At PETS.EDU.VN, we know you’re captivated by legendary figures and historical mysteries, particularly when they intertwine with the spirit of the West. Where Is Pistol Pete Buried is a question that unlocks a fascinating story, and we’re here to provide a comprehensive answer, exploring his life, legacy, and final resting place. Discover the story behind the icon, Pistol Pete, and honor his memory by exploring the depths of his amazing life.
Table of Contents
- Who Was Pistol Pete? The Man Behind the Legend
- Pistol Pete’s Early Life: Forging a Legend
- Becoming “Pistol Pete”: Marksmanship and Recognition
- Justice and the Law: Eaton’s Pursuit of Vengeance
- Service and Valor: Eaton’s Time as a Scout and Marshal
- Settling Down: Eaton’s Life in Perkins, Oklahoma
- Pistol Pete, the Mascot: An Enduring Legacy
- “Truthful Pete Says”: Eaton’s Writings and Philosophy
- The Autobiography: Pistol Pete, Veteran of the Old West
- The Final Journey: Pistol Pete’s Death and Funeral
- Where Is Pistol Pete Buried? The Final Resting Place
- Honoring the Legend: Memorials and Recognitions
- The Stolen Legacy: Lost Memorabilia and the Search for History
- The Enduring Story: Pistol Pete’s Place in History
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pistol Pete’s Life and Burial
1. Who Was Pistol Pete? The Man Behind the Legend
Frank Eaton, known worldwide as “Pistol Pete,” was more than just a mascot; he was a living embodiment of the Old West. Born Francis Boardman Eaton in 1860, his life was a tapestry woven with threads of tragedy, adventure, and resilience. His transformation from a young boy seeking vengeance to a respected symbol of Oklahoma State University is a captivating tale that PETS.EDU.VN is delighted to explore.
He was a true cowboy, a marksman, and a lawman, but he was also a father, a writer, and a storyteller. His life provides an unique glimpse into a time when the West was still wild and individual grit could shape a man’s destiny. At PETS.EDU.VN, we believe understanding the man behind the mascot enriches our appreciation for the legend. This iconic figure represents the spirit of resilience, marksmanship, and Western heritage.
2. Pistol Pete’s Early Life: Forging a Legend
Frank Eaton’s journey began in Hartford, Connecticut, but his destiny was sealed when his family homesteaded in Kansas in 1868. It was a brutal introduction to the harsh realities of frontier life. The Eaton family built their home where an old hotel stood, along the trail left by Quantrill’s raiders after their retreat to Lawrence. This location was to mark a turning point in young Frank’s life.
At the tender age of eight, Frank witnessed the murder of his father by a gang of outlaws known as the Regulators. This traumatic event would forever alter the course of his life. As his father’s friend and neighbor, Mose Beaman, told young Frank, “My boy, may an old man’s curse rest upon you, if you do not try to avenge your father.”
This loss ignited a fire in young Frank, a burning desire for revenge that would fuel his transformation into “Pistol Pete.”
3. Becoming “Pistol Pete”: Marksmanship and Recognition
Mose Beaman played a pivotal role in shaping young Frank’s future. Recognizing the boy’s grief and determination, Beaman gifted him an old Navy revolver and began teaching him the art of marksmanship. Frank was a natural, quickly mastering the skill of molding bullets and honing his shooting accuracy.
His dedication paid off. Soon, young Frank was able to shoot the head off a rattlesnake with either hand. Word of his skills spread, eventually reaching Fort Gibson, where the 6th Cavalry soldiers resided. At the age of fifteen, Frank sought out the soldiers, eager to learn from them.
However, it was Frank’s own talent that impressed the soldiers the most. He outshot everyone at the fort, amazing Colonel Copinger, the commander. Impressed by Frank’s skill, Colonel Copinger presented him with a badge for his marksmanship and declared, “I am going to give you a new name. From now on you are Pistol Pete.”
Jim Starr further equipped Eaton with a Colt .45 and his first two boxes of factory made ammunition. This recognition marked a turning point, solidifying his identity as “Pistol Pete” and setting him on the path of the Old West legend.
4. Justice and the Law: Eaton’s Pursuit of Vengeance
Driven by the oath he swore after his father’s murder, Eaton embarked on a relentless pursuit of justice, tracking down those responsible for the heinous crime. His quest led him to the Canadian River, where two of his father’s killers, Doc Ferber and Shannon Campsey, were hiding.
In a dramatic confrontation, Eaton faced Campsey, calling out to him before being forced to defend himself. With his remarkable speed and accuracy, Eaton shot Campsey dead. He then located Ferber working cattle and added another notch to his pistol.
Eaton’s actions against Ferber and Campsey, both notorious cattle thieves, led to his recruitment by the Cattlemen’s Association as a detective. He continued to settle the blood debt, eliminating three more of his father’s killers within three months.
When John Ferber, Doc’s brother, was killed for stealing, Eaton made sure he had truly met his fate. Jim and Jonce Campsey were challenged to a duel and killed. Only Wyley Campsey remained.
This relentless pursuit of justice solidified Eaton’s reputation as a formidable figure in the West.
5. Service and Valor: Eaton’s Time as a Scout and Marshal
Eaton’s skills and reputation extended beyond his personal quest for vengeance. In 1885, he served as a scout for Capt. Emmett Crawford in the fight against Geronimo and the Apaches, demonstrating his bravery and knowledge of the terrain. It was during these battles that Eaton was nearly scalped.
After his service as a scout, Eaton returned to Indian Territory and became a Deputy U.S. Marshal under Isaac Parker, the infamous “Hanging Judge.” He added six more notches to his pistol in the line of duty.
In 1887, Eaton tracked Wyley Campsey to a bar in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with the help of Pat Garrett. In a final showdown, Eaton confronted Campsey, shooting him twice through the heart. Despite being wounded himself, Eaton had finally avenged his father’s death.
These experiences highlight Eaton’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting the innocent, further cementing his status as a Western hero.
6. Settling Down: Eaton’s Life in Perkins, Oklahoma
Despite his life of adventure and violence, Eaton eventually sought a more settled existence. He purchased a claim west of Perkins, Oklahoma, on October 6, 1889, marking a new chapter in his life.
He married Orpha Pearl Miller on August 20, 1890, and they had two daughters, Ethel Florence and Faye Etta. Orpha’s death in 1902 left Frank a widower with two young daughters.
Eaton remarried on January 1, 1903, to Anna Rosetta Sillix, and they moved to 119 E Chantry in Perkins in the 1920s. Together, they had eight children: Orpha, Bessie, Mae, Elizabeth, William Rolla, Raymond, Eugene Francis, and Frank Jr.
Eaton established a blacksmith shop at 203 S. Main Street, where he continued to captivate locals with his stories and skills. Boyd Sasser recalled watching Eaton walk barefoot on the steaming hot boiler of a steam engine or pick up red hot metal with his toes. Elizabeth Eaton Wise explained that her father’s frostbite had left him with no feeling in his feet, allowing him to perform such feats.
7. Pistol Pete, the Mascot: An Enduring Legacy
In 1923, Eaton’s life took an unexpected turn when students at Oklahoma A & M College (now Oklahoma State University) asked him to pose as the school’s mascot. His iconic look – the cowboy hat, vest, blue jeans, and long braided hair – perfectly embodied the spirit of the Wild West.
Eaton agreed, becoming the “original cowboy” and a living symbol of Oklahoma State University until his death. His likeness was also adopted as the mascot of the University of Wyoming and New Mexico State University, solidifying his status as a beloved figure across the nation.
Even in his later years, Eaton remained a captivating figure, drawing crowds with his tales and quick draw demonstrations.
8. “Truthful Pete Says”: Eaton’s Writings and Philosophy
From 1950 to 1956, Eaton shared his wisdom and experiences with the world through a weekly column in The Perkins Journal titled “Truthful Pete Says” and later “Pistol Pete Says.” These stories offered a glimpse into his philosophy of life, his humorous encounters, and his recollections of the frontier days.
Eaton often wrote about his time as a member of The Journal staff, setting type by hand and cranking the old hand press. These writings offer valuable insights into Eaton’s character and his perspective on life in the West.
His writings were a blend of practical wisdom, humor, and nostalgia, making him a popular and respected voice in the community.
9. The Autobiography: Pistol Pete, Veteran of the Old West
In 1952, with the assistance of Eva Gillhouse, Eaton penned his autobiography, Pistol Pete, Veteran of the Old West, published by Little, Brown & Company. The book was lauded by the Chicago Tribune as “an exciting genuine bit of Americana.”
The autobiography provides a detailed account of Eaton’s life, from his childhood trauma to his days as a lawman and his eventual role as a beloved mascot. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the man behind the legend.
Eaton made several television appearances, including the Danny Williams, Tom Paxton, and Prissy Thomas shows, further popularizing his story and solidifying his place in American folklore.
10. The Final Journey: Pistol Pete’s Death and Funeral
Frank Eaton passed away in his sleep at home on Tuesday morning, April 8, 1958, at the age of 97. His death marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate.
Eaton’s funeral was held in the Perkins Community Building on Friday, April 11, and was attended by nearly 1,000 people, including Rolla Goodnight, Eaton’s closest friend, and Billy McGinty, Teddy Roosevelt’s orderly in the Rough Riders.
Rev. A. G. McCowan, a long time friend of Eaton’s officiated the services and said, “He had a tough exterior, but he was kind and tender hearted. Children loved him. He could quote Shakespeare, Plato, and Aristotle. He knew poetry.”
Eaton himself had written, “I know St. Peter has me charged up pretty heavy, but unlike a mortal judge, He knows the innermost motive for every deed committed, whether good or evil, and I think He will not be too hard on a poor old cowboy who did his best as he saw it.”
11. Where Is Pistol Pete Buried? The Final Resting Place
Eaton was buried in the Perkins Cemetery, wearing a brown suit rather than his regular western attire, his Cherokee Strip cowpuncher ribbon and badge pinned to his chest, but without the six-shooter that had earned him his name.
At the cemetery, Cecil Hiatt of Brahman strummed a guitar and sang a song about “Cowboy’s Heaven,” a fitting tribute to a man who had lived life to the fullest. Today, his grave serves as a place of pilgrimage for those who wish to pay their respects to the legendary Pistol Pete.
If you’re planning a visit to Perkins, Oklahoma, be sure to include a stop at the Perkins Cemetery to honor the memory of this iconic figure.
12. Honoring the Legend: Memorials and Recognitions
Eaton’s legacy continues to be honored in numerous ways. On March 15, 1997, the National Cowboy Hall of Fame posthumously presented him with the prestigious Director’s Award. Eaton’s daughter, Elizabeth Wise, and Oklahoma State University president, Dr. James Halligan, accepted the award on his behalf.
His story is a reminder of the values of courage, resilience, and dedication to justice that defined the American West.
These memorials serve as a testament to the enduring impact of Pistol Pete on American culture and history.
13. The Stolen Legacy: Lost Memorabilia and the Search for History
After Eaton’s death, his revolver, holster, hat, boots, pocket watch, fiddle, and other effects were given to Jimmy Razook, a Wichita, Kansas, businessman, in exchange for a headstone for Eaton’s grave. In 1965, Razook’s nephew, Pat Razook, convinced his uncle to loan the items to OSU.
The items were displayed in a glass case on the third floor of the Student Union, where they were soon stolen. The items were never recovered. Eaton’s 1892 Model Winchester rifle wound up in a Tulsa pawn shop in 1969. The rifle was purchased from a Michigan gun dealer by David Sasser in 1987 and is on display at the Eaton Home.
The loss of these artifacts represents a significant loss for historians and fans of Pistol Pete alike. The search for these missing items continues, fueled by the hope of preserving and sharing Eaton’s legacy for future generations.
14. The Enduring Story: Pistol Pete’s Place in History
Frank “Pistol Pete” Eaton’s life was a remarkable journey that spanned the Wild West era and the dawn of the 20th century. From his early life marked by tragedy and revenge to his later years as a beloved mascot and storyteller, Eaton’s story continues to captivate and inspire.
His legacy as a symbol of courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the West is secure. As PETS.EDU.VN, we are honored to share his story and celebrate the life of this extraordinary man.
Remembering Pistol Pete also connects us to a time when the American frontier was closing, and the values of self-reliance and determination were highly prized. His story, passed down through generations, reminds us of the importance of remembering our history and honoring those who helped shape it.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pistol Pete’s Life and Burial
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pistol Pete’s life and burial:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where is Pistol Pete buried? | Pistol Pete is buried in the Perkins Cemetery in Perkins, Oklahoma. |
| What was Pistol Pete’s real name? | Frank Boardman Eaton. |
| When was Pistol Pete born? | October 26, 1860. |
| When did Pistol Pete die? | April 8, 1958. |
| What was Pistol Pete famous for? | Being a cowboy, marksman, lawman, and the mascot of Oklahoma State University. |
| Did Pistol Pete really avenge his father’s death? | Yes, he tracked down and killed the men responsible for his father’s murder. |
| What was the name of Pistol Pete’s autobiography? | Pistol Pete, Veteran of the Old West. |
| Where can I learn more about Pistol Pete’s life? | You can visit the Perkins Cemetery, read his autobiography, or explore online resources such as PETS.EDU.VN for in-depth information. |
| Are there any memorials dedicated to Pistol Pete? | Yes, he has been inducted into the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, and his legacy is celebrated at Oklahoma State University and other institutions. |
| What happened to Pistol Pete’s personal belongings after his death? | Some of his belongings were stolen from a display at Oklahoma State University, but his rifle is on display at the Eaton Home. |
Want to delve deeper into the captivating world of Pistol Pete and other fascinating figures from the Old West? Explore PETS.EDU.VN for a treasure trove of articles, stories, and resources that will satisfy your curiosity and ignite your passion for history.
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