Lubbock Native Will Discuss Cowboy Culture and Presidential Politics at the NRHC

Written by: Jessica Behnham

Western culture expert and author B. Byron Price will discuss the relationship between cowboy culture and presidential politics at 7 p.m. Jan. 15 at the main gallery of the National Ranching Heritage Center, 3121 Fourth Street in Lubbock. Price's lecture is titled "Black Hat, White Hat: The Good, The Bad and The Enduring Image" and covers the presidential years of Theodore Roosevelt through George W. Bush. Price received his master's degree from Texas Tech University in Museum Science and currently serves as director of the Charles M. Russell Center for the Study of Art of the American West at the University of Oklahoma. His discussion will focus on how, at the turn of the 20th century, the U.S. presidency became intertwined with popular culture's image of the cowboy hero. "'Cowboy' became more than an occupation," he said. "The word symbolizes action, individualism and masculinity. It also came to imply character and behavior embodying both positive and negative connotations." Price's visit is sponsored by the Helen Jones Foundation Education Endowment at the National Ranching Heritage Center. A reservation is required to attend the event. [A photo is available upon request.] CONTACT: Emily Arellano, manager of education programs, National Ranching Heritage Center, (806) 742-0497 ext. 228 or emily.arellano@ttu.edu.