Black Pioneers was designed by Andrew Townes and Shari-Lee Whyte to commemorate the legacies of Black Adventurers in the United States. The collection brings awareness to the under recognized history of Black cowboys and cowgirls.

It’s estimated that one in four cowboys were African-Americans by 1825. While Texas-based ranchers were off fighting during the Civil War their slaves were responsible for maintaining the land and animals, which left Black rancher workers with some pretty in demand skills.

As free men after the war, African-Americans were hired by ranchers to move huge herds of cattle across the American frontier to buyers in the Midwest and northern states. It became the go-to profession for Black men who weren’t keen on the idea of working as an elevator operator or delivery man.

Timberland’s history-inspired collection includes versions of the popular Premium 6-inch boot and the Euro Hiker. When asked about the details, designer Shari-Lee Whyte expressed, “We wanted the Timberland Black Pioneer Collection to celebrate Black people in outdoor spaces with the star textile; a jacquard resembling a sprawling forest at bird’s eye view and a leather that over time will become unique to the wearer on their own journey.”

The combination of premium brown leather and green suede provide wearers with a classic look. Both boots in the collection will take on the personality of their owners as the leather wears down.

In addition to bringing awareness of Black cowboy culture through this capsule collection, Timberland also donated $50,000 to the Oklahoma Cowboys Foundation. Everyone party involved in this collection’s creation have shown a commitment to providing opportunities for aspiring cowboys and cowgirls.

Items from this awesome collection are available at Timberland.com while supplies last.