A cowboy symbolizes the essence of the American West. The iconic cowboy emerged in the 19th century with a history dating back nearly two centuries.
Originating from the customs of the vaqueros in northern Mexico, it has now become a staple of the American southwest.
The modern perception and understanding of cowboys is influenced by the horse-riding cattle workers of Native American and Mexican descent. In the 1500s, Spanish farmers transported these individuals to America to care for horses.
Throughout history, cowboys have been known by a variety of names. They are also known as cowhands, ranch hands, horse wranglers, and buckaroos.
Living on a ranch and working as a cowboy is a secure occupation that holds significance in American culture.
Cattle farms are the largest sector of American agriculture. These nine states still have cowboys because they are such an important part of everyday life.
1. Texas
Texas is famously referred to as the world’s cowboy capital. There are still cattle runs, stockyards, and rodeos in various locations such as Bandera, Fort Worth, El Paso, Lubbock, and Amarillo.
Many cattle farms require branding business cows for identification purposes. However, on farms, animals still require tattooing and labeling throughout the year.
2. New Mexico
In the 1800s, New Mexico was famous for its cowboys. They resided on the land and held occupations such as farmers, law enforcement officers, hunters, and railway security.
This lifestyle continues to thrive even today. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the New Mexico State Fair and various authentic farms located throughout the state.
Another individual from New Mexico was Henry McCarty, who is more commonly recognized as Billy the Kid. He was a renowned figure in the cowboy world. In the late 1800s, he became a member of a group of thieves.
They were known as “The Regulators,” and they took cattle without permission. His life was cut short when Sheriff Pat Garrett shot and killed him in Fort Sumner, New Mexico.
3. Colorado
Colorado is home to many farmers and cowboys. This location is also where the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s (PRCA) Hall of Fame and headquarters are situated.
Based in Colorado is the Cervi Championship Rodeo Company. This company supplies many top animals for major rodeo events worldwide.
Back in the late 1800s, there was a man in Colorado by the name of Robert Leroy Parker. He discovered and gained experience at various farms throughout the state as a young cowboy.
Robert encountered an individual at a cattle farm who introduced him to the criminal underworld. Following that, Robert was eventually nicknamed Butch Cassidy.
4. Wyoming
Wyoming, known as the “Cowboy State,” offers a glimpse into the authentic American West. That said, the equestrian way of life remains a significant aspect of the state.
Farming is crucial in the state as it is one of the most significant industries. Branding and immunizations are important tasks that cowboys in the area handle regularly.
The Pony Express operated in a limited number of states from April 1860 to October 1861. Wyoming was among them. Letters were delivered by horse-drawn riders known as the Pony Express.
It reduced the duration for messages to travel from the east coast to the west coast of the US by approximately 10 days.
5. Kansas
Kansas has a plethora of attractions for fans of the Cowboys. This location was famously referred to as the frontier cowtown due to its association with Dodge City.
In the United States, a cow town is a town or place that sells or ships cattle. In rural Kansas, farming and herding activities are commonly practiced. This location is ideal for farming due to its predominantly flat terrain.
Some famous cowboys have passed through Kansas as well. Doc Holliday, Wyatt Earp, and Big Nose Kate are among the most famous individuals.
While in Dodge City, someone brandished a firearm at Earp. After frightening the man with a loud shout, Holliday proceeded to shoot him.
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