Lot #1 – Klapper Bit from Perry John’s Personal Collection
Perry Johns never met a stranger, and if you ever met him, you certainly wouldn’t forget him. He was born into humble means in north Mississippi, picking cotton and selling animal pelts, and carried about him a quirky Mississippi boy charisma. While he wasn’t a Texas native, he quickly made Ft Worth his home after two of his closest friends from USAF service hauled him from Mississippi to Texas for college. After graduating, he made his living in the steel industry eventually owning and running his own company in Ft Worth till the day he passed.
As an only child in Mississippi, his closest friends were his hunting dog and the family plow horse. Perhaps it was this heritage that influenced his great affinity for cowboys, horses, and the ranching way of life. It was among cowboys and pastures of mares and foals that he was happiest. He would travel the country visiting ranches and spending time with those he so admired. This love led to many great friendships, one of the many notable being with Billy Klapper. He sent steel to Mr. Klapper and in return, Mr. Klapper sent him bits and spurs. It’s in honor of this great friendship, passion, and legacy that this bit is shared to help the cowboys and ranchers so they may continue their great way of life.