Webster Word

Scott and Becky Walker “Go West”

From an article by Brandie Bartelt, Staff Writer for the Lusk, Wyoming, Lusk Herald, January 23, 2008

The old saying “Go west young man” comes to mind when meeting the newest East Coast transplants, Scott and Becky Walker, who had fallen love with the great west when they had first visited ten years prior. The Walkers recently made three large purchases in Lusk [ Wyoming] that include a motel, restaurant and a new home. The Walkers had began to feel a bit crowded in their [Harford County Maryland] community with the constant developments that were inching closer and closer to their farm. They felt it was time for a change not only in demographics, but the satisfaction of raising their children in a small community, where there aren’t the problems larger schools have.

Originally they were looking to purchase a ranch, but were keeping their options open to everything. They packed up last summer and began a road trip touring Wyoming, Colorado, Missouri and Oklahoma, looking for that perfect town. When they first arrived in Niobrara County, it was to look at property. They decided to look around Lusk at businesses for sale and at homes. They then continued their tour of the state, all the time Lusk had been on their minds. Finally after many miles traveled and stays at motels across the state, Becky told her husband that she just couldn’t get Lusk off her mind. It was at that moment they decided Lusk would be their new home.

Upon their arrival, they stopped at Cedardale Properties and in one day purchased the Trail Motel, El Jarro’s restaurant and a home. “What sold me was the fact that this was the least populated state,” Scott said. The Walker family was very impressed with how helpful the locals were and treated them as if they had lived in Lusk all their lives. “Everyone was very helpful and kind,” Becky said.

Scott, who had worked for the United States Postal Service and was a farmer all of his life, looked forward to owning and operating his own business. Becky beamed with excitement as well when they purchased both businesses.

Instead of serving Mexican cuisine the Walkers are planning a family-styled steak house. The Tumbleweed Restaurant, Inc. will be making its debut later this year with a western theme. The Walkers purchased several item from a local auction they will be displaying. They will also have a quilt that was made in 1913, purchased from a local ranch family. The family had originally wanted to give the quilt to the Stagecoach Museum, but the museum didn’t have room. According to the Walkers, the family was pleased to hear that their quilt would be on display at the restaurant. They also purchased four hats from FFA. “We want to support local beef farmers,” Scott said. “We will be using napkins from the Niobrara Cattle Women’s Society, too,” said Becky.

Although the Walker family left behind many friends and family, they are looking towards a brighter future and having strong ties within the community. They have big plans for both the restaurant and motel and hope to help the local economy as well.