Oklahoma State University’s mascot, Pistol Pete, is more than just a symbol; he’s an icon deeply rooted in the spirit of the American West. For generations, Pistol Pete has represented the university’s values and traditions, embodying the rugged individualism and unwavering determination of the cowboy. But the story of Pistol Pete extends far beyond the football field and campus rallies. It’s a tale inspired by a real-life figure, a legendary cowboy whose life was as captivating as the mascot that bears his name.
The true inspiration behind Pistol Pete is Frank B. Eaton, a man whose life story reads like a classic Western novel. Born in 1860 in Hartford, Connecticut, Eaton’s early life took an abrupt turn when his family relocated to Kansas shortly after the Civil War. This move to the frontier would set the stage for an extraordinary life, marked by both tragedy and triumph.
At the young age of eight, Eaton experienced a horrific event that would forever shape his destiny. He witnessed the brutal murder of his father at the hands of six vigilantes. This traumatic experience ignited a burning desire for justice and revenge within the young Eaton. Driven by this singular purpose, he dedicated his youth to honing his skills as a marksman. From the age of eight until fifteen, Eaton relentlessly practiced his shooting, transforming himself into a formidable sharpshooter. At fifteen, he embarked on a perilous quest to find the men responsible for his father’s death. It took Eaton over five long years of relentless pursuit to track down and bring to justice the men who had taken his father’s life, a journey that cemented his transformation into a legendary figure of the Old West.
Frank B. Eaton’s life was a testament to the cowboy ethos, earning him the moniker that would later become synonymous with the OSU mascot. The nickname “Pistol Pete” wasn’t just a catchy phrase; it was earned through skill and reputation. Eaton’s prowess with firearms was legendary, culminating in him winning a prestigious marksmanship contest at Fort Gibson against seasoned cavalry competitors. This victory solidified his reputation and the enduring nickname “Pistol Pete” was born. Beyond his marksmanship, Eaton lived the life of a true cowboy. He served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal under the infamous “hanging judge” Isaac Parker, upholding law and order in the Wild West. Later in life, he further contributed to his community by owning a blacksmith shop, serving the practical needs of those around him.
In the 1920s, Frank B. Eaton’s connection with Oklahoma State University, then Oklahoma A&M College, began to take shape. He participated in local events like the Armistice Day Parade and OSU’s Homecoming Parade, becoming a familiar and admired figure within the college community. Eaton’s embodiment of the cowboy spirit resonated deeply with the university, which was seeking a new mascot to represent their athletic teams. Following Eaton’s death in 1958, the university officially adopted “Pistol Pete” as their mascot, with Charlie Lester making history as the first student to don the iconic cowboy persona that same year. Frank B. Eaton, the real “Pistol Pete,” represented the rugged spirit of the Old West in his time. Today, the mascot “Pistol Pete” carries forward that legacy, continuing to symbolize the enduring cowboy spirit for Oklahoma State University and its fans, forever linking the legend of the man to the spirit of the university.
