The Fimbres Expedition
On the most recent episode of The Wild West Extravaganza, we discussed the insane story of Francisco Fimbres and his quest to avenge his wife’s death and retrieve his stolen son from the renegade Apaches - in 1929!
If you haven’t listened to the episode, you might want to check it out. It truly amazes me that there were still “wild” Apache living in Mexico in the 1920s and 1930s - and possibly even later.
Here’s a photo alleged to be part of the Fimbres Expedition. It’s obviously been touched up, but it appears they were well-supplied and in it for the long haul.
And here’s Francisco himself (kneeling on the right), posing with the grisly trophies he took from his prey.
As interesting as this story is, it’s still hard to discuss without thinking of the lives that were absolutely ruined. The Apache, Mrs. Fimbres, young Gerardo, and countless others - all caught up in a seemingly endless cycle of violence and retribution. I’m reminded of the words of a wise man who’s no longer with us; words I think we can all find value in.
"Violence begets violence; hate begets hate; and toughness begets a greater toughness. It is all a descending spiral, and the end is destruction — for everybody. Along the way of life, someone must have enough sense and morality to cut off the chain of hate." -Martin Luther King Jr.
I also mentioned Jason Betzinez, the Apache warrior who once fought alongside Geronimo, and how he claimed there were still wild Apache in the mountains of Mexico as late as the 1950s.
What I failed to mention was that Mr. Betzinez lived all the way to 1960; passing away at the ripe old age of 100. And what’s more, in 1958, he even appeared on the television show “I’ve Got A Secret” - sort of similar to “What’s My Line” - to discuss his time with Geronimo.
What a life! Grew up as an Apache, fought with Geronimo, and lived long enough to not only watch tv, but to appear on it!
So what do you think? Were there still renegades living free and wild when Mr. Betzinez passed away in 1960? I doubt it but it’s fun to think about.
I get a little comfort thinking that there are people out there still untouched and unsullied.
Father’s Day is coming up!
If you’re stumped on what to buy dear ole Dad or if you’re looking for some hints to drop to your wife and kids, I got you covered! As a father myself I can attest that we all love books; especially history books. Feel free to peruse the various books I’ve discussed on The Wild West Extravaganza - Fiction, non-fiction, and even books that aren’t necessarily historical but reads that I just personally found impactful.
And if you’re not a reader, why not pick yourself up some Wild West Extravaganza merch. We got t-shirts, stickers, magnets, coffee mugs, and even posters and wall art.
I actually just added a few new designs today so feel free to look around.
Alright, that’s about all I’ve got for this edition. Take care and I’ll catch you next time.
Adios.
Thanks for the great content! 🤠 It's amazing to think about the Apache people still living free so recently! 🐎