Tattoos have a long history in the United States, dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes in the country often wore tattoos, with famous captives like Olive Oatman being captured and sold to the Mojave tribe for blue dye tattoos. Soldiers from both sides of the war were getting tattoos as a rite of passage or to commemorate an event or battle. In the Wild West era, cowboys were not common to have tattoos, as they were generally seen as something associated with sailors. The designs of cowboy tattoos were often inspired by the cowboy way of life, including images of horses, lassos, revolvers, and other symbols of the Wild West.
Today, traditional Western tattoos are more popular than ever, paying tribute to the bold-will-hold roots of American tattoos and the mythology and ideals of the frontier. In the Wild West, tattoos were more than just decorative art; they served as visual markers of one’s allegiances, beliefs, and life experiences. Western tattoos originated in the late 19th century as a way for sailors to identify. The earliest recorded tattoos date back to 12, 000 BC in Egypt, and later the Romans adopted tattooing. Cowboys and gunfighters likely sported a tattoo or two, and these were all done by hand until the first tattoo machine came out in the 1890s.
Throughout the years, several tattoo attractions worked with the Buffalo Bill Wild West show, and tattooing has been practiced across Western Europe from time immemorial. Today, western tattoos are more popular than ever, paying tribute to the bold-will-hold roots of American tattoos and the mythology and ideals of the frontier.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| How common were tattoos during the wild west? | I suspect there were far fewer tattoos than today (there were far fewer tattoos forty years ago than today!). And I suspect people weren’t discussing them. | reddit.com |
| What kind of tattoos would a cowboy have had in the Wild … | Generally none. Some may have had tattoos if they had been sailors, but generally, tattoos were frowned on in the Victorian era. | quora.com |
| Tattoos in the Old West | It’s very likely some cowboys and gunfighters sported a tattoo or two. These were all done by hand until the first tattoo machine came out in the 1890s. | truewestmagazine.com |
📹 Tattoos in the Old West
The history of tattooing on the frontier Batjac JW: https://www.youtube.com/user/scorpio86ist Thanks HD Green Screen …
Did Early Native Americans Have Tattoos?
For thousands of years, tattooing has been a vital cultural expression for Indigenous peoples across the Americas, including Native Americans, Polynesians, and Hawaiians. However, missionaries aimed to assimilate tribes and convert them to Christianity, leading to the decline of this art form. Native Americans utilized tools such as sharpened bones and rocks to create tattoos, embedding symbols that represented their identity, clan, and cultural heritage.
Tribes like the Hupa and Apache exemplified the rich diversity found in Native American tattoo practices, with ethnographic literature from the southwestern United States documenting early methods and tools, such as cactus spines.
Tattoos were not merely decorative but held significant meanings, often acting as a silent language that conveyed the wearer's social or cultural status. All members of society—men, women, adults, and children—could receive tattoos for various reasons, like protection or spiritual significance. For instance, in Eskimo culture, tattoos had specific meanings intertwined with their identity and traditions. The process of tattooing could involve scratching the skin and introducing soot or crushed minerals into the wound, resulting in tattoos typically in shades of blue, among other colors.
Today, there is a resurgence of interest among Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities in reviving traditional tattooing practices using ancestral techniques. These modern efforts to reclaim and celebrate tattooing are seen as a way to honor cultural heritage and connect with the symbolism that has been part of their identity for centuries. Although evidence of Native American tattooing practices is limited, the legacy of this art form continues to inspire cultural expression and identity within these communities.
What Culture Did Tattoos First?
In 2018, the discovery of the oldest figurative tattoos on two Egyptian mummies, dated between 3351 and 3017 BCE, highlighted the ancient origins of tattooing. Meanwhile, the oldest evidence in the Americas was found on a Chinchorro mummy from Chile, with mustache-like dotted lines, dated to 2563–1972 cal BCE. Tattooing was prevalent across ancient civilizations, indicating it was not limited to one culture or region.
The art form was notably developed by Austronesian people from Taiwan and coastal South China prior to at least 1500 BCE, but also has roots in ancient Egypt, where stone and metal tools were used for skin marking.
Evidence reveals that tattooing has been an ancient practice, as mummified skin from various cultures displays tattoos dating back to 3370 BC to 3100 BC. Ötzi the Iceman's discovery in 1991 brought attention to this ancient tradition. Various groups, including Siberian nomads, Indigenous Polynesians, Nubians, Native South Americans, and Greeks, utilized tattoos for multiple purposes—ranging from protection against evil, declarations of love, and indications of status. Tattoos served both spiritual and social functions in many cultures.
Despite early evidence of tattoos in Egyptian mummies aligning with the time of the construction of the pyramids, the significance of tattoos varied. Polynesian cultures, among others, incorporated tattoos deeply into their identity and heritage. The late 20th century saw a rise in popularity for tattoos featuring diverse designs, like Chinese symbols and Native American motifs, marking a cultural exchange and interest in global tattoo traditions.
From the Middle Kingdom of Egypt to the elaborate tattoos of late 3rd century Japanese men, a rich tapestry of tattooing history exists worldwide. Ancient Egyptians are known to have utilized tattoos for denoting wealth and power, with recent studies indicating that these practices had a specific feminine focus for about a millennium.
Furthermore, early British and Mesoamerican cultures, such as the Maya, Inca, and Aztecs, incorporated tattooing in various rituals, showcasing diverse applications of this art form. The cultural evolution of tattoos has transformed significantly over the centuries, influenced by regional beliefs and practices, leading to the vibrant and varied tattoo culture we see today. In summary, tattooing is a long-established human practice rich with cultural significance, continually shaped by global interactions and evolving trends.
Why Do The Cowboys Never Wear Blue?
Since the 1960s, the Dallas Cowboys have donned white jerseys as their home uniform to provide fans with a vibrant display of colors each week, moving away from a monotonous blue vs. white matchup. The decision was made by general manager Tex Schramm to enhance the game-day experience. An iconic aspect of the Cowboys' identity, their choice of jersey has historical significance linked to losses while wearing blue, such as in the 1971 Super Bowl and the NFC Championship in 1980. Intriguingly, following these games, the Cowboys won the subsequent Super Bowl while wearing white jerseys.
The Cowboys are unique among NFL teams in that they consistently wear white at home, leading to fan beliefs about the "jinx" associated with their blue uniforms. Pro Football Hall of Famer Gil Brandt has discussed these fears, suggesting that the Cowboys’ fixation with the blue jerseys stems from past losses, pushing some teams to wear white at home to force the Cowboys into their darker attire. This superstition has contributed to the perception that the blue jerseys are unlucky.
Historically, the Cowboys’ blue jerseys have transitioned from a royal blue to navy, symbolizing this ongoing narrative. Fans and commentators speculate the team's preference for blue is shifting, possibly hinting at a throwback jersey for future games. Despite their color palette of blue, silver, and white, Cowboys players in blue uniforms remain a rare sight, fueled by beliefs about past misfortunes associated with these colors.
The overall lower winning percentage when wearing blue is exacerbated by the fact that they typically only wore it on the road, not at home where they sport their whites. However, the upcoming season could see the Cowboys in blue for special occasions, acknowledging their storied past. With their traditional aesthetic being blended with modern elements, the Cowboys are poised to maintain their distinct identity while exploring nostalgic jersey options moving forward. In summary, the Cowboys' choice to wear white at home is steeped in tradition, superstition, and a unique approach to fan engagement, making their identity one of the most recognizable in sports.
When Did Tattoos Start In The West?
Modern tattooing in the Western world traces its origins back to the 16th-18th centuries during maritime expeditions, where contact between explorers and Amerindian tribes or Polynesians influenced the tattooing practice. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that tattoos became prevalent in the West, primarily through sailors and soldiers who returned from their travels. The tattoo culture flourished among seafaring Europeans and Americans, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries, with archaeological and cultural evidence revealing the long-standing history of tattoos globally, from Neolithic times to the present.
Descriptions of facial tattoos surfaced in the 1870s during tours featuring "Fiji natives." Various Native American tribes also practiced tattooing. Notably, in 1846, Martin Hildebrandt began his career as a tattoo artist, contributing to the growing tattoo tradition in America. The term "tattoo" itself derives from the Polynesian word "tatatau," which means to strike, introduced to the Western lexicon following Captain Cook’s expedition to Tahiti in 1769. Tattoos, with their rich history, reflected changing attitudes, beliefs, and social aesthetics over time.
The American tattoo tradition primarily began with sailors after the American Revolution, who adopted tattooing for diverse reasons. Tattooing in the U. S. spread from the East and West Coasts inland, resembling the spread of many new cultural practices. Tattooing had pre-existing European roots, especially among sailors, traders, and pilgrims since at least the 16th century. Throughout Western Europe, tattooing persisted through the ages.
Drawing attention to historical influences, Captain Cook chronicled native tattooing during his voyages in the late 18th century, further popularizing the practice. Evidence exists of women having tattoos dating back to as early as 4000-3500 B. C. E. The earliest forms of tattooing date back to 5000 B. C., revealing its longstanding significance across various cultures. In contemporary Western culture, tattoos have become closely associated with soldiers, particularly since World War I, showcasing the meaningful evolution of tattoo art worldwide.
Did Pirates Have Tattoos?
The prevailing belief is that tattoos were first documented by James Cook's 1769 expedition in the South Pacific, where indigenous people were observed tattooing their bodies, a practice culturally significant to them. However, the existence of tattoos and tattoo artistry in Europe and America during the Golden Age of Piracy (17th and 18th centuries) is also acknowledged. Interestingly, there was a tradition of Christian tattooing during this early modern period amongst Christians who traveled to the Holy Land.
While I've provided several insights regarding pirates and their tattoos, the response has been lukewarm. The inquiry remains whether pirates commonly adorned themselves with tattoos, which historical evidence suggests they did. During the Golden Age of Piracy, many sailors, including pirates, utilized tattoos as a popular form of body art, marking a reflective expression of their adventurous lifestyles.
Cinematic portrayals, particularly in works like "Pirates of the Caribbean," have reinforced the image of tattooed pirates, such as Jack Sparrow, whose character features notable tattoos symbolizing freedom and resilience. However, the origins of these associations may be more contemporary than strictly historical. It is conceivable that famous pirates, such as Blackbeard, also sported tattoos indicative of the trends of the time.
Tattoos among sailors and pirates, while not uniformly documented, indeed had a historical presence. Buccaneer-surgeon Lionel Wafer, writing in the 1680s, provided firsthand accounts supporting this claim. Nonetheless, while evidence suggests pirates may have had tattoos, it might not be as prevalent as popular culture suggests. Moreover, mariners who mingled with Native American and African cultures often had tattoos, and certain Mediterranean or Eastern populations likely had similar practices.
The notion that tattoos were exclusive to pirates of the 17th and early 18th centuries has been exaggerated by modern interpretations and media, often reducing it to simplistic portrayals akin to various stereotypical pirate imagery. Despite this, historical data reveals that by the end of the 18th century, a significant subset of British and American sailors had tattoos, indicating its broader acceptance.
In London's maritime subculture, classic sea tattoos showcased figures from pirate lore, with notable examples including Henry Morgan and Charles Wayne, reaffirming the intricate relationship between tattoos and piracy throughout history.
Did Cowboys Ever Get Tattoos?
Tattoos in the Victorian era were generally frowned upon, with exceptions for sailors. However, some cowboys and gunfighters did have tattoos, integrating them into their cultural identity. In Western culture, tattoos were often used to mark horses and cattle, akin to a means of identification. Cowboys also appreciated the aesthetic aspects of tattoos, seeing them as art forms. Before the invention of the tattoo machine in the 1890s, all tattoos were done by hand.
During the 1870s, a touring exhibition showcased "Fiji natives" with distinct facial tattoos, which sparked interest in tattooing practices. Some Native Americans also incorporated tattoo-like techniques for facial coloring. Consequently, it's plausible that some cowboys and gunfighters bore tattoos, commonly depicting their ties to ranches or their affinity for the wide-open plains.
Despite the romanticized idea that many cowboys were heavily tattooed, historical evidence suggests otherwise. Unlike sailors and criminals, who often embraced body art, cowboys were usually more focused on their work. However, soldiers from both sides of the Civil War began getting tattoos, likely for commemorative purposes.
The narrative reiterates that while some cowboys had tattoos, they were not as prevalent as popularly believed. The prevalence of tattoos among men and women throughout history points to a broader cultural acceptance than just within Western folklore. For example, Olive Oatman, a famed captive, was tattooed on her chin by the Mojave tribe after her capture in 1851, illustrating the historical significance of tattoos that transcended cultural boundaries.
To explore the evolution of tattooing, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is currently hosting an exhibition titled "Tattooing: Religion, Reality and Regret," which examines tattooing practices from ancient times to the present.
Overall, tattoos served not just as personal expression for cowboys but also as cultural symbols, despite the general societal reservations surrounding them in their time.
Did People In The 1800S Have Tattoos?
During the late 1800s to early 1900s, approximately 1 in 5 gentry in Britain sported tattoos, typically characterized by a limited color palette primarily featuring navy ink, religious symbols, and family crests. This trend extended beyond the working class to include various social strata, including laborers, nobles, and royals; notable figures among the tattooed elite included members of the British royal family.
Quantitative studies of sailors in the late 18th century suggest that tattooing was gaining popularity across diverse social backgrounds. Scholars of the time posited that tattoos were not a mark of savagery, as even ancestors of the British aristocracy had similar markings, indicating an embedded historical significance.
John O'Reilly, a well-known tattooed individual from the 1800s, exemplified this culture; his full-body tattoos made him a spectacle in dime museums and circuses. The modern tattoo trade in Britain began treating tattoos as commodities, appealing to a wider audience. A Pew Research Center study indicates that around 32% of Americans today have tattoos, a trend echoing the Victorian fascination, which saw a brief surge in popularity among the upper class due to the acceptance of tattooed royals, such as Edward, Prince of Wales.
During this period, tattoos were predominantly simple line drawings executed by sailor-tattooists, often located in discreet areas to ensure they could be hidden. However, societal norms meant that most American women of the era typically avoided tattoos, as they risked being labeled as disreputable. Despite their association with rebellion and deviance, tattoos gained a more widespread acceptance in Victorian England, evolving from their earlier ties to convicts and soldiers.
The cultural significance of tattoos expanded as naval experiences inspired both the working class and the aristocracy, solidifying tattoos as an accepted form of self-expression by the early 20th century.
Did King George V Have A Tattoo?
Prince George, who later became King George V, documented in his diary a notable encounter with a skilled tattoo artist, likely Karakusa Gonta, while staying at a guesthouse in Tokyo. This artist could reportedly create a large dragon tattoo in blue and red within just three hours. During his time in Japan in 1881, King George V is said to have received a blue and red dragon tattoo on one arm and a tiger on the other, symbolizing East and West. Although no images of the tattoos exist, it is widely known that while serving in the Royal Navy, Prince George opted for this unique artistry.
Interestingly, George mentioned in his reports that instead of a dragon, his tattoo comprised five crosses, a design also inked by his father, Edward VII, during his own visit to Japan. During this trip, sponsored by the Navy, Prince George and his brother were granted an audience with Emperor Meiji and presented Empress Haruko with two wallabies from Australia, showcasing their royal status and diplomatic engagements.
King George V ruled the United Kingdom from 1910 until his death in 1936 and is distinguished for being one of the rare royals with tattoos, having received them during his naval cadet days in Japan. Notably, both he and his brother, the Duke of Clarence, had dragons tattooed as a young men's ceremonial rite on their trip to Japan in 1881. Despite the presence of tattoos on a royal figure, George valued tradition and familial connections, as evidenced by his choice of tattoo designs.
An exhibition featuring diaries that include details on King George V's tattoos will be launched, reinforcing the historical significance of these royal markings. Ultimately, these experiences reflect not just personal choices but also broader cultural exchanges between Britain and Japan during the late 19th century. The legacy of King George V continues in discussions about royal identity and the acceptance of body art in historical contexts.
What Are Western Traditional Tattoos?
American traditional, also known as Western traditional or simply traditional tattoos, is characterized by bold black outlines and a limited color palette, often incorporating motifs inspired by sailor tattoos. While many attribute the spread of tattooing in the Western world to Captain Cook's explorations, tattoo historian Anna Felicity Friedman offers an alternative perspective, suggesting that the roots of Western tattooing can be traced back further than the mid-18th century.
These tattoos hold various symbolic meanings, representing wanderlust, adventure, and rugged individualism. Popularized in the 1930s, traditional tattoos often feature thematic elements like cowboys, horses, bulls, and Wild West scenery. Cowboy-themed tattoos, in particular, can symbolize a multitude of concepts, resonating with themes of freedom and self-reliance.
Despite modern trends leaning towards minimalism with fine-line designs, traditional Western tattoos celebrate richly detailed imagery that harks back to their origins. Common designs include horseshoes, lassos, cowboy boots, cacti, and firearms. Even today, the appeal of Western-style tattoos remains strong and mostly unchanged from their original forms.
The traditional American tattoo scene also heavily features maritime themes, drawing from classic designs popularized by figures like Sailor Jerry, which include anchors, ships, sharks, and pin-up girls. This style, which evolved as a form of self-expression and identification among sailors, continues to be celebrated for its bold visuals and deep-rooted symbolism.
As enthusiasts explore the world of American traditional tattoos, they find a community that appreciates the striking contrasts created by black lines on vibrant designs, embodying everything from personal narratives to wider cultural significances. Various resources, including social media platforms, offer inspiration and a showcase of these enduring tattoo traditions.
📹 Olive Oatman & the Blue Tattoo
When Olive Oatman was just 14 years old, she was forced to witness the slaughter of nearly every single member of her family.
I think most people who had tattoos in the old west, outside of Native Americans, were sailors . As evidenced by the first picture of a sailing ship tattooed on the man’s chest . It wasn’t uncommon for sailors to get tatted in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Feejee, Hawaii, New Zealand, and other such Ports ‘O Call . One particularly popular tattoo for sailors is a rooster on one foot and a pig on the other . Sea Legend says that these tattoos protect a sailor from drowning . Other common tats worn by sailors are flags, mermaids, anchors, and symbols of one’s naval specialty such as crossed cannons for gunner’s mates . A special tattoo may have been worn to commemorate the time a sailor “Crossed The Line ” . This was when his ship crossed the Equator and he became a “Shellback” . When crossing the line, all “Pollywogs” (rookies and landlubbers ) are initiated into the rank of Shellback through a rigorous hazing ritual . King Neptune, Davy Jones, and their court harshly punish all pollywogs for intruding upon their domain . By the Law Of The Sea, I can’t say any more, lest Davy Jones drags me to the bottom of the brine .
I recently came across your website and being one who is fascinated by and loves the stories of the Real American West I’d like to thank you for such an informative and entertaining view into a period of time that I truly believe I should have been a part of. I was wondering if you could put together or have done anything on how ordinary folks would have made a living in the towns of the era. There can only be so many jobs to be had
I love the old clips from fantasy Island they need to bring that show back. On the TV show that was on a few years ago hell on Wheels Great Western miniseries one of the women who worked as a prostitute belonged or was taken captive by an Indian tribe and she had the tattoo markings on her chin. Just a little FYI love your website thank you
I have a question what about the mysterious animals that were shot and seen during the old west from the Sasquatch from the civil war pictures of the Dead pterodactyl that people have found and that airs of that part of Arizona I want to know about the prehistoric unknown creatures of Arizona can you give me a segment on that because they’re still being cited today unknown creatures like that ghost that’s running around he’s unknown and got in your T-Rex that you’ve got I would like to ask him some questions if he knows any answers your friend Bowie
I always thought it was the sailors who had the tattoos, didn’t know that my Native American brothers (though I don’t look it I do have 10% Chippewa in me lol) thought that you couldn’t be accepted in the after life without tattoos. I love the little John Wayne bit at the end. I try to fashion a lot of my wardrobe and even knives after what he had in his early movies like Blue Steel and Hell Town and Paradise Canyon, etc. As always I learn a lot from y’all.
Glad to see the story of Olive being put forth for all to hear. My wife and I used to go South from South Dakota to Arizona for the winter months, thus avoiding the cold and snow that cover our home state. Our first trip, we found a little campground on Rte 66 in Topock Arizona, going to Oatman for a meal at the Olive Oatman hotel was a regular thing, my wife loved the burro’s and giving them a treat was always part of the trip, it was about 12 miles up to Oatman through the wonderful desert and the old town had so much to offer for tourists and snowbirds like us. My lovely wife was taken from me a few years back and those trips to Arizona are but a memory that makes me smile to think about, I sold the rig about a year ago our last trip was before that covid crap. The story was all part of our wonderful late life adventures, memories that I shall take to my grave with a smile.
Her story is always so sad to hear. My husband and I got to stay in Oatman in 1996. We were lucky enough to get to spend the night in the Oatman hotel, after eating dinner and having drinks in the bar. Breakfast in town the next morning before doing the tourist thing and petting and feeding the donkeys. It’s such a cool town and worth the trip, as well as old Route 66.
I’ve found this website 2 days ago. I’ve watched many hours of your articles, Josh, for my whole childhood, my grandmother & I would drive from Michigan down to Arizona every summer. I’ve been to the Grand Canyon, tombstone, the alamo & many more places. I’ve always been fascinated by the old west. Sadly, I stopped traveling down their do to my grandmother taking her own life now I have 3 children & your articles have been making me wanting to plan a trip with my family to go down there.
Differences between Yavapai and Apache •Yavapai tended to be bigger and darker. Both in height and weight. While Apaches were often lithe, wiry and are often light complected in skin tone similar to that of tribes from the northern plains. •Apaches are part of the Athabaskan diaspora. The carriers of their language coming down from the north long ago. While Yavapai are thought to have ancient origins in Baja California. From there spreading out with the other Yuman tribes. Like the Quechan, Mojave and Walapai. The Walapai (and Havasupai) being their closest linguistic and cultural relatives. •Gourds rattles played a heavy role in Yavapai culture. They share the beautiful style of bird singing with many other western AZ tribes and those of Southern California. The Apache are not apart of the bird singing tradition and rely heavily on the drum. *The Yavapai were excellent traders, superb merchants. They once traded shells north to the Hopi and Havasupai. Later the Navajo too. Like all tribes the Yavapai loved Navajo blankets. While in some Apache cultures handling shells or anything out of water was taboo. There’s also no getting around the fact that Apache life was built around raiding. The Yavapai certainly raided but it wasn’t exclusively a cultural trait to them. •Some Yavapai caught and ate fish (mainly Tolkepaya.) While Apaches loathed the thought of ever eating fish. •Yavapai moccasins (when they weren’t wearing sandals) tended to be more rounded around the toes and sewn differently than the Apache moccasins with the pointed or the more infamous Chiricahua moccasin toe shaped like a half dollar.
Josh this was a good episode…I live in the valley below the Harquahala mountains and listened to your Oatman episode while riding from Prescott to Salome..kinda neet to think I was right in the area where alot of this occurred while listening, it’s still remote,in the 35 miles riding parallel to the mountains only one cars passed going the opposite direction. One thing you did not mention is the heat they had to deal with, the radiant heat ( heat not in the shade) in the summer is always 112-115F and very little water. Mohave is a little better because of the river. It’s not unusual for it to hit 120F…I don’t know how they lived out here, maby there was a above ground water source back then. The massacre occurred near gilla bend and you can get out to the grave site by 4 wheel drive, it’s not really certain that the family is still actually buried there. I read a newspaper article about a speaking engagement where she mentioned being held just south of the eagle eye mountain every time I ride by that area I think of her and her sister. Anyway good episode, sorry this comment was so long.
Josh you never fail to deliver! I am learning so much in general, and very specific stories of the wild west. I have said this before, but the combination of fact finding and humor are sublime. Thanks for all the education, and entertainment. Properly Branded. I am actually, factually excited with a notification from…. The Wild West EXTRRRAAAAAVAGANZA!!
Great article as always Josh, I had heard of Olive Oatman but had never read anything on her or listened to any articles on her. I recently watched a article here on YouTube called Wild West Most Wanted, where they listed who they thought were the 10 most Wanted outlaws of the Wild West, I was wondering if you might ever do a article like that?
I knew this was going to be a good one and you did not disappoint. There’s always debates about who the biggest bad ass of the west was and I’m glad you brought her into the conversation. I mean, this is one tough person. A survivor. Really what she did was adapt to her new reality. But what I find interesting is at what point when she was first taken captive did she give up hope? It’s such a tragic and terrible concept to have inflicted upon you. I don’t ever want to have to find out what it takes to pull yourself out of that and carry on. But I have nothing but respect for that kind of resiliency and will. Now I need to get to work on the script so I can get my hands on those untapped Hollywood millions.
As an ex-Mormon, I do have to laugh a bit at what was going on at this time with that religion. It was madness! Of course the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the largest but not the only sect, doesn’t want its members to know it’s true history! But that’s not the point of your article, so I’ll leave it at that. My heart does break for Olive. I can’t image the confusion that was always raging inside and no one who knew how to help her.
No self respecting Apache would have readily utilized wolf skins for clothes. And no Apaches of the Athabaskan kind were found west of Pima villages except for maybe an occasional Tonto. The residence of the assailants in the Harquahalla mountains positively identifies them to me as being Tolkepaya Yavapai. Avowed enemies of the Pima and Maricopa. Being western Yavapai they were closer to the Quechan (Yuma) and Mojave. They were friendly with those tribes and in all honesty they didn’t care much for Apaches unlike the other eastern bands of Yavapai (Wipukeba & Kewevkapaya) that tended to dress and act more like western Apaches.
Was in oatman last year. Asked about a museum or sth. About the oatman ordeal, they didn’t even know what i was talking about except one shop owner who said ” i am so sorry, but we have nothing about this Story” Most information can be found in a book on the topic or in the wild west museum in kingman
I have some mixed feelings about this story. On the one hand I can not stand by what the natives did to Olive’s family, killing a stranded group of mostly children is a very unforgivable thing to do, even if your starving. But if I attempt to put myself in the shoes of those natives I would probably see the Oatmans as members of a colonizing force. It would be easy to dehumanize them after growing up in a culture that is being colonized often in a brutal and heavy handed way. I think a lot of us could be capable of some very dark things if we faced the sort of domination inflicted upon the native peoples.
Yuma AZ is STILL hell on earth! I lived there exactly 1 year in 1987-1988. I absolutely hated it! Our electric bill was always around $400 (big bucks in the 80’s) as we tried to keep the 2 bedroom apt around 80* F & the apartment pool was always like bath water; only slightly cooler than the hot tub. The most miserable place I had ever been stationed at in the military as a dependent, & then when my husband took a gov job at Yuma Marine Air Corp Station. Horrible, horrible place to “live”. More like “survive”
Similarities. I forgot to mention why the Yavapai were so often mistaken for Apaches. Were because of the following. •Both Yavapai and Apache dwelled in wikiup brush shelters and were primarily mountain dwellers. •Yavapai and Apache often dressed very similarly. Both men and women. Men with breech clouts and high top moccasins with hair long and held in place with a headband. Women often cut their hair above their eyes and around the shoulders. Western Yavapai men often plaited and coiled their hair with clay after the fashion of tribes living along the Colorado and Gila Rivers (i.e. the Pima, Yuma, Mohave, Halchidhoma, Kohuana etc.) •Both were superb fighters and implacable when their anger was aroused. •Both were avowed foes (and later the Americans) of the Pima and Maricopa. Who were very pro American. Although at one point there was a period of ancient friendship between O’odham and Yavapai. •Both believed in the power of the Ga’an (White Mountain Apache name) or crown dancers. The Yavapai say that the mountain spirits live in certain places especially the one area known as four peaks. •both tribes were superb hunters. With deer being the most important game animal to them all. •both tribes were skilled raiders who’s physical endurance was legendary. Although culturally speaking, almost as a rule.. the Apache would be back sooner than later.
I lived in Yuma for 7 years and it’s definitely the hottest place I’ve ever been 😩. I’m originally from San Diego so it was a huge difference. U have to have AC and a Swamp cooler to survive lol u can’t even go out until after midnight if u don’t want burn up in the summertime. The people there are really nice tho ❤
I’ve been looking on this website for the second battle of adobe walls but there is so much “content” (not complaining) if it’s here, I’m missing it. I’m really interested in anything related to Bat Masterson. Ive always wondered about the dynamics of his relationship with the Earp family. Like, was he a mentor or an equal to Wyatt? In the Costner movie he is portrayed as a skinner for Wyatt but that doesn’t line up with other sources I’ve read. Yeah, those are the kind of important things that cross my mind when in deep thought. My mind seems to focus on the trivial. Oh, I was reading about prominent Oklahomans, and I started reading about this guy who was a detective on the OKC police force back in the 30s and 40s. I know it was after the west was won, so to speak, but he was an interesting sort. He was an expert with a pistol and had killed at least 19 men in the line of duty. The FBI recruited him and I can’t for the life of me remember his name lol Okay, his name was Delf Bryce, or Jacob A “jelly” Bryce. If you guys aren’t familiar, he’s worth checking out. So yeah, we aren’t all outlaws, here, in Indian Territory 🙂 kind of a long winded comment, sorry
The end of this article confuses me. I am also confused about her being traded in the first place. She wasn’t told about her surviving brother until after she arrived at the fort? So, she was just traded for stright up? Then she wasn’t free to leave if she had to be traded for. Or free at all IF she could be traded for. If she had a husband and children. Why would she leave? Much less get traded away. Maybe that is how the tribe operated. Wed a woman and have kids with her. Then trade her off. Seems bizzare. If you think she was sexually assaulted by the initial tribe. Would she be so eager to hop into the sack with anyone after the fact? I may have missed something. Or just be displaying my ignorance. But, this whole speculation on her sexual activity just seems to wrap the whole narrative into a knot. Also, we would be asking these questions about sexual activity about a man. Especially if he could not shave. Lol. The tribal women did not seem to like beards.
Bought a book about Mary Jemison at a library booksale and needed more information – some make it sound like these things were a walk in the park but the ladies were usually young girls who had their families killed so had no choice but to adapt or die – natives didnt really like to take dudes lol notice how these societies never like to share their women although it documented they would sell if the price was right – at least a fine horse or 2 and some porridge. Mary Jemison is a amazing story of perseverance – she outlasted 2 husbands and had children w one – think they stayed w her and assimilated back into the colonies – a lot of women dont realize that black men, former slaves had more rights than they had for awhile – the right to vote at the top although nominally u were supposed to be a landowner and pay taxes I dont think this was enforced just like today there was always a mockery made of the process, its nothing new – a lots made of these European girls falling in love with their captors – I dont think thats the right way to look at it – ppl are resilient and adapt to their environment and circumstances – sometimes they escaped and even got revenge – of course if you kidnap a 9 or 10 yr old they will fit right in after a while – they werent brides they were an extra pair of hands to do work and rear babies – even in the middle ages Europeans were still raiding other towns for brides either literally or figuratively – and a mail order bride didnt often have a say in the matter – we sometimes forget this type of slavery – not as much adoption of boys as tv would make one think – tribes didnt need competition they needed quiet workers –
I’ve seen her picture forever, but didn’t know anything about her. Glad I finally learned. I live in northern Utah, I have been to Yuma with the military, and lived in tent city. If my religious leader or dad took me there before AC I would have KICKED HIM in the jewels. It has its beauty, but it is one hot sucker.
Tattoos were done to slaves worldwide – its not out of the question that this was done to women for many reasons at the same time – she probably was married into the tribe – Mary Jemison had 2 husbands, not at the same time but after one died – and amazing she even had kids, that thing women have – think that mountain men having fur trapping season wouldnt be too worried about impressing some sasquatch women in the mountains – after they got paid they probably had more fun –
Sad to hear this story, family killed, abducted, shamed by naming her Spanza (not sure of the spell). She had to grow survival instincts quickly. It occurred to me a defense mechanism for a female not to be continually rape repeatedly over and over again is to not keep up with hygiene. So, in respect to Ms. oatman it’s a survival instincts would have been this reason too.
What? Native Americans participated in slavery? You don’t say – wish they would teach these ideas are human activities throughout time all around the world but we only heard how the colonies and then the US south allowed it – its in the old testament and the new for Gods sake – if they educated the children as if they were ppl to maybe ppl would have a broader outlook and not the tunnel vision we often witness.
Especially among female captives – ppl have their family massacred theyre suffering PTSD and being young having formed bonds what reason would they have to go – theyd have no clue, no desire – even kids in foster care who dont like it at first tend to settle in – white boys who were captured rarely held any status so of course itd be different for a young girl who didnt have a lot of plans except to have a family of their own – read the story of Mary Jemison from around 1750 in Seneca territory – they couldve easily kept Olives little brother but threw cuzzo off a cliff – nice, really nice they knew he might grow up to avenge his family but had no fear of little white gals who they simply beat into submission til they wouldnt fart without asking
Alex entirely possible she said what she said on her lectures to make money and maybe she exaggerated or omitted certain details of her experience with the tribe so is to be accepted back into white society. And I would find it very hard to believe that very many would believe that she was treated better with the Mojave that she was with the previous track just something to think about
My opinion on the tatoos vs slave situation, the amount of trauma till that point had to tremendous. I imagine she couldn’t full comprehend(or care for) the meaning of everything. To her those marking could have been a way to survive or something that had to be done. Also im paused by the glossing over of the tribes free love mentality. It has previously been discussed that women weren’t exactly free in alot of native society. To when whats been said, i have to qeustion how much he was forced or pressured in to such activities. Also she could have been great to an extent toward the tribe. But make no mistake she still was bought by them and couldn’t leave. Ps. He touch more on in it, far as im concerned nun of it was consensual.
I read maybe 100 non-fiction books per year. Like Pliny the elder, I take notes. “”It is only a town dreamed allegory that represents nature as a fawn mother suckling her young upon her breast. Those who have lived literally close to wild nature know her for a tyrant, void of pity and of mercy from whom nothing can be wrung without toil and a risk of death. To all pioneer men, to their woman and children, too, life has been one long hard cruel war against elemental powers. Nothing else than warlike ants nothing short of warlike could have subdued beasts and savages, felled the forest and made our land habitable for those teaming millions who can exist only in the state of mutual dependence and cultivation.” Horace Kephart, 1913 From “Our Southern Highlanders.” If someone asked” What percentage of the people killed or enslaved from back then do we know about?” Most would probably say 80 or 90% whereas I would say <5% In the 1860s book about traveling to California by Ox Kart the author mentioned a few that I'm sure no one knows who they were. I love your articles and try to see them all. On one point, though, I am deviant. That is, I am a Native American but not an American Indian.