Professional Bullwhip Instructor Doc Durden will share his talent in a free presentation at the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park on Saturday, June 27, at 10:00 am.
The term "bullwhip" is unique to the cowboys and buckaroos of the old West. In the latter half of the 20th century, attempts to preserve traditional crafts, along with a resurgence of interest in Western performance arts led to an increased interest in whip cracking as a hobby, performance art and competitive sport. Durden will demonstrate the use of a 6’, 8’ and two 10’ whips in both ability and marksmanship. There will also be an opportunity for audience participation and brief instruction. Durden can claim a 99% success rate in teaching anyone to snap a whip for the first time after 15 minutes of instruction.
In addition to being a Bullwhip Instructor, Durden at times appears as “Wild Bill Hickok” and uses the bullwhip to enhance his character portrayals. He is also a casting director, producer and videographer. His most recent production “The Evil Twin”, is a Western filmed locally in Virginia City. Durden has also appeared on the Discovery Channel and HBO, as well as at the Amador County Fair, the Dean Smith Celebrity Rodeo, Festival of the West, the Grand Nationals, Placerville Homecoming Days and monthly in Virginia City performing in reenactments. He is often the first place winner for “Best Dressed Cowboy” in Western competitions.