Old West Lawmen List – N-O
The era of the Old West, a period romanticized in countless tales of cowboys, outlaws, and pioneers, was also defined by the individuals who sought to uphold law and order. These Old West Lawmen List – N-O were often men of grit, courage, and unwavering dedication, facing dangers that would test the mettle of anyone. While some were legendary figures known throughout the territories, many others toiled in relative obscurity, their names fading into the annals of history. This article seeks to shed light on a selection of these Old West Lawmen List – N-O, focusing on those whose surnames began with the letters "N" and "O," offering a glimpse into their lives, careers, and contributions to the turbulent landscape of the American West.
The following summaries provide a brief overview of these individuals, highlighting their roles as sheriffs, marshals, Texas Rangers, and other peace officers. Each entry offers a snapshot of their service, often detailing the challenges they faced and the impact they had on the communities they served. These Old West Lawmen List – N-O were instrumental in shaping the West, and their stories deserve to be remembered.
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David Neagle (1847-1926): A Swift Hand in the West
David Neagle, a name whispered with respect and perhaps a hint of fear, carved his legacy as one of the West’s quickest draws. Born in 1847, Neagle’s career in law enforcement spanned several prominent locations, showcasing his versatility and unwavering commitment to justice. He began his service as a Deputy Sheriff in Cochise County, Arizona, a region notorious for its lawlessness and proximity to the Mexican border. From there, he ascended to the position of Marshal in the infamous town of Tombstone, Arizona, a place synonymous with gunfights and frontier justice. Neagle’s reputation then carried him westward to San Francisco, California, where he served as Marshal, tackling the unique challenges of a rapidly growing urban center. His distinguished career culminated in his appointment as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, further solidifying his place among the most respected figures of the Old West Lawmen List – N-O. His ability with a firearm was legendary, a skill that undoubtedly served him well in the dangerous environments he patrolled.
Edgar T. Neal: From Ranger to Sheriff
Edgar T. Neal’s career embodied the transition from frontier ranger to established lawman. Serving as a Texas Ranger in the 1890s, Neal honed his skills in tracking, horsemanship, and firearms, all essential tools for maintaining order in the vast and often unforgiving Texas landscape. His dedication and effectiveness as a Ranger earned him the respect of his peers and the trust of the communities he served. Following his tenure with the Rangers, Neal transitioned into local politics, successfully running for the position of sheriff of San Saba County, Texas. His election reflected the confidence the citizens had in his ability to uphold the law and protect their interests. He held the position for several terms, demonstrating his continued commitment to public service and solidifying his place in the Old West Lawmen List – N-O.
Tony Neis: Guardian of a Notorious Prisoner
Tony Neis’s claim to fame lies in a single, yet significant, assignment: escorting the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid to trial in Mesilla, New Mexico, in 1881. This was no ordinary task, as Billy the Kid was known for his cunning, agility, and penchant for escape. The responsibility placed on Neis was immense, requiring constant vigilance and unwavering resolve. While details of the escort are scarce, the fact that Neis was entrusted with such a crucial mission speaks volumes about his reputation as a reliable and capable lawman. He played a small but vital role in the unfolding saga of the Wild West.
Charles L. Nevill (1855-1906): A Ranger’s Ranger
Charles L. Nevill distinguished himself through his exemplary service within the ranks of the Texas Rangers. Rising to the ranks of lieutenant and captain, Nevill demonstrated exceptional leadership and bravery in confronting some of the most notorious criminals of the era. His accomplishments included the arrest of a wounded Sam Bass in 1878, a significant victory in the fight against organized crime. He also played a key role in dismantling the Jesse Evans Gang and capturing the Potter Gang, further cementing his reputation as a formidable force for law and order. After his time with the Rangers, Nevill transitioned into local law enforcement, serving as the sheriff of Presidio County, Texas, from 1885 to 1888. His experience and reputation made him a natural choice for the position, and he continued to serve his community with distinction.
Jim Newman: A Man on Both Sides of the Law
Jim Newman presents a complex and intriguing figure, blurring the lines between lawman and outlaw. His association with the notorious John Wesley Hardin in the 1860s suggests a life lived on the fringes of society, where allegiances shifted easily and the pursuit of personal gain often overshadowed moral considerations. Whether Newman served as a lawman to legitimize his activities or simply to survive in a harsh environment remains a matter of speculation. Regardless, his story offers a fascinating glimpse into the moral ambiguities that often characterized the Old West.
J.O. Newton: Leading the Texas Rangers
J.O. Newton held a prominent position within the Texas Rangers, serving as the Adjutant General in 1907. In this role, Newton was responsible for the administrative and logistical aspects of the Ranger’s operations, ensuring that the organization was well-equipped and properly managed. His position highlights the evolving nature of law enforcement in the West, as the need for professional organization and efficient management grew alongside the increasing complexity of frontier society.
Frank P. Nichols: A Deadly Encounter in New Mexico
Frank P. Nichols, a Deputy Sheriff in Springer, New Mexico, is remembered for his decisive action against outlaw John Scott on May 17, 1883. In a deadly encounter, Nichols shot and killed Scott, effectively ending the outlaw’s reign of terror. This incident underscores the dangers faced by lawmen in the Old West, where confrontations with armed and desperate criminals were a constant threat. Nichols’s actions demonstrate the courage and determination required to uphold the law in such a volatile environment.
Evett Dumas “E.D.” Nix (1861-1946): Taming the Oklahoma Territory
Evett Dumas "E.D." Nix stands as a towering figure in the history of law enforcement in the Oklahoma Territory. Taking the oath of office as U.S. Marshal on July 1, 1893, Nix inherited the responsibility of bringing order to a region rife with outlaws and criminal gangs. His tenure, lasting until 1896, was marked by relentless pursuit and unwavering dedication to justice. Nix led the posse that engaged in the infamous Ingalls, Oklahoma Shoot-out, a bloody confrontation that resulted in the deaths and capture of several members of the Doolin-Dalton Gang. He is considered largely responsible for dismantling this notorious gang, making him a celebrated figure among the Old West Lawmen List – N-O.
Thomas C. Nixon (1838?-1884): A Victim of Frontier Justice
Thomas C. Nixon served as an Assistant Marshal in Dodge City, a town synonymous with the Wild West and its reputation for lawlessness. Working under the leadership of Bill Tilghman, Nixon faced the daily challenges of maintaining order in a town filled with cowboys, gamblers, and outlaws. Tragically, Nixon’s life was cut short on July 21, 1884, when he was shot and killed by "Mysterious" Dave Mather, a notorious gunfighter with a checkered past. Nixon’s death serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by lawmen in the Old West, where violence could erupt at any moment.
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Lon Oden: Gunfights Along the Border
Lon Oden, a Texas Ranger and skilled gunfighter, patrolled the volatile Mexican border alongside fellow Ranger John Hughes in the late 1800s. The border region was a hotbed of criminal activity, with smugglers, cattle rustlers, and bandits preying on both sides of the line. Oden and Hughes faced constant danger, engaging in numerous gunfights to protect the lives and property of the citizens they served. Oden’s bravery and skill with a firearm made him a valuable asset to the Texas Rangers, contributing to their reputation as a formidable force for law and order.
William A. Old (1874-1914): From Texas to Arizona
William A. Old’s career path reflects the westward movement of law enforcement in the late 19th century. Beginning his service as a Texas Ranger, Old gained valuable experience in tracking, horsemanship, and firearms. His skills were then sought after in the burgeoning territories further west, leading him to join the Arizona Rangers. This transition demonstrates the interconnectedness of law enforcement agencies in the Old West, as experienced officers moved between states and territories to combat crime and maintain order.
Robert “Bob” Ollinger (1841?-1881): A Controversial Figure
Robert "Bob" Ollinger’s legacy is shrouded in controversy, as his actions often blurred the lines between lawman and criminal. Serving as a U.S. Marshal, Seven Rivers, New Mexico Marshal, and Lincoln County, New Mexico Deputy Sheriff, Ollinger was implicated in the violent conflicts of the Lincoln County War. He was eventually indicted for his participation in the conflict, raising serious questions about his integrity and abuse of power. Ollinger’s life came to a dramatic end on April 28, 1881, when he was shot and killed by Billy the Kid during the outlaw’s daring escape from jail. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of corruption and the complexities of justice in the Old West.
John Wallace Olinger: Brother in Arms
John Wallace Olinger, brother of the infamous Bob Ollinger, was also deputized during the tumultuous Lincoln County War in New Mexico. His involvement in the conflict, alongside his brother, further highlights the deep divisions and personal vendettas that fueled the violence of the era. Whether John Wallace Olinger shared his brother’s controversial reputation remains unclear, but his presence during this period of intense conflict underscores the pervasive nature of the Lincoln County War and its impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
John C. Orrick: See George Washington Arrington
John C. Orrick’s name is linked to that of George Washington Arrington, suggesting a close professional relationship or perhaps shared duties within a law enforcement agency. Further research into the life and career of George Washington Arrington may shed more light on Orrick’s contributions to law enforcement in the Old West.
William S. Osborn: Protecting Prescott, Arizona
William S. Osborn served as a deputy marshal in Prescott, Arizona, during the 1870s. Prescott was a bustling mining town, attracting a diverse population of prospectors, businessmen, and those seeking their fortune in the West. As a deputy marshal, Osborn was responsible for maintaining order in this vibrant and often chaotic environment, dealing with issues ranging from petty theft to violent crime. His service contributed to the establishment of law and order in Prescott, helping to transform it from a frontier outpost into a more civilized community.
Bass (Baz) L. Outlaw (18??-1894): A Ranger’s Fall From Grace
Bass (Baz) L. Outlaw’s career followed a turbulent trajectory, marked by both success and scandal. Serving as a Texas Ranger, Outlaw initially gained a reputation as a skilled and effective lawman. However, his career took a turn for the worse when he was dismissed from the Rangers in 1894 after shooting up the town of Alpine, Texas. This act of recklessness demonstrated a lack of self-control and disregard for the law, leading to his termination. Despite this setback, Outlaw was later appointed as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, suggesting that he retained some level of respect within the law enforcement community. However, his life was cut short on April 5, 1894, when he was killed by John Selman, a controversial figure with a long history of involvement in the Old West’s criminal underworld.
Commodore Perry Owens (1852-1919): A Legend of the Arizona Frontier
Commodore Perry Owens stands as a legendary figure among the Old West Lawmen List – N-O, renowned for his bravery, skill with a firearm, and unwavering dedication to justice. As a lawman and gunfighter, Owens patrolled the Arizona Territory during a period of intense conflict and lawlessness. He is best known for the Owens-Blevins Shootout, a bloody confrontation that took place during the Pleasant Valley War. In this famous encounter, Owens single-handedly confronted a group of armed men, killing several and solidifying his reputation as a fearless and formidable lawman. His exploits have been immortalized in countless books, articles, and films, making him one of the most recognizable figures of the Old West.
Will Owens: Serving Under Captain Schmidt
Will Owens served as a Texas Ranger in 1886 under the command of Captain G.H. Schmidt. While details of his specific duties and accomplishments are scarce, his service within the ranks of the Texas Rangers demonstrates his commitment to upholding the law and protecting the citizens of Texas. The Texas Rangers were a highly respected and effective law enforcement agency, and serving under Captain Schmidt would have provided Owens with valuable experience and training.
The men listed above, whose names begin with "N" and "O," represent a small fraction of the countless individuals who dedicated their lives to upholding law and order in the Old West. Their stories, though often brief and incomplete, offer a valuable glimpse into the challenges, dangers, and complexities of frontier justice. These Old West Lawmen List – N-O played a vital role in shaping the American West, and their contributions deserve to be remembered and appreciated.