John Ware (born in 1845), was an African-American cowboy best remembered for his ability to ride and train horses and for bringing the first cattle to Southern Alberta in 1882, helping to create that province’s important ranching industry.
As a man who was born into slavery, John Ware is the epitome of “pulling one’s own self up by the bootstraps”, so to speak. He had no experience in the life of being a cowboy however starting at the bottom he quickly rose to the top to become legendary within the cowboy community. His learned skill and expertise helped him overcome racial discrimination and oppression. John Ware’s legacy is of a man whose “manhood” was bigger than his physical stature and he is remembered as “The Good Neighbour”.
Trailblazer: This is a short overview about the life of John Ware.
The Good Neighbour: This documentary takes an in-depth look at John Ware’s life from beginning to end. The video also gives insight to life as a cowboy and is more than worth the time to watch and learn… Enjoy!!!
Reflection: One of the most important moments in John Ware’s life that stands out to me and should be highlighted is when he crossed paths with his former slave master. Rather than seeking revenge, he had mercy on him and showed him how a real man with a loving heart should treat others. That moment reminds me of how some people feel that if Black people rise to power, revenge will be taken. On the contrary, Black people simply want justice and equality for all people.
John Ware was a man amongst men who found his freedom on the range and eventually made his home in Alberta Canada where he registered a large patch of land.
John Ware died September 12th, 1905 at the age of 60. He was buried at Union Cemetery Calgary Alberta and his eulogy was read as follows:
“John Ware was a man with a beautiful skin.
Every human skin is as beautiful as the person who wears it.
To know John Ware was to know a gentleman,
one of God’s gentlemen.”
A slave who became a Cowboy and Rancher 999, John Ware is a true legend who was known as “the good neighbour”.
Albert Earl Jr.
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