Originally featured in Points West magazine in Winter 2012
Photograph, businessmen of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West
Seated front and center in this photograph is Major John M. Burke, one of only four people associated with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West throughout the show’s entire run, served in several capacities, most notably advance agent and publicity manager. As with many aspects of Burke’s story, exactly what’s taking place in this photo is unclear.
The image was taken in London in 1887, where the Wild West performed from May to May, 1887–1888. The group, many with small, unidentified papers, is gathered in front of William F. Cody’s tent on the show’s back lot. Manager Nate Salsbury, sporting a top hat, points with a cane to the large sheet Burke is holding. Might they be referring to a map of London? That’s pure speculation…and this image is another small part of Burke’s story that remains a mystery.
Black and white photograph. Group of men in hats and suits gather in front of William F. Cody’s tent on Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show backlot. Elliot & Fry, Baker Street, London, photographer. William F. Cody Collection. P.69.810
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