Description
By: Charles A. Siringo (1855-1928)
Charles A. Siringo’s “History of Billy the Kid” provides a detailed account of the life and legend of one of the Wild West’s most notorious outlaws. Blending fact with legend, Siringo paints a vivid portrait of Billy the Kid, from his humble beginnings in New Mexico to his rise as a notorious gunfighter and cattle rustler.
Siringo’s firsthand account of Billy the Kid’s life adds a level of authenticity to the narrative and allows readers to delve into the complexities of the outlaw’s character. The author’s writing style is engaging and keeps the reader captivated throughout the book, making it a quick and enjoyable read.
Despite the passage of time since the events took place, Siringo’s meticulous research and attention to detail bring the Old West to life, making readers feel as though they are right alongside Billy the Kid during his daring escapades. Overall, “History of Billy the Kid” is a must-read for history buffs and fans of the Wild West, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of America’s most infamous outlaws.
Book Description:
A cowboy outlaw whose youthful daring has never been equalled in the annals of criminal history.
When a bullet pierced his heart he was less than twenty-two years of age, and had killed twenty-one men, Indians not included.
The author feels that he is capable of writing a true and unvarnished history of “Billy the Kid,” as he was personally acquainted with him, and assisted in his capture, by furnishing Sheriff Pat Garrett with three of his fighting cowboys–Jas. H. East, Lee Hall and Lon Chambers.
The facts set down in this narrative were gotten from the lips of “Billy the Kid,” himself, and from such men as Pat Garrett, John W. Poe, Kip McKinnie, Charlie Wall, the Coe brothers, Tom O’Phalliard, Henry Brown, John Middleton, Martin Chavez, and Ash Upson. All these men took an active part, for or against, the “Kid.” Ash Upson had known him from childhood, and was considered one of the family, for several years, in his mother’s home.
Other facts were gained from the lips of Mrs. Charlie Bowdre, who kept “Billy the Kid,” hid out at her home in Fort Sumner, New Mexico, after he had killed his two guards and escaped. (Introduction by the author)
