Christian “Chris” Madsen – One of the Three Guardsmen
Christian "Chris" Madsen, a name synonymous with unwavering resolve and frontier justice, carved a significant place for himself in the annals of the American West. More than just a lawman, Madsen was a soldier, a Rough Rider, and a symbol of order in the turbulent landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His life, spanning from his Danish origins to his peaceful passing in Oklahoma, is a testament to a life lived in service and a relentless pursuit of justice. The story of Christian "Chris" Madsen is one of transformation and dedication to his adopted homeland.
Born Christen Madsen Rormose on February 25, 1851, in Denmark, his early life foreshadowed the discipline and resilience that would define his later years. He served with distinction in the Danish Army, instilling in him a sense of duty and tactical prowess that would prove invaluable on the American frontier. In 1876, seeking new opportunities and adventures, he immigrated to the United States, a land teeming with both promise and peril. Upon arrival, he shed his surname, becoming simply Christian Madsen, a symbolic gesture of his fresh start in a new world.
Almost immediately after arriving in the United States, Madsen enlisted in the U.S. Cavalry. This decision plunged him directly into the heart of the Indian Wars raging across the Great Plains. He participated in numerous campaigns, facing the harsh realities of frontier warfare and gaining invaluable experience in combat and survival. The cavalry service honed his skills in horsemanship, marksmanship, and strategic thinking, attributes that would later serve him well as a lawman. These early years in the military were instrumental in shaping the man Christian "Chris" Madsen would become, hardening his resolve and instilling in him a deep respect for the law.
The outbreak of the Spanish-American War in 1898 presented Madsen with another opportunity to serve his country. He eagerly joined Theodore Roosevelt’s famed Rough Riders, a volunteer cavalry regiment composed of cowboys, ranchers, and adventurers. Serving alongside Roosevelt, Madsen participated in the charge up San Juan Hill, demonstrating his bravery and commitment to the American cause. His experience in the Spanish-American War further solidified his reputation as a fearless and dedicated soldier.
After approximately 15 years of distinguished military service, Christian "Chris" Madsen transitioned to a new chapter in his life, one that would cement his legacy as a legendary lawman. In 1891, he accepted a position as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Oklahoma Territory, a region notorious for its lawlessness and rampant criminal activity. The Oklahoma Territory was a haven for outlaws and desperados, a place where justice was often dispensed at the barrel of a gun.
It was in Oklahoma that Madsen’s career truly took flight. He joined forces with two other equally formidable lawmen, Heck Thomas and Bill Tilghman. Together, these three men formed an unbreakable bond, becoming known throughout the territory as the "Three Guardsmen." Their collective reputation preceded them, striking fear into the hearts of criminals and offering a beacon of hope to the law-abiding citizens of Oklahoma. Christian "Chris" Madsen and his colleagues were determined to bring order to the chaos and establish a semblance of justice in the unruly territory.
The Three Guardsmen worked tirelessly to bring criminals to justice, facing down gangs of outlaws and navigating the treacherous political landscape of the Oklahoma Territory. Their dedication and effectiveness were instrumental in curbing the lawlessness that had plagued the region for years. They were known for their unwavering commitment to upholding the law, their tactical acumen, and their willingness to put their lives on the line to protect the innocent.
Madsen, in particular, earned a reputation as a relentless pursuer of justice, a fighter who would never surrender. His unwavering determination and tactical skills made him a formidable opponent for even the most hardened criminals. He played a key role in the pursuit and capture of numerous outlaws, including the notorious Bill Doolin and his gang. The efforts of Christian "Chris" Madsen were crucial in taming the Wild West.
Madsen was personally responsible for the deaths of several Doolin gang members, including Dan "Dynamite Dick" Clifton, George "Red Buck" Waightman, and Richard "Little Dick" West. These encounters were often violent and dangerous, but Madsen’s skill and bravery ensured that justice was served. His actions sent a clear message to other outlaws that their reign of terror would not be tolerated.
In 1911, Madsen’s dedication and service were recognized when he was appointed U.S. Marshal for the entire state of Oklahoma. This appointment was a testament to his exceptional abilities and his unwavering commitment to upholding the law. As U.S. Marshal, he continued to fight against crime and corruption, solidifying his legacy as one of the most respected lawmen in the history of Oklahoma.
Even in his sixties, Madsen remained committed to public service. He accepted the position of Chief of Police for Oklahoma City, further demonstrating his dedication to protecting the citizens of his community. During World War I, despite his advanced age, Madsen attempted to enlist in the United States Army once again, but he was ultimately rejected due to his age. His eagerness to serve his country during wartime speaks volumes about his unwavering patriotism.
From 1918 to 1922, Madsen served as a special investigator for the governor of Oklahoma, utilizing his extensive knowledge of law enforcement to assist in various investigations and ensure that justice was served throughout the state. Even in his later years, Christian "Chris" Madsen remained an active and influential figure in Oklahoma.
Christian Madsen passed away peacefully at the age of 93 in Guthrie, Oklahoma, on January 9, 1944. He was laid to rest in the Frisco Cemetery in Yukon, Oklahoma. His life was a testament to courage, dedication, and a unwavering commitment to justice. He left behind a legacy of service that continues to inspire generations of law enforcement officers. Christian "Chris" Madsen, one of the Three Guardsmen, remains a symbol of the enduring spirit of the American West. His contributions to law and order in the Oklahoma Territory are still remembered and celebrated today.