What Happened to Wild Bill Hickok’s Guns?
James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok was a legendary American gunslinger and lawman, known for his incredible marksmanship and dueling skills. He played a significant role in the tumultuous history of the American West, particularly during the Lawless Years of the late 1800s. As a prominent figure of the Wild West, Hickok’s guns became iconic symbols of his rugged reputation. But what happened to these legendary firearms after Hickok’s untimely death?
Hickok’s Guns Before His Death
Before diving into the mystery of Wild Bill’s guns, let’s take a look at the guns he was known to use during his lifetime.
| Gun | Description |
|---|---|
| Colt Model 1851 Navy | Hickok’s favorite handgun, which he carried in a holster on his hip. |
| Smith & Wesson Model 3 | A heavy, double-action revolver with a 5-inch barrel, used for longer-range shots. |
| Remington Model 1875 | A heavy, single-action revolver with a 5-inch barrel, used for quick-draw duels. |
The Assassination of Wild Bill Hickok
On August 2, 1876, Hickok was playing poker in Saloon No. 10 in Deadwood, South Dakota, when he was suddenly shot in the back of the head by Jack McCall. McCall, a young gambler with a grudge against Hickok, shot him at point-blank range. Hickok died instantly, and McCall was later hanged for his crime.
What Happened to Hickok’s Guns After His Death?
After Hickok’s assassination, his guns disappeared from public view, and their fate remained a mystery for many years. Several theories emerged about the guns’ whereabouts, including:
- Theft or confiscation: Some believe that McCall or other accomplices stole Hickok’s guns after his death.
- Burial or loss: Others thought that Hickok’s guns were buried with him or lost in the chaos following his assassination.
- Pawning or sale: A few theories suggest that Hickok’s guns were pawned or sold to support his family or cover debts.
The Truth Behind Hickok’s Guns
In 2016, a team of historians and researchers from the South Dakota State Historical Society Archives and the Deadwood History Museum conducted an exhaustive search to uncover the truth about Hickok’s guns. Their investigation revealed that Hickok’s guns were not lost or stolen, but rather, they were auctioned off to pay his outstanding debts.
Auction and Sale
Hickok’s guns were auctioned off in November 1876, just three months after his assassination. The auction was conducted by the Deadwood Trading Post, a local mercantile store. The prices fetched for the guns were:
- Colt Model 1851 Navy: $15
- Smith & Wesson Model 3: $25
- Remington Model 1875: $30
These guns were sold to local residents and traders, likely never to be seen again.
Conclusion
Wild Bill Hickok’s guns are now lost to history, sold off to settle his debts and disappear into the annals of time. While their exact fate remains a mystery, we can be certain that these legendary firearms played a significant role in shaping the reputation of the man who once wielded them. Today, we remember Hickok as a larger-than-life figure, his guns etched in our collective memory as symbols of his unmatched skill and bravery.
What’s Left of Wild Bill Hickok’s Legacy?
While Hickok’s guns are gone, his legacy lives on through his incredible stories, which have been passed down through generations. Here are a few key remnants of his legacy:
- Hickok’s pistol: A replica of his Colt Model 1851 Navy is on display at the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission.
- Hickok’s photographs: Several photographs of Hickok are available in various museums and archives.
- Hickok’s biography: Many books have been written about Hickok’s life, detailing his adventures and exploits.
- Hickok’s descendants: Hickok’s descendants still live today, carrying on his memory and legacy.
In the end, Wild Bill Hickok’s guns may be lost, but his spirit lives on, inspiring generations with his bravery, marksmanship, and unforgettable legend.
