Outlaw Life in the American Wild West: Wardrobe, Weapons, and Finances of 1870s Outlaws

As an American outlaw circa 1870, one thing is certain: the era was made for those who favored practicality and the unforgiving wilderness. From clothing to weapons, and finances to chattel, the role of the outlaw required a mix of utilitarianism and ingenuity. In this article, we delve into the common wardrobe, preferred guns, and financial landscapes of such individuals during this tumultuous period.

Wardrobe Choices

The 1870s marked a significant era in American history, with clothing choices reflecting the utilitarian nature of the time. Cotton and wool were prevalent materials, chosen for their durability and comfort, ideal for a life lived in the often rugged and harsh wilderness. Oilskin or leather dusters served as jackets, providing both protection and practicality.

Clothing: Buttons, sewing, and dyes were common, but the nature of the outlaw lifestyle demanded simplicity. Many outlaws favored utilitarian clothing, often making it themselves. Hats were essential, with felt or straw Stetsons providing both style and protection from the sun. Leather boots and gloves further enhanced durability, ensuring that one could withstand the grueling conditions of the time.

A notable characteristic of the era was the variety of styles available, from tailored suits to rugged working clothes. However, the key principle was durability, as the unpredictable and often dangerous life of an outlaw required clothing that could withstand wear and tear.

Prefered Weapons: The Colt Single Action Army

Guns played a pivotal role in the life of an 1870s outlaw. While the use of firearms was not as widespread as one might imagine, the preferred weapon was the Colt Single Action Army, often chambered in 44 caliber. The revolver became a quintessential symbol of the era, combining reliability and effectiveness in a rugged environment.

Colt revolvers were in-demand among outlaws for several reasons. Their single action mechanism made them easier to use, and the .44 caliber was powerful enough to effectively incapacitate foes. However, there were variations, including the 32 caliber Derringer, often used as a secondary weapon or for close-quarters combat.

The availability of different calibers and types of weapons further underscores the practicality and adaptability of the outlaws. Many carried multiple firearms, sometimes interchangeable so that they had the right tool for the job, whether it was hunting, protection, or preparing for a confrontation.

Financial Landscapes of the Outcome

Finances played a crucial role in the life of an 1870s outlaw, often dependent on the type of work one engaged in. Legal employment in farming or factory work provided a basic income, but the rewards were modest. Honest farm workers could earn between 2-5 dollars per day, while factory workers might earn slightly more, though the work was typically hard, dirty, and risky.

For many outlaws, funds were scant, with life on the run often necessitating frugality. A working man might only accumulate a few dollars or less, meaning the majority of their income might be used for basic necessities. After deductions for bills and expenses, what remained might be minimal.

The availability of money could also be influenced by geographical location. Regions like the south east coast, with its old money and easily spread resources, generally offered slightly higher earnings compared to the newer territories of the west coast and central plains. These areas, due to their newer status, had less stable economies, which affected the financial landscape.

Rich people of the time might accumulate fortunes of $100,000 to $1,000,000, which was a testament to the significant financial disparities of the era. Wealthy individuals, like J.P. Morgan and John D. Rockefeller, were considered exceedingly rich, with the highest echelon of society being known as the 'Getty' money, named after the oil magnate J.D. Rockefeller's immense fortune.