Professor Explored History of Black Texas Cowboys
Demetrius Pearson detailed the legacy of African American ranching and rodeo contributions in Texas.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Rodeo
University of Houston professor Demetrius Pearson recently lectured on the significant role of Black cowboys in Texas history. The presentation highlighted how segregation drove the creation of independent rodeo organizations.
Why it matters
Understanding this history illuminates the structural impact of discrimination on the development of ranching culture. It also documents the resilience of riders who established their own spaces amidst exclusion.
African Americans made up one-quarter of the cowboys working on major 19th-century cattle drives. Following a history of segregation, Floyd Frank organized the state's first independent African American rodeo in the late 1930s.
The players
Demetrius Pearson
He is an associate professor at the University of Houston and an expert on the history of Black rodeo culture.
Floyd Frank
He was a pioneer who organized the first African American rodeo in Anahuac and constructed his own arena in Cheek.
Anahuac Salt-Grass Cowboys Association
This is the only remaining organization of its kind dedicated to preserving the history of Black rodeos.
The details
Demetrius Pearson, who authored the book Black Rodeo in the Texas Gulf Coast Region: Charcoal in the Ashes, explained how Black riders often utilized arenas only after white counterparts finished. This legacy includes the establishment of the Anahuac Salt-Grass Cowboys Association in the 1960s, which remains active today.
Timeline
1821: Stephen F. Austin established Austin's Colony.
Late 1930s: Floyd Frank organized the first African American rodeo.
Mid-1950s: Floyd Frank built the Floyd Frank Rodeo Arena in Cheek.
1960s: The Anahuac Salt-Grass Cowboys Association was established.
October 1, 2026: Demetrius Pearson delivered his lecture.
Season Trajectory
The emergence of independent Black rodeo associations followed a pattern of parallel institutional development similar to the creation of the Negro National League in sports. These organizations were established to provide competitive outlets denied by segregated mainstream circuits.
This historical context changes how viewers and participants understand the roots of current rodeo associations in the Gulf Coast region. It highlights the specific origins of surviving organizations like the Anahuac Salt-Grass Cowboys Association.
The takeaway
Recognizing the contributions of Black cowboys is essential for a complete understanding of Texas ranching history. Readers can explore local historical archives or regional museum exhibits to learn more about these early pioneers.
Further reading
For more on the heritage of the sport, visit the Rodeo section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Beaumont Enterprise.
