Who Owns Billy the Kid’s Gun?
Introduction
William H. Bonney, better known as Billy the Kid, was a notorious outlaw and gunfighter in the American Old West. His life was marked by crime, violence, and notoriety, and his legend has endured for centuries. One of the most intriguing aspects of Billy the Kid’s life is his iconic gun, which has been the subject of much speculation and debate. Who owns Billy the Kid’s gun? In this article, we will explore the history of the gun and its current ownership.
The Gun’s History
Billy the Kid’s gun is a Colt Single Action Army revolver, chambered in.45 Long Colt. The gun is believed to have been presented to Billy the Kid by his friend and ally, John Tunstall, a British rancher who was murdered by the rival Murphy-Dolan gang in 1878. Tunstall’s death sparked the Lincoln County War, a violent conflict that pitted the Tunstall and McSween factions against the Murphy-Dolan gang.
Billy the Kid used the gun throughout the Lincoln County War and during his subsequent escape and life on the run. After his death in 1881, the gun was passed down through several owners, including John Chisum, a wealthy rancher who had supported Billy the Kid during the Lincoln County War.
Current Ownership
Today, Billy the Kid’s gun is owned by the Lincoln County Historical Society in Lincoln, New Mexico. The gun was donated to the society by John Chisum’s great-grandson, who inherited the gun from his great-grandfather. The society has maintained the gun in a glass case at their museum, where it is seen by thousands of visitors each year.
Museum Exhibit
The Lincoln County Historical Society has created a comprehensive exhibit around Billy the Kid’s gun, which includes a recreation of the gun’s holster and a display case with artifacts related to Billy the Kid’s life. Visitors can see the gun up close and learn about its history and significance through a interactive display and a video presentation.
Controversy Surrounding the Gun’s Ownership
Despite the gun’s current ownership by the Lincoln County Historical Society, there has been controversy surrounding its ownership over the years. Some have argued that the gun should be returned to the Tunstall family, who were the original owners of the gun. Others have claimed that the gun should be kept in a public institution, such as a museum, where it can be seen and appreciated by the public.
Interesting Facts About Billy the Kid’s Gun
Here are some interesting facts about Billy the Kid’s gun:
• The gun was not always owned by Billy the Kid: While the gun is often referred to as Billy the Kid’s gun, it was actually presented to him by John Tunstall.
• The gun was used in multiple shootouts: Billy the Kid used the gun in several shootouts, including the Lincoln County War and the shootout with Sheriff William J. Brady.
• The gun has been on display in multiple museums: Billy the Kid’s gun has been on display in multiple museums, including the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and the Smithsonian Institution.
• The gun has been the subject of much speculation: There has been much speculation about the gun’s ownership and authenticity over the years, with some claiming that it is not the actual gun used by Billy the Kid.
Conclusion
Billy the Kid’s gun is an iconic symbol of the American Old West and a reminder of the violence and lawlessness that characterized the period. The gun’s current ownership by the Lincoln County Historical Society ensures that it will continue to be seen and appreciated by the public for years to come. Whether or not the gun is the actual gun used by Billy the Kid, it remains an important part of American history and a reminder of the legend of Billy the Kid.
Table: Timeline of Billy the Kid’s Gun
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1878 | John Tunstall presents the gun to Billy the Kid |
| 1881 | Billy the Kid’s death |
| 1915 | The gun is inherited by John Chisum’s great-grandson |
| 1950s | The gun is put on display at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West |
| 1990s | The gun is donated to the Lincoln County Historical Society |
| Present day | The gun is on display at the Lincoln County Historical Society |
Bullets: Fun Facts About Billy the Kid
• Billy the Kid was known for his good looks and charming personality
• Billy the Kid was only 21 years old when he was killed
• Billy the Kid was known for his quick draw and accuracy with a gun
• Billy the Kid was a skilled horseman and was known for his horse-riding skills
• Billy the Kid’s gun is one of the most famous guns in the American West
