The Cowboys

Wil Andersen finds himself deserted by his ranch hands who have left in search of gold. Faced with the challenge of a rigorous 400-mile cattle drive, he realizes the need to gather a crew to tackle the inhospitable terrain of Bozeman, Montana.

After considering his friend Anse Peterson's suggestion, Wil visits a local schoolhouse to see if young boys can assist him. However, he is doubtful after witnessing their lack of experience, prompting him to seek more reliable help.

At dawn, a group of eager boys arrives at Wil's ranch, volunteering for the demanding cattle drive. Wil tests their abilities by having them try to subdue a bucking horse, revealing their varying skills and readiness.

Among the boys, Cimarron stands out for his riding skills, but his aggressive demeanor leads to a confrontation with Slim. After the altercation, Wil decides to part ways with Cimarron, despite his riding talent.

Wil hires the remaining boys, handing over their firearms for safety. They embark on the cattle drive, focusing on essential skills such as roping, branding, and herding, while growing into their roles.

A group led by the dishonest Asa Watts approaches, seeking work on the cattle drive. Wil's instincts kick in and he declines their offer, recognizing potential trouble that could arise.

The seasoned cook Jebediah Nightlinger joins Wil's team, bringing expertise and stability to the group. As they begin their journey, Cimarron remains in the background, hinting at his unresolved intentions.

During the journey, Dan, a young boy, accidentally finds himself in a perilous situation while chasing a stray horse. He encounters Watts and his gang, who release him but advise him to remain silent about their menacing encounter.

As Wil sends Weedy to check on Nightlinger and fix the wagon, tensions rise with the lurking threat of Watts’ gang. Unaware of the danger following them, the boys must remain calm under increasing pressure.

Watts' gang attacks their campsite, using Weedy's injury as a terrifying warning. In a fierce confrontation, Wil defends his group, but he suffers serious wounds from the battle, indicating the dire situation they face.

Following the attack, Nightlinger and Homer return to discover the haunting aftermath of the violence. With Wil gravely injured, he inspires the boys to take pride in their journey and return home to their loved ones.

Wil's funeral ignites a desire for vengeance within the boys. Determined to avenge their mentor's death, they, with Nightlinger's support, concoct a plan to confront the remaining members of Watts' gang.

In a coordinated effort, the boys successfully take down three of Watts' gang members, leaving him as the last survivor. The bold action showcases their transformation into capable young men ready to stand for what is right.

In a final chaotic act, during a confrontation with Watts, Dan frees his horse in a moment of bravery. This act inadvertently leads to Watts being thrown beneath his own horse, sealing his fate.

With their cattle successfully sold in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, the boys honor Wil by commissioning a memorial stone. Their heartfelt message, 'Beloved Husband and Father,' captures the deep bond they shared and marks a new chapter in their lives.