The roar of the crowd, the sea of orange, and the spirited figure leading the charge – for Oklahoma State University (OSU) fans, this imagery is synonymous with Pistol Pete, their beloved mascot. But Pistol Pete is more than just a spirited character; he’s a symbol deeply rooted in the Old West, drawing his persona from a real-life legend, Frank B. Eaton. This tradition, born in the early 1920s when OSU, then Oklahoma A&M College, sought a powerful mascot, continues to resonate today, making Pistol Pete an enduring icon.
Frank B. Eaton: From Tragedy to Cowboy Legend
To truly understand Pistol Pete, one must delve into the life of Frank B. Eaton, the man behind the myth. Born in 1860 in Hartford, Connecticut, Eaton’s early life took a dramatic turn when his family relocated to Kansas shortly after the Civil War. Tragedy struck at the young age of eight when Eaton witnessed the brutal murder of his father by vigilantes. This horrific event ignited a lifelong quest for justice and revenge in the young Eaton.
Driven by the desire to avenge his father, Eaton dedicated himself to mastering marksmanship. For years, he honed his skills, transforming himself into a formidable sharpshooter. By the age of fifteen, he embarked on a perilous journey to track down his father’s killers. It took over five years of relentless pursuit, but Eaton successfully brought the men responsible for his father’s death to justice, a defining chapter that forever shaped his destiny and cemented his image as a relentless cowboy figure.
The Making of “Pistol Pete”
Frank B. Eaton’s life epitomized the rugged spirit of the American cowboy. His natural talent and chosen path led him to embody this iconic figure in various roles throughout his life. The moniker “Pistol Pete” wasn’t merely a catchy nickname; it was earned. Eaton received this title after outperforming seasoned cavalrymen in a prestigious marksmanship competition at Fort Gibson, showcasing his exceptional skill with firearms.
Beyond his prowess with a pistol, Eaton served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal under the infamous “hanging judge” Isaac Parker, further solidifying his reputation in the Wild West. Later in life, he transitioned to a more community-focused role, owning a blacksmith shop that served the needs of the surrounding areas. His diverse experiences, all under the umbrella of the cowboy ethos, made him a well-respected and admired figure in the region.
Pistol Pete as the OSU Mascot: Symbolizing the Cowboy Spirit
In the 1920s, Frank B. Eaton’s legendary status led him to participate in OSU’s Armistice Day and Homecoming Parades. His presence resonated deeply with the college community, seeking a mascot that embodied strength, resilience, and the pioneering spirit of Oklahoma. Eaton, the living embodiment of these qualities, became the natural inspiration.
Though Frank B. Eaton passed away in 1958, his legacy lived on. In the same year, OSU introduced Charlie Lester as the first official Pistol Pete mascot. Just as Frank B. Eaton represented the rugged individualism of the Old West, “Pistol Pete” now serves as a vibrant and enduring symbol of the cowboy spirit for Oklahoma State University. He is a constant reminder of the values of determination, skill, and the unwavering “Cowboy spirit” that defines OSU and its community.
