(James Butler Hickok)

May 27, 1837
August 2, 1876

Bandit and Gunslinger

James Butler Hickok—best remembered as Wild Bill Hickok—was a lawman, gambler, and scout in the Old West. Known for his tall tales and fine clothes, he was killed in a saloon while playing cards. In his hand he held what came to be known as the dead man’s hand—two black eights, two black aces, and the jack of diamonds.

A boy who loved guns

Born on May 27, 1837, James Butler Hickok was the fourth of six children of William Alonzo and Polly Hickok. Married in 1827, the Hickoks had three other boys—Oliver, Lorenzo, and Horace—and two daughters—Celinda and Lydia. Hickok grew up on his parents’ farm in Troy Grove, Illinois, a remote and rustic area. His parents were abolitionists (active in the fight...