HURON — The Heartland Saddle Award was established in 1976 by the Beadle County 4-H Council to recognize people dedicated to the betterment of South Dakota, especially to the state’s youth.

Artist M.C. Lee of De Smet handcrafted the full-size, intricate leather saddle that has traveled from home to home for nearly 50 years.

This year’s recipients joined a long line of dedicated volunteers, 15 of whom were on hand to present the handcrafted saddle before the SD Beef Boosters Awards Ceremony in the DEX at the South Dakota State Fair.

Like many of the best volunteers, this couple gave—and continues to give—their time helping because someone did the same for them.
“We were truly blessed to honor Neil and Brenda Duxbury with this prestigious award,” said Judy Stevens on behalf of the Beadle County 4-H Council. “

They gave their time and talent to South Dakota’s youth. Their names and actions fit well among the many honored with this recognition over the years.”

Neil and Brenda Duxbury were each active 4-H members from longstanding and well-recognized families in South Dakota agriculture.

The South Dakota State Fair and 4-H run through their veins. They were married in 1975 and have spent each of their 49 years together helping others.

Together, they have three children: Amy (Jay) Blum, Kelly (Matt) Wagner, and Clay (Laura) Duxbury.

The couple from Wessington notably served as 4-H leaders in Hand County for 28 years.

Neil and Brenda contributed everywhere from club activities and judging schools to showrings and rodeo arenas. They were known for their quiet help and freely offered it to any young person in need.

They can still be counted on today. You will find them in bleachers, barns, and online supporting South Dakota’s next generation of ag kids, including their nine grandchildren and a host of others who know them as Mimi and Papa.

Outside of 4-H and youth events like the Western Junior Livestock Show, Neil devoted years to serving as a board member for Dakota Energy and the South Dakota Simmental Association.

Brenda remains an active member of the Presbyterian Church in Wessington; she gives countless hours to the aging beauties in Miller and Wessington who enjoy her company, nail painting, and fixing hair.

The couple resides at their ranch headquarters and remains active in the daily operation of their family business, Jackpot Cattle Company.