Mary Ellen “Dude” Barton’s life was characterized by her work on the family ranch and her rodeo successes. Often competing against men in rodeo events, Dude proved that she could compete on equal terms with anybody and win. She served as the first vice president of the Girls. Rodeo Association and promoted standardized rules and prize money. Dude purchased her old home farm from her parents and settled down to work the land of her grandparents.
