Alberta rancher John Ware named a person of national historic significance, June 6, 2022. (Photo courtesy of Glenbow Museum Archives)

By Mario Cabradilla

Alberta History

Black cowboy John Ware named as a person of national historic significance

Jun 7, 2022 | 5:56 PM

LONGVIEW, AB – The Canadian Government has recognized black cowboy John Ware as a person of national historic significance.

In a special ceremony on June 06, 2022, officials unveiled a plaque at Bar U Ranch National Historic Site to commemorate Ware’s designation.

“I am pleased to commemorate the national historic significance of John Ware, who embodies the resilience and strength of Black Canadians,” stated Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, in a news release.

The federal government said Ware entered the District of Alberta in 1882 as part of a trail crew driving thousands of cattle to the site that became known as the Bar U Ranch near Longview, Alberta. Ware wrangled large herds for ranching outfits in the area, before building his own ranch with his family near Millarville, Alberta.

According to the Government of Canada, Ware achieved success in a white-dominated industry controlled primarily by well-financed corporations. The government’s news release stated that Ware’s generosity and superior skills as a cowboy earned him an “enduring reputation and a prominent place in the mythology of the Canadian West.”

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Through the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, the Government of Canada recognizes significant persons, places, and events that have helped shape the country as one way to connect Canadians with their past.

By sharing these stories with Canadians, the government aims to foster understanding and reflection on Canada’s past and present diverse histories, cultures, legacies, and realities.