Bev Cross was the backbone of the western world in Ogden and Weber County from the mid-1960s to 1980s—turning more young women into rodeo queens than any other person in the nation. She and her husband, Ken, ran C. W. (Cross Western) Wear. Though not born to the western world, she began working in the store when her two boys were small, and quickly became educated in the process of buying, selling and dressing those looking for western wear.
Over time, Bev’s reputation for dressing young women competing as rodeo queens spread throughout the western world. She was the “go-to” woman for young ladies wanting to wear the title of Rodeo Queen. In fact, she was referred to as the “Queen Mother.” Many state rodeo queens came to Ogden to gain her fashion knowledge and have her create their competition wardrobe.
Bev was always budget conscious and worked hard to achieve the best winning look for every customer. She even helped with hair, makeup and speeches. Bev still remembers all those she served and can tell you what they wore—especially those who became Miss Rodeo America. She nurtured, loved and brought out the best in the in all of them, and still enjoys friendships with many of the Queens.
A huge supporter of rodeo, she helped many a young cowboy and cowgirl get involved in the sport of rodeo—cheering them on wherever she could.