Home » News » Iola-Scandi News » Rawhide founder to visit Iola

Rawhide founder to visit Iola

Gillespie to discuss his book, ‘351 Sons’

John Gillespie will share his lifelong journey with Rawhide’s “351 Sons” at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 24, at the Iola Historical Society’s Machine Shed, at 222 Depot St.

The program is free and open to the public.

In 1965, John and Jan Gillespie had an idea to help at-risk youth and their families by introducing moral values, academics and work experiences in their lives.

In need of a major endorsement, John and Jan contacted Bart Starr, quarterback of the Green Bay Packers.

Bart and his wife Cherry showed interest in the idea of a ranch that helped troubled teens.

They decided to support John and Jan, allowing them to purchase a 714-acre parcel of property along the Wolf River in New London and Rawhide was born.

The Gillespies wrote a book, released earlier this year, called Our 351 Sons. The book captures the essence of Rawhide and unfolds its half-century history. Jan passed away in 2017.

The Gillespies also have strong ties to Iola, due to their lifelong friendship with Chet Krause, founder of Krause Publications. Krause, who passed away in 2016, donated often to Rawhide over the years.

Rawhide has also had a presence at the Iola Car Show, raffling off a free car for many years. As a major part of its fundraising efforts, Rawhide’s car donation program attracts more than 10,000 vehicle donations annually.

Gillespie will talk about his book, Rawhide, and his life when he visits the Iola Historical Society.

He will have copies of Our 351 Sons for sale, which he will personally autograph. If attendees have already acquired copies of the book, they can bring them along for autographing.

For more information on Rawhide, go to www.rawhide.org. For more information on the Iola Historical Society, go to www.iolahistoricalsociety.org.

Scroll to Top