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A Little About Diamond G & Our Founder Dena

"Im not a town person. Im just a plain ol' country girl"

This self proclaimed "country girl", who grew up in Rochelle, opened Diamond G Ranch with her late husband Milo in 1972. The couple purchased the ranch as the entire family shared an interest in country culture. Their daughters, Donna and Sandy, young children at the time, also enjoyed showing their horses and enjoyed their time on the ranch. Now when you walk in, you will be greeted by Sandy, who is always ready with a good story about their history!

Although Diamond G Ranch is hidden in a network of country roads, it contains an entire world for the Gittleson family, who have memories of throwing large rodeo shows, showing horses and raising children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.


"I like what I'm doing. If I didn't, I wouldn't be doing it. Working keeps me busy and I enjoy all of the different people that come from different places and it is always interesting"

48 years ago Milo and Dena Gittleson bought some property north west of Rochelle, Il and named it Diamond G Ranch and Western Store. During all the years of hard work they held cuttings, horse shows, clinics, mounted shootings,drill team, trailrides, pigroasts, dances, and much more. Their biggest draw was the 20 rodeos they put on for 13 winters. That is 260 rodeos!!! Hundreds of Cowboys and Cowgirls entered these rodeos and nicknamed the place The Cow Palace. A lot of those contestants still stop by to say Hi and relive some good times. They bring their kids and grandkids to show them where they used to rodeo. Daughters, Sandy and Donna are still running the store and hope to keep it going for many more years. It is a family tradition and we are very proud of it!!!

Great time at the store. The owner is very nice and told me stories about her family and history of her property.

Justen Reinvted