Wild Bill Hickok is a vivid biographical study of James Butler Hickok, the scout, lawman, gambler, and gunfighter whose career became inseparable from the mythology of the American frontier. Frank Jenners Wilstach writes in a richly anecdotal, early twentieth-century style, blending documentary ambition with the dramatic cadence of frontier legend. Situated within the literature of Western reminiscence and heroic biography, the book examines not only Hickok's exploits but also the process by which historical violence becomes national folklore. Wilstach, an American editor, dramatist, and man of letters, was drawn to figures who occupied the borderland between fact and performance. His experience in theatrical and literary circles helps explain the book's narrative energy: Hickok is presented as both man and role, a historical actor whose reputation was shaped by newspapers, dime novels, eyewitness testimony, and public fascination with the West. This book is recommended for readers interested in Western history, American mythmaking, and the evolution of frontier biography. While modern readers should approach its heroic tone critically, Wilstach's work remains valuable as a compelling portrait of how Wild Bill Hickok entered the American imagination. This enriched edition has been carefully crafted to add value to your reading experience. - Hand-picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

It has not been the purpose of this book to novelize Wild Bill Hickok. That has already been done, and rather effectively. The main purpose of this work is to find out what was real, and what imaginary, in the stories about him. Wild Bill was a fascinating personality to all who knew him. The mere mention of his name never failed to bring a crash of brasses from the orchestra. His friends never ceased to chant his praises as an honest man, an incredibly accurate pistol shot, and an individual who was without fear in the presence of danger.
Contents:
The Prince of Pistoleers
Ancestry and Early Manhood
The Magnum Opus of Pistolry
The Mccanles Mystery Solved
Wartime Adventures
Fight With Conquering Bear and a New Indian Romance
The Duel With Dave Tutt
A Blue Ribbon Outburst of Guns
On the Plains With the Wilson Party
Marshal of Hays City and Abilene
Wild Bill Starts a Wild West Show
Traits and Personal Appearance
Three Shooting Stars
A Visit to Cheyenne
Romance and Marriage
The Calamity Jane-Wild Bill Myth
Last Days
The Trial and Execution of Jack Mccall