Black Cowboys: An American Story

Did you know that one of four cowboys who went on the trail was Black?  Black Cowboys: An American Story explores the lives and work of the numerous Black men, women and children – enslaved and free – who labored on the ranches of Texas and participated on cattle drives before the Civil War through the turn of the twentieth century.

This powerful exhibition features artifacts, photographs and documents depicting the work and skills of Black cowboys.  Black Cowboys: An American Story offers insight into legendary cowboys, a clearer picture of the Black West and a more diverse portrait of the American West.

Be transported through time to meet a variety of real Black cowboys and appreciate their deep impact on American History. Discover how they tamed and trained horses, tended livestock and rode on the trail with thousands of cattle across America.

Black Cowboys: An American Story is organized by the Witte Museum in San Antonio, Texas and generously supported by Bank of America, the Ed Rachal Foundation, John L. Santikos Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation and H-E-B. At the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Black Cowboys: An American Story is supported by the Fund to Advance Racial Equity at North Texas Community Foundation and Principal.

During the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo (January 12 - February 3, 2024), enjoy the museum for free with your Stock Show grounds admission. Please be aware that some admission booths are cash only and are operated by the FWSSR. Museum Members receive free Stock Show grounds admission* with their valid membership card, membership voucher, and ID.

Find more family fun events every day of the week at dfwchild.com/calendar.