Yuma Bill
The Death of a Scout
“Everyone smiles in the same language.” - George Carlin
Although sometimes described as an Apache, Yuma Bill was Tolkapaya Yavapai. Unfortunately, I don’t know much about his life other than that he scouted for the U.S. Army.
It was in such a capacity that Bill lost his life on April 23rd, 1882.
He and a handful of soldiers and fellow scouts were hunting Geronimo when they rode into an ambush, not far from Stein’s Peak, along the Arizona-New Mexico border.
Bill was the first to smell trouble. He managed to warn the Lieutenant before they were riddled with bullets. Only he and Lt. David McDonald survived the first volley, and sadly, Yuma Bill’s luck wouldn’t hold out.
By the time reinforcements arrived, Bill was dead, and the Apache were gone.
Yet, thanks to this photograph, his smile endures forever.
Speaking of smiles…
I’m happy to announce the latest Patreon donation.
As many of you know, 20% of all money generated from The Wild West Extravaganza Patreon goes directly to charity. And guess what? It's about that time again!
Thanks to all the amazing Patrons, I was able to donate $434.45 to the Claddagh Fund.
The Claddagh Fund is the charitable foundation of the Dropkick Murphys, founded in 2009 by band frontman Ken Casey. The Claddagh Fund honors the three attributes of the Claddagh Ring: Friendship, Love, and loyalty. Their mission is to raise money for the most underfunded non-profit organizations that support the vulnerable populations in our communities. These include children's, veterans', and alcohol and drug recovery charities.
I've been a big fan of the Dropkick Murphys for years; they're all great guys, and their fund most definitely aligns with our values.
So thank you, PATRONS, for helping to make the world a better place! I’d like to think that Yuma Bill would be pleased.
Great story and picture Josh !!