Born to Mormon parents in Prattsville

Born to Mormon parents in Prattsville, Utah, Acord as a young man worked as a cowboy and ranch hand. He went on to become one of the first true stars of western films. A celebrated rodeo star, Acord not only acted but also wrote scripts and performed as a stunt man. He won the Steer Bulldogging world championship in 1912 and repeated as champion in 1916, defeating challenger and friend Hoot Gibson. His rodeo skills had been sharpened when he worked for a time for Miller's 101 Ranch Real Wild West Show. It was with the 101 that he made friends with Tom Mix,"Broncho Billy" Anderson and Hoot Gibson, all cowboys of the silver screen.