John Ware (cowboy)

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John Ware and Family

John Ware (1845 – September 11, 1905) was a legendary African-American cowboy and rancher who played a significant role in the early ranching industry of Alberta, Canada. Born into slavery in South Carolina, Ware gained his freedom at the end of the American Civil War and migrated to Canada in 1882, where he became one of the most respected and well-known cowboys in the country.

Early Life

John Ware was born into slavery on a plantation in South Carolina. Little is known about his early life, including the exact date of his birth, due to the lack of records for enslaved people at the time. Following the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, Ware left the Southern United States. He traveled to Texas, where he learned the skills of a cowboy, becoming proficient in cattle herding and ranching.

Migration to Canada

In 1882, Ware moved to Canada, following the expansion of the ranching industry into the North-West Territories (now Alberta and Saskatchewan). He drove cattle from the United States into Canada for the North West Cattle Company, and his exceptional skills as a horseman and rancher quickly earned him a reputation. Ware is credited with helping to establish the ranching industry in Alberta, and he played a key role in the early development of the region's cattle farming practices.

Legacy

John Ware's legacy is a testament to his resilience, skill, and the significant contributions he made to Alberta's ranching industry. Despite facing racial prejudice, Ware became a respected member of the community, known for his generosity, strength, and skill as a cowboy. He married Mildred Lewis in 1892, and they had six children, although tragically, two died young.

Ware's ranching operations were highly successful, and he was known for his innovative practices, including the development of the first irrigation system in the area. His ability to breed and raise high-quality cattle was renowned, and he played a significant role in improving the stock of cattle in Alberta.

John Ware died on September 11, 1905, after his horse stumbled in a badger hole, causing him to be thrown and fatally injured. His legacy lives on in Alberta, where he is remembered as a pioneering figure in the province's ranching history. Several landmarks, including John Ware Ridge, Mount Ware, and the John Ware Building at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, are named in his honor.

Cultural Impact

John Ware's life and legacy have been celebrated in various forms of media, including books, documentaries, and plays, highlighting his contributions to Canadian history and the ranching industry. His story is a powerful example of overcoming adversity and making significant contributions to society, despite the challenges posed by racial discrimination.

See Also

• History of Alberta
• African-American history
• Ranching in Canada