TheBlackCowboy.com

Art T. Burton: Voice of History in The Black Cowboy

TBC Documentary

Charles W. Perry

9/3/20253 min read

The Black Cowboy, featuring Art T. Burton

An accomplished & recognized author, historian, and retired professor, Art whose pioneering research has dramatically changed the understanding of African Americans place in history of the American Western Frontier.

For many years, mainstream portrayals of the Wild West have been largely influenced by images of white cowboys, rugged settlers, and infamous outlaws, as depicted in cheap novels and Hollywood productions. Yet, Burton has consistently remained dedicated to revealing the authentic narratives that history has frequently disregarded, the significant tales of Black cowboys, Bass Reeves, Buffalo Soldiers, law enforcement officers, and outlaws whose roles were crucial in the development of the American West.

The Educator’s Touch

What sets Burton apart from many other historians is his ability to teach without preaching. His decades as a college professor have honed his skill in breaking down complex histories into narratives that resonate with a wide audience.

Whether he’s explaining the legal genius of Bass Reeves the legendary Black lawman some argue inspired the Lone Ranger or unpacking the daily lives of cowboys on the range, Burton connects past to present in ways that spark curiosity and reflection.

This educator’s touch ensures that The Black Cowboy is not just informative but deeply engaging for viewers of all ages.

TBC Documentary Trailer

One of the documentary’s standout segments features the Roy LeBlanc Black Rodeo in Okmulgee, Oklahoma that is the oldest and largest Black rodeo in the United States.

This historic 70th year event has been a cultural cornerstone for generations, celebrating the skill, resilience, and community spirit of Black cowboys and cowgirls. By including this rodeo, The Black Cowboy not only honors the past but also captures the living legacy of Black cowboy culture as it thrives today.

Featured Rodeo Roy Leblanc Int'l Rodeo

Okmulgee, Oklahoma

Voices Bringing the Past to Life

While Burton provides the backbone of the historical narrative, the documentary also brings in other powerful voices to separate fact from fiction and paint a complete picture of the Black cowboy’s legacy.

Porfessor and author of Black Rodeo in the Texas Gulf Coast Region, provides a deep dive into the unique history of Black cowboy culture in Texas, highlighting how it shaped both rodeo traditions and local communities.

Dr. Dementry Pearson.

Joyce Jackson

An Oklahoma native and writer for Shades of Oklahoma Magazine, brings sharp insight into the Black cowboy experience in Oklahoma. Her work helps bridge community memory with historical research, ensuring these stories are told authentically and with pride.

University of Houston

Shades of Oklahoma Magazine

“This documentary took 10 years to put together. The vision was to tell the whole story of cowboys a story that has often excluded Blacks and Mexicans, even though they played a central role in cowboy history. This documentary fills in those parts.”

“I give Art T. Burton the credit for inspiring me to think outside the box and to pursue documentaries that highlight overlooked chapters of history. I’ve never been a student of Art in the classroom, but I can clearly see the positive influence he has had on generations of students and with this film generations after us will keep this history in our collective memeroy."

TBC Productions LLC.

Passion and persistence brought the film to life over the course of a decade.

Charles W. Perry

Filmmaker