The myth of The Cowboy looms large over American culture. While you’d never know it from the movies, history was filled
with daring characters that looked a lot more like Philadelphia’s “Concrete Cowgirl” Erin Brown than Roy Rogers. The
century-old legacy of urban riding clubs provided inspiration for Erin’s impressive 30-plus year career as a competitive
equestrian, riding instructor, and community organizer.
As an extension of the original Fletcher Street Stables, Brown founded the Philadelphia Urban Riding Academy (PURA).
PURA, a 501(c)3 non-profit, has a powerful mission: To preserve and educate the public on the history and culture of
Black urban cowboys in the City of Philadelphia through equine related activities and educational programs.
Erin is currently working on a fundraiser to build a permanent stable for PURA. To learn more, please visit the
fundraiser here.
The Concrete Cowgirl has worked tirelessly to push the conversation in the national equestrian community to provide
better access and representation for Black riders.
Nearly a quarter of early American cowboys were black. When industrialization caused a decline in demand for
cowhands during the latter half of the 19th century, these Black cowboys spread across the nation in search of work. Many
landed in cities like Los Angeles, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, sharing their expertise and setting up riding clubs and
stables in their new communities.
Nearly a quarter of early American cowboys were black. When industrialization caused a decline in demand for cowhands
during the latter half of the 19th century, these Black cowboys spread across the nation in search of work. Many landed
in cities like Los Angeles, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, sharing their expertise and setting up riding clubs and stables
in their new communities.
Historians estimate that one in four cowboys on the American frontier were black. Many landed
in cities like Philadelphia.
From the manicured lawns of the USEF’s Kentucky headquarters to the rough-hewn cobblestones of her hometown, Brown’s
career has been a testament to her adaptability and dedication. Equipped in Red Wing Heritage’s versatile Clara boot,
the Concrete Cowgirl can stride from a board meeting to the stables with the confidence that her footing is both poised
and practical.
From left to right: Mil wears style no. 8859; Stephon Sr. wears style
no. 1907; Miz wears style no. 875;
Erin wears style no. 3405; and
Stephon Jr.
wears style no. 875.
From left to right: Mil wears style no. 8859; Stephon Sr. wears
style
no. 1907; Miz
wears style no. 875;
Erin wears style no. 3404; and
Stephon Jr.
wears style no. 875.
