Texas is often referred to as the cowboy capital of the world. A less widely known fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, is that one in every four cowboys were Black. Many celebrations are carried out in order to preserve the legacy of these hard-working cowboys of the past.

Cowboys are a special part of Texas’ history and culture. The term “cowboy” derives from the Spanish word "vaquero," which refers to individuals who managed cattle while mounted on horseback. Originally, white cowboys were called cowhands, and African Americans were “cowboys.” Many of the first Black cowboys were born into slavery but later found a better life, facing less discrimination and traveling the open range with white cattlemen.

Regardless, the everyday life of a cowboy was rough. Black cowboys were usually expected to perform many duties serving cattlemen. They were assigned the wilder horses to train, expected to cook, hunt, and serve as entertainment performing musical arrangements on the trail. Some also acted as nurses, bodyguards and were responsible for transporting money.

One of the first cowboys in rodeo was hall-of-fame performer Bill Pickett. Born in Travis County, Pickett originated rodeo steer wrestling, or bulldogging. His technique for “taming” wild cattle involved grabbing its horns, twisting its head up and biting its nose or lower lip. This event remains the main attraction for every rodeo. Pickett's popularity garnered significant attention while performing in shows. He starred in several movies during his time and is considered the first African American cowboy movie star. Pickett lived an exciting life until his passing in 1932 after enduring a head injury in a horse accident on the ranch. He was inducted into the Cowboy Hall of Fame in 1972.

As rodeo shows gained popularity over the years, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo was organized in his honor. This year marks its 40-year anniversary with traveling shows across the country. The rodeo features competitive events like tie-down roping, breakaway roping, team roping and barrel racing. Additionally, fan-favorites like bull riding, bronc riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding. One of these high-intensity rodeo shows is taking place toward the end of Black History Month on Feb. 17 at the Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas.

More information on tickets and additional dates in the series can be found at the Bill Pick Invitational Rodeo.