Cowboys of Color, Horses of Color work together to preserve Western lifestyle
National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame
riding tall with American Paint Horse Association

FORT WORTH, Texas—The American Paint Horse is now “the official horse of the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame,” its founder, Jim Austin, has announced.

Jim and Gloria Austin, founders of the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, unveil artwork donated by the American Paint Horse Association. APHA pledged support of the museum and its efforts to promote people who have influenced Western culture over the years. Many of these same individuals have been strong proponents of American Paint Horses. APHA Photo/Jessica Smith Hirez JPEG (2.65 mb)

Austin’s remarks came after an event held recently at the Fort Worth museum, where the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) added even more color to the institution’s collection with the addition of artwork and a beautiful bronze.

APHA also announced its support of the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame and presented a $5,000 check to the organization.

Austin said APHA’s support will go a long way toward helping the museum continue to reach out to the community.

The American Paint Horse Association and the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame announced a special partnership recently. APHA donated artwork and a financial pledge to the institution at a recent gathering, which included, from left, APHA Executive Director Lex Smurthwaite, APHA President Carl Parker and National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame founders Gloria and Jim Austin. Austin announced that the American Paint Horse is now "the official horse of the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame.” APHA Photo/Jessica Smith Hirez JPEG (2.85 mb)

“American Paint Horses are beautiful and talented animals,” said Austin. “We’re happy to display APHA’s works of art in our museum, because they will help tell the story of the American West. And every day, we find out more about the strong connection our members have with this remarkable breed. We’re two non-profit organizations working together to promote the history of the cowboys and their horses around the nation.”

The National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame offers visitors a true and complete historical perspective of the people who shaped the unique culture of the American West. It also recognizes individuals who have contributed to Western culture and play a part in keeping this important piece of American History alive.

APHA, one of the largest and most popular horse breed organizations in the world, registers and maintains programs for people actively involved in equestrian activities. The organization also works to promote American Paint Horses and preserve their history.

“Our support of the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame is a natural for us. We share a lot in common,” said APHA Director Lex Smurthwaite.

“When we looked at the last induction roster of the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, we were surprised that every one of the inductees rode American Paint Horses. We’re honored now to help and support an organization full of dedicated people who have contributed to the success of our American Paint Horse breed over the years.”

More Information
For more information about the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, contact info@cowboysofcolor.org or call (817) 922-9999. You can also visit the organization’s Web site at www.cowboysofcolor.org.