Hello Adam,

Thank you for visiting the AfriGeneas Western Forum. To answer your question, I don’t personally know of a particular rancher who sponsors socials, but I do have a few suggestions that may help you find one. The Texas Department of Agriculture had an excellent article about current Black ranchers (George Ayres, Texas Department of Agriculture-January 2006 “Celebrate Black History Month Through The Eyes of Texas Agriculture -Taking a Look Back”)
http://www.gotexan.org/gt/channel/render/items/0,1218,1670_4009_0_0,00.html

Second, The AfriGeneas site has a link provided by our Western Forum moderator, Bennie J. McRae Jr., which provides contact information for the BLACK FARMERS & AGRICULTURALISTS ASSOCIATION
http://www.coax.net/people/lwf/BFAA_FBI.HTM
They are well organized and may have ideas for you.

Third, in southern California there is a Black equestrian organization in Compton called “The Queue Up Posse.” http://www.jrposse.com/. When I lived in Southern California I did a few things with this group. Another well organized and progressive group with a lot of diverse support networks. It was at one of their activities that I was able to meet a grand nephew of the famous Billy Pickett.

Northern California also has Will Scott, president of the African American Farmers of California and Oakland has the Wildcat Canyon Ranch in which is controlled by the city. Also, some state parks allow private gathering under fees and reservations.

Your location is important to the resources you have available, however, there may be ranchers outside of African-American culture who might be interested in your social. I’m curious as to what type of social you have planned. It’s ironic that you asked this question because my next article is going to touch on Black ranchers and farmers in the West.
Finally, the AfriGeneas site has several other forums and advisors which may also be of help. Thanks again,

Allen