James Leslie “Les” Davis, grandson of Frank Springer, grew up in Philadelphia and studied premed at Dartmouth College. In 1941, he spent six months at his family’s CS Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico, learning the ranching business from his uncle, Ed Springer, and cowboys Jiggs and Raymond Porter. After the Pearl Harbor attack, Les joined the Army, serving as an artillery officer in Europe during WWII. He earned several honors, including a Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts, and completed his service as a captain.
Returning in 1947, Les chose ranching over medicine and took on management at the CS Ranch, eventually becoming President and Chairman after his uncle’s death. In 1953, he married Linda Mitchell, daughter of the Tequesquite Ranch owner. They had six children—Warren, Julia, Randy, Kirk, Bruce, and Kim—who all returned to the ranch after college, a point of great pride for Les.
Les was a multi-talented individual: a horseman, artist, musician, magician, and opera lover. His passion for ranching, family, and the land remained central throughout his life. He had a cheerful and optimistic demeanor, with a love for nature and beauty. Les approached challenges as temporary obstacles to be overcome, and he focused on savoring the good in life.
A prominent figure in the livestock industry for over 60 years, Les left a lasting legacy through his family and ranch. His warmth, humor, and appreciation for life impacted all who knew him, and his legacy will continue through his family and land.
