Black Cowboys Along the Santa Fe Trail

In this episode, we delve into the forgotten narratives of Black cowboys along the historic Santa Fe Trail. Through the stories of famous and obscure frontiersmen like James Beckwourth, “Add,” George McJunkin, and Nat Love—and an interview with contemporary horseman and historian Trae Venerable—we shed light on the challenges, resilience, and contributions of Black cowhands. From overcoming societal prejudices to leaving a lasting legacy through archaeological discoveries and autobiographical accounts, these individuals exemplify the rich tapestry of experiences that define the American West. 

Written and narrated by: Zoe Wilson

Producer and engineer: Kyle Jackson

Interview guests: Trae Venerable (https://www.traevenerable.com/)

Theme Song: Fog Holler (Used with permission)

Additional Musical Elements: Fog Holler, Casey James Holmberg, Kyle Jackson, Kate Bone