Rufus Cannon – Important Black Marshal
Rufus "Rufe" Cannon stands as a significant figure in the annals of the American West, a U.S. Deputy Marshal who played a vital role during the tumultuous Oklahoma territorial era. While history often highlights the exploits of more widely known figures, Cannon’s contributions to law enforcement and his unique background make him a compelling subject of study, demonstrating the diverse tapestry of individuals who shaped the American frontier. The story of Rufus Cannon offers a valuable perspective on the challenges and complexities of maintaining order in a land undergoing rapid transformation.
Born on January 22, 1847, in Arkansas, Rufus Cannon’s journey to becoming a respected lawman began long before his official commission. His appointment as a U.S. Deputy Marshal came on September 15, 1892, within the Western District headquartered at Fort Smith, Arkansas, a notorious hub for legal activity under the jurisdiction of Marshal Jacob Yoes. Fort Smith, a frontier town brimming with outlaws, gamblers, and settlers, served as a crucible for law enforcement, demanding courage, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication from those who dared to uphold the law.
Despite not achieving the same level of recognition as contemporaries like Bass Reeves and Grant Johnson, fellow African-American peace officers in Oklahoma, Rufus Cannon carved out a distinguished career, marked by his involvement in the apprehension of several notorious outlaws. His success wasn’t solely attributed to his bravery; it was also deeply intertwined with his unique cultural heritage.
Cannon possessed a mixed heritage, being of Cherokee and African-American descent. This background granted him a distinct advantage in navigating the complex social and political landscape of the Oklahoma Territory. His familiarity with Cherokee customs and language proved invaluable in his interactions with the native population, fostering trust and facilitating the pursuit of justice within the territory. This cultural understanding allowed him to move more freely and effectively within the region, gathering intelligence and building relationships that proved crucial in his law enforcement endeavors.
One of Cannon’s early accomplishments involved the capture of the notorious African Creek outlaw, Captain Willie. Willie had committed the heinous crime of murdering Oklahoma City U.S. Deputy Marshal George Thornton in 1891. Bringing Captain Willie to justice was a significant victory for law enforcement and a testament to Cannon’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law, regardless of the challenges or dangers involved. It solidified his reputation as a capable and determined lawman within the territory.
The dangers faced by lawmen like Rufus Cannon were ever-present. An encounter in January 1893 near Bartlesville, Oklahoma, serves as a stark reminder of the perils they faced. Cannon, riding alongside fellow U.S. Deputy Marshal Ike Rogers, came across a notorious trio: Jesse Jackson, Henry Starr, and George "Slaughter Kid" Newcomb. The outlaws resisted arrest, triggering a fierce gun battle. The intensity of the conflict is underscored by the sheer volume of gunfire exchanged – over 100 rounds were fired. During the melee, Cannon managed to wound Jesse Jackson in the side and right arm. The wounded Jackson surrendered, while Henry Starr and George Newcomb managed to escape, highlighting the unpredictable nature of law enforcement on the frontier.
In 1895, Cannon added to his list of accomplishments by arresting William Christian, a member of the infamous Christian outlaw gang. However, Christian managed to escape custody, fleeing to Arizona and resuming his life of crime. This incident, while a setback, underscores the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement in the West, where escape and evasion were often easier than capture and confinement. The vastness of the territory and the limited resources available to lawmen often allowed criminals to slip through the cracks, necessitating relentless pursuit and unwavering determination.
Rufus Cannon played a role in one of the most significant events in the history of the Oklahoma Territory: the pursuit and killing of Bill Doolin. On August 24, 1896, Cannon was part of the posse led by the legendary Heck Thomas that finally brought Doolin’s reign of terror to an end. While accounts differ as to who fired the fatal shot that killed Doolin, some claiming it was Cannon himself, the credit officially went to Heck Thomas. Despite this ambiguity, the entire posse, with one notable exception, was rewarded for their role in Doolin’s demise. For reasons that remain unclear, Cannon was not initially compensated for his participation. Some historians believe that Heck Thomas, recognizing Cannon’s contribution, shared a portion of his reward with him, highlighting the camaraderie and sense of justice that existed among lawmen on the frontier.
The fact that Cannon may have been overlooked for official recognition speaks to the racial biases that existed during the era. Despite his proven abilities and contributions to law enforcement, his race may have been a factor in the decision not to compensate him directly. However, the alleged act of generosity by Heck Thomas suggests a level of respect and recognition that transcended racial prejudice, at least within the close-knit community of lawmen.
After his service in the Fort Smith region, Cannon relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, where he lived to the remarkable age of 103. His longevity serves as a testament to his resilience and adaptability, qualities that undoubtedly contributed to his success as a lawman. The story of Rufus Cannon is not only a tale of bravery and dedication to law enforcement but also a reflection of the complex social and political landscape of the American West. His contributions, though sometimes overshadowed by those of his more famous contemporaries, are nonetheless significant and deserve recognition.
The life of Rufus Cannon serves as a reminder that the history of the American West is not a monolithic narrative but rather a collection of diverse stories, each contributing to the rich and complex tapestry of the frontier experience. By studying the lives of individuals like Cannon, we gain a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and triumphs of those who shaped the American West and their enduring legacy. He represents the many unsung heroes who helped tame the Wild West. His story is a testament to the courage, resilience, and dedication of those who served on the front lines of law enforcement during a turbulent period in American history.
