Tom Oar, a legendary mountain man, lives a gripping tale of grit and reinvention. Furthermore, from dominating rodeo circuits in the 1960s to thriving self-sufficiently in Montana’s Yaak River Valley, he inspires millions. Additionally, his story shines on the History Channel’s Mountain Men. Learn more about Mountain Men on History.com.
The Rodeo Days: A Cowboy’s Rise to Fame
Born in March 1943 in Rockford, Illinois, Tom Oar loved adventure. Moreover, his father, Chike Oar, performed in Wild West shows. Consequently, his mother, Mary Jane Hardy Oar Crellin, nurtured his outdoor spirit. By his teens, he hitchhiked to rodeos with a bull rope. Meanwhile, joining the International Rodeo Association (IRA), he excelled in saddle bronc and bull riding. Furthermore, he ranked among the top 10 competitors. Read more about his early life.
Tom’s rodeo career lasted nearly three decades. Additionally, his thrilling performances drew crowds across the Midwest. However, his athleticism and tenacity stood out. Meanwhile, the sport’s physical demands led to a key moment. For more on rodeo history, visit Britannica’s guide to rodeo.
Fast Fact: Tom Oar competed in the IRA for nearly 30 years. He earned multiple top-10 finishes in saddle bronc and bull riding.
A Near-Fatal Accident Changes Everything
In February 1970, at age 35, Tom faced a harrowing incident. Furthermore, he was thrown from a bull named Woolly Bugger during an event. Consequently, entangled in ropes, he was dragged for two minutes. Additionally, he suffered a severe concussion and injuries. Meanwhile, his wife, Nancy, watched helplessly from the stands. Moreover, he was unconscious for three hours. “That was the day I knew rodeo was over,” he told American Cowboy. See the full interview.
He attempted a comeback but injuries took their toll. However, by 1981, he retired from rodeo. Furthermore, he and Nancy sought a fresh start in Montana. Meanwhile, they had loved the area during past visits. Consequently, in the Yaak River Valley, they built a new life. Explore their Montana move.
Embracing the Mountain Man Lifestyle
In the remote Yaak River Valley, Tom and Nancy built a log cabin by hand. Additionally, they used a chainsaw and ingenuity. Moreover, they lived without electricity or running water. Consequently, their lifestyle relied on self-reliance. Furthermore, Tom mastered brain tanning, processing hides with natural materials. Meanwhile, he crafted buckskin moccasins, jackets, and knives. Additionally, they sold goods at rendezvous events and online at Tom Oar Handcrafts. Shop Tom’s handcrafted goods.
“We’re living 150 or 200 years too late, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Tom Oar told American Cowboy.
Harsh winters and wolves tested their endurance. Furthermore, Nancy worried about wolves threatening trap lines. However, the physical demands were tough. Nevertheless, they stayed committed to a simpler life. More on their lifestyle.
Tom Oar’s Stardom on Mountain Men
In 2012, Tom joined the History Channel’s Mountain Men. Additionally, the show is in its 13th season as of 2025. Moreover, he became a fan favorite for his authenticity. Meanwhile, viewers loved his survival skills and partnership with Nancy. Furthermore, the show showcased their daily lives. Consequently, from setting trap lines to crafting leather, it was real. Watch Tom on Mountain Men.
Tom’s philosophy honored the past. Additionally, “I’ve always been fascinated by old mountain men like Jim Bridger,” he said in 2023. Moreover, his skills preserved traditions. Meanwhile, the show boosted demand for his crafts. Furthermore, fans sought his buckskin items. Discover more facts about Tom.
Rumors, Retirement, and a Lasting Legacy
Rumors of moving to Florida surfaced recently. Furthermore, health concerns and lifestyle rigors fueled the talk. Meanwhile, in 2022, Tom said, “We can’t do this forever, but it’s hard to leave.” However, as of July 2025, they remain in Montana. Additionally, they star in the latest Mountain Men season. Moreover, false 2023 death reports were debunked. Consequently, he is alive at 82. Debunking the rumors.
Tom’s journey from rodeo star to mountain man inspires many. Furthermore, his legacy lies in craftsmanship and land connection. Meanwhile, through Mountain Men and his goods, he keeps the frontier spirit alive. Consequently, the past thrives in the present.
