Charles Autobees – Trapper, Trader and Mountain Man

The vast, untamed landscapes of the American West in the 19th century bred a unique breed of individual: the mountain man. These were hardy souls, adept at survival, skilled in tracking and trapping, and often deeply intertwined with the Native American cultures they encountered. Among these figures, Charles Autobees stands out as a quintessential example, a man who traversed the frontier as a trapper, trader, and frontiersman, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the Southwest.

Born in 1821 in the bustling river town of St. Louis, Missouri, Charles Autobees’ early life was steeped in the confluence of European and Native American cultures. His father, Francis Autobees, was of French-Canadian descent, and family lore suggests a possible Native American heritage. His mother, Sarah T. Tate, was believed to be a Delaware Indian. The early loss of his father led his mother to remarry Bartholomew Tobin. This union produced Tom Tate Tobin, Charles’ half-brother, who would also become a notable figure in the West as a renowned Indian scout. This mixed heritage and familial connection to the frontier undoubtedly shaped the young Charles, instilling in him a spirit of adventure and adaptability that would define his life.

At the tender age of 16, Charles Autobees embarked on his westward journey, drawn by the allure of the fur trade and the promise of independence. He initially worked as a beaver trapper, a demanding profession that required resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep understanding of the wilderness. Beaver pelts were a highly sought-after commodity in the East and in Europe, fueling a lucrative trade that drew men like Autobees into the heart of the American frontier.

After a brief return to St. Louis, the call of the West proved too strong to resist. Autobees ventured again, this time heading towards Taos, New Mexico, a vibrant trading hub and a melting pot of cultures. Accompanying him on this journey was his younger half-brother, Tom Tobin, then just 14 years old. The brothers traveled in the company of Ceran St. Vrain, a prominent merchant and fur trader who played a significant role in the development of the Southwest.

In Taos, Charles Autobees fully embraced the life of a mountain man and trader. He forged connections with some of the most influential figures of the era, including William Bent, Ceran St. Vrain, Kit Carson, James Bridger, and James Beckwourth. These men were legends in their own right, renowned for their skills as trappers, guides, and Indian agents. Working alongside them, Autobees gained invaluable experience in navigating the complexities of the frontier.

Beyond his interactions with fellow frontiersmen, Charles Autobees developed a deep familiarity with numerous Native American tribes. He interacted with the Arapaho, Blackfeet, Cheyenne, Teton Lakota, Navajo, and Ute, learning their languages, customs, and ways of life. This ability to communicate and build relationships with various tribes proved invaluable in his role as a trader and negotiator. He fostered relationships with Indian women and Hispanic women during his time on the frontier.

Autobees’ linguistic skills extended beyond English, allowing him to converse fluently in several tribal languages and Spanish. This linguistic versatility facilitated trade, diplomacy, and a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that populated the Southwest. His ability to bridge cultural divides made him a valuable asset in a region characterized by both cooperation and conflict.

In 1853, Charles Autobees made a significant decision to settle down, at least temporarily. He homesteaded a ranch near the confluence of the Huerfano and Arkansas Rivers in what is now Colorado. This location placed him squarely within Ute territory, a region known for its rugged beauty and its challenges for settlers. He was with an Arapaho woman named Sycamore at the time.

Many other pioneers attempting to establish homesteads in the area were driven away by the Ute, who fiercely defended their ancestral lands. However, Autobees, with his knowledge of Native American customs and his reputation as a formidable frontiersman, was not easily deterred. Legend has it that when the Ute threatened his homestead, Autobees and his wife, Sycamore, bravely defended their property for over two hours, ultimately forcing the Ute to retreat. This act of defiance solidified his reputation as a man of courage and determination.

Autobees’ contributions to the development of Colorado extended beyond his role as a rancher. In 1861, he was appointed as one of the first three County Commissioners of Huerfano County, Colorado Territory. This position placed him at the forefront of local governance, responsible for overseeing the development of infrastructure, law enforcement, and other essential services.

Throughout his years in Colorado, Autobees engaged in a variety of ventures. He operated a ferry across the Arkansas River, facilitating transportation and trade in the region. He also ran a saloon near Fort Reynolds, a military outpost that played a crucial role in maintaining order on the frontier. In addition, he served as a scout during the Indian Wars, utilizing his knowledge of the terrain and Native American tactics to assist the U.S. Army.

Despite his many accomplishments and his long tenure on his ranch, Autobees faced a heartbreaking setback in his later years. It was discovered that his land claim did not meet the requirements of the U.S. Government Homestead rules, and he was ultimately forced to relinquish his property. This loss left him in a state of near poverty, a stark reminder of the precarious nature of life on the frontier.

In his final years, Autobees resided with his second "legal" wife, Juanita Gomez. He passed away on June 17, 1882, and was laid to rest in the Saint Vrain Cemetery in Avondale, Colorado. The original headstone marking his grave was lost to the destructive power of floods from the nearby Huerfano River. However, in recognition of his significant contributions to the history of the West, an elevated memorial headstone was later erected, ensuring that his legacy would not be forgotten.

The life of Charles Autobees embodies the spirit of the American West. He was a man of courage, resilience, and adaptability, who embraced the challenges and opportunities of the frontier. As a trapper, trader, mountain man, and public servant, he left an enduring mark on the history of the Southwest. His story serves as a testament to the enduring allure of the American frontier and the remarkable individuals who shaped its destiny.