Ann Bassett – Riding With the Wild Bunch
Ann Bassett, a name whispered with a mix of admiration and notoriety, carved her own legend in the rugged landscape of the American West. More than just a rancher, she was a symbol of defiance, a woman who navigated the treacherous terrain of cattle empires, outlaw gangs, and societal expectations with unwavering resolve. Her story, intertwined with the infamous Wild Bunch, paints a vivid portrait of a time when the lines between law and lawlessness were blurred, and the spirit of independence reigned supreme. Her association with the Wild Bunch is just one facet of a life lived on her own terms.
Born on May 12, 1878, in the remote and isolated Brown’s Hole, Colorado, Ann Bassett held the distinction of being the first white girl born in this untamed territory. Situated near the convergence of Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah, Brown’s Hole was a haven for those seeking refuge from the reach of the law. This isolated valley, along with Hole-in-the-Wall in Wyoming and Robbers Roost in Utah, became notorious as a sanctuary for cattle rustlers, horse thieves, and various other outlaws. For decades, stolen livestock flowed through this network of hideouts, destined for the bustling mining camps of Eastern Colorado. The rugged terrain and sparse population made it difficult for law enforcement to effectively patrol the area, allowing these illicit activities to flourish.
Her parents, Herb and Elizabeth Chamberlain Bassett, owned a ranch in this isolated region, establishing themselves amidst the burgeoning outlaw culture. Herb Bassett, known for his pragmatic approach to business, was not one to shy away from dealing with those outside the law. He reportedly engaged in transactions with notorious figures such as Butch Cassidy, Harvey "Kid Curry" Logan, and Black Jack Ketchum, providing them with horses, beef, and other essential supplies. This association, whether by choice or necessity, would deeply influence the lives of his daughters, Ann and Josie.
Growing up in this environment, Ann Bassett and her sister, Josie, were afforded an education that blended refinement with rugged practicality. While they attended prominent boarding schools, receiving a formal education and developing their social graces, their father also ensured they were well-versed in the skills necessary to survive and thrive in the Wild West. They became adept at riding, roping, and shooting, skills that were not merely recreational but essential for life on the ranch and navigating the dangers of the surrounding territory. These skills would prove invaluable as Ann Bassett navigated the treacherous landscape of Brown’s Hole.
The Bassett ranch became a frequent stop for Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch. Drawn to the area’s remoteness and the promise of supplies, the outlaws also found themselves captivated by the charm and intelligence of Ann and Josie. Butch Cassidy himself developed a romantic interest in Ann, and by the age of fifteen, she was romantically involved with the charismatic outlaw leader. Josie, in turn, became involved with Elza Lay, another member of the Wild Bunch. Other outlaws, such as Ben Kilpatrick and Will "News" Carver, also courted the sisters, solidifying the Bassett family’s connection to the infamous gang.
While the men were drawn to the women, the Wild Bunch likely also appreciated the strategic advantage offered by the Bassett ranch. It provided a safe haven, a place to resupply, and a source of reliable information about the movements of law enforcement and rival cattlemen. The Bassett sisters, with their intelligence and understanding of the local landscape, may have also provided valuable assistance in planning and executing the gang’s operations.
The dynamics within the Bassett family also played a significant role in shaping Ann Bassett‘s future. Her father, Herb, was known as an unassuming man who largely allowed his wife, Elizabeth, to manage the day-to-day operations of the ranch. Elizabeth, a strong and independent woman, became embroiled in a bitter feud with the powerful cattle barons who sought to control Brown’s Hole. In response to their aggressive tactics, Elizabeth reportedly began engaging in cattle rustling, reclaiming what she believed was rightfully hers.
As Ann grew older, she inherited her mother’s defiant spirit and joined the fray, actively challenging the dominance of the cattle barons, particularly the Two Bar Ranch. She openly helped herself to their cattle, earning herself the moniker "Queen of the Rustlers." This act of defiance, fueled by a sense of injustice and a desire to protect her family’s livelihood, solidified her reputation as a woman who would not be intimidated by powerful interests.
The conflict escalated when rumors began circulating that Ann and her mother were intentionally driving Two Bar cattle over cliffs out of spite. The cattle barons, determined to put an end to their activities, hired the notorious gunman Tom Horn to infiltrate Brown’s Hole. Horn, known for his ruthless methods, issued warnings to Matt Rush, Isom Dart, and other ranchers to leave the area. When they refused, he allegedly shot and killed Rush and Dart, sending a clear message that the cattle barons would stop at nothing to protect their interests.
Despite the dangers surrounding her, Ann Bassett continued to live life on her own terms. In a surprising twist, she married H. Bernard, the manager of the very Two Bar Ranch she had been rustling cattle from. Unsurprisingly, Bernard was quickly fired from his position. The marriage, perhaps a strategic move or a genuine attempt at reconciliation, lasted for six years before dissolving.
Even after her marriage to Bernard ended, Ann’s reputation as the "Queen of the Rustlers" continued to follow her. She was eventually caught rustling cattle from the "enemy" ranch and brought to trial. However, she was acquitted, perhaps due to a lack of conclusive evidence or a sympathetic jury.
In 1928, Ann Bassett married a man named Frank Willis, and the couple settled in a small town in southwestern Utah. She lived there until her death at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy as a strong and independent woman who defied societal expectations and stood up for what she believed in.
Over the years, speculation arose that Ann Bassett and Etta Place, the mysterious companion of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, were the same person. However, most historians have dismissed these allegations, citing a lack of concrete evidence and conflicting accounts of their physical appearances and backgrounds.
Ann Bassett‘s story is a testament to the complexities of the American West, a time and place where courage, cunning, and a willingness to challenge authority were often necessary for survival. She was a woman who embraced the freedom of the frontier, forging her own path in a world dominated by men. Her association with the Wild Bunch, her defiance of the cattle barons, and her unwavering spirit have cemented her place in the annals of Western lore. While some may remember her as a rustler, others see her as a symbol of independence and resilience, a woman who refused to be defined by the limitations of her time.