Old West Lawmen List – B
The American West, a vast expanse of rugged landscapes and burgeoning settlements, demanded a unique brand of law enforcement. The men (and a few notable women) who pinned on badges in this era faced challenges unlike any other, often confronting hardened criminals, navigating complex jurisdictional issues, and upholding the law in environments where it was often disregarded. This list, focusing on lawmen whose surnames begin with the letter "B," offers a glimpse into the lives and careers of some of the individuals who shaped the legal landscape of the Old West. From U.S. Deputy Marshals patrolling the Indian Territory to town sheriffs maintaining order in bustling cattle towns, these figures represent a diverse group bound by a common commitment to justice.
This compilation of Old West Lawmen List – B aims to provide informative summaries, highlighting the diverse roles these individuals played in shaping the American West. Their stories, often intertwined with famous events and notorious outlaws, contribute to the rich tapestry of Western history.
Elfego Baca (1865-1945): A multifaceted figure in Socorro County, New Mexico, Elfego Baca was not only a lawman but also an attorney and a U.S. Deputy Marshal. His most famous exploit involves a legendary shootout in 1884, where he single-handedly defended himself against a large group of cowboys. Baca’s later career included serving as a politician and legal professional, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in New Mexico history. He stands as a testament to the complex roles many Old West Lawmen List – B played.
Mitchell Bader: A U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District of Arkansas in 1892 by Marshal Jacob Yoes. Men like Bader were crucial in maintaining order in the often-lawless territories under federal jurisdiction.
J. Baer: Another U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Fort Smith, Arkansas Western District, Baer also served as a Court Crier, fulfilling essential administrative duties in the judicial system.
William "Billy" Bailey, aka Bill Wilson, William Baylor (18??-1871): Bailey’s story is a tragic example of the dangers faced by lawmen in the West. Working as a lawman and cowboy in Newton, Kansas, he was killed by Mike McCluskie, an event that triggered the infamous Hyde Park Gunfight. Bailey’s death highlights the volatile nature of law enforcement in frontier towns.
Wood E. Bailey: Another U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, by Marshal Jacob Yoes, further illustrating the significant presence of federal law enforcement in the region.
Charles Baird: Serving as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Central District by Marshal J. J. McAlester in June 1895, Baird exemplifies the widespread reach of the U.S. Marshal Service throughout the territories.
P.C. Baird (18??-1928): Baird’s career reflects the overlapping roles often held by lawmen. He served as Sheriff of Mason County, Texas, and also as a Texas Ranger, demonstrating a commitment to law enforcement at both the local and state levels.
Allen Baker: A U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned on October 1, 1894, for the Northern District of Indian Territory, Baker was tasked with maintaining order in a region notorious for its lawlessness and complex jurisdictional issues.
A.R. Baker: This lawman served as a Texas Ranger under Captain Frank Johnson in 1906, contributing to the state’s efforts to control crime and maintain peace.
Benjamin F. Baker: Commissioned on April 8, 1882, Benjamin F. Baker was a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Arizona Territory, a region known for its mining boomtowns and conflicts with Native American tribes.
Frank Baker (18??-1878): Baker’s life took a dark turn. An outlaw member of the Jesse Evans Gang and later a lawman, Baker was involved in the Lincoln County War and was killed by Billy the Kid on March 10, 1878. His story is a stark reminder of the blurred lines between law and lawlessness in the Old West.
Isaac Baker: Serving as a U.S. Deputy Marshal under Marshal William A. Britton of the District Court in Van Buren, Arkansas, from July 9, 1869, Isaac Baker was part of the effort to establish federal authority in the region.
J.H. Baker: Baker’s service in Company C of the Texas Rangers around 1907 exemplifies the continued role of the Rangers in maintaining law and order in Texas.
James Baker: Commissioned as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Western District of Arkansas in 1897 by Marshal Solomon F. Stahl, James Baker contributed to the ongoing effort to combat crime in the region.
John Baker: Another U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, John Baker joined the ranks of lawmen working to bring justice to the area.
William Baker: This William Baker served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District of Arkansas on October 1, 1894, by Marshal George C. Crump.
William Bales: Commissioned in the Southern District Court of Indian Territory at Paris, Texas, in 1894 by Marshal Shelby Williams, William Bales played a role in enforcing federal law in the often-turbulent Indian Territory.
Andrew "Andy" W. Balfour (or Belfour) (18??-1891): Balfour’s death while tracking the notorious outlaw Zip Wyatt highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers. As a Deputy Sheriff in Kiowa County, Kansas, he paid the ultimate price in the pursuit of justice.
William Ball: Serving as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal Jacob Yoes on April 13, 1892, Ball was part of a large contingent of federal lawmen working in the region.
Charles Ballard: A deputy marshal in Roswell, New Mexico, Ballard contributed to law enforcement efforts in a territory known for its cattle ranching and conflicts.
William Ballard: Working as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Muskogee County, Oklahoma, William Ballard helped maintain order in a region with a complex history and diverse population.
David Monticello "Bud" Ballew (1877-1922): Ballew’s reputation as a gunfighter and lawman precedes him. After killing several men, he was shot down by Wichita Falls, Texas, Police Chief on May 5, 1922. His story highlights the violent nature of the Old West and the blurred lines between lawman and outlaw.
William "Bill" Dudley Banks: This Old West Lawmen List – B member served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in Oklahoma Territory and assigned by Marshal Evett Nix to the Cheyenne District on July 15, 1893.
Benjamin Gray Barbee (1871-1943): As a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Oklahoma Territory, Barbee contributed to the effort to establish law and order in a region undergoing rapid development and facing numerous challenges.
W.H. Barbee: W.H. Barbee served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on December 14, 1891, by Marshal Jacob Yoes. By 1895, Barbee was living in Braggs, Oklahoma. An incident involving outlaws Sam "Verdigris Kid" McWilliams, George Sanders, and Sam Butler illustrates the dangers faced by lawmen in the West.
L.E. Barbey: Commissioned on February 1, 1882, L.E. Barbey was a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Arizona Territory, another region grappling with lawlessness and rapid growth.
Mariano Barela (18??-18??): Barela served as both Sheriff of Mesilla County, New Mexico, and as a U.S. Marshal, demonstrating his commitment to law enforcement at both the local and federal levels.
Dudley S. Barker: While serving as a Texas Ranger in Company B, Barker helped break up a gang terrorizing the town of San Saba in 1897.
William "Bill" Barker: William "Bill" Barker served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the District Court at Muskogee, serving under Deputy Marshal Leo Bennett in 1898. Barker rode with Bud Ledbetter, Dave Adams, and Lon Davis to capture the Hughes Gang near Bristow, Oklahoma.
W.L. Barler: Serving as a Texas Ranger and as the sheriff and tax collector of Terrell County, Texas, Barler’s career reflects the diverse roles often held by lawmen in the West.
Frank R. Barling: Frank R. Barling served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on July 1, 1880, serving under Marshal Valentine Dell.
Jerry Kannady Barling: Jerry Kannady Barling served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on April 17, 1888, serving under Marshal Jacob Yoes. That same month, he was appointed as court bailiff of the Fort Smith federal court.
Robert F. Barling: Robert F. Barling served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, before 1896, under Marshal John Carrol.
John Barnell: John Barnell served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, by Marshal Jacob Yoes. He rode with U.S. Deputy Marshals.
C. W. Barnett: C. W. Barnett served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, commissioned on June 21, 1893, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal George Crump.
Joe I. Barnett (18??-1882): As a Creek Lighthorse Policeman, Barnett was involved in the "Green Peach War," a civil conflict within the Creek Nation of Indian Territory in 1882. His death in the line of duty highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the region.
John W. Barnett: John W. Barnett served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
A.S. Barnhill: A.S. Barnhill served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal working in Indian Territory, appointed at Fort Smith, Arkansas, in 1884 under Marshal Thomas Boles.
Charles Barnhill: Charles Barnhill served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal working in Indian Territory, appointed at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on August 5, 1896.
C. M. Barnes: C. M. Barnes served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on September 3, 1884, under Marshal Thomas Boles. Barnes’ position was chief deputy assigned to handling prisoners in the Fort Smith jail. In March of 1886, Deputy Barnes retired from his office as chief deputy.
Edward Barnes: Edward Barnes served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Harry C. Barnes: Harry C. Barnes served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District of Arkansas in 1899 by Marshal Solomon F. Stahl.
Preston Barnes: Preston Barnes served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, commissioned on May 11, 1892, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal Jacob Yoes.
Race Barnes: Race Barnes served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned out of the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, by Marshal Jacob Yoes.
W. H. Barrick: W. H. Barrick served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, commissioned on October 5, 1889, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal George Crump.
Adolph P. Barrier (1844-??): As Deputy Sheriff of San Miguel County, New Mexico, during the Lincoln County War, Barrier’s actions saved the lives of two men, highlighting the moral complexities of law enforcement in a conflict-ridden region.
J.C. Barringer: J.C. Barringer served as a Texas Ranger in 1886 under Captain G.H. Schmidt.
James Barry: James Barry served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District of Arkansas in 1899 by Marshal Jacob Yoes.
Dan Bartell: Dan Bartell served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in Oklahoma Territory in 1894 under Marshal Evett Dumas Nix.
Sam Bartell: Sam Bartell served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal under E. D. Nix Oklahoma Territory.
Sidney A. Bartelson: Sidney A. Bartelson served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Arizona Territory, commissioned on July 1, 1896.
C.C. Bartley: C.C. Bartley served as the sheriff of Val Verde County, Texas, in 1909.
Charles Barton: Charles Barton served in Company D of the Texas Rangers in 1887.
James R. Barton: James R. Barton served as Los Angeles County, California Sheriff from 1852-55, and again in 1857. He and three others were killed by the Flores-Daniels Gang when they attempted to arrest them.
J.A. Bascom (1832-1912): A Utah lawman, Bascom served as Provo Chief of Police and Mona town constable, contributing to the establishment of law and order in the territory.
John W. Bascom (1869-1947): John W. Bascom served as a Utah lawman, Uintah County Deputy Sheriff.
J. E. Basham: J. E. Basham served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in Oklahoma Territory in 1895, where he served under Marshal Evett Nix.
Charles "Charlie" C. Bassett (1847-1896): Bassett’s career highlights the close connections between lawmen in the West. He served as Ford County Under Sheriff to Bat Masterson and later as Sheriff; Dodge City, Kansas Marshal with Wyatt and James Earp working as deputies.
F. B. Batteries: F. B. Batteries served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
George Battles: George Battles served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District on July 1, 1894, under Marshal George J. Crump.
Henry Baughman: Henry Baughman served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Fort Gibson area of Oklahoma.
Wes Bauman: Wes Bauman worked as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Indian Territory and worked out of Judge Isaac Parker’s courtroom in the 1880s and 1890s.
C.N. Baxter: C.N. Baxter served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, commissioned on December 2, 1885, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal George J. Crump.
J. M. Baxter: J. M. Baxter served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal who worked as a Fort Smith, Arkansas jailer. His involvement in the attempted escape of Cherokee Bill highlights the challenges of maintaining order in frontier prisons.
James M. Baxter: James M. Baxter served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned on December 2, 1885, in the Western District of Arkansas, serving under Marshal John Carroll.
Joseph Baxter: Joseph Baxter served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Mitchell Baxter: Mitchell Baxter served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal under Marshal Jacob Yoes, commissioned on June 23, 1892, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Monta Baxter: Monta Baxter served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal under Marshal George J. Crump, commissioned on October 5, 1893, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Judge Roy Bean (1825-1903): Bean’s eccentric approach to justice made him a legendary figure in Texas. As a saloon-keeper and Justice of the Peace, he dubbed himself "The Law West of the Pecos," dispensing his own unique brand of justice.
Wickliff Bean: Wickliff Bean served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal working out of Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Addison M. Beck (18??-1883): Beck’s tragic death in the line of duty underscores the dangers faced by lawmen in the Indian Territory. Serving as a U.S. Deputy Marshal out of Fort Smith, Arkansas, he was killed while attempting to serve a warrant.
Gabe L. Beck: Gabe L. Beck served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Northern District of Indian Territory assigned to the Muskogee Court in April of 1895.
John Beckwith (1853-1879): Involved in the Lincoln County War, John Beckwith worked as a deputy under Sheriff William Brady. His death the following year illustrates the lingering violence and instability in the region.
Robert "Bob" W. Beckwith (1850-1878): Like his brother John, Robert Beckwith was involved in the Lincoln County War. His death during the climactic battle in Lincoln on July 19, 1878, highlights the deadly consequences of the conflict.
Charley Beers: Charley Beers was a Peace Officer in Oklahoma Territory.
Johnny Behan (1845-1912): The Corrupt Sheriff of Cochise County, Arizona, sided with the Cowboy faction against the Earps in Tombstone.
Bob Bell: Bob Bell served in Company D of the Texas Rangers in 1887.
Hamilton Butler Bell (1853-1947): As Sheriff of Ford County, Kansas, for three decades following Bat Masterson, Bell earned a reputation for apprehending outlaws with warrants, contributing significantly to law enforcement in the region.
John X. Beidler (1831-1890): Beidler’s life took him from Kansas, where he fought alongside John Brown, to Montana, where he served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal and participated in the Montana Vigilantes.
James W. Bell, aka: Lone Bell (18??-1881): Bell’s service as a Texas Ranger and later as a deputy under Pat Garrett in Lincoln County, New Mexico, placed him at the center of key events in Western history. His death at the hands of Billy the Kid underscores the unpredictable nature of the Old West.
Leo E. Bennett: Leo E. Bennett served as a U.S. Marshal in the Western District of Arkansas. Bennett was also a physician who provided care for the prisoners in the Fort Smith, Arkansas jail.
Sam Bernard (1880-1964): Sam Bernard was a Lincoln County, New Mexico, deputy to Pat Garrett.
Morris Berstein: Morris Berstein was a deputy sheriff in the New Mexico Territory.
Phil Best: Phil Best was a Texas Ranger with Company B in 1889 under Captain Sam McMurry.
George Bingham: George Bingham was a Texas Ranger killed by Jesse Evans.
Steve Birchfield: Steve Birchfield served as deputy sheriff of Cochise County, Arizona, under Sheriff C.S. Fly. He rode with the posse that battled the Black Jack Ketchum Gang at Mud Springs.
B.C. Birchfield: B.C. Birchfield served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was with Deputy Marshal Newton La Force when La Force was killed by outlaws Buss Luckey and Tom Root on December 5, 1894.
John Bird (1795-1839): Bird’s military service and leadership as a Texas Ranger captain demonstrate his commitment to protecting settlers and establishing order in the region. His death in battle highlights the dangers faced by those on the frontier.
W. D. Blackard: W. D. Blackard served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Northern District of Indian Territory, assigned to the Muskogee court in July 1890.
Leslie F. Blackburn: Leslie F. Blackburn was a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Tombstone, Arizona, in 1881-82. His duties included working as a Customs Collector and charging Doc Holliday with attempted robbery, showcasing the diverse responsibilities of lawmen in the West.
Doc Blust: Doc Blust served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in Oklahoma Territory, who worked with fellow Deputy Marshal B. L. Nutting at Perry, protecting the claim office during the 1889 land rush.
Allen Augustus "Gus" Bobbitt (1862-1909): Bobbitt’s career as a U.S. Deputy Marshal came to a tragic end when he was killed by "Deacon" Jim Miller, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the pursuit of justice.
John R. Boston: John R. Boston was a full-blood Cherokee who served as a U.S. Indian policeman, he was killed in the line of duty.
Riley Boston: Riley Boston served in Company D of the Texas Rangers in 1887.
William Bouden: William Bouden served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas. His efforts to capture members of the Cook Gang and Ned Christie demonstrate his commitment to bringing criminals to justice.
Joe Bowers: Joe Bowers served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Ft. Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal Thomas Boles. Bowers’ involvement in the pursuit of Ned Christie and his subsequent death in a saloon brawl illustrate the violent and unpredictable nature of life in the Old West.
H. E. Bowling: H. E. Bowling served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Southern District of Indian Territory at Paris, Texas, under Marshal Sheb Williams.
Wes Bowman (or Baughman) (18??-1857): As a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Indian Territory, Bowman played a key role in the death of Ned Christie.
Elihu R. Box: Elihu R. Box served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned on July 9, 1889, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, serving under Marshal Jacob Yoes.
Reuben Hornsby Boyce (1853-1927): Boyce’s experiences as a Texas Ranger, miner, and lawman in multiple territories showcase the diverse paths taken by individuals seeking adventure and opportunity in the West.
W. C. Boyer: W. C. Boyer served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Southern District court in Paris, Texas, in 1897.
Joe Boyle: Joe Boyle served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, under Marshal George C. Crump. He was killed while on duty in 1896.
J.W. Bracken: J.W. Bracken served as a Texas Ranger, Company B in 1889 under Captain Sam McMurry.
Cyrus P. Bradley (1919-1865): Bradley’s service as Sheriff and first Chief of Police in Chicago, Illinois, highlights the evolution of law enforcement in urban environments during the 19th century.
Abner Brasfield: An outlaw turned lawman, Brasfield’s story illustrates the complexities of morality and redemption in the Old West.
Samuel Bradshaw: Samuel Bradshaw served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, commissioned on July 30, 1872, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, serving under Marshal Logan S. Roots.
R.G. Brady: R.G. Brady served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Arizona Territory, commissioned on August 17, 1896.
William J. Brady (1825-1878): As sheriff in Lincoln County, New Mexico, during the Lincoln County War, Brady found himself at the center of a violent conflict. His death at the hands of Billy the Kid and the Regulators underscores the dangers of law enforcement in a lawless environment.
George Bravin (1862-1918): Bravin’s service as a Tombstone Deputy Sheriff, U.S. Deputy Marshal, and Pearce, Arizona Constable demonstrates his commitment to law enforcement in a region known for its lawlessness and conflicts.
Ed N. Brazell: Ed N. Brazell served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal who served in the Central District of Oklahoma in 1894 and 1895 under Marshal James J. McAlester.
James L. Brazell: James L. Brazell served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, serving under Marshal Jacob Yoes.
Dow Braziel (18??-1919): Braziel’s career as a U.S. Deputy Marshal and IRS Officer highlights the diverse roles often held by law enforcement officials in the West.
William Milton Breakenridge (1846-1931): Breakenridge’s presence at the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and his subsequent career as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, surveyor, and railroad detective demonstrate his long and varied involvement in law enforcement and other activities in the West.
James R. Brent: A buffalo hunter and lawman, Brent served as chief deputy to John Poe in the mid-1880s when Poe succeeded Pat Garrett as sheriff of Lincoln County, New Mexico.
F. M. Brewer: F. M. Brewer served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned on August 4, 1886, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas, serving under Marshal John Carroll.
Richard M. Brewer (1850-1878): Brewer’s role as leader of the Regulators in the Lincoln County War placed him at the heart of a violent conflict. His death at Blazer’s Mill underscores the dangers faced by those involved in the war.
Elijah "Lige" S. Briant: Briant’s actions in killing Will Carver and wounding Ben Kilpatrick demonstrate the courage and determination required of lawmen in the Old West.
Ben Kilpatrick: Ben Kilpatrick was a lawman in Kansas City and Dodge City and a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Hays and Wichita.
James Abijah Brooks (18??-1944): Brooks joined the Texas Rangers in 1882 and served with Companies A and F.
William L. "Buffalo Bill" Brooks (1832-1874): Brooks’ transformation from lawman to outlaw and his subsequent lynching highlight the complexities and moral ambiguities of life in the Old West.
Angus Brown, aka Arapaho Red: While serving as sheriff of Buffalo, Wyoming, in 1892, he was killed by two young cowboys.
George S. Brown: George S. Brown served as the city marshal of Caldwell, Kansas, and was killed on June 22, 1882, by Jim Bean.
Henry Newton Brown (1857-1884): Brown’s career took him from the Lincoln County War to law enforcement in Tascosa, Texas, and Caldwell, Kansas. His attempt to rob a bank and subsequent hanging demonstrate the dangers of straying from the path of justice.
John L. Brown: John L. Brown served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned on October 22, 1894, in the Western District at Fort Smith, Arkansas.
John P. Brown: John P. Brown served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal working out of the Western District, Fort Smith federal court.
Neal "Skinny" Brown (1850-??): As a Dodge City Assistant Marshal and U.S. Deputy Marshal, Brown’s involvement in the Dodge City Peace Commission and his pursuit of the Doolin Gang demonstrate his commitment to law enforcement in the region.
Reuben "Rube" H. Brown (1851-1875): Brown’s involvement in the Sutton-Taylor Feud and his subsequent death in a saloon highlight the violence and instability of life in Texas during the late 19th century.
Eli Hickman "Heck" Bruner (1859-1898): As a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Cherokee Nation, Bruner faced numerous challenges in maintaining order and enforcing federal law.
J. H. Bryant (1855-1898): J. H. Bryant was a prominent Choctaw Indian commissioned as a U.S. Deputy Marshal.
Dave Buchanan (18??-1894): Buchanan’s death in the line of duty underscores the dangers faced by lawmen in the Indian Territory.
Seth Bullock (1849-1919): Bullock’s career as a sheriff in Montana and South Dakota, as well as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, demonstrates his commitment to law enforcement and community development in the West.
S.M. Burche: Appointed as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, Burche was one of the few women appointed as a deputy during the 19th century.
A.F. Burke: A.F. Burke was a deputy sheriff in Tombstone, Arizona in the 1880s.
J. Steve Burke: J. Steve Burke served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned at Guthrie, Oklahoma Territory by Marshal Evett Nix in 1893.
James Burkitt: James Burkitt served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District of Arkansas on July 13, 1892, under Marshal Jacob Yoes.
Charles Burns: Charles Burns served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Western District of Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Holm O. Bursum: Holm O. Bursum served as sheriff of Sorocco County, New Mexico Territory, in the 1890s.
John Millard Burton: John Millard Burton served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal commissioned in the Southern Indian Territory Court at Ardmore, Oklahoma.
Matthew "Matt" Burts (18??-??): Burts’ journey from lawman to outlaw reflects the blurred lines between the two in the Old West.
W.M. Burwell: W.M. Burwell served as a Texas Ranger in 1896.
Shepherd "Shep" Busby (18??-1892): Busby’s death after killing another deputy marshal underscores the volatile nature of law enforcement in the West.
Edward "Ned" Wilkerson Bushyhead (1832-1907): Bushyhead’s life took him from the Cherokee Trail of Tears to law enforcement in San Diego, California, showcasing the diverse experiences of individuals who shaped the American West.
W. Hesson "Hess" Bussey: W. Hesson "Hess" Bussey was a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Indian Territory (Oklahoma) in the days of the Wild West.
The Old West Lawmen List – B showcases the broad spectrum of individuals who took up the mantle of law enforcement. These individuals, whether serving as U.S. Marshals, Texas Rangers, or town sheriffs, played a critical role in shaping the American West. Their stories of courage, sacrifice, and sometimes, moral ambiguity, continue to captivate and inform our understanding of this pivotal period in American history. The Old West Lawmen List – B reminds us of the complex and often dangerous lives of those who sought to bring order to a lawless land. The legacy of the Old West Lawmen List – B remains a testament to the challenges and triumphs of establishing justice in a rapidly changing frontier.