What is the history of the Florida Cowboy?

In the year 1513, explorer Juan Ponce de Leon landed at what is now known as Saint Augustine, Florida and claimed the land for Spain. In 1521, he made a second visit to “La Florida”, somewhere in Southwest Florida. Among the many provisions that he brought along on that second journey, were the very first cattle and European horses to be introduced to the North American continent. And by 1565, the very first cattle ranch in all of the early America’s was established in the city of St Augustine.

The Spanish Conquistadors that herded cattle were known as “Vaqueros”, which translates to English as “Cowboys”. Therefore, the first Cowboys in America were actually Florida Cowboys!

Florida is a one-of-a-kind place, with many qualities that are unique to our state! We even have our very own Sasquatch, locally known as the Florida Skunk Ape! The Skunk Ape is said to reside throughout the State of Florida but is predominant in the Everglades and the panhandle and is known for its distinctive “skunky” odor!

Florida Cowboys are one-of-a-kind too! If you live in Florida (even if you’re a transplant), you’re probably a Florida Cowboy! Florida Cowboy’s have their very own style and approach to life in the Sunshine State (no, we’re not talking about Florida Man)!

We introduce you to the Florida Cowboy, represented here by our very own Florida Skunk Ape, known in these parts as “Uncle Charlie”! We hope you enjoy the coming adventures of Uncle Charlie and the Florida Cowboy!