Mathew “Bones” Hooks left behind far more than stories of life on the open range. Seventy-five years after his death, the Texas Panhandle still celebrates the man believed to be its first Black cowboy. His influence lives on through the North Heights neighborhood, youth mentorship, and the many lives he helped shape.
Known as one of the region’s finest bronc riders, Hooks also earned respect as a leader who invested in his community. Today, Amarillo continues to honor his contributions, proving that his legacy reaches well beyond cowboy history.
Mathew ‘Bones’ Hooks Earned Respect as the Texas Panhandle’s First Black Cowboy
Born in 1867 in Henrietta, Texas, Hooks was the son of formerly enslaved parents. By the age of 14, he had already started working on cattle drives. His natural talent with horses quickly made him one of the Panhandle’s most skilled bronc riders.
According to Claudia Stuart, author of African Americans in Amarillo, Hooks loved working with horses and built a strong reputation across the region. She explained that bronc busting became his “claim to fame” because “he could ride anything.”
Yet his reputation extended beyond his riding skills. Stuart said Hooks carried himself with dignity and strong character during a time when Black Americans were often overlooked. Those qualities helped him earn respect from people across different communities.
How Bones Hooks Helped Build Amarillo’s North Heights Community
Hooks’ greatest impact came after his days on the cattle trails. His relationships with local ranchers and white families helped create opportunities that benefited Black residents in Amarillo.
In 1926, he helped establish North Heights, a neighborhood created for African Americans. Stuart explained that segregation created difficult circumstances. However, Hooks gathered the financial support needed to purchase land and help build a thriving community.
“He was able to put the finances together to buy the lots and started that community,” Stuart said.
Today, North Heights remains one of the strongest reminders of Hooks’ lasting vision. His efforts gave many Black families a place to build homes and create brighter futures.
The Dogie Club Reflected Bones Hooks’ Passion for Mentoring Black Youth
While Hooks achieved success as a cowboy, he reportedly viewed the Dogie Club as his greatest accomplishment. The club focused on mentoring Black children and giving them hope for a better future.
Stuart said the organization offered children a sense of belonging and community. It also surrounded them with people who encouraged them to dream beyond the challenges of their time.
“Bones Hooks was very instrumental in giving them the tools to do that,” Stuart said.
His work showed that true leadership goes beyond personal success. Instead, it focuses on creating opportunities for future generations.
Bones Hooks’ Legacy Continues to Inspire Amarillo
Hooks also became known for a unique tradition of honoring respected pioneers. Archived letters show he regularly sent a single white flower after the passing of notable individuals, including President Roosevelt. The gesture reflected his deep respect for service and leadership.
Although Hooks died in 1950 at the age of 84, his story continues to receive recognition. He was inducted into the Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2021. More recently, a park bearing his name received an official historical marker.
Stuart believes Hooks would be proud of what grew from his efforts.
“He got out there and set his own path, which is why he’s called a trailblazer, because he got out there and did the work,” she said.
His influence remains visible throughout Amarillo. From North Heights to the lives he helped shape, Mathew “Bones” Hooks left a legacy built on courage, leadership, and community. His story continues to remind new generations that lasting change often begins with one person willing to lead by example.
