Rare African American Cowboy Photograph, 1940s

African American, Cowboys

Original Photo

[African American] [Cowboys] Rare 1940s photograph of an African American cowboy. The black and white real photo post card measures 3.5" x 5.5". In the mid to late 1800s, 1 in 4 cowboys were Black. After emancipation, becoming a cowboy was an opportunity for Black men to own land and have job freedom. After WWII, the rodeo became a popular past time sport amidst ranchers and contemporary cowboys. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) was created in 1936 to sanction official rodeo events, with its championship event being the National Finals Rodeo. Although African Americans were never officially barred from participating in PRCA events, Jim Crow-era laws in many states and racial attitudes of the early 20th century effectively prevented black competitors from participating in most white-sponsored rodeos. Organizations such as the Southwestern Colored Cowboys Association (SCCA) was formed in the late 1940s by black cowboys to create a space for African Americans to compete in rodeo events. The SCCA was a minor league that provided aspiring black cowboys with a venue to compete and exhibit their skills without facing discrimination for their skin color. This photograph, taken sometime in the 1940s shows a young and fit African American man in a cowboy hat and cowboy boots, wearing a typical canvas button up, high waist slacks, and animal-skin belt with a large silver buckle an a kerchief hanging outside of his back pocket. He has a stern expression and holds his belt buckle with his left hand. This rare photograph shows the range of occupations and roles African Americans played in the mid 20th century. Minor edge wear to white margins, no markings en verso, a crisp and clear photo in very good condition.

Item #20273

Price: $380.00