Alberta's historical record contains many significant accounts of the lives of ranchers and cowboys in the late 1800s. One of these cowboys was John Ware, known for his riding skills and his great strength. This man was well liked by his neighbors, ranchers and other cowboys. Alberta's population at that time was predominantly Caucasian. John Ware however was an African American. Ware was not the only black cowboy from the United States to settle in Alberta. The late 1800s were not a time of racial tolerance in the Western states, nor in Alberta. What historical records indicate, however, is that John Ware was an individual worthy of recognition despite discrimination based on skin color. Ware was not literate. What we know about him comes from oral histories. These reports came from his daughter Nettie Ware or other ranchers who worked him. Oral history is contextualized by the person telling the tale. These documents were not only valuable information about the life of an Alberta rancher, but they give us insight into black cowboys throughout Western history. By examining John Ware's oral accounts of black cowboys and settlers in the western United States and Alberta, one can gain a clear picture of who these individuals were and how they impacted the cattle and ranching industry. After the abolition of slavery in 1833, many African Americans looked for a place to settle and start over. Many sought opportunities in farming and ranching. Even though they were now free Americans, this did not change the perception in the minds of white Americans, many were still racist. In 1879, numerous African Americans settled in the West, because they wanted… middle of paper… I see colored skin that is anything but beautiful.” The black cowboy is a figure in Western history who has not received the attention he deserves. They were incredibly knowledgeable and exceptionally hardworking. John Ware is just one example of someone who has received accommodations for what appears to be the work ethic and mindset of many of these good men. Some of these accounts may be reminiscences that have become more fond of Ware with time, but compared to the tale of other American cowboys it certainly fits the criteria. Ware was an illiterate man and received so much recognition through oral recordings of his achievements. Without his hard work and expertise he probably would have been forgotten. These black cowboys have suffered enough discrimination and should now be recognized for their contributions to Western society.