Famous Cowgirls Who Left Their Mark on the American West

While their male counterparts often take center stage in Western lore, cowgirls played an equally vital role in shaping the frontier landscape. From bronco busting to ranching, these remarkable women defied societal norms and blazed trails of their own. Join us on a journey through the lives of some of the most famous cowgirls who left an indelible mark on history.

Famous Cowgirls

Annie Oakley (1860-1926)

No discussion of famous cowgirls would be complete without mentioning the legendary Annie Oakley. Born Phoebe Ann Mosey in 1860, Oakley rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most celebrated sharpshooters of her time. Her unparalleled skill with a rifle earned her fame in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show, where she dazzled audiences with her marksmanship. Oakley could shoot a playing card from 30 paces, hit dimes tossed in the air, and shoot cigarettes out of her husband's mouth. She shattered gender stereotypes and became not only an icon of the Wild West but also a symbol of empowerment for women across the country. Oakley's legacy extends beyond her sharpshooting skills; she was a staunch advocate for women's rights, teaching thousands of women how to shoot and promoting the importance of self-reliance.

Calamity Jane (1852-1903)

Another iconic figure of the Wild West, Calamity Jane, captured the imagination of Americans with her fearless spirit and adventurous lifestyle. Born Martha Jane Cannary in 1852, she earned her nickname for her daring exploits on the frontier. From guiding wagon trains to participating in shootouts, Calamity Jane lived life on her own terms, defying conventions every step of the way. She was known for her sharpshooting, scouting, and occasional work as a prostitute, but her reputation was built on her daring exploits and her purported relationship with Wild Bill Hickok. Calamity Jane's persona was that of a hard-drinking, cross-dressing frontierswoman who could shoot as well as any man. She participated in several Wild West shows and was known for her compassionate nature towards others, especially the sick and needy. While her reputation has been embellished over the years, there is no denying Calamity Jane's place as one of the most famous cowgirls in history.

Lucille Mulhall (1885-1940)

Dubbed the "First Cowgirl of the West," Lucille Mulhall made a name for herself as one of the greatest rodeo performers of the early 20th century. Born in 1885 into a family of ranchers, Mulhall learned to ride and rope alongside her brothers, honing her skills on the Texas frontier. By her teens, she was performing in Wild West shows alongside celebrities like Teddy Roosevelt and Will Rogers. Mulhall gained national recognition for her prowess in events like bronco busting and steer roping, competing against men and holding her own with grace and grit. She is credited with helping originate the sport of rodeo. Mulhall's legacy as a pioneering cowgirl endures to this day, inspiring women to pursue their passions fearlessly.

Dale Evans (1912-2001)

In the realm of Hollywood cowgirls, Dale Evans reigns supreme. Best known for her role as the cowgirl sidekick to Roy Rogers, Evans carved out a niche for herself as a talented actress and singer. With her trademark cowboy hat and spunky attitude, she became a beloved figure in Western films and television shows. Beyond her on-screen persona, Evans was also a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry, breaking barriers and inspiring generations of aspiring cowgirls.

Belle Starr (1848-1889)

Myra Maybelle Shirley Reed Starr, famously known as Belle Starr, was born in 1848 in Missouri. She became one of the most notorious female outlaws of the Old West, often associated with the James-Younger gang and other outlaws. Starr's life was marked by various criminal activities, including horse theft and harboring criminals, which she conducted with her husband, Sam Starr, in the Indian Territory. Her image as the "Bandit Queen" was partly a creation of the dime novels of the time, which sensationalized her exploits. Known for her flamboyant style, including wearing lavish dresses and riding sidesaddle while fully armed, Starr's life ended abruptly when she was shot in 1889 under mysterious circumstances.

Conclusion

These famous cowgirls may not always receive the same level of recognition as their male counterparts, but their contributions to the fabric of American history are undeniable. Through their courage, determination, and unwavering spirit, these trailblazing women helped shape the mythos of the Wild West and paved the way for future generations of cowgirls to follow in their footsteps. Annie Oakley, Calamity Jane, Lucille Mulhall, Dale Evans, Belle Starr and others carved out their own unique legacies, challenging the expectations of their time and becoming legends that continue to inspire. As we celebrate their legacy, let us remember the indelible mark they left on the frontier and beyond.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.