Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of Texas Jack’s Yellowstone Adventure with the Earl of Dunraven
This month marks the 150th anniversary of one of the most adventurous expeditions into the uncharted wilderness of what is now Yellowstone National Park. In November 1874, Texas Jack Omohundro concluded his incredible journey with the Earl of Dunraven, Dr. George Kingsley, and Captain Wynne. This trip, vividly chronicled by both Texas Jack and the Earl, not only highlighted the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Yellowstone but also contributed significantly to its international renown.
A Frontier Adventure Begins
Texas Jack’s firsthand account, originally printed in The Boys of the World, paints a vivid picture of the journey’s chaotic yet thrilling start. Jack recalled setting out from Denver, Colorado, with an eclectic party that included English nobility, servants, and dogs. From there, the group traveled west, navigating logistical challenges and cultural curiosities.
Jack’s humor shines in his description of traveling with the Earl: "Guns, pistols, dogs, servants, scouts, English lords, and other bundles were tumbled in promiscuously," he wrote, illustrating the haphazard loading of their stagecoach. Jack’s dry wit also highlighted the Earl’s impatience and determination, as the driver ignored his pleas for a smoother ride, mistaking them for cries to "go faster and make time."
Into the Yellowstone Wilderness
Once the party arrived in Bozeman, Montana, they acquired horses and pack mules to continue into the Yellowstone Valley. Jack’s description of their first encounters with the region’s grandeur is a testament to its allure: “The valley here is wide, the rolling hills extending back some distance to the main range, and the country grandly beautiful.”
The group faced plenty of danger, from encounters with hostile Sioux to daring bear hunts. One memorable incident involved Jack swimming across a river to recover stolen horses while being pursued by mounted warriors. He reflected on this nerve-wracking moment with characteristic nonchalance, noting, “I didn’t hesitate an instant but dropped the fishing tackle, seized my rifle, mounted, and swam across the river.”
Encounters with Wildlife
Yellowstone’s abundant wildlife provided both challenges and opportunities for the adventurers. Jack vividly described his encounter with a grizzly bear that nearly cost him his life. After tracking the animal and wounding it twice, Jack found himself scrambling up a tree to avoid the bear’s charge:
“At the crack of my rifle, the old fellow raised up on his hind legs and bit his side angrily... He rushed upon me, and with one blow of his large claw, he stripped the bark off within one yard of my feet.”
From his perch, Jack fired several shots with his revolver before the bear staggered off to a nearby pond. Finally, Jack delivered a killing shot at close range, marveling at the bear’s massive size—estimated at 1,200 pounds. This harrowing tale demonstrates both the dangers of the frontier and Jack’s unmatched skill and bravery.
The Earl of Dunraven’s Perspective
The Earl of Dunraven, a travel writer and adventurer, also documented the journey in his book, The Great Divide. Dunraven’s observations complemented Jack’s, offering a more formal yet equally enthusiastic portrayal of Yellowstone’s wonders. He praised the park’s geological marvels, including its geysers and hot springs, and its diverse wildlife.
Dunraven’s writings were instrumental in introducing Yellowstone to a European audience. His accounts emphasized not only the beauty of the region but also the importance of preserving it. This perspective aligned with the nascent conservation movement, as Yellowstone had been designated the world’s first national park just two years earlier.
Jack’s Role in Yellowstone’s Story
Texas Jack’s involvement in the expedition underscores his significance as an explorer and storyteller of the American West. His colorful accounts brought Yellowstone to life for readers who could only imagine the rugged beauty and raw adventure of the frontier. Jack’s partnership with Dunraven bridged cultural divides, showing how the American wilderness captured imaginations far beyond U.S. borders.
Yellowstone’s Enduring Legacy
Today, Yellowstone National Park is a symbol of natural wonder and conservation. The expedition led by Texas Jack and the Earl of Dunraven played a pivotal role in building its legend. Jack’s gripping narratives, coupled with Dunraven’s eloquent writings, helped cement Yellowstone’s reputation as a must-visit destination for adventurers worldwide.
As we reflect on this 150th anniversary, we honor the spirit of exploration and storytelling that Texas Jack and his companions embodied. Their journey through Yellowstone remains a reminder of the park’s timeless appeal and the enduring power of the written word to inspire awe and wonder.
Timeline of Texas Jack's Yellowstone Expedition with the Earl of Dunraven (1874)
Here’s a chronological overview of Texas Jack Omohundro's Yellowstone adventure alongside the Earl of Dunraven, Dr. George Kingsley, Captain Wynne, and others, culminating in their return on November 25, 1874:
August 1, 1874: Departure from New York
Texas Jack leaves New York to meet the Earl of Dunraven’s party in Denver, Colorado.
Mid-August 1874: Meeting in Denver
Jack arrives in Denver, where he meets the Earl of Dunraven and his companions.
The group spends a few days in Denver acquiring supplies and enjoying the city’s recreation before heading west.
Late August 1874: Salt Lake City
The group travels to Salt Lake City, Utah.
During their stay, they meet Brigham Young, the leader of the Latter-day Saints, and explore the city’s unique culture and landmarks.
August 31, 1874: Departure from Corrine, Utah
After leaving Salt Lake City, the group travels by stagecoach to Corrine, a significant Overland Stage Line stop.
From Corrine, they charter a stagecoach to carry them and their supplies toward the Yellowstone region.
September 1874: Into Montana
The party passes through Virginia City, Montana, a bustling frontier town, before heading to Bozeman.
In Bozeman, Jack acquires saddle ponies, pack mules, and other necessary equipment for the wilderness expedition.
Dunraven and others take a detour to visit a Crow village and witness a war dance.
Late September 1874: Entering Yellowstone
The group enters the Yellowstone Valley, encountering friendly Bannock Indians and the dramatic landscapes of the region.
They begin exploring Yellowstone’s marvels, including the Yellowstone River and nearby hot springs.
Hunting and fishing expeditions take place, including notable encounters with elk and grizzly bears.
October 1874: Exploring Yellowstone’s Wonders
The party delves deeper into Yellowstone, marveling at its geysers, thermal features, and wildlife.
Jack documents thrilling incidents, including his dangerous encounter with a grizzly bear, which he ultimately kills after a desperate battle.
The Earl of Dunraven records detailed observations of the park’s geological and ecological wonders, later publishing them in The Great Divide.
November 1874: Preparing to Leave Yellowstone
As snowfall increases, the party begins making their way out of the Yellowstone region.
Their return journey involves retracing their steps through Bozeman, Virginia City, and other settlements in Montana.
November 25, 1874: Return via Train
The group catches their final train to complete the expedition.
This marks the official conclusion of their three-month journey through Yellowstone and the surrounding wilderness.
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