THOMAS (WHIT) AND ELSIE KINGHORN CAROLAN

From 'Fanning the Embers', published 1971, Range Rider Reps, Miles City, Montana

Thomas Whiteman Carolan was born Sept. 12,1890, in Rosebud county, Mont., to J. T. (Red) and Cecilia Jane Carolan. He was educated in Forsyth schools, graduating from Gonzaga University, Spokane, Wash., with an AB degree in 1910. His legal education continued at St. Louis, Mo., University where he attained his LLB in 1915. After graduating he opened a law office in Forsyth he was deputy County Attorney and was elected to that office County Attorney He was a member of the Montana and the American Bar Associations. He was in the Army in World War I. Whit Carolan, being a son of a pioneer family, was brought up with the best of cowboy traditions in the colorful old west as was known by the area's earlier settlers. He was capable and accepted responsibility. At 14 he took a shipment of his father's cattle to market in Chicago. In the early Rosebud county fairs he was almost sure to win the pony relay express race. When he was ten he worked for the old Outfit.

Whit was musically inclined and always willing to assist as a song leader at gatherings. His ready wit made him an artist as a master of ceremonies at city, county and state affairs.

T. W. (Whit) Carolan gave the principal address at the first Annual Reunion of the Range Riders. He reviewed the events of the days when cattle roamed over a free and unfenced range. He spoke for the perpetuation of the idea of an organization for the vanishing race of cowboys who he hoped will live to see many more reunions.

He was recognized as a top announcer of rodeo events and his services were always in demand. He was a member of the Forsyth Fire Dept., Lions Club, a life-long member of the Church of Immaculate Conception, Elks Lodge of Miles City, Knights of Columbus of Miles City and Range Riders.

In June, 1920, Whit and Elsie Kinghorn were married at Forsyth where they made their home. They lived part-time in Forsyth and part-time on the OZ Ranch on Armels Creek, six miles from Forsyth.

Whit passed away August, 1948. Elsie maintains the home in Forsyth.