The Prairie View Trail Riders (PVTRA) are a Black-organized trail ride group that showcases Black cowboy history and culture:

  • History : Founded in 1957 by James Francis, Jr., the PVTRA is one of the oldest trail ride groups in the country. The group's goals include promoting interest in rodeo and agriculture in young Black Americans, and providing career opportunities for graduates of Black Agriculture and Mechanical Colleges.
  • Events: The PVTRA meets up with other trail rider groups in Texas every February to participate in the Houston Rodeo. The group also hosts an annual Chili Cook-off at the campgrounds behind Panther Stadium at Prairie View A&M University.
  • Trail rides: The PVTRA's trail rides include stops along the way and often feature wagon inspections and awards. The 2024 PVTRA trail ride will start on February 17 and head to Memorial Park in Houston.
  • Legacy: The PVTRA is dedicated to keeping the tradition of Black cowboy and trail riding alive. The group's trail boss, Myrtis Dightman Jr., says the organization is "all about the kids and safety".