Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead – Cherokee Lawman
Edward "Ned" Wilkerson Bushyhead, a name synonymous with resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of justice, carved a remarkable path through 19th-century America. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of Cherokee heritage, journalistic pursuits, and dedicated service as a lawman in the burgeoning West. Born into a changing world, Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead navigated the complexities of cultural displacement and opportunity, leaving an indelible mark on both the Cherokee Nation and the state of California.
Born near Cleveland, Tennessee, on March 2, 1832, Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead’s destiny was intertwined with the tumultuous history of the Cherokee people. His father, Reverend Jesse Bushyhead, a Baptist preacher, and his mother, Eliza Wilkerson Bushyhead, instilled in him a strong moral compass and a deep connection to his heritage. This foundation would prove crucial as he faced the trials and tribulations that lay ahead.
The shadow of the Indian Removal Act loomed large over the Cherokee Nation in the 1830s. Despite his personal opposition to the forced relocation, Reverend Bushyhead, recognizing the inevitable, led a group of approximately 1,000 Cherokees westward on the infamous Trail of Tears in 1839. Seven-year-old Ned was among those who endured the arduous journey, witnessing firsthand the suffering and displacement of his people. The Trail of Tears, a brutal chapter in American history, forever shaped Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead’s understanding of injustice and the importance of community.
Upon arriving in the designated "Indian Territory," now present-day Oklahoma, the Bushyhead-led group established a settlement near Westville. They named it Breadtown, a poignant reminder of the rations distributed to the arriving refugees. In 1841, Reverend Bushyhead further solidified the community by establishing a Baptist Mission, providing spiritual guidance and educational opportunities.
The mission also became the birthplace of the Cherokee Messenger newspaper in August 1844. This marked a significant milestone as the first periodical published within the boundaries of present-day Oklahoma. The newspaper served as a vital source of information and a platform for Cherokee voices, fostering a sense of unity and preserving cultural identity.
Tragedy struck in 1844 when Reverend Bushyhead passed away. The responsibility of contributing to the family fell upon young Ned, who, at the tender age of twelve, began an apprenticeship at the Cherokee Messenger. This early exposure to the world of journalism ignited a passion for communication and a keen understanding of the power of the press. Seeking further opportunities, he later ventured to Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he honed his skills as a printer.
The allure of the California Gold Rush beckoned in 1850. At eighteen, Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead joined his brother Dennis in a journey westward, setting their sights on Placerville, California, in hopes of striking it rich. While the goldfields proved challenging, this experience exposed him to a diverse population and the burgeoning spirit of the American West.
By 1867, Ned had transitioned from mining to his true calling: journalism. He moved to Calaveras County and established the San Andreas Register newspaper in October of that year. Although the venture was short-lived, it demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to providing a voice for the community.
A pivotal moment arrived when Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead relocated to San Diego and became the "silent" publisher of the San Diego Union. First published on October 10, 1868, the San Diego Union played a crucial role in shaping the identity and development of the growing city. While remaining behind the scenes, Bushyhead wielded significant influence through the newspaper’s content and editorial direction. His brother Dennis, however, chose a different path, returning to the Cherokee Nation the same year, highlighting the divergent paths taken by family members in a time of great change.
In 1873, Bushyhead sold his interest in the San Diego Union for $5,000. While his direct involvement ceased, the newspaper continued to thrive, serving the San Diego community until 1927, and experiencing a brief resurrection from 1942 to 1947. This legacy underscores the enduring impact of his early contributions to the publication.
A new chapter unfolded in 1875 when Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead embraced a career in law enforcement, becoming a deputy sheriff of San Diego County. His transition from journalist to lawman reflected his deep-seated sense of justice and his desire to serve and protect his community. The following year, he married Helen Corey Nichols, further solidifying his ties to San Diego.
His dedication and competence quickly earned him the respect of his peers and the public. In 1882, he ran for sheriff of San Diego County and won, a testament to his popularity and the trust placed in him by the electorate. A local newspaper lauded his character, describing him as "thoroughly honest, cool, brave and intrepid in time of danger, patient, wary and sagacious when on the trail of a criminal; courtesy and gentle – generous almost to lavishness, he is a true type of thorough American gentleman." He honorably served two terms as sheriff, upholding the law and ensuring the safety of San Diego County residents.
After his tenure as sheriff, Bushyhead returned to the printing industry, becoming a partner in the firm of Gould, Hutton & Company in 1889. However, his commitment to public service remained unwavering. In 1899, he accepted the position of Chief of Police in San Diego, a role he held until 1903. As Chief, he brought his experience, integrity, and dedication to bear on the challenges of maintaining law and order in a rapidly growing city.
In 1907, due to health concerns, Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead sought a quieter life in Alpine, California. He passed away there on March 4, 1907, at the age of 75. His body was returned to his ancestral lands in Oklahoma and buried in the family cemetery at Talequah, a final homecoming for a man who had traversed diverse landscapes and played many roles.
Edward "Ned" Wilkerson Bushyhead’s life story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of heritage. From enduring the Trail of Tears to becoming a respected lawman and influential figure in California, he embodies the adaptability and determination that characterized the American West. His contributions as a journalist, publisher, and law enforcement officer left an indelible mark on the communities he served, ensuring that his name would be remembered as a symbol of integrity, courage, and service. He lived a life of purpose, honoring his Cherokee heritage while embracing the opportunities of a changing nation.