The Canadian government has named John Ware, a former slave who has become a successful farmer, a person of national importance.
A new plaque at Bar U Ranch southwest of Calgary, unveiled during a ceremony Monday morning, will invite visitors to see Ware’s remarkable achievements.
“I am delighted to note the national historical significance of John Ware, who embodies the resilience and strength of black Canadians,” Environment and Climate Change Minister Stephen Gilbo said in a statement.
“The commemoration is in recognition of many different aspects of our history. The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that Canadians have the opportunity to learn about the full extent of our history.”
Ware was born into slavery in the southern United States in 1850 and, after emancipation, found work as a rancher in Texas. He participated in numerous cattle deportations and brought herds to Canada.
During his travels, he encountered discrimination and outright racism at every turn, but gained a reputation as a strong, tireless worker with an exceptional understanding of animals.
Janet Annesley nominated Ware for a national figure.
“Mr. Ware is a great example of overcoming everything that has been thrown at him. He overcame racism. He overcame Canadian winters as a settler, so he’s just a great person and what I’ve seen recognized at Bar U is very exciting. for me, “said Anesley
“I thought it was very important to always remember the story John wears, especially in this day and age with Black Lives Matter these other things. Sometimes we think this is something new. But in fact, diversity has always been part of Alberta’s history. And that’s not, you know, something we add to our history, it’s the very essence of who we are. ”
Ware returned to Canada and worked at Bar U Ranch until 1884, smashing horses and helping build the saddle barn.
In 1885 he set up his own ranch near Millarville, Alta. with a head of nine cows. Together with his wife Mildred, whom he married in 1892, he moved his growing operation to the Duchess of Alta. in 1900, as it required more space.
Ware was recognized at the time for his skills as a horseman, rancher and farmer and was widely accepted in Alberta’s nascent livestock community, but his skin color was still a barrier, according to documentary filmmaker Cheryl Fogo, who produced the film, restored by John. Ware.
“He has definitely faced racism. He simply did not allow this to define him or prevent him from pursuing his own, his own, life goals. But he absolutely experienced racism, “said Fogo, who said Ware was not the only black cowboy working in Alberta at the time, although he is best remembered.
“He really was an exceptional man, worthy of this recognition in itself. But it’s also a recognition of the history of blacks here, it’s a long and rich history and that he was at the beginning of it, but he wasn’t the only black here and that he was part of a growing community. “
Ware is developing new irrigation systems and livestock feeding methods and is known to help younger farmers when he can.
He died in 1905 after falling when his horse stepped into a hole. His body was taken to Calgary, where he is buried in Union Cemetery.
In honor of Ware’s contribution to Canada, there are now just over 40 people, places and events that the federal government has officially recognized as reflecting the importance of black Canadians to the country’s heritage.
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