More than 50 family members, friends and community members gathered recently in Mineola to celebrate the area’s Black cowboy heritage during a community event honoring local cowboys, cowgirls, city officials and other residents.
City councilwoman Cassandra Sampson recognized Gwen Foster-Riddle and Johanna Jones-Cooper for bringing the event together. According to Sampson, Foster-Riddle envisioned the celebration as an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a day of fellowship while recognizing local history. Jones-Cooper and numerous volunteers also helped make the event possible according to Sampson.
The celebration highlighted the legacy of Mineola residents Artis and Anna Lee Williams. Artis Williams, who was born in Mississippi in the early 1900s, was remembered as a respected cowboy and Buffalo Soldier who was well known for participating in parades, particularly in Mineola. Sampson said he helped pave the way for future generations of Black cowboys in the community, and the barn he built still stands today.
Anna Lee Williams was also recognized during the event. Together, Artis and Anna raised a son, Artis Williams Jr., continuing the family’s legacy in the Mineola community. The event also recognized family connections to the late Matthew Greer Sr., Earnestine Bagsby and cowboy Earnest Sweat Jr.,Terrell, who was among those honored.
Approximately 53 family members and friends attended the celebration, with some traveling from as far away as Oklahoma.
Sampson expressed her appreciation to everyone who helped plan the event and to all who attended in support of preserving the community’s history.