The Fort Davis Fourth of July festivities were graced by the presence of local personality David Sleeper and his trusty dog, Tejona. Their unique sight—man and dog riding a specially-modified motorcycle—has made them familiar figures across the tri-county area of Presidio, Jeff Davis, and Brewster counties.
Captured in photos by Big Bend Times, the pair can often be seen navigating the landscapes of Marfa on their Triumph motorcycle, customized to safely accommodate Tejona. The dog is fully geared up for the rides, sporting special goggles and other protective wear.
Having relocated to Presidio County in 1973, Sleeper became known early on as a significant mule breeder. However, it’s his later years—characterized by his unique lifestyle and his paradoxical training methods with dogs and children—that have truly piqued local interest.
Sleeper adds a touch of humor to their adventures, joking that the motorcycle is, in fact, Tejona’s and that he simply pays for it. This reporter first ran into Sleeper in line at Porter’s in Marfa where he was buying steaks: one for himself, one for Tejons.
Their recent appearance at the Fort Davis Fourth of July Festivities provided another showcase of Sleeper’s unconventional (in the best sense of the adjective) lifestyle. Sleeper and Tejona are a testament to the diverse and engaging community spirit that permeates the tri-county region.
