Wild West Shows
A typical Wild West Show consisted of a series of historical scenes interspersed with feats of showmanship, sharp shooting, racing, and rodeo events. Eastern and European audiences were attracted by the carnival-like atmosphere that masqueraded as historical and scientific fact. Two of the largest shows, the Miller Brothers 101 Ranch Real Wild West Show and Pawnee Bill’s Historic Wild West Show had roots in Oklahoma.
Pawnee Bill
Gordon W. Lillie, known as "Pawnee Bill," started his wild west show in 1888. "Pawnee Bill's Historic Wild West" featured Indians from several tribes, demonstrations of marksmanship, horseback riding and races. Pawnee Bill's wife, May Lillie, was also a star in the show. She was known as the “Champion Girl Horseback Shot of the West.”
In 1908 Pawnee Bill's show joined with Buffalo Bill's production to become "Buffalo Bill's Wild West & Pawnee Bill's Great Far East." This massive show included exotic performers from around the world, in addition to the popular western characters."
Today, you can visit Pawnee Bill's ranch in Pawnee, Oklahoma. The grounds include Bill's mansion, buffalo, log cabin, barn and a museum.
The 101 Ranch
Another successful wild west show was the "Miller Brothers 101 Ranch Real Wild West." In 1879 the 101 Ranch was started by three brothers. George, Joe, and Zack Miller ran the operation, which included a leather tannery, hotel, oil refinery, meat packing plant, and general store, in addition to the showgrounds. The 101 show traveled for several years throughout the United States and even England.
The show included cowboys & cowgirls, Indians, and lots of action. Several 101 performers went on to have successful careers in film and rodeo including Bill Picket and Tom Mix.
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