What is a Female Cowboy Called? Exploring the World of Cowgirls and Women in the West
When you think of the Wild West, images of rugged cowboys often come to mind. But what about the women who rode alongside them, herding cattle and taming the frontier? In this article, we'll explore the terminology used to describe female cowboys and delve into the rich history of women in the American West.
What is a Female Cowboy Called?
The most common term used to describe a female cowboy is "cowgirl." This term emerged in the late 19th century as women began to take on roles traditionally associated with male cowboys. However, it's important to note that there are several other terms used to describe women who work with cattle and horses:
Cowhand: A gender-neutral term that can refer to any person who works with cattle
Cowpoke: Another gender-neutral term for someone who works with cattle
Buckaroo: Originally derived from the Spanish word "vaquero," this term can be used for both male and female ranch hands
Rancher: A person who owns or manages a ranch, regardless of gender
Interestingly, some women in the profession prefer to be called "cowboys" rather than "cowgirls." This preference stems from a desire to emphasize equality in the profession, as the term "cowboy" has historically encompassed both genders in the context of ranching and cattle handling. In contemporary discussions, there's recognition that the term "cowgirl" can carry different connotations, with some women avoiding gender-specific labels that might imply a lesser status.
What is a Cowgirl?
A cowgirl is a woman who is skilled in horseback riding and cattle handling, typically working on a ranch or participating in rodeo events. The term "cowgirl" originated in the mid-18th century, with the earliest known use recorded in 1753 in F. Génard's "School of Man." It's a compound word formed within English, combining "cow" and "girl" to specifically refer to women who tend to cattle and horses.
Historically, women have played significant roles in cattle ranching, often performing tasks alongside men. By the 19th century, particularly after the Civil War, the term began to gain popularity as women increasingly participated in ranching activities and began to be recognized as distinct from their male counterparts.
The emergence of Wild West shows in the late 19th century further popularized the image of the cowgirl, showcasing skilled female performers who rode and roped alongside men, thus solidifying the term in American culture. Over time, the cowgirl identity has evolved, reflecting the contributions of women in the American West and their integral roles in ranching and cattle herding.
The History of Women in the American West
Women have played a significant role in the development of the American West, although their contributions have often been overlooked in popular culture. Here are some key points about the history of women in the West:
Many women worked alongside men on ranches and farms, performing tasks such as herding cattle, breaking horses, and managing homesteads
Some women disguised themselves as men to work as cowboys or to join the military
Native American women had been skilled horsewomen and hunters long before European settlers arrived
Famous Cowgirls in History
Several women made names for themselves as skilled riders, ranchers, and performers. Some notable cowgirls include:
Annie Oakley: A sharpshooter who gained fame in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show
Lucille Mulhall: Known as the first "cowgirl," she competed in roping and riding events against men
Calamity Jane: A frontierswoman and scout who was known for her marksmanship and colorful personality
Modern Cowgirls
Today, women continue to work in ranching and rodeo, carrying on the traditions of their predecessors. Modern cowgirls can be found:
Competing in rodeo events such as barrel racing, breakaway roping, and bull riding
Managing ranches and cattle operations
Working as veterinarians specializing in large animals
Participating in equestrian sports and horse training
Cowgirl Attire: How it Differs from Cowboys
While cowgirls and cowboys share many similarities in their attire due to the practical nature of their work, there are some distinct differences:
Common Elements:
Cowboy hats for sun protection
Western shirts with snap buttons and decorative stitching
Jeans for durability
Cowboy boots designed for riding
Chaps for protection while riding
Distinct Differences:
Fit and Style: Cowgirl attire often incorporates more fitted clothing or decorative elements, such as fringe or embroidery. Cowgirls might wear denim skirts or more tailored jeans, while cowboys typically wear straight-cut jeans.
Accessories: Cowgirls may accessorize with bandanas, jewelry, and decorative belts that reflect personal style. Cowboy attire tends to be more utilitarian.
Footwear Variations: While both wear cowboy boots, cowgirl boots can feature higher heels and more ornate designs, catering to fashion trends alongside functionality.
The Impact of Cowgirls on Popular Culture
The image of the cowgirl has become an iconic symbol of the American West, influencing fashion, music, and entertainment. Cowgirl-inspired fashion, such as cowboy boots and western-style clothing, remains popular today. Country music often celebrates the spirit of the cowgirl, with many female artists embracing this persona in their music and performances.
Conclusion
While "cowgirl" is the most widely recognized term for a female cowboy, it's clear that women have played a vital role in shaping the American West. From working on ranches to competing in rodeos, these skilled horsewomen have left an indelible mark on history and continue to inspire future generations. Whether they prefer to be called cowgirls or cowboys, these women embody the spirit of the frontier, demonstrating skill, resilience, and a deep connection to the land and animals they work with.
Richard Sutherland
RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.orgRichard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.