Most people might assume the name Tallgrass comes from that one neighborhood on every street that fails to mow their lawn. But the name actually has deep roots in the state I call home, Oklahoma. Tallgrass is not only a type of prairie ecosystem, it's the name of the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska, Oklahoma.
These prairies are some of the most endangered ecosystems on the planet, with surface area shrinking down to less than 2% of what once spanned across our country. These prairies were home to so many species and large herds of bison that would fill the horizon line.
Now, thanks to the hard work of organizations like the Nature Conservancy, small holdouts remain: a glimpse into what these lands once looked like.
Over the holidays I had the chance to go out with my friend to photograph these places. It was those kind of day trips with our cameras that led to me exploring more and more of my home state and inspire what is now Tallgrass Supply Co.
It was a good reminder that these places are so quickly labeled "Flyover Country". But there's more to this land that the awesome sight of watching bison herds move across the plains. There are countless stories tucked away in diners and service stations that haven't been shared outside county lines. And if you take the time to slow down and look for them, you'll be in for a hell of a time.
GET OUT IN FLYOVER COUNTRY
The reason I started Tallgrass Supply was simple: too many brands highlight and showcase scenes that just never clicked with someone who grew up exploring creeks and bluffs instead of mountains and oceans. I wanted to bring that sense of adventure, exploration, and making memories with friends to a brand that felt more like home. While so often places like Oklahoma are labeled "Flyover Country", there's so much to see and do. So this year, whatever your resolutions are, be sure to get out there and check out some of this land for yourself. You'll be amazed at what you uncover.