Sally Harper Bates

Born in Prescott, Arizona, Sally rarely lived outside of Yavapai County. She grew up in the company of working cowboys and their families, cherishing the lifestyle, culture, heritage and experiences. Her family tree is rooted on both sides deep into the sod of Arizona and New Mexico. Seven generations on maternal and paternal side of the “tree” have lived, worked, and grown up in the granite and manzanita of Yavapai County.

After nearly six decades of being in the midst of “cowboy country” it makes perfect sense that what she writes would be full to overflowing with “cowboy”. She is a singer, songwriter, novelist and best known as a poet.

For several years she was an invited poet/singer to cowboy poetry gatherings in Nevada, Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, Utah and of course, Arizona. She was nominated female cowboy poet of the year through WMA three times in the early 1990’s.

An integral part of the production of the Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering in Prescott for over 30 years, a 4-H leader, and secretary to the Arizona Cowpuncher’s Association three times. She’s also an active member of a local church where she leads Bible studies and shares her life experiences as a growing Christian.

A grandmother, and great-grandmother, she enjoys semi-retirement in Chino Valley.