Unraveling the Myth: Steve Bullock and the Notorious Seth Bullock of Deadwood

The shared surname between Montana Governor Steve Bullock and the famous lawman and businessman Seth Bullock of Deadwood, South Dakota, has long led to speculation about their familial connection. However, a closer examination reveals no confirmed link. This myth has been perpetuated despite the significant differences in their historical contexts and the time periods in which they lived.

Family Connections: A Coincidence of Names

Both Steve Bullock and Seth Bullock share a family name, which has sparked curiosity and speculation about their potential relationship. Despite the similarities, there is no publicly documented evidence to support the claim that they are related. Steve Bullock, who served as the Governor of Montana from 2013 to 2021, does not have any familial ties to Seth Bullock, a prominent figure in the late 19th century.

The identity of Seth Bullock is well-documented, particularly through works like the detailed biography published by the South Dakota State Historical Association. Seth Bullock not only founded Belle Fouche, South Dakota, but he was also deeply involved in the development and sustenance of various communities in the region through donations and volunteer work. Despite the similarity in their last names, the locations and historical contexts of their lives are quite different.

Historical Contexts: Different Times, Different Towns

While Seth Bullock lived in Helena, Montana, for a few years before moving to Deadwood, South Dakota, Steve Bullock is indeed a native of Helena. However, the significant time gap—about a century—between them makes any direct familial connection highly unlikely. A likely possibility would be that they are distant relatives, making them great-great-great-uncles or a similar relation. Nevertheless, the period in which they lived and the activities they were involved in are vastly different.

Seth Bullock was a prominent figure during the peak of the gold and silver boom in Helena, having served in the Vigilantes era. His role as a lawman and businessman in this "wild" town was significant. He also played a crucial part as a Spanish American War Rough Rider, later becoming Sergeant for Teddy Roosevelt. Post-1880s, while Seth Bullock was involved in various ventures and philanthropic activities in South Dakota, he is remembered as a pillar of South Dakota’s history.

In contrast, Steve Bullock's tenure as Governor of Montana was during a time of stability and different challenges. While one might argue that Seth Bullock was a more extravagant and lawless character, Steve Bullock's time in office was marked by his impressive political and leadership skills.

Personal Impressions: From Lawman to Governor

Since meeting both Steve Bullock and Seth Bullock, the author has been struck by the differences in their leadership styles and legacies. Although they shared the surname, Steve Bullock, with whom the author interacted over the past eight years, is held in high regard for his political acumen and success.

Steve Bullock, having worked under four of his predecessors, clearly stands out in terms of his substantial political achievements and the respect he commands. The author’s admiration for him is not merely based on their shared geography but on the impressive legacy Steve Bullock has left in the State of Montana.

Conclusion: A Significant Difference in Time and Impact

In conclusion, while the shared surname might create confusion, the historical contexts and time periods in which Steve Bullock and Seth Bullock lived are distinctly different. Seth Bullock's contributions were primarily to the development and maintenance of communities in South Dakota, while Steve Bullock's contributions were shaped by contemporary Montana political challenges.

The myth around their familial relationship, which has persisted due to the similarities in their names, is just that—a myth. Despite the fascination with their shared surnames, the reality is that they represent two different eras and distinct roles in their respective regions.