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. You can support our show by subscribing to Exclusive access to premium content at Wild West Podcast + https://www.buzzsprout.com/64094/subscribe
Wild West Podcast
Gunfight at the Oriental: Audio Book
The dusty streets of Tombstone, Arizona became the stage for one of the Wild West's most dramatic confrontations when two seasoned gamblers faced off outside the Oriental Saloon on February 25, 1881. What began as heated words escalated into a deadly showdown that would forever link the names of Luke Short and Charlie Storms in frontier history.
Against the opulent backdrop of the Oriental Saloon—Tombstone's premier gambling establishment with its 28 chandeliers and Brussels carpets—tensions had been brewing for days. Legendary lawman Bat Masterson had recently arrived in town at the request of his friend Wyatt Earp to help protect their gambling interests from rival factions. Little did he know he would soon witness a deadly encounter between two men he knew well.
Charlie Storms was already infamous throughout the West—a skilled gambler with a volatile temperament who boasted loudly about his fighting prowess. Luke Short, though younger at just 27, had quickly established himself in Tombstone's gambling scene as someone not to be trifled with. When Storms took offense at being called an "old, gray-bearded son of a bitch," what might have remained a verbal spat spiraled toward its inevitable violent conclusion.
The confrontation culminated in a lightning-fast exchange of gunfire on Tombstone's main street. Short proved the quicker draw, placing a fatal bullet through Storms' heart. In the frontier justice system of the day, the local judge quickly ruled the killing self-defense, finding no grounds for murder charges against Short. Meanwhile, Storms was laid to rest in Boot Hill Cemetery, leaving behind two widows in different states—a testament to the complex lives these frontier gamblers led.
This fascinating episode transports you back to the authentic Wild West, where personal honor, quick reflexes, and skill with firearms often determined who lived to see another sunset. Through meticulous historical research, you'll experience the sights, sounds, and tensions of a frontier town where fortune-hunters, lawmen, and outlaws crossed paths daily, and where a heated word could transform a friendly card game into a date with Boot Hill.
This is Audible. Books on Tape presents Gunfight at the Oriental Saloon by Michael King, narrated by Brad Smalley. A dime novel creation of Gunslingers of the Wild West from the Wild West Podcast Library. Note from the author.
Speaker 1:In discussions about the historical writing present in my books, I realized the importance of finding a suitable reference to articulate my perspective effectively. Ernest Hemingway's insights in A Movable Feast provided a fitting example. Feast provided a fitting example. He described creative nonfiction, or the accurate recounting of factual events, as verbola. This term emphasizes the practice of developing a precise narrative that employs literary techniques and storytelling elements to render real-life events engaging and vivid. The process entails blending factual accuracy with a creative writing style, resulting in a narrative that is both informative and compelling.
Speaker 1:The Wild West evokes vivid imagery of epic duels, legendary lawmen and bustling saloons that thrived in an atmosphere often dancing on the precipice of chaos. In this compelling episode, we immerse ourselves in the extraordinary narrative of Bat Masterson, a formidable figure of the Southern Tier during the tumultuous era of the Old West. His time spent in the notorious Oriental Saloon serves as a vibrant backdrop, ripe for an exploration of themes such as camaraderie, conflict and the perilous nature of gambling, a pastime that could just as soon lead one to fortune as to an untimely demise. This was no mere venue for card games. It was a crucible where destinies were forged, occasionally at the end of a gun. Bat Masterson's arrival in the lawless town of Tombstone heralded a pivotal moment in the historical melting pot of power dynamics, as he allied himself with influential local figures like Wyatt Earp. This episode meticulously unravels the circumstances of their first meeting, revealing a complex web of alliances and rivalries that intertwine the fates of these iconic personalities. The narrative delves into the crucial intelligence shared by Earp regarding the local tensions, with particular emphasis on the threats posed by factions envious of the Oriental saloon's booming success.
Speaker 1:In this relentless landscape, gunslingers were not mere characters of legend. They were active participants in a high-stakes game where survival hinged on cunning and strategy. Enter Charlie Storms, a masterful gambler whose audacious confidence was as captivating as it was perilous. His dramatic entrance into the Oriental Saloon ignites a series of events that escalate tensions to the boiling point, threatening to shatter the very foundation of this lively establishment. Listeners are invited to visualize the Oriental saloon richly adorned with opulent carpets, intricate gilded decor and an atmosphere crackling with the thrill of chance-taking. The story vividly paints this scene, skillfully illustrating the social intricacies in play, where a winning smile could cloak the danger of a concealed weapon. As the dramatic confrontation unfolds, we gain insight into the intoxicating yet dangerous allure of the Wild West, a realm where conversations could swiftly spiral into violence and a single choice could lead one perilously close to oblivion. The transition from heated exchanges to gunfire starkly highlights the harsh realities faced by those endeavoring to carve out their fortunes against the tumultuous backdrop of the frontier. By honing in on the intense duel between Luke Short and Charlie Storms, we embark on a profound exploration of the motivations and choices that define individuals caught in such treacherous interactions. Ultimately, this episode transcends the mere recounting of historical events. It invites deep reflection on the significant implications of personal agency and the often unforeseen consequences of a fleeting moment. Listeners are encouraged to draw parallels to contemporary contexts where similar dynamics unfold, be it in the realms of business, politics or personal relationships, illuminating the timeless and universal nature of stakes that run high in any era.
Speaker 1:The Dime Novel. The term dime novel originally pertains to Beatles' Dime Novels, a groundbreaking series of affordable pamphlet-bound books published between 1860 and 1874. This series revolutionized popular literature by making it accessible to a broader audience. Noteworthy titles from Beatles' collection include Malaesca, the Indian Wife of the White Hunter, number one, and Seth Jones or the Captives of the Frontier, number eight, both of which achieved remarkable success by selling over 300,000 copies each. Their popularity positioned them among the best-selling novels of the mid-19th century, highlighting a significant shift in reading habits during that era.
Speaker 1:In the wake of Beatles' triumph, numerous publishers entered the fray producing imitation dime novels, which evolved the format over the subsequent five decades. This change was shaped by competitive publishing practices and new postal regulations that facilitated the distribution of such literature. Consequently, the definition of dime novel expanded to encompass various formats, including story papers, pamphlet novels, nickel weeklies and thicker trade paperbacks. In general, any inexpensive popular fiction released on paper covers and serialized in the United States between 1860 to 1930 has come to be classified as a dime novel. The original dime novels were typically designed as pamphlet-bound booklets measuring approximately four inches by six inches and containing around 100 pages of engaging content. These publications were usually wrapped in a burnt orange paper cover a burnt orange paper cover strikingly illustrated to attract readers.
Speaker 1:Beatles' dime novels included 321 issues published regularly from June 1860 until August 1874, beginning with Malaiska, the Indian Wife of the White Hunter, penned by Mrs Ann S Stevens Indian Wife of the White Hunter. Penned by Mrs Ann S Stevens, sales estimates for each issue ranged between 35,000 and 80,000 copies, vastly outstripping conventional hardcover novels of that time and underscoring the widespread appeal of these works. The narratives within these dime novels predominantly centered around themes related to the American frontier or the West, often delving into tales of border romances and conflicts with Native Americans. Additionally, sea stories and historical romances set against the backdrop of the American Revolution or the War of 1812 were immensely popular among young readers, reflecting the diverse interests and imaginations of the 19th century audience. Thus, dime novels played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of American popular fiction, embodying the spirit of adventure, drama and the pursuit of the American dream.
Speaker 1:The following narrative draws inspiration from in-depth research conducted by Peter Brand, particularly highlighted in his 2015 article the Killing of Charlie Storms by Luke Short. Additionally, the story includes valuable excerpts from the acclaimed work of William Bat Masterson, famous Gunfighters of the Western Frontier, which offers rich insights into the lives and legacies of renowned figures from the Old West. This episode weaves together factual accounts and historical context to paint a vivid picture of the events surrounding Bat Masterson's visit to Tombstone in 1881. Gunfight at the Oriental Saloon February 25th 1881. When Bat Masterson arrived in Tombstone, he met Wyatt Earp and several of his formidable associates, including Rickabaw, the owner of the Oriental, and Ed Harris, a former saloon owner in Dodge City. They shared with Batt the exciting news that he would be joining a consortium responsible for managing the Oriental Saloon, reputed to be the most opulent gambling establishment in the entire Arizona Territory. Its lavish decor and rowdy atmosphere made it a hub for gamblers and a backdrop for high-stakes gambling.
Speaker 1:The Oriental Saloon, which opened its doors to the public on July 22, 1880, was a significant addition to the newly established town of Tombstone, embodying its ambitious spirit. An article in the Tombstone Daily Epitaph highlighted the saloon's elegant design, noting it featured 28 chandeliers that provided ample illumination, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The establishment consists of two distinct sections. The bar area located to the right of the main entrance boasts intricately carved woodwork finished in white and gilt, complemented by a polished countertop. Behind the bar are sideboards initially crafted for the Baldwin Hotel in San Francisco. The back room is furnished in the style of an upscale club, adorned with a luxurious Brussels carpet and offering facilities suited for card games, particularly appealing to those who engage in high-stakes gambling. This opulent setting marked a noteworthy achievement for Tombstone, and the community celebrated the efforts of Mrs Joyce and Company in creating such a remarkable venue.
Speaker 1:However, beneath the glimmering facade of the saloon lay a shadowy peril. A rival faction of gamblers was intent on claiming a piece of the lucrative pie that the Oriental offered. To counter this threat, bat was called upon not only for his connections and influence, but also for his formidable skills as a gunslinger and gambler, a fact that was as well known as his adeptness with the Farrow Box. During a lively evening spent with Wyatt Earp and his companions, bat witnessed firsthand the intricate dynamics of the local power struggles, as Wyatt shared in-depth intelligence regarding the slopers and their scheming attempt to seize control of the Oriental Saloon. Wyatt recounted a significant confrontation from early October 1880 and their scheming attempt to seize control of the Oriental saloon.
Speaker 1:Wyatt recounted a significant confrontation from early October 1880, where Doc Holliday found himself at odds with a notorious troublemaker, johnny Tyler, who had established a reputation for causing turmoil within the saloon's volatile atmosphere. Wyatt detailed how the tension in the air escalated as Holiday, known for his quick temper, confronted Tyler directly, issuing a challenge to settle their differences through a fight there and then, nonetheless, instead of standing his ground, tyler, recognizing Holiday's fierce reputation and quick draw, succumbed to fear and made a hasty retreat, choosing to abandon the confrontation rather than face the wrath of the fearsome Doc Holiday, the owner of the Oriental Milt Joyce, who disliked Holiday and the herbs, continued the argument with Doc Joyce, had Holiday thrown out of the saloon, but the deadly dentist soon returned. Revolver in hand, holiday discharged several shots, injuring Joyce in the thumb and hitting Joyce's partner, a man named Parker, in the big toe. Joyce then took a shot that missed its target, but managed to hit Doc over the head with his revolver. A law officer named Bennett arrived on the scene and separated the men.
Speaker 1:Shortly after assuming his role at the saloon, bat found himself at the epicenter of a fierce confrontation. He, the Slopers, a notorious West Coast gang with designs on taking over the Oriental, sought to oust Earp and his team using intimidation and violence. In this treacherous endeavor, they had enlisted the services of Charlie Storms, a seasoned gambler and deadly gunman known for his ruthless efficiency. Known for his ruthless efficiency. Unexpectedly, bat had a history with storms. Their past encounters had been marked by mutual respect, which complicated Bat's thoughts about the coming conflict as tensions escalated within the saloon, where laughter mingled with threatening whispers set the scene. Bat prepared himself for a showdown that could determine the fate of the Oriental and its place in the lively, volatile streets of Tombstone. The story further escalates with Luke Short, a 27-year-old with deep roots in the verdant hills of Arkansas, who recently made his home in the rugged and rapidly evolving town of Tombstone. Having resided there for only two or three months, luke finds himself drawn into the pulsating life of this frontier settlement. He has assumed the role of a lookout, actively navigating the agitated waters of the local gambling scene, an industry rife with both lucrative opportunities and precarious risks.
Speaker 1:One particularly memorable incident occurred at the Oriental Saloon on February 25, 1881. As a fierce windstorm howled outside, disrupting the usual revelry, tensions inside the saloon began to rise dramatically. Amid the swirling dust and chaos, a notorious professional gunfighter and gambler named Charlie Storms strode into the establishment, his brash demeanor immediately commanding attention. Emboldened by the chaos around him, storms began to boast loudly about his supposed combat skills and daring exploits, declaring with a swagger that he could beat anyone in the room in a showdown. His bluster echoed through the saloon and his irritating boastfulness quickly shifted from mere annoyance to outright hostility. From mere annoyance to outright hostility, a tense confrontation unfolded when Charlie brandished a gleaming Colt revolver, pressing the barrel intimidatingly under the nose of the card dealer, rickabaw. With a fierce glare, he declared that Rickabaw would meet a grim fate if he dared to turn another card.
Speaker 1:The atmosphere thickened with unease as the stakes escalated. Just then Short, sensing the brewing trouble, intervened In a brazen display intended to provoke Storms, turned his ire toward Luke Short, hurling a crude and menacing taunt I'll serve you a lesson, you, son of a bitch, he proclaimed, eyes glinting dangerously as he openly challenged Luke, the air thickened with tension and the saloon patrons held their breath, anticipating the inevitable clash between these two fierce personalities. However, before the situation could spiral further, before any hammers could be cocked, masterson stepped in, positioning himself firmly between the two men to defuse the escalation. Undeterred by the formidable challenge at hand, luke Short remained steadfast in his composure, exuding a quiet confidence as he asserted his request for Charlie Storms to abstain from making any more inflammatory remarks. Luke's intention was crystal clear To alleviate the mounting tension in an increasingly volatile situation where emotions were running high and the delicate boundaries between civility and conflict were perilously thin.
Speaker 1:Despite Luke's effort to advocate for calm, storms was resolutely resistant to the notion of de-escalation. Fueled by his own stubbornness, storms preferred to stoke the flames rather than extinguish them. As the debate intensified, the air crackled with animosity and Luke, feeling the pressure, found himself resorting to pointed language. In a moment of frustration, he lashed out at Charlie, calling him an old, gray-bearded son of a bitch. The sharpness of this remark cut through the tension, striking a raw nerve and further inflaming the already contentious atmosphere. In response to the sharp insult hurled by Luke Short, charlie Storms stood up with a confident demeanor, challenging Luke to settle their differences with a physical confrontation outside, storms declared that he would allow Luke the opportunity to throw the first punch, keen to assert his bravery. Surrounding him was a table strewn with various checks, amounting to about $75, which Charlie was prepared to wager as a testament to his fighting abilities. Despite the persistent barrage of insults from Storms, which had begun to wear on his patience, luke maintained his composure and chose dialogue over violence. In an effort to provoke Luke into reconsidering his stance, storms suggested that he would willingly forfeit his checks if it meant that Luke would agree to the match. He stressed the seriousness of his proposition, insisting that he possessed the necessary skill and experience to ensure a fair fight, devoid of any tricks or dishonesty.
Speaker 1:While Storms exhibited an air of confidence in his fighting abilities, boasting about his prowess, luke remained unyielding in his resolve to de-escalate the situation. His dedication to nonviolence was not merely a refusal to fight, but a deeper understanding that engaging in such conflicts often led to more significant consequences. In the midst of a charged confrontation, storms brandished a gleaming firearm, its cold metallic surface catching the light and sending a ripple of tension through the air. Luke Short, sensing the gravity of the moment, issued a sharp warning, emphasizing the critical need for caution when handling such a dangerous weapon. A dangerous weapon.
Speaker 1:With a tense yet deliberate gesture, storms proposed that they step into the backyard for a more measured and civil dialogue. Luke, recognizing the potential for resolution, nodded in agreement and followed Storms outside into the dimly lit space behind the Oriental Saloon. As they stood beneath the open sky, storms, with a tone imbued with sincerity, admitted that his earlier remarks were misguided. He clarified that the insult has been intended for another individual, not Luke, acknowledging the weight of those words. Luke responded with a thoughtful nod, appreciating the clarification but reminding Storms of the severity of the offense. If Storms truly did not mean to target him. Luke suggested that they let the matter rest and strive for friendship instead. In that moment, a mutual understanding began to blossom, allowing both men to agree to a resolution that would pave the way for camaraderie rather than conflict.
Speaker 1:Luke Short made his way back inside the establishment, resuming his responsibilities as a lookout. Once the immediate threat was neutralized, masterson led the volatile Storms away from the scene and guided him to the San Jose house, suggesting that it was the best place for him to sleep off his aggression and moodiness. Meanwhile, back at the Oriental Saloon, bat calmed his fellow patrons and explained that beneath Storms' ruthless exterior lay a decent person, though they all understood that his demeanor could swiftly change, especially with the return of the sloper's hired gun, who returned to the saloon seemingly in high spirits. Storm's purchased a bottle of fine wine, a gesture that was not uncommon in the camaraderie of such establishments. He extended an invitation to Short, encouraging him to share in the wine and revelry, which Short graciously accepted, believing that the tension lingering between them had finally subsided. The atmosphere was thick with animated conversations, and amidst it all, Charlie Storms was seated at a nearby table, engrossed in a game of pharaoh, a popular card game of chance that drew a lively crowd.
Speaker 1:However, as the evening wore on, a sense of unease crept in. Mr Rickabaw and Mr Masterson, two patrons of the saloon, approached Luke with grave expressions etched on their faces. They cautioned Luke to remain vigilant, revealing that storms had been heard making ominous threats directed at Short, including alarming declarations of intentions to kill him. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, luke contemplated confronting Storms to address these sinister remarks head-on. Yet, sensing the effects of alcohol had consumed Storms leading him to a state of inebriation, short resolved to postpone the conversation until Storms had sobered. It was a decision made not out of fear but a desire to engage in a rational discussion mitigating the risk of escalating an already volatile situation.
Speaker 1:As the clock struck one signaling the end of his watch, luke Short stepped off the platform and caught sight of Bat Masterson, who was engaged in a conversation with Storms' business partner Dublin Lyons. The two men stood just outside the doors of the Oriental Saloon, their voices mingling with the hum of activity from the crowded street. Suddenly, the heavy doors of the saloon swung open and Storms emerged with a purposeful stride. With a firm grip, he seized Luke by the lapel of his coat, his eyes narrowing with determination. I want to see you, he said tersely, his voice, low but urgent. Without waiting for a response, he tugged Luke down the street, pulling him a good ten feet away from the lively atmosphere of the Oriental, where curious onlookers began to take notice of their unusual interaction With Luke.
Speaker 1:A few paces ahead, storms halted and pivoted to confront him, a shadow of tension passing over his face. You called me an old son of a bitch, he declared, his voice steady but laced with underlying challenge. Luke shrugged slightly the corner of his mouth, twitching in a bemused smile. I can't recall the exact words I used, but didn't we agree to settle this between us? He responded, his tone light yet edged with sincerity. He responded his tone light yet edged with sincerity. Storms' gaze narrowed, searching Luke's face for any hint of insincerity. You did call me a son of a bitch, he pressed, intensity rising in his voice. I need to know if you still carry the same integrity, the same strength of character as you did back then With Luke. A little ahead, storm stopped, turned to face him and said you called me an old son of a bitch. Luke hesitated and before he could answer, storms shouted you, son of a bitch. He then reached for his colt.
Speaker 1:As soon as Storms pulled his barking iron, luke grabbed his pistol and both men began firing their weapons. Luke was convinced that both he and Storms had discharged their weapons simultaneously. Luke was convinced that both he and Storms had discharged their weapons simultaneously. In Luke's testimony he admitted that uncertainty clouded his recollection. Adrenaline coursed through him after Mr Dublin, storms' partner, called him away for the tense standoff. Just moments earlier, storms had halted Luke in the middle of the street, positioning him squarely between the two of them. Dublin loomed behind him.
Speaker 1:From that vantage point while Luke faced the threatening figure of storms, luke's instincts kicked in. As the first shots rang out, echoing through the otherwise still air, he instinctively circled back, seeking distance from Dublin lions, driven by fear for his safety and concern for anyone else who might be caught in the crossfire behind him. In a fleeting moment of distraction, luke's gaze flickered away from Storms and he took in the chaotic scene around him. When he returned his focus, he was alarmed to see storms collapsing, but still partially upright, his head and shoulders raised, defying the gravity of his fall. As Luke scanned the street again, he noticed that all bystanders had vanished, leaving an eerie silence punctuated only by the fading sounds of chaos. Silence, punctuated only by the fading sounds of chaos. Turning his attention back to Storms, luke saw him sprawl on his back, popped up in an almost unnatural position. A pistol was gripped tightly in both hands and Luke felt the weight of Storms' gaze lock onto him, as if time had slowed.
Speaker 1:In that critical moment, anticipating an imminent gunshot, luke instinctively prepared to evade, dodging to the side, just as he realized that Storms had his six-shooter aimed directly at him. In a desperate bid for survival, luke dropped to his knees and fired at Storms, his heart and his mind racing, haunted by the uncertainty of whether his shot had found its mark. As the echo of his last gunfire faded, he watched in disbelief as Short's hands and firearm seemed to wilt and fall, landing heavily against his own chest. The moment unfurled in slow motion, encapsulating the gravity of the situation that had spiraled into chaos. Short had beat storms to the draw and put a bullet through his heart.
Speaker 1:After the turbulent gunfight had subsided, luke Short emerged onto the creaking porch of a nearby establishment, scanning the chaotic scene around him. The tension hung thick in the air as a uniformed policeman rushed toward him, urgency in his voice as he demanded Give me your gun. Luke, exuding a calm demeanor amid the chaos, replied All right, but added a crucial request for his own protection in this volatile situation. At that precise moment, wyatt Earp arrived, asserting his authority with the declaration this is my prisoner. Recognizing the moment's gravity, luke conceded All right, take my gun, relinquishing his weapons into the law's hands.
Speaker 1:As Luke was taken into custody, dr George Goodfellow, a local physician and an onlooker who had witnessed the deadly exchange, stepped forward to take control of the unfortunate victim, charlie Storms' lifeless body. Dr Goodfellow, with help, carefully transported Storms back to the San Jose rooming house where both the deceased and his associate, the poker player Dublin Lyons, had been temporarily residing. It was here that Dr Goodfellow prepared to perform a post-mortem examination to ascertain the specifics of Storms' injuries and cause of death. Following the examination, the coroner concluded that Storms had succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds inflicted by Luke Short during the altercation. The gravitas of the situation led to a brief preliminary hearing regarding the incident, scheduled for the following day, saturday February 26, 1881. The hearing was presided over by Tombstone's Justice of the Peace, albert O Wallace, with Luke Short represented by his counsel, the adept lawyer William J Hunesker. Justice Wallace swiftly assessed the evidence presented before him and determined that no grounds for murder charges existed against Short, ultimately discharging him from any legal responsibility for Storms' death. Meanwhile, charlie Storms received burial at the notorious Boot Hill Cemetery in Tombstone, a final resting place for many of the town's colorful characters.
Speaker 1:Storms' personal life had been as complicated as any Wild West tale, leaving behind two grieving widows, one named Mary, residing in San Francisco, and the other, known as Nellie or Nettie, who held the title of Madam in Leadville, colorado, adding another layer of intrigue to this tragic narrative. Three weeks later, on the fateful night of March 15th, a band of ruthless bandits ambushed a stagecoach that was making its way from the bustling mining town of Tombstone to the nearby hub of Benson. In the chaos of the ensuing shootout, both the stagecoach driver and a hapless passenger met their tragic end, the darkness of the desert evening illuminated only by the flashes of gunfire and the echoes of desperate cries. Once more, bat Masterson's esteemed reputation as a formidable lawman earned him a prominent position among an elite posse. He rode alongside legendary figures such as Wyatt Earp, his brothers Morgan and Virgil, and Sheriff Bob Paul.
Speaker 1:United by a common purpose, they set off in pursuit of the four elusive highwaymen, traversing the Arizona Territory's arid landscapes over ten grueling days and nights. The relentless chase stretched their endurance to the limit, but they remained undeterred, driven by a shared commitment to uphold justice. The posse managed to apprehend one of the outlaws at a secluded ranch. Still, the others deftly escaped, leading the law enforcement officers on a harrowing pursuit that covered roughly 400 miles. Riding from one desolate stretch of desert to another, the bandits frequently secured fresh mounts at isolated camps, always staying one step ahead of their relentless pursuers.
Speaker 1:As the days wore on, hunger and thirst weighed heavily on the posse's resolve. Exhaustion crept in as the harsh desert sun beat down upon them relentlessly. It was only when Masterson's horse finally collapsed beneath him, unable to bear the strain any longer, that he reluctantly acknowledged the grim reality of defeat. With the other law officers faltering in their stamina, bat and Wyatt Earp, both weary and ravenous, struggled to cover the final 18 miles back to Tombstone. Upon their arrival, however, they were met with another bitter disappointment. They learned that their sole captured outlaw had been returned to town for safekeeping and had brazenly walked out of jail and vanished into the night. And had brazenly walked out of jail and vanished into the night. Despite the mission's ultimate failure. The hardships and perils they had faced together forged an unbreakable bond between Bat Masterson and Wyatt Earp, solidifying a lifelong friendship that would endure through the tumultuous years ahead.
Speaker 1:As the days passed, masterson had envisioned a leisurely stay in the spirited town of Tombstone, surrounded by friends like Earp who shared his fondness for the wild frontier. Yet an unsettling telegram from Dodge had pierced through his anticipation like a gunshot in the night. The urgent message, laden with worry, informed him that his brother Jim was ensnared in a perilous situation threatening his well-being. True to his nature, bat understood the weight of responsibility resting on his shoulders, and it was again up to him to intervene.
Speaker 1:As Bat stepped onto the train in Trinidad, colorado, he settled into his seat, bracing himself for the final leg of his journey back to Dodge City. The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels merged with the gentle swaying of the carriage, creating a comforting backdrop in his thoughts. As he glanced around the nearly empty compartment, his gaze landed on a newspaper carelessly left atop the adjacent seat. It was the Leadville Democrat, dated March 2, 1881, its edges slightly frayed, but the print still legible. Curiosity peaked.
Speaker 1:Bat reached for the paper, the crisp pages crackling softly as he opened it. He began to sift through the various articles dealing with the events of the day, from local gossip to political debates, until one section in particular caught his eye an obituary. The piece was a heartfelt tribute to Charlie Storms, a name that resonated with Bat. The article detailed a violent incident involving Storms, noting that he had seized Short's ear with his left hand while brandishing a pistol with his right. In the following confrontation, short shot Storms, who attempted to retaliate but missed. Short shot Storms, who attempted to retaliate but missed. Subsequently, short discharged two more shots into Storms as he lay wounded. The tone of the obituary changed from a straightforward report of facts to a passionate expression of the editor's feelings about Storms' passing the report expressed At last. The report began now foregoing objective reporting. After courting the grim sentinel of death for years and not infrequently gloating upon the outrageous Charlie Storms, the noted sporting man has found his destiny.
Speaker 1:This portrayal of Storms troubled Batt, prompting him to return the newspaper to its rightful place. As Bat looked out the window, he reflected on the many challenges and adventures he had faced throughout his life and the numerous deaths he had witnessed. On April 16th, as the clattering train rumbled towards the outskirts of Dodge City, bat's mind raced with concern. The landscape blurred past him a tapestry of sprawling farms and small homesteads, each a testament to the untamed spirit of the West. Yet despite the vibrant scenery, an unsettling silence loomed over his thoughts. Since leaving the bustling streets of Tombstone, he had received no further word about Jim's predicament.
Speaker 1:Amplifying the urgency of his journey, bat's keen mind flickered through possible courses of action. He mused over the contentious relationship between his brother and the notorious duo Updegraff and Peacock, between his brother and the notorious duo Updegraff and Peacock. He hoped to act as a mediator, seeking a peaceful resolution to their conflict without violence. Batt prided himself on his ability to navigate the rough waters of the lawless frontier, often preferring diplomacy over gunplay. Nevertheless, his trusty six-shooter rested snugly at his hip, fully loaded and ready for action should the situation deteriorate. He was always prepared to confront the challenges of the Old West in whatever manner necessary. This is Brad Smalley. We hope you enjoyed the production of Gunfight at the Oriental Saloon by Michael King, published by arrangement of Wild West Podcast Library. A Dime Novel publication Texted, copyright 2025. Production copyright 2025. Audible hopes you have enjoyed this program.
