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About the American Cowboy
The
Original
American Icon...
AFTER
THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR they came from the east, Midwest, and south
to work on ranches and drive the trail, over 50,000 rode the herds.
Becoming a cowboy became a passion amongst eastern college men. A
few cowboys even came from the United Kingdom and other parts of
Europe.
The usual Wild West cowboy gear consisted of a bridle, saddle,
rawhide lariat, spurs, boots, chaps, hat, tarp, buffalo robe,
blankets and most important... a Colt .45. Rather than settle
disputes with fists like back in the old country, many arguments
were settled with the roar of a six shooter, the most popular of
which was the Colt .45, a.k.a. "The Peacemaker." An old saying goes
"Abe Lincoln may have freed all men, but Sam Colt made them equal."
Some were still more equal than others, as some of the men became
professional gunslingers... "have gun will travel" was their motto!
While it's true that some were rustlers and others professional
gunfighters, the average American Cowboy was often lonely, lived in
harsh conditions... frequently exposed to danger, but always kept
their humor and joked about everything. They didn’t make much money
and enjoyed the simple way of life. They were reserved around
strangers, did not tolerate meanness, cowardice, dishonesty, chronic
complaining, or mistreatment of the lady folk, who were scarce on
the wild frontier. Tough as nails, but generous and hospitable,
these were the true Wild West American Cowboys.
The Diamond Bar
Posse, circa 2002.
More
than 50,000 "tough as nails" cowboys rode the herds more than a
century ago. |
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About
the American Cowboy
