Baxter Black, born on October 1, 1945 in New Mexico, is a renowned cowboy poet whose works have captured the hearts of many. His best-known works include "Horseshoes, Cowsocks, and Duckfeet," "Legacy of the Rodeo Man," and "The Buckskin Mare." However, his talents extend beyond poetry as he also had a successful career as a veterinarian for farm and ranch animals.
Black's educational journey took him to New Mexico State University and Colorado State University. It was during his time at these institutions that he honed his skills as a writer and poet, setting the stage for his future success in the literary world.
Aside from his literary pursuits, Black also wrote a weekly newspaper column titled "On the Edge of Common Sense." Through this column, he shared his insights on ranch life, animal husbandry, and the cowboy way of life. His humorous yet poignant observations resonated with readers across the country.
Black's passion for animals led him to pursue a career as a veterinarian, where he worked tirelessly to care for the livestock that were crucial to the western way of life. His deep connection to the land and the creatures that inhabited it is evident in his poetry, which often celebrates the beauty and resilience of the natural world.
In addition to his literary and veterinary pursuits, Black is also a devoted family man. He and his wife, Cindy Lou Black, eventually settled in Arizona, where they built a life together surrounded by the beauty of the desert landscape.
Throughout his career, Black has been compared to the legendary Will Rogers, a testament to his skill as a storyteller and his ability to capture the essence of the American West. His unique blend of humor, wit, and wisdom has endeared him to fans of all ages, solidifying his place as a beloved figure in the world of western literature.
As a poet, veterinarian, and storyteller, Baxter Black has left an indelible mark on the literary world. His words have the power to transport readers to the wide-open spaces of the American West, where cowboys, horses, and endless horizons reign supreme. Through his poetry, Black offers a window into a world that is both rugged and beautiful, reminding us of the timeless truths that connect us to the land, to the animals, and to each other.