Legends of Our Times: Native Cowboy Life

Fritz Pannekoek is an associate professor of heritage studies and
director of information resources at the University of Calgary. He is
also the author of A Snug Little Flock: The Social Origins of the Riel
Resistance of 1869–70.

In this wonderful, richly illustrated book, we are introduced to the
Native cowboys and cowgirls of the Plains and West Coast interior of
North America.

The book is divided into three parts: the first deals with the
spiritual and legendary dimensions of the horse, the coyote, the
buffalo, and the deer; the second deals with ranching life; and the
third with the rodeo and the Wild West show. Each part presents
scholarly material, followed by stories and, occasionally, songs and
poetry. The book is generously illustrated with period and contemporary
photographs, and an essay by Clara Spotted Elk, entitled “Women and
the Ranching Life,” provides insight into reserve ranching life.

By focusing on all of the cultural dimensions of the Native cowboy, the
authors have given his life the legitimacy and exposure it deserves.
However, too little is said about the material culture of the Native
cowboy: are the roots of “native cowboy material culture” equally
Native and European? As well, the context of the photos is not always
clearly established. Quibbles aside, this is an excellent book that
celebrates an important part of Canada’s culture.