George McJunkin

 

(Wikipedia) George McJunkin (1851–1922) was an African American cowboy, amateur archaeologist and historian in New Mexico. He discovered the Folsom Site in 1908.
Born to slaves in Midway, Texas, McJunkin was approximately 14 years old when the Civil War ended.
He worked as a cowboy for freighters. He reportedly learned how to read from fellow cow punchers. McJunkin taught himself to read, write, speak Spanish, play the fiddle and guitar, eventually becoming an amateur archaeologist and historian. In 1868, McJunkin arrived in New Mexico and became a foreman on the Thomas Owens Pitchford Ranch.
In later life McJunkin became a buffalo hunter and worked for several ranches in Colorado, New Mexico and Texas. He was also reported to be an expert bronc rider and one of the best ropers in the United States. He became foreman of the Crowfoot ranch near Folsom, New Mexico. Continued

Cowboy’s discovery in New Mexico helped rewrite history

George McJunkin

(SFNM) If you travel to Folsom, about 40 miles east of Raton, don’t expect to find cafes, stores, gas stations or many people.

There is a post office with an Eisenhower-era phone booth out front, but no phone. In the last few years, the population has dwindled from about 80 souls to about 50. In some ways, it’s a place that could be easily missed — or easily forgotten.
But an inquisitive black cowboy and a flood more than 100 years ago gave Folsom a footprint in time that belies its physical presence. Continued