The Wild West, often romanticized for its rugged landscapes, lawless towns, and tales of cowboys and outlaws, harbored a diversity of people and stories beyond what popular culture typically portrays. Among the pioneers, cowboys, and settlers were individuals who defied gender norms and sexual conventions, leaving behind a legacy of LGBTQ identity that challenges traditional narratives of the era.
1. Calamity Jane: One of the most iconic figures of the Wild West, Calamity Jane, born Martha Jane Cannary, was known for her sharpshooting skills and fearless demeanor. While much of her life remains shrouded in myth and legend, historical accounts suggest that Calamity Jane had romantic relationships with both men and women, challenging gender norms of the time. Her boldness and refusal to conform to societal expectations make her a pioneering LGBTQ figure of the Wild West.
2. Charley Parkhurst: Charley Parkhurst, also known as “One-Eyed Charley” or “Six-Horse Charley,” was a legendary stagecoach driver and renowned gambler during the Gold Rush era. Despite living as a man, it wasn’t until after Parkhurst’s death in 1879 that it was discovered that he was assigned female at birth. Parkhurst’s life challenges conventional notions of gender identity and highlights the complexity of LGBTQ existence in the Wild West.
3. Jim “Two-Gun” Moore: Jim “Two-Gun” Moore was a notorious outlaw and gunfighter who roamed the Wild West in the late 19th century. Despite his reputation for being a tough and rugged cowboy, historical records indicate that Moore was known to dress in women’s clothing and frequented bars and saloons known for catering to LGBTQ communities of the time. Moore’s story sheds light on the fluidity of gender expression and sexual identity in the Old West.
4. Pearl Hart: Pearl Hart gained notoriety as one of the few female stagecoach robbers in the Wild West. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she fell in love with a woman named Joe Boot. The two embarked on a romantic journey together, challenging societal norms and expectations. Despite facing opposition and discrimination, Pearl Hart and Joe Boot’s relationship serves as a reminder of the resilience and bravery of LGBTQ individuals in the face of adversity.
5. Joe Monahan: Joe Monahan, also known as “The Queen of the Colorado Mining Camps,” was a prominent figure in the LGBTQ community of the Wild West. Monahan was known for performing in drag shows and owning several successful saloons and brothels. Despite the dangers of being openly LGBTQ in the Old West, Monahan embraced their identity with pride, paving the way for future generations of queer individuals to live authentically.
6. Charlie “Two-Bits” Siringo: Charlie Siringo was a cowboy, detective, and author who chronicled his adventures in the Wild West. While Siringo’s writings focused primarily on his experiences as a cowboy and lawman, historical evidence suggests that he may have been bisexual. Despite living in a time when LGBTQ identities were often hidden or suppressed, Siringo’s story challenges stereotypes about sexuality in the Old West.
7. Cattle Kate: Cattle Kate, whose real name was Ella Watson, was a rancher and entrepreneur in Wyoming during the late 19th century. Despite facing discrimination and violence for her independent spirit and unconventional lifestyle, historical records suggest that Cattle Kate may have been a lesbian. Her story serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage of LGBTQ individuals in the face of oppression and persecution.
8. Poker Alice: Poker Alice, born Alice Ivers, was a professional gambler known for her prowess at the card table in the rough and tumble saloons of the Wild West. While her gambling exploits are legendary, historical accounts also suggest that Poker Alice may have had romantic relationships with both men and women. Her unconventional lifestyle and independence make her a fascinating figure in LGBTQ history.
9. Billie Tipton: Billie Tipton was a jazz musician and bandleader who rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Despite living as a man and being married multiple times to women, it wasn’t until Tipton’s death in 1989 that it was revealed that he was assigned female at birth. Tipton’s life challenges traditional notions of gender and identity, offering a glimpse into the complexities of LGBTQ existence in the Old West and beyond.
10. Stagecoach Mary: Stagecoach Mary, also known as Mary Fields, was a pioneering figure in the Wild West known for her strength, courage, and fierce independence. While much of her life remains shrouded in mystery, historical records suggest that Stagecoach Mary may have been a lesbian. Her trailblazing spirit and refusal to conform to societal norms make her an inspiration to LGBTQ individuals seeking to live authentically in the face of adversity.
In revisiting the stories of these forgotten LGBTQ icons from the Wild West, we gain a deeper understanding of the diversity and complexity of life in the frontier. Their lives challenge stereotypes and assumptions about gender and sexuality in the Old West, casting new light on an era often portrayed through a narrow lens. Finally, by honoring their legacies, we honor the countless LGBTQ individuals who have always been an integral part of our shared history.
