Matthew Kerns's Blog: The Dime Library, page 11

Oscar Killers

The 2024 Academy Awards nominations have brought a wave of excitement and pride, especially for the groundbreaking recognition of Indigenous artists in the film industry. Among the highlights are the nominations for "Killers of the Flower Moon," a film based on the book of the same name by David Grann, recounting the true story of a series of murders of Osage (Ni Okašką) tribal members and their relations in the Osage Nation after oil was discovered on tribal land. The film has garnered a remarkable nine nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Martin Scorsese.

Osage composer Scott George's evocative track “Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)” is contending for Best Original Song. George expressed his gratitude and honor for the nomination, emphasizing the importance of representing Indigenous voices and stories through music. This nomination is not just a personal triumph for George but a significant moment for Indigenous artists in the entertainment industry.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyWCr1ly4oc

The film's score, composed by the late Robbie Robertson, a Cayuga (Gayogo̱hó꞉nǫʼ) and Mohawk (Kanienʼkehá꞉ka) songwriter best known as a member of The Band, has been posthumously nominated for Best Original Score. Robertson's passing in August 2023 makes this nomination all the more poignant. His profound impact on the music and film industry continues to resonate, and this nomination serves as a testament to his lasting legacy.

https://youtu.be/j2iyFTj2_IY?si=FAkyA5Eq7gDu7yqI

Lily Gladstone, of Piegan Blackfeet (Siksikaitsitapi) and Nez Perce (Nimíipuu) descent, has been nominated for Best Actress for her portrayal in the film. Her nomination is historic, marking her as the first Native American person to be nominated for a Best Actor or Actress Academy Award. Two First Nations men, Chief Dan George (Little Big Man) and Graham Greene (Dances With Wolves) were previously nominated under the Best Supporting Actor category, and Cherokee actor Wes Studi was presented an Honorary Award in 2019.

Gladstone shared her deep emotional connection to the film and its nominations, particularly Robertson's. She recalled watching Robertson's nomination announcement with her father, which was incredibly special. "My dad introduced me to Robbie Robertson as a musician, which was the whole reason I even knew who Martin Scorsese was as a filmmaker," she said. "My dad told me about their friendship and, as a 10-year-old, I remember him saying, 'You know, one day he’s going to make his Indian movie because of his friendship with Robbie.' So it was cool to remind him of that."

"Killers of the Flower Moon" has significantly impacted this awards season, with other nominations including Best Supporting Actor for Robert De Niro, Production Design, Costume Design, and Cinematography. The film's success at the Oscars is a powerful statement about the increasing recognition and appreciation of Indigenous stories and talent in mainstream cinema. The nominations of Scott George, Robbie Robertson, and Lily Gladstone are not just personal achievements but symbolize a broader shift towards inclusivity and diversity in the film industry, hopefully opening doors for more Indigenous artists to tell their stories on the global stage.

Buffalo Bill & The Chiefs

The sounds and figures of the Wild West resounded vibrantly in modern American sports this past Sunday, as the NFL playoff game unfolded between the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs, two teams whose namesakes hark back to a bygone era of American history. The Buffalo Bills, named in honor of Buffalo Bill Cody, a central figure in the mythology of the Wild West, faced off against the Kansas City Chiefs, a team whose name pays tribute to Native American leaders. In a thrilling encounter, the Chiefs emerged victorious with a narrow 27-24 win, but the game was about more than just the score. It was a reflection of how the history of the American West and Buffalo Bill's Wild West, continues to ripple through contemporary American culture, particularly in the realm of professional sports.

Buffalo Bill Cody's Wild West show was a defining element of America's cultural landscape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Billed as a historically accurate and education depiction of the frontier West as it really was, Buffalo Bill's Wild West became America's favorite entertainment from 1883 until Cody's death in 1917. Cody's version of the history of the West was so popular that it's version of events became the cultural memory of the West. For many Americans, it was their first live view of cowboys, vaqueros, and bison. It was also their first real-life encounter with Native people. Cody's show featured legendary Sioux chiefs like Sitting Bull, Iron Tail, Flying Hawk, American Horse, Red Shirt, and Kicking Bear. These shows not only brought the stories and images of the Wild West to life but also played a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions of Native Americans. The AFC Divisional matchup of this past weekend, featuring teams named after Buffalo Bill and Native American Chiefs, serves as a modern reflection of this historical intersection, highlighting how these cultural narratives continue to influence and be celebrated in American sports today.

Furthermore, Buffalo Bill's Wild West show was instrumental in another significant tradition in American sports: the playing of the Star Spangled Banner. It was during these opening of Wild West shows that Francis Scott Key's famous song was played while spectators saluted the American flag, a practice long before the song became the National Anthem in 1931. This tradition, started in the arena of Buffalo Bill's performances, has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of American sports, resonating from the Wild West shows to the present day. Every time the anthem is played at a sports event, from professional leagues to collegiate games, we are reminded of this historical connection and the enduring legacy of the Wild West in American culture.

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Historians consider Buffalo Bill's use of the "Star-Spangled Banner" one of the key reasons the song was chosen as the National Anthem, over other contenders like "America the Beautiful," "Hail, Columbia!," or "My Country, 'Tis of Thee." The choice of the Star Spangled Banner as the anthem encapsulated not just a patriotic choice, but also a cultural one, deeply rooted in the imagery and lore of the Wild West. The recent NFL playoff game, with its symbolic team names and the pre-game national anthem ritual, encapsulates how the Wild West continues to be an integral part of America's national identity and cultural heritage, echoing through the cheers, the plays, and the very spirit of modern American sports.

https://amzn.to/4b9CARK

Buffalo Bill & Iron Tail; Or, The Face of a Vanishing Frontier

https://youtu.be/gctdbVispro

Part 6 - Buffalo Bill: Legends of the Old West

https://youtu.be/tme6NjhHIVs?si=YPigayp2s3BG-KR4

Part 6 of 6 in a series on Buffalo Bill Cody I wrote for Legends of the Old West.

In this riveting episode of "Buffalo Bill," titled “Tin Jesus on Horseback,” we delve into the tumultuous times of William F. Cody, known as Buffalo Bill. Before his rise as a legendary hunter, scout, and showman, we explore his earlier venture as a town founder in 1867 with Rome, Kansas, which ended in failure. The episode weaves through his life's journey, including his attempts to find peace and stability, his tumultuous relationships, and his relentless pursuit of success against all odds. Buffalo Bill's story is a fascinating glimpse into a man who played a pivotal role in shaping the American frontier into the Wild West, revealing both his triumphs and his personal struggles.

Also available on Spotify:

And Apple Podcasts:

All of Legends of the Old West's podcasts are available at https://blackbarrelmedia.com/legends-of-the-old-west/

Texas Jack: America's First Cowboy Star by Matthew Kerns is available at:

https://amzn.to/3Snssxo

Buffalo Bill & Iron Tail

The intertwining lives of Oglala Lakota Chief Iron Tail (Siŋté Máza) and William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody offer a fascinating glimpse into a unique period of American history. Iron Tail became one of the most recognizable Native American figures in the early 20th century, partly due to his association with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.

Iron Tail's legacy was engraved onto the currency of America in 1913, when sculptor James Earle Fraser drew inspiration from a portrait he had previously made of the Sioux chief for the image on the new nickel. "Iron Tail," Fraser wrote," was the best Indian head I can remember. The coin, with Iron Tail's profile on the "heads" side and a buffalo on the obverse, or "tails" side, became a widely recognized symbol across the United States, known alternately as the "buffalo" or "Indian head" nickel.

Buffalo Bill Cody, a man of many talents and a pivotal figure in the Wild West, was known for his Wild West shows that brought the stories and characters of the American frontier to life. Cody's shows were a mixture of entertainment and history, showcasing elements of frontier life, including the participation of Native Americans. It was through these shows that Iron Tail's path crossed with Cody's. As a performer in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, Iron Tail not only shared his culture with wide audiences in America and abroad but also formed a personal bond with Cody. They were more than costars. They were friends.

https://youtu.be/RKsRBbHzSzI?si=0KJ1BEiIADh8-Gm0

The friendship between Iron Tail and Buffalo Bill transcended the boundaries of their professional lives, highlighting mutual respect and understanding. This bond reflected the larger narrative of the Wild West, where diverse cultures often intersected and interacted in complex ways. Iron Tail was a frequent guest of Buffalo Bill's on long elk and bighorn sheep hunts between Wild West tours.

In the spring of 1916, with the European cities and countries they had once visited embroiled in The Great War that would later be called World War I, a poignant drama between Buffalo Bill Cody and Iron Tail unfolded in the heart of America. It was a story of friendship, honor, and the inevitable passage of time, featuring two of the most iconic figures of the era - Chief Iron Tail and Buffalo Bill Cody, both in the final chapters of their lives.

Buffalo Bill had lost control of his famous Wild West show and was now performing with the Miller Brothers 101 Ranch show. Ever the loyal friend, Iron Tail, now 74 years old, was also touring with Miller Brothers. At a stop in Philadelphia, Iron Tail was stricken with pneumonia. The mighty chief, who had once roamed the vast plains and faced countless adversities and had traveled the world with Buffalo Bill, educating and advocating for his culture, found himself battling a different kind of foe within the sterile walls of St. Luke's Hospital.

Meanwhile, Buffalo Bill Cody, the legendary showman, faced a dilemma. This was no longer Buffalo Bill's Wild West. He was an employee of the Miller Brothers 101 Ranch Wild West show, and his bosses told him that the show must go on, and Bill was obligated to move to Baltimore, Maryland, for the next performance. Iron Tail, the respected and venerated Oglala chief, lay alone in a strange city, surrounded by faces he did not know and voices he could not understand.

A telegram to Buffalo Bill failed to reach the famed showman in time, and rather than being rushed to Major Israel McCreight's home in Du Bois, Pennsylvania, for care at The Wigwam, Iron Tail was placed on a Pullman car bound for the Black Hills. Tragically, on the morning of May 28, 1916, at a stop in South Bend, Indiana, a rail porter discovered that Chief Iron Tail had embarked on his final journey. His body continued its solemn voyage to its final resting place. Buffalo Bill, upon hearing of his friend's passing, was filled with regret. He lamented that he wasn't able to be by his friend's side in the hospital and that he hadn't received the telegram that might have altered the course of events.

Iron Tail's final journey did not end in Indiana. His body was transferred to a hospital in Rushville, Nebraska, and then to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. There, amidst the rolling hills and under the wide expansive sky of the reservation, Iron Tail was laid to rest at the Holy Rosary Mission Cemetery on June 3, 1916. The plains that had once echoed with the sounds of his people now silently received one of their most distinguished sons.

Buffalo Bill, moved by the passing of his friend, vowed to honor Iron Tail's memory in a manner befitting his legacy. Just as he had once promised to mark his friend Texas Jack Omohundro's grave with a fitting memorial, he announced that he would place a granite stone on Iron Tail's grave, adorned with a replica of the Buffalo nickel – a lasting tribute to the chief who had been not only his friend but a symbol of the Native American spirit on that iconic coin.

But destiny had written a different ending to this tale. Buffalo Bill, the scout, the showman, the bridge between two worlds, passed away on January 10, 1917, just six months after Iron Tail. He never had the chance to fulfill his vow. But the friendship between Buffalo Bill and Iron Tail was remembered by the Lakota people. Several years after the death of Buffalo Bill, a delegation of Lakota visited the grave of the great showman on Lookout Mountain in Colorado. Chief Flying Hawk, in a gesture that bridged the earthly and the spiritual, laid his war staff of eagle feathers on the grave. And then, in a poignant homage, Spotted Weasel and each of the veteran Native performers of Buffalo Bill's Wild West placed a Buffalo nickel on the imposing stone.

This simple act, laden with symbolism, spoke volumes. It was not just a tribute to Buffalo Bill or Iron Tail but a commemoration of a bygone era. The Indian, the buffalo, and the scout – these figures had been emblematic of the early history of the American West since the 1880s. In that moment, on that mountain, they were remembered, not just as symbols, but as flesh and blood, as people who had lived, loved, and left an indelible mark on history.

The Legend of Buffalo Bill

On January 10, 1917, a titan of the American West, William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, breathed his last. His life, a tapestry of daring adventures and indelible legacies, forever altered the very fabric of American history and the public's perception of the Aemrican West. Westerns don't merely depict the rugged terrains of the American frontier; they unfold in the grand, untamed world of Buffalo Bill's Wild West.

Cody's life journey was nothing short of a thrilling odyssey. From his early days as a messenger for the progenitors of the Pony Express to his exploits as a jayhawker, Union soldier, and later a hotel owner, buffalo hunter, and scout, Cody's life was the stuff of legends. His adventures fueled the imagination of Ned Buntline, leading to a series of sensational dime novels that catapulted Cody to fame. Buntline, recognizing Cody's star quality, convinced him and his best friend, cowboy John "Texas Jack" Omohundro, to join him in a theatrical extravaganza, "The Scouts of the Prairie," in the winter of 1872. This marked the birth of the Western genre, which would transcend the boards of the stage to dominate the silver screen, captivating audiences for more than a century.

Cody and Omohundro's initial play, though brushed off as melodrama by critics of the day, was the genesis of the Western drama. This trailblazing act led to a proliferation of plays, books, movies, and TV shows. After parting ways with Buntline, Cody and Omohundro expanded their theatrical troupe, bringing in the legendary James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok. Despite Hickok's brief stint, their collaboration was a critical chapter in Western history.

The duo continued to intertwine their lives with art and adventure, touring in winters and hunting in summers. The turning tide of history, marked by General Custer's demise at Little Bighorn, called them back to their scouting roots, only to see them part ways after the dramatic season of 1876. Their bond endured until Texas Jack's untimely death in 1880. 28 years after his friend's death, Buffalo Bill delivered an impassioned eulogy to Texas Jack in Leadville, Colorado.

Cody's next act was a spectacle like no other - the Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders of the World. This show, a moving tableau of the American frontier, brought the West to every corner of America and beyond, reaching over 1,400 cities. Buffalo Bill's Wild West wasn't just entertainment; it was a cultural phenomenon that made him the first American international superstar.

In his final days, battling kidney failure, Cody's journey took him to Glenwood Springs and then back to Denver, hoping to reunite with his family. His poignant stop at Leadville, where he reminisced about Texas Jack, was a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and adventure. Too frail to visit his friend's grave, Cody's final farewell was a deeply moving moment, marking the end of an era.

Just four days later, William F. Cody died, and the legend of Buffalo Bill became immortal.

Today, Buffalo Bill's legacy lives on, not just in the dusty trails of the American West, but in the iconic imagery of John Wayne and Clint Eastwood, the pages of Louis L’Amour and Johnny Boggs, and in timeless television shows like Bonanza and The Lone Ranger. Every Stetson wearing, pistol-wielding, horse-riding hero and villain of every western isn't just riding through the American West—they're riding hell for leather across Buffalo Bill’s Wild West, the version of the western frontier we see, breathe, and experience in these cultural landmarks.

To truly grasp the magnitude of Buffalo Bill's legacy, a pilgrimage to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming, and the Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum on Lookout Mountain, Colorado, is a must. There, one can fully appreciate the colossal impact of a man whose life was legend.

As we remember him, let us not forget this last photograph of William F. Cody, known to the world as Buffalo Bill, taken just a week before his death, a final glimpse of a man who was, in every sense, the embodiment of the American West.

Part 5 - Buffalo Bill: Legends of the Old West

https://youtu.be/izE-DOCRtio?si=g6vFS6jukMCu056V

Part 5 of 6 in a series on Buffalo Bill Cody I wrote for Legends of the Old West.

Episode 5 of "Buffalo Bill – The Wild West Abroad" captures Buffalo Bill's remarkable journey as he takes his Wild West show to an international audience. This episode highlights Black Elk's experiences with the show in various European cities and the unique cross-cultural interactions it facilitated. As Buffalo Bill's show gains fame across the globe, we see how it not only entertains but also shapes international perceptions of American culture and the West. Tune in for a captivating exploration of Buffalo Bill's show's influence abroad and its complex impact on both performers and audiences.

Also available on Spotify:

And Apple Podcasts:

All of Legends of the Old West's podcasts are available at https://blackbarrelmedia.com/legends-of-the-old-west/

Texas Jack: America's First Cowboy Star by Matthew Kerns is available at:

https://amzn.to/3RKOoB1

Unveiling the Past: Texas Jack Omohundro Book Talk Video at Two Dog Market in Leadville, Colorado

https://youtu.be/NRPlLhlyEA4?si=wzbD_1QVFnYMWSFQ

Greetings, History Enthusiasts and Western Lore Admirers!

I'm thrilled to announce the release of a special video that's particularly close to my heart – a book talk about the legendary Texas Jack Omohundro, held at the charming Two Dog Market in Leadville, Colorado. Recorded on the wintry evening of December 29, 2023, this event wasn't just a talk; it was a journey back in time, exploring the life and times of one of the American West's most intriguing figures.

Why Texas Jack?

Texas Jack, less commonly known as John B. Omohundro, was not just a scout and cowboy but a true embodiment of the Western spirit. His adventures and contributions to Western show business have captivated audiences for decades. But it's his connection to Leadville that makes his story particularly poignant. Texas Jack breathed his last in this historic town, and his legacy is forever intertwined with its rich history.

The Venue – Two Dog Market, Leadville

Nestled in the heart of Leadville, Two Dog Market proved to be the perfect setting for this event. Its rustic charm and historical ambiance set the stage, allowing attendees to feel like they were stepping back into the late 1800s.

Highlights of the Evening

The evening was filled with anecdotes and insights that painted a vivid picture of Texas Jack's life. The highlight was undoubtedly the discussion around his funeral at the historic Tabor Opera House and the touching tribute paid by his old friend, Buffalo Bill Cody, in 1908.

The Video – Bringing History to You

Recognizing the importance of Texas Jack's story, we decided to record the event. This video is not just a recount of historical facts; it's a narrative that brings to life the spirit of the Old West. From detailed accounts of Texas Jack's escapades to the poignant description of his final days, the video is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by Western history.

Your Invitation to Explore the Past

I invite you to watch the video and immerse yourself in the story of Texas Jack Omohundro. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of the Wild West, or simply curious, there's something in it for everyone.

https://youtu.be/NRPlLhlyEA4?si=wzbD_1QVFnYMWSFQ

Engage with Us

After watching, I encourage you to share your thoughts. What aspect of Texas Jack's life intrigued you the most? How does his story resonate with you? Your perspectives and insights are what keep these historical discussions vibrant and meaningful.

Stay Tuned

If you enjoyed this video, stay connected for more content like this. Subscribe to our channel/blog, and keep an eye out for future events and book talks. We have a lot more stories to tell and a lot more history to uncover!

Until next time, keep exploring the rich and fascinating tales of the past!

Part 4 - Buffalo Bill: Legends of the Old West

https://youtu.be/6l1-fhHvPvo?si=rYGkrPt2wDvX2CJE

Part 4 of 6 in a series on Buffalo Bill Cody I wrote for Legends of the Old West.

In Episode 4, "Buffalo Bill – The Wild West," we trace the evolution of William Cody's iconic Wild West shows. It all begins with the "Old Glory Blowout" in 1882, a grand event that combines Buffalo Bill's flair for spectacle and his deep understanding of public entertainment. This episode highlights how Cody, alongside partners like Nate Salsbury, transforms traditional performances into a groundbreaking outdoor extravaganza. It's a tale of innovation and showmanship, marking the birth of a uniquely American form of entertainment that would captivate audiences worldwide. Join us as we explore the creation and rise of Buffalo Bill's Wild West show, a spectacle that redefined entertainment and immortalized the myth of the American West.

Also available on Spotify:

And Apple Podcasts:

All of Legends of the Old West's podcasts are available at https://blackbarrelmedia.com/legends-of-the-old-west/

Texas Jack: America's First Cowboy Star by Matthew Kerns is available at:

https://amzn.to/3RKOoB1

Part 3 - Buffalo Bill: Legends of the Old West

https://youtu.be/6B4vFhOd6mk?si=1_TIUsfSoqtvoZOl

Part 3 of 6 in a series on Buffalo Bill Cody I wrote for Legends of the Old West.

In Episode 3 of "Buffalo Bill – First Scalp for Custer" we delve into a pivotal moment in Buffalo Bill's life. Following a personal tragedy, Cody and Texas Jack split up their acting troupe and Buffalo Bill leaves his acting career and returns to scouting. His re-entry into frontier life leads to a legendary encounter with a Cheyenne warrior, a moment that cements his status as a folk hero. This skirmish, though minor, propels Bill back into public adoration and onto the theatrical stage, where he re-enacts this dramatic episode, shaping his legacy and intertwining fiction with his real-life exploits.

Also available on Spotify:

And Apple Podcasts:

All of Legends of the Old West's podcasts are available at https://blackbarrelmedia.com/legends-of-the-old-west/

Texas Jack: America's First Cowboy Star by Matthew Kerns is available at:

https://amzn.to/48fsxIK