Buck developed squamous cell carcinoma in his eyes, a common problem for white-faced breeds.  Surgery failed to hold back the tumors, and the cancer spread.

 

Ike will be well cared for.  Buck will rest, in peace.