Outlaw Women of the Old West

This story book contains letters and diary entries of four legendary women of the Old West.  What makes these women stand out is their rebellious reputations and relentless attitudes, and what has tied them together in history is their ability to attain the notorious title of outlaw.  All of these women are known for their tough exterior, but each of their private accounts will allow a more vulnerable side to rise to the surface. 

            The first story contains a collection of diary entries from the on-and-off-again prostitute known as Big Nose Kate.  You will read about her days as a dancehall girl in Dodge City, Kansas and also about how she helped cover up a murder.  The second story will delve into the thoughts of the infamous Belle Starr and follow her throughout her string of robberies, murders, and run-ins with the famous Judge Isaac Parker.  My third story reveals Sally Skull, a woman who dressed in men's clothing, was a renowned horse thief, and was rumored to have killed several of her many husbands.  My fourth and final story contains the journal entries of Pearl Hart, who was also known to have a liking for men's clothing, and who actually wrote articles for the magazine Cosmopolitan while serving time in jail.

            These four stories are explored throughout historical issues of The Norman Daily News.  Each story contains letters, journal entries, and historical images from each outlaw.  Below is the article explaining what the next few issues of The Norman Daily News  involve. 

The Norman Daily News

Outlaw Women of the Old West

By:  Kassi Hinds

Until recently we have only been able to imagine what actually went on in the lives of the Outlaw Women of the Old West.  Earlier this year, however, a slew of documents containing letters and diary entries written by numerous legendary female outlaws has been made available to The Norman Daily News.  We have published several historical stories pertaining to these women.  This week's issues will look into the lives of four of those women, including Big Nose Kate, Belle Starr, Sally Skull, and Pearl Hart.  You will be intrigued by their wild way of life, and also by the way you yourself could easily identify with their everyday struggles as women.  With that being said, don't miss out on the next few historical issues of The Norman Daily News!  Tomorrow's issue will look into the life of Kate Elder, who is better known as Big Nose Kate.

Image Info:  Belle Starr:  Original Image
Wanted Poster, The Last Best West