National Day of the Cowboy is observed annually on the
fourth Saturday in July.
The era of the cowboy began after the Civil War in the
heart of Texas. Cattle were herded long
before this time, but in Texas, they grew wild and unchecked. As the country expanded, the demand for beef
in the northern territories and states increased. With nearly 5 million head of
cattle, cowboys moved the herds on long drives to where the profits were.
The draw of riches and adventure mixed with tales of
violence and a backdrop of the Great Plains gave way to the mythological image
of the cowboy.
Where the dust settles reveals much of the stoic truth of
the American cowboy and cowgirl. The life of a cowboy required a particular
ability to live in a frontier world. To
do so requires respect, loyalty and a willingness to work hard.
According to the National Day of the Cowboy Organization,
this day “…is a day set aside to celebrate the contributions of the Cowboy and
Cowgirl to America’s culture and heritage.” The NDOC continuously pursues
national recognition of National Day of the Cowboy. Currently, 11 states recognize this day. The
first celebration was in 2005.
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