The History of Southwest Trailriders Association, Inc.

The Wagon Boss’ Association was formed to address the concerns of the membership within the Southwestern Trail Riders Association. Originally there were nine (9) wagons. The first meeting was held on July 25, 1989 and the Elected Officers formed from this meeting were:

President: W. O. Ballard
Vice President: Gene Loving
Secretary: Lewis Hightower
Assistant Secretary: J.C. Blake
Treasurer: Beatrice Bartie
Assistant Treasurer: Sherman Simple
Business Manager: Helen Moses
Chaplain: Clifford Williams
Sergeant-At-Arms: Leroy Bartie

After four (4) years of struggle, the Southwest Trailriders Association, Inc. was established in 1993.  Alex Prince became the first President of the newly formed Southwest Trailriders Association, Inc.. In 1997, the Southwest Trailriders Association, Inc. was sanctioned by the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo with a total of fourteen (14) wagons. Presently, there are seven (7) wagons and  several pending memberships.

Our goals are to perpetuate the heritage of the Black cowboy and cowgirl, to stimulate and maintain the interest of horse lovers, promote goodwill, camaraderie, and to support youth though our scholarship program.

The Southwest Trailriders Association, Inc. has awarded approximately $200,000 in scholarship funds to high school seniors in the Houston, Harris and surrounding counties, sponsored animals for agricultural students, host annual Fun Day to provide a safe and fun atmosphere for children, donate toys and bikes annually to Houston area churches, schools and multi-purpose centers for Christmas as well as an annual school supply drive for area students returning to school.