Wild West Podcast
Welcome to the Wild West podcast, where fact and legend merge. We present the true accounts of individuals who settled in towns built out of hunger for money, regulated by fast guns, who walked on both sides of the law, patrolling, investing in, and regulating the brothels, saloons, and gambling houses. These are stories of the men who made the history of the Old West come alive - bringing with them the birth of legends, brought to order by a six-gun and laid to rest with their boots on. Join us as we take you back in history to the legends of the Wild West.
Wild West Podcast
Wild West Lawman: Wyatt Earp's Dodge City Years
Wyatt Earp's transformation from faro dealer to legendary lawman unfolds through his pivotal years in Dodge City, Kansas. Fresh from his stint in Wichita, Earp arrived in 1876 with companion Celia Ann "Maddy" Blaylock and quickly secured a position as Deputy Marshal. His duties extended far beyond apprehending criminals to include mundane civic maintenance tasks that rarely make it into romanticized Western narratives.
The podcast reveals fascinating gaps in Earp's documented history, particularly his 1877 venture to gold-rush Deadwood. Rather than prospecting, Earp's entrepreneurial instincts led him to establish a lucrative firewood business during the bitter Dakota winter, charging $12 per cord with desperate gamblers offering up to $50 during extreme conditions. This shrewd business acumen showcases a dimension of Earp seldom highlighted in traditional accounts.
Perhaps most consequential was Earp's chance meeting with Doc Holliday while pursuing outlaw Dave Rudabaugh in Fort Griffin, Texas. This seemingly random encounter would forge one of the West's most famous partnerships. Upon returning to Dodge City as assistant marshal in 1878, Earp became embroiled in escalating tensions with Texas cowboys, culminating in the controversial shooting of George Hoy and a reported confrontation with notorious gunman Clay Allison. Surprisingly, contemporary accounts suggest Earp may have avoided direct confrontation with Allison's gang, contradicting later heroic narratives and highlighting the complex relationship between historical reality and Western mythology.
Don't miss our upcoming interview with Peter Brand, acclaimed author of multiple works on Wyatt Earp and Tombstone. Connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/wildwestpodcast for announcements and join our exploration of the authentic American West beyond the silver screen legends.
In 1876, wyatt Earp moved to Dodge City, Kansas, a town known for its thriving cattle trade and wild frontier undercurrent. Upon his arrival, he took on the role of a farrow dealer, a popular gambling game of the time. He was accompanied by Celia Ann Maddy Blaylock, a woman he had met during his previous stint in Wichita. Together, they entered a thriving community that was rapidly evolving, characterized by the frenetic energy of cowboys, traitors and various other colorful characters. Shortly after settling in Dodge City, earp's reputation from Wichita preceded him, enabling him to secure a position as Deputy Marshal under Marshal Larry Dacre. This appointment came swiftly, reflecting his prior experience and the urgent need for capable law enforcement in a town beat down with lawlessness. The Wichita newspaper the Beacon recognized Earp's new role, proclaiming on May 24, 1876, wyatt Earp has been put on the police force at Dodge City. However, the documentation from this period revealing the details of Earp's work as a deputy from 1876 to 1877 is surprisingly sparse. Dodge City, often called Queen of the Cow Towns, was notorious for its lively and unsettled circumstances. Its grating economy attracted diverse outlaws and unsavory characters, necessitating lawmen of considerable mettle, qualities that Wyatt Earp undoubtedly embodied. Yet the responsibilities associated with being a deputy marshal extended beyond simply apprehending criminals. They also included tasks that would seem mundane by comparison. Earp's duties could involve everything from mending the wooden sidewalks typical of western towns to ensuring that the streets remained free of stray dogs and the remains of dead animals, all of which contributed to maintaining a basic level of civility in such a chaotic environment. By April of 1877, however, references to Earp as part of the Dodge City Police Force became noticeably absent. This record cap has led to speculation among historians, with some suggesting that Wyatt may have ventured to Deadwood, south Dakota, during this period, seeking new opportunities and a change of scenery amid the uncertainties of frontier life. And a change of scenery amid the uncertainties of frontier life? Stuart Lake indicated that a recurring theme in Wyatt Earp's life was his wanderlust, characterized by a desire for exploration and wealth. The gold discovery in the Black Hills of Dakota proved irresistible to him, prompting Wyatt and his brother Morgan to depart from Dodge City for Deadwood on September 9, 1876. They traveled in a wagon drawn by a well-matched four-ly journey toward the rugged hills of the Black Hills region, ultimately arriving in Deadwood. This frontier settlement was teeming with a diverse mix of prospectors, miners, promoters and hopeful fortune seekers drawn by the allure of gold. As they surveyed the atmosphere and the myriad of ambitious individuals vying for their piece of the American dream, morgan Earp carefully weighed the circumstances surrounding Deadwood. Recognizing the impending harshness of winter and the challenges it could bring, he made the decision to return to Dodge City. In stark contrast, wyatt saw a ripe opportunity in Deadwood to capitalize on the thriving gold dust market, particularly at the gaming tables of the local saloons known for their high-stakes gambling. His astute nature and flair for gaming led him to believe he could improve the situation, potentially enhancing his fortune. Interestingly, accounts from Seth Bullock's son indicate that the Earp brothers were not solely focused on striking it rich through gold mining. Instead, Wyatt was approached by a group of influential figures in Deadwood who sought their assistance as muscle. This group wanted Wyatt to help protect and manage various mining claims, bringing their renowned reputation for toughness and law enforcement to the chaotic landscape of Deadwood.
Speaker 1:Wyatt Earp described his winter in Deadwood for biographer Stuart N Lake. The man I rented a stable from owned a timbered hillside a few miles from town. He had been cutting and piling wood during the fall, expecting to sell it when winter arrived. However, like many others in the camp, he had overlooked the transportation issue. Sensing a potential fuel shortage, I secured the wood supply with a contract to pay the owner $2 per cord at his property. Since most of the wood was deadfall, he made a good profit. I constructed a wagon box mounted on wheels or runners that could carry two cords per load and hired a man to help me load and unload it for $2 per trip. Buyers were responsible for their own piling. I could haul four loads, sometimes five, which meant I could transport eight or ten cords daily. I sold the wood and deadwood for $12 per cord, collecting cash up front before unloading. Every load was contracted in advance and often I drove down the main street of the camp with men running alongside offering bids of $20, $30, or even $50 per cord for what I was obligated to sell at my agreed-upon price. I charged tire premiums for extraordinary night hauls. Once a man woke me up in the middle of the night asking for wood to keep a large poker game going until morning. He paid $100 per cord and $10 for my helper. The thermometer read 40 below zero that night and a 40-mile northwest wind was howling.
Speaker 1:In the spring of 1877, wyatt Earp explored the hills in Deadwood, where he confirmed that all promising gold claims had already been staked. Reports suggest that Earp left town following a disagreement with Seth Bullock, the local sheriff. He sold his team and proceeded to the stage office to reserve a seat on the Cheyenne stage. Wells Fargo agent Gray perceived Wyatt's departure as a resolution of his challenge of securely transporting the spring cleanup from the gold mines. In response, he posted a bulletin on the door of the Wells Fargo office. Notice to bullion shippers the spring cleanup will depart for Cheyenne on the regular stage at 7 o'clock am next Monday. Wyatt Earp from Dodge will ride shotgun. Over $200,000 worth of gold was shipped out of Deadwood on this trip, with Wyatt Earp accompanying it in the boot of the stagecoach. Earp later reflected I was a traveling arsenal that morning. The stagecoach reached Cheyenne around 4 o'clock on Wednesday afternoon, maintaining the safety of every ounce of gold throughout the journey. Although there were no driver changes during the 300-mile trip, wyatt remained on duty continuously. Wells Fargo covered his fare and paid him $50 for his services. Effectively marketing Wyatt Earp's return to law enforcement activities. Marketing Wyatt Earp's return to law enforcement activities.
Speaker 1:In July of 1877, wyatt Earp returned to Dodge City, kansas, and was now a private citizen. His return to town was anticipated, but it soon took a turn, when he was in a heated confrontation with a spirited and unruly woman, miss Frankie Bell. The incident, charged with tension, caught the attention of the local press and the Dodge City Times captured the details in their edition published on July 21, 1877, recounting the clash between the infamous lawman and the defiant woman Miss Frankie Bell, who wears the belt for superiority and point of muscular ability, heaped epithets upon the unoffending head of Mr Earp to such an extent as to provoke a slap from the ex-officer, besides creating a disturbance of the quiet and dignity of the city, for which he received a night's lodging in the doghouse and a reception at the police court next morning, the expense of which was about $20. Wyatt Earp was assessed the lowest limit of the law, $1. In November 1877, the adventurous Wyatt Earp departed from Dodge City, kansas, compelled by the urgent need to track down the notorious outlaw Dave Rudabaugh. Rudabaugh had recently managed a daring robbery at a Santa Fe Railroad construction camp, swiftly fleeing southward towards Texas, rudabaugh was mentioned in the area north of Abilene, at Fort Griffin, where he grew up alongside the military fort of the same name. Where he grew up alongside the military fort of the same name. There he is rumored to have been part of an area gang that committed robberies and cattle rustling. In recognition of his determination and skills, earp was appointed a temporary deputy US Marshal. He embarked on a grueling journey that spanned over 400 miles toward Fort Griffin, texas. His target, the elusive Rudebaugh, who had settled there shortly before his arrival.
Speaker 1:Fort Griffin was a lively and significant waypoint on the cattle trail, pulsating with the energy of cowboys and buffalo hunters, the Cattlemen's Cattle, doc Holliday Wyatt, earp himself and lawman Pat Garrett, to name a few, who often mingled with the community, adding to the town's reputation as a haven for criminals. At its peak, fort Griffin boasted a population of around 1,000 residents who enjoyed various domestic services, such as cozy boarding houses, lively livery stables, fragrant bakeries, quaint barbershops and even its own newspaper to keep the locals informed. The nearby military fort, operational between 1867 and 1881, contributed to the area's strategic importance and lively atmosphere. Earp entered Fort Griffin and went to the sal's strategic importance and lively atmosphere. Earp entered Fort Griffin and went to the saloon owned by his old acquaintance John Shancy. Shancy welcomed Earp, sharing that Rudabaugh had graced his establishment but had since made a hasty exit. With a knowing look, shancy suggested that Earp speak with a solitary figure seated in a dimly lit corner, a man who had recently played cards with Rudabaugh and might hold valuable information. Though Rudabaugh had slipped away, earp initiated a lively conversation with the shady Doc Holliday, exchanging tales of Dodge City. Holliday showed a riveting interest in Earp's numerous escapades. After spending nearly a month in Fort Griffin, earp set off for Fort Clark, texas, where the local newspaper noted his presence on the frontier in January 22, 1878. 1878. The community of Dodge City hummed with excitement as, on May 14th of that year, the local Times reported Earp's appointment as assistant marshal. This role was officially confirmed on June 4th, complete with a respectable monthly salary of $75, once again solidifying his standing in law enforcement.
Speaker 1:In July of 1878, a significant and chaotic incident unfolded involving a Texas cowboy named George Hoy, whose intoxicated state led him to create a public disturbance in the town. Hoy, armed and inebriated, began firing his pistol recklessly into the air, alarming townsfolk and creating panic among the local population. The commotion drew the immediate attention of law enforcement officers Wyatt Earp and Jim Masterson. Upon arriving at the scene, earp and Masterson swiftly took action to subdue the volatile situation. As Hoy attempted to escape the scene on horseback. He was pursued by Earp, jim Masterson and an unidentified bystander who also joined the skirmish. Tensions escalated as gunfire erupted, with the three men firing at Hoy to stop his reckless behavior and prevent further harm to innocent bystanders. During the chaotic exchange, one of the bullets struck Hoy, causing him to lose control and tumble from his horse. The impact of the fall, combined with the severity of his gunshot wound, led to significant medical complications, which ultimately resulted in his death. The precise identity of the person who delivered the fatal shot has been a topic of debate among historians, with some attributing it to Wyatt Earp, marking a pivotal moment in his early career as a lawman. The incident not only marked Earp's first confirmed kill, but also set a troubling precedent highlighting the increasingly violent clashes between law enforcement and Texas Cowboys as tensions simmered in Dodge City. This confrontation foreshadowed similar events that would occur in the coming days, reflecting the ongoing struggle for control and lawfulness in the unpredictable environment of Dodge City.
Speaker 1:In the summer of 1878, dodge City faced notable challenges related to law enforcement. The Ford County Globe reported extensively on the police department's struggles to manage a surge in criminal activities such as theft, con artistry and robbery. These articles raised concerns about the possibility that some police officers may have been complicit in shielding these criminals. This situation contributed to growing public frustration over the lack of effective action against Tin Horn gamblers and other offenders. Following the newspaper report, a meeting was convened among the townspeople of Dodge City to address their concerns over the lack of action taken by local officers in response to the rising criminal activity in the area. In response to the rising criminal activity in the area, the situation had escalated to a point where even the Dodge City Times, a publication typically supportive of local authorities, began to question the effectiveness of forming a grand jury to tackle these issues. This reflects the growing dissatisfaction among residents regarding the handling of crime in their community.
Speaker 1:Amid escalating pressure from the community, law enforcement began to implement a markedly more aggressive strategy for dealing with unruly cowboys. This strategic shift, which became known as buffaloing, marked a significant change in the way police interacted with cattle herders, allowing officers to confront these individuals with increased boldness and, at times, even with a sense of impunity. The catalyst for this new approach was the highly controversial incident involving George Hoy. During this incident, hoy tragically lost his life due to a gunshot wound inflicted by a police officer, an event that not only raised serious questions about police conduct, but also intensified the simmering hostilities between the law enforcement community and local cattlemen. In an attempt to shed light on these contentious interactions, the Globe published a revealing article detailing the ongoing intimidation tactics employed by police against herders. The report highlighted the troubling reality that officers faced minimal consequences for their aggressive behavior. That officers faced minimal consequences for their aggressive behavior. This not only fueled public outrage, but also widened the chasm of distrust between the hurting community and law enforcement, further complicating an already tense situation. As the dynamic shifted, both sides braced themselves for the potential fallout that could arise from this escalating conflict.
Speaker 1:On August 6, 1878, the Globe published an article criticizing an unnamed officer for his violent treatment of a Mexican prisoner named Guadalupe Flores. The article condemned the officer for striking Flores with a six-shooter while he was allegedly defenseless. Flores had been arrested for being drunk and disorderly and had pleaded guilty to the charge. However, after reviewing the circumstances of his arrest, the Dodge City Police Court ultimately found him not guilty and ordered his release. This decision suggested that the court recognized the excessive force he had already endured at the hands of the police. This incident highlighted the community's ongoing concern regarding the treatment of individuals by law enforcement officials during that time.
Speaker 1:At the same time, the Texas cattlemen were outraged over their men's perceived mistreatment and were determined to take a stand. In a letter from Lewistown, montana, a cowboy, pink Sims, wrote A drunken cowboy has been shot to death while firing a pistol into the air in the streets of Dodge. He either worked for or was a friend of Clay Allison. He either worked for or was a friend of Clay Allison. Others had been robbed, shot or beaten with revolvers and the cowmen were furious about it. It was said that the marshals were merely pimps, gamblers and saloon keepers. They had disarmed the cowboys, leaving them harmless. If a cowboy became too unruly or managed to get a gun, he would be shot down with shotguns. Allison was prepared to protest the treatment of his men and of course, the tough old Clay was ready to back his arguments with violence. The charged atmosphere in Dodge made an explosive situation very likely.
Speaker 1:When Robert Andrew Clay Allison arrived in Dodge City, he was already a prominent figure in the West. The Kinsley graphic on December 14, 1878 provided a description of him stating Clay Allison, well known on the frontier and in western Kansas, but even better known in western Texas for his daring deeds and numerous clashes involving knives and firearms, has been in town for several days this week. His appearance is striking. He is tall, straight as an arrow, dark-complexioned, and carries himself easily and gracefully. He is gentlemanly and courteous in manner never revealing, by word or action, the history of his eventful life. Allison had an extensive list of notches on his belt, which included encounters with notable figures such as Chunk Colbert, a reputed killer, francisco Grigo, another notorious gunfighter, and Charles Fabre, an officer from Los Animas. Fabre, an officer from Los Animas. Many stories about his exploits exist, some based on fact and others possibly exaggerated. However, regardless of their truth, these tales contributed significantly to Clay Allison's reputation as one of the most feared individuals in the West when he arrived in Dodge City in September 1878.
Speaker 1:On September 19, 1878, clay Allison, a notorious figure known for leading a gang of unruly cowboys, arrived in Dodge City seeking trouble. At the time, wyatt Earp was serving as the assistant marshal and had received a warning about Allison's imminent arrival. He took the precaution of informing several community members, including Chalk Beeson, to remain vigilant. Rumors were suggesting that Allison's visit was motivated by grievances against the police, particularly concerning the mistreatment of cowboys and the shooting of George Hoy. Knowing that 25 rowdy cowboys backed Allison, wyatt Earp and policeman Jim Masterson, bat's brother, began to assemble their forces. In the meantime, dick McNulty and Jock Beeson intervened on behalf of the town, convincing Allison and his gang of untamed cowboys to give up their guns.
Speaker 1:Despite the efforts to encourage Allison and his group to disarm, the law enforcement officials did not confront them directly. This lack of action may have been perceived by Allison and his gang as a sign of cowardice and as a failure on the part of the police to protect the community. A 21st century publication, the Globe, remarked on the situation. It is said the officers failed to appear. These occurrences are subjects of much comment on the conduct of the officers. These occurrences are subjects of much comment on the conduct of the officers. Charles Seringo, who arrived in Dodge City on the same day, supported the accounts of Beeson and McNulty regarding their confrontation with Allison, highlighting the prevailing tension. Charles Seringo had recently heard from Cape Willingham about the reports of Indian raids occurring to the south. Upon encountering an upset Clay Allison, accompanied by his gang, seringo noted that Allison was determined to seek justice for George Hoy's death and to demand a change in the police treatment of his associates. As Allison's gang moved between saloons. Fueled by alcohol, their agitation escalated, leading to a chaotic scene characterized by shouting and gunfire by early afternoon.
Speaker 1:There seems to be no evidence that any kind of showdown occurred between Wyatt Earp and Clay Allison. Evidence for a conversation between Allison and Earp is sparse. A likely scenario for this meeting is the one put forth by Pink Sims. I also heard that later Allison alone found Wyatt Earp seated in his lookout's chair at a Pharaoh game and he told him in no uncertain terms what he thought of the way some of the cowboys were being treated. We have in this a highly believable proposition. Allison had no fear of being gunned down, as Beeson so eloquently put it. No one there would be so mean as to jump on them when they were unarmed. That was against the rules of civilized warfare as construed in Dodge. Mr Beeson's involvement seems to enforce the one told by Charles Seringo. It is clear that, for whatever reason, wyatt Earp, backed by Bat Masterson, did not quell the disturbance. That honor must go to Dick McNulty and Chalk Beeson. Two witnesses confirmed McNulty's involvement in de-escalating the situation, lending credibility to Seringo's account. It is also noteworthy that Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson could not have participated in confronting Allison and his gang due to the dull knife raid, as both may have been out of town at that time.
Speaker 1:As we wrap up our thrilling tale of wyatt erp in dodge city, we're thrilled to share some exciting news. Peter Brand, the acclaimed author of Josephine Sadie Earp the Sorted Truth of 1870-1883, is set to join us on the Wild West Podcast. Known for his passionate dedication to Western storytelling, peter has meticulously unraveled the legendary narratives of Tombstone, bringing its iconic figures to life through his extensive research Since 2000, peter has delved deep into the captivating lives of Wyatt Earp and the dramatic events surrounding Tombstone, focusing on the intriguing members of Earp's notorious vendetta posse. His works highlight the fascinating connections between legends like Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp. Among his remarkable publications are Wyatt Earp's Vendetta Posse Writer, the Story of Texas, jack Vermillion and Doc Holliday's Nemesis, the Story of Johnny Tyler and Tombstone's Gambler's War.
Speaker 1:If you share our passion for Western history, you won't want to miss this. If you share our passion for Western history, you won't want to miss this. Stay tuned for the announcement of Peter Brand's appearance on our show and be sure to connect with us on Facebook at facebookcom slash wildwestpodcast for all the latest updates and special announcements. Thank you.