Press Releases

Today, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) and Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) introduced a House resolution to recognize and celebrate the monumental contributions of the American cowboy and historic cattle trails to the United States. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary on July 4, this resolution honors the spirit of independence and the economic foundation laid by the cattle industry in the post-Civil War era.

The resolution highlights the critical role of historic routes such as the Chisholm, Shawnee, Western, and Goodnight-Loving trails. These pathways were the lifelines of the post-Civil War economy, moving millions of Texas longhorns to markets in the north and providing the breeding stock that established the modern American beef industry.

This resolution is supported by Texas Chisholm Trail Association, International Chisholm Trail Association. Historic Cattle Trails Coalition, National Cattleman’s Beef Association, Kansas Livestock Association, Western Wordsmiths, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Nebraska Cattlemen, North Dakota Stockman’s Association, New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, and South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association. 

"The American cowboy is more than just a figure of our past; it is a global symbol of the courage, determination, and independence that define the American spirit," said Rep. Estes. "From the Chisholm Trail to the Great Western Trail, these routes through Kansas and the heartland didn't just move cattle, they rebuilt the American economy and fed a growing nation. As we celebrate our 250th year, it is only fitting that we honor the group of individuals who shaped our frontier and our national identity."

“The great cattle drives didn't just move longhorns across the plains—they helped stitch a divided nation back together and built the foundation of a modern American economy.  Those herds crossed the Colorado River on the Chisholm Trail through Travis County, driven by cowboys of every background,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett.  “As we mark 250 years of American history, the House should honor that legacy and the full, diverse story behind it.”

“Kansas heritage has long been connected to cattle and cowboys—from the days when historic trails like the Chisholm carried herds to market, to the ranchers who continue that legacy today,” said Kansas Livestock Association Chief Executive Officer Matt Teagarden. “This resolution recognizes not only the enduring impact of those early cattle drives, but also the generations of cattlemen and cattlewomen who have built upon that foundation to sustain a vital industry and way of life. We appreciate Rep. Estes’ leadership on this important recognition.”

“We applaud Congressman Estes and Congressman Doggett for introducing this resolution to honor cowboy history as part of America 250,” said Carrie Murdoch, CEO of the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum in Cleburne, Texas and President of the Texas Chisholm Trail Association.  “Our museum sits proudly along the Chisholm Trail where the cowboys and historic cattle drives helped shape the history of our nation.”

 “Thanks to these Congressmen for taking the lead on recognizing cowboy history as part of America 250,” said Dennis Katzenmeier of Ellsworth, Kansas, president of the International Chisholm Trail Association.  “As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, it is an ideal time to honor the American cowboy who has become an international symbol of strength, courage, and independence.”

“Generations of American farmers and ranchers have been feeding our country and managing millions of acres of range and pastureland for the last 250 years. From the early settlers raising cattle at the Jamestown colony in the 1600s to the iconic cattle drives across the West in the 19th century, cattle production is a major part of American history. NCBA is proud to celebrate America 250, reflecting on how far our industry has come while continuing to innovate and preserve our heritage for future generations,” NCBA President and Virginia Cattleman Gene Copenhaver said. 

You may click HERE to read the full resolution. 

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