Charles Bassett of Dodge City: A Frontier Lawman's Legacy

Charles "Charlie" Bassett occupies a crucial yet often under appreciated role in the formative history of Dodge City, Kansas. Bassett was instrumental in establishing law and order as the town transitioned into a pivotal node in the American Wild West. He served as the inaugural Sheriff of Ford County and later as City Marshal of Dodge City during some of its most tumultuous developmental years. His interactions with prominent figures such as Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson highlight his significance within the broader Old West narrative.

Born on October 30, 1847, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Charles E. Bassett was the fourth of six children born to Benjamin and Julia (Norton) Bassett. His parents' separation during his adolescence markedly influenced his formative years, resulting in his relocation to live with his father in Philadelphia. In February 1865, toward the conclusion of the Civil War, he enlisted in the Union Army in Frankford, Pennsylvania, serving as a private in Company I of the 213th Pennsylvania Infantry, a volunteer regiment. He received a $100 enlistment bounty for his one-year commitment; however, his military tenure was truncated after approximately nine months, as he was mustered out in Washington, D.C., on November 18, 1865—likely a consequence of troop reductions following General Lee's capitulation.

After his military service, Bassett undertook a westward migration from late 1865 to early 1873, engaging in various frontier professions, including mining, bartending, and buffalo hunting. These roles not only broadened his skill set but also exposed him to diverse individuals and challenges inherent in the burgeoning West. He was probably in the vicinity of what would eventually become Dodge City when he received news of his father's death in Philadelphia on January 2, 1872. This eclectic work background underscores his resourcefulness—an essential trait for survival and success on the frontier. His bartending experience, in particular, afforded him critical insights into the emerging social dynamics of frontier settlements and facilitated the development of significant personal and professional connections.

In late 1872, Bassett partnered with Alfred J. Peacock to establish the original Long Branch Saloon in Dodge City. This establishment rapidly evolved into a focal point within the town, which was notorious for its saloons, gambling, and frequent violence. The Long Branch became a vital social hub, attracting a varied clientele that contributed to the dynamic and often tumultuous atmosphere of Dodge City. Ultimately, Bassett and Peacock sold the saloon, which underwent various ownership changes before being managed by Luke Short. This entrepreneurial initiative solidified Bassett's role within the early social and economic infrastructure of Dodge City, providing him with both financial stability and an expansive network of contacts.

The formal establishment of law enforcement in Ford County, Kansas, dates back to June 5, 1873, when Charles Bassett was elected the inaugural sheriff. His jurisdiction was centered in Dodge City, the county seat. Before this, the community relied on a Vigilance Committee, which increasingly attracted unsavory characters, underscoring the necessity for a structured and dependable law enforcement agency.

During his first term, Bassett prominently appointed figures such as Wyatt Earp and William "Bat" Masterson to his deputy positions. He was re-elected twice, continuing in office until 1878. One significant event during his tenure involved the pursuit of the notorious outlaw Sam Bass and his gang in September 1877, following their heist of a Union Pacific train in Nebraska. Although Bassett's posse—comprising Masterson and John Joshua Webb—did not apprehend the outlaws, this incident illuminated his commitment to law enforcement beyond Ford County's borders. His re-elections indicated the community's trust in his capacity to maintain order during an era characterized by rapid expansion and potential lawlessness. Furthermore, his selection of deputies, who subsequently rose to prominence in law enforcement, illustrates his astute judgment regarding effective policing in the volatile frontier milieu.

Due to Kansas legislation restricting sheriffs to two consecutive terms, Bat Masterson was elected as the new Sheriff of Ford County in November 1877, succeeding Bassett. Acknowledging Bassett's extensive experience, Masterson appointed him as undersheriff. Concurrently, Bassett served as the assistant city marshal under Bat Masterson's brother, Edward J. Masterson, who held the position of City Marshal in Dodge City. The Dodge City Times acknowledged Bassett's comprehensive training and qualifications for ensuring public order in the city.
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In February 1878, Bassett played a pivotal role in apprehending several members of a train robbery gang in Dodge City, collaborating closely with Sheriff Bat Masterson and Marshal Ed Masterson. However, on April 9, 1878, tragedy struck with the assassination of City Marshal Ed Masterson. In the aftermath, the Dodge City Council appointed Charles Bassett as the new City Marshal on May 12, 1878, granting him a salary of $100 per month. Throughout his tenure as marshal, both Wyatt Earp and James Earp served as his deputies. Notably, that same year, Bassett participated in the pursuit and arrest of James "Spike" Kenedy, implicated in the murder of Dora Hand, known in the theatrical world as Fannie Keenan.

This era underscores Charles Bassett's unwavering commitment to law enforcement in Dodge City. Through his multifaceted roles—as sheriff, undersheriff, and city marshal—he effectively reinforced stability and order in a rapidly transforming frontier community.

During Charles Bassett's term as City Marshal, a significant incident occurred on April 5, 1879, at the Long Branch Saloon, marked by a gunfight between Frank Loving and Levi Richardson. The altercation originated from a personal dispute involving Loving's wife, Mattie. The confrontation escalated from a verbal argument to a lethal exchange of gunfire, with Richardson firing five rounds and Loving discharging six. The aftermath left Richardson with fatal injuries, while Loving sustained only a grazing wound to his hand. As Town Marshal, Bassett promptly responded to the gunfire, apprehending Loving. 

However, a coroner's inquest convened on April 7, 1879, concluded that Loving had acted in self-defense, resulting in his release without charges. This incident underscores the endemic violence characterizing frontier towns like Dodge City. It illustrates the complexities of law enforcement in navigating such dangerous situations while adhering to the legal standards of the time.

In November 1879, Bassett resigned as Marshal of Dodge City and relocated to New Mexico, where he served as a guard for the Adams Express Company. The following year, he engaged in gold mining in Montana and traveled through Colorado and Texas while maintaining connections with Dodge City. Ultimately, he settled in Kansas City, where he owned and managed several saloons. His ties to Dodge City resurfaced in 1883 during the "Dodge City War," a conflict involving municipal authorities and Luke Short. Facing opposition from local governance, Short sought support from allies, prompting Bassett, alongside other notable figures such as Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson, to return to Dodge City. This convergence of prominent ex-lawmen and gunfighters led to the establishment of the Dodge City Peace Commission in June 1883, which included members like W.H. Harris, W.F. Petillon, Frank McLain, and Neil Brown. A significant photograph captured this assembly on June 10, 1883. The Commission was instrumental in mediating the conflict, ultimately averting any violence during the "Dodge City War." Bassett returned to Kansas City after this involvement to open the Senate Saloon, earning him the moniker "Senator." However, this venture was not profitable, and he later found employment as a bartender in another establishment. His return to Dodge City during this tumultuous period and participation in the Peace Commission highlight Bassett's enduring influence and reputation, even post-retirement from formal law enforcement.

DODGE CITY PEACE COMMISSION: In 1883, former Dodge City lawmen, Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson and Charlie Bassett, returned to town one last time. But they weren’t here to enforce the law. Instead they posed a threat to law and order. They came to Dodge City as a show of force to support a friend in what became known as the “Saloon War.” Back Row Left - Right W.H. Harris Luke Short Bat Masterson  Front Row Left - Right Charlie Bassett Wyatt Earp Frank McLain Neal Brown

In his later years, Bassett was afflicted with inflammatory rheumatism, prompting him to seek treatment in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He passed away on January 5, 1896, at the age of 48, with his death attributed to Bright's disease, an outdated term for nephritis, which denotes renal inflammation resulting from various etiological factors, including toxins, infections, or autoimmune disorders. Bassett was interred in Hollywood Cemetery in Hot Springs.

Charles Bassett's life story is a fascinating lens through which we can understand the dramatic evolution of law and order in Dodge City during its frontier days. His remarkable journey—from daring early ventures to his steadfast role as a lawman—highlights his commitment to bringing stability to a tumultuous environment. Bassett was crucial in pivotal events, including the notorious Dodge City War. Yet, his name often doesn't resonate as loudly as those of more famous figures of his time. Nevertheless, his tireless pursuit of peace amid chaos firmly establishes him as a key player in the saga of the American West. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the countless brave souls who built the frontier communities, bravely tackling immense challenges and dangers.
​Article by Michael King

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