1947 is the year the Northwest Ranch Cowboy Association first started. The formation took place in Campbell County with Dick Mader of Gillette serving a vital role in making the organization work in his term as president, serving from 1951 through 1955.

The Oakland Black Cowboy Association, a non-profit organization, has spent over three decades enlightening children and adults with the contributions of people of color in the settling of the West. This vision continues today with its annual parade and festival. People from all walks of life attend this one of a kind parade and festival which features nationwide cowboys, trick riders, schools community organizations, and local businesses.