What is a jerkline skinner?

A jerkline skinner is a person who operates a team of horses or mules by using a long rein called a jerkline. This term is commonly used in the context of cowboy or ranching culture, where a jerkline skinner would typically be responsible for driving a team of draft animals to pull heavy loads, such as wagons or logging equipment.

In addition to controlling the direction and speed of the team, a jerkline skinner must also have a good understanding of the behavior and capabilities of the animals. They need to know how to handle and communicate with the animals effectively to ensure that they work together smoothly and safely.

Working as a jerkline skinner requires physical strength, skill, and patience, as well as a deep knowledge of animal behavior and horsemanship techniques. It is a demanding and often dangerous job that requires a high level of concentration and focus. Jerkline skinners are highly respected in cowboy and ranching communities for their expertise and abilities in handling and driving teams of draft animals.