Benjamin Thompson, also known as Ben Thompson, was born on February 11, 1843, in what is now known as the state of Massachusetts. He was the eldest son of William and Mary Ann Thompson, and he had a younger brother named Billy and a younger sister named Mary Jane. When Ben was just eight years old, his family made the journey from Liverpool to the United States on the ship Granada.
As a young man, Ben Thompson found himself swept up in the turmoil of the American Civil War. He fought on the side of the Confederacy, but his military career was far from over. After the war, he worked as a mercenary for the emperor of Mexico, honing his skills as a gunfighter and gaining a reputation as a formidable opponent.
Ben Thompson's name became synonymous with the Wild West, thanks in part to his partnerships with some of the most famous figures of the time. He worked alongside Wild Bill Hickok, a legendary gunslinger known for his quick draw and sharpshooting skills. Thompson also crossed paths with showman Buffalo Bill Cody, joining his grand shows and becoming a key figure in the entertainment world of the Old West.
Despite his reputation as a gunfighter, Ben Thompson also had a career in law enforcement. In 1881, he was appointed marshal in Austin, Texas, where he brought his unique blend of skills to bear on the task of keeping the peace in a rapidly growing town. His fearless approach to justice earned him a reputation as a tough but fair lawman.
Ben Thompson's family played a crucial role in shaping his life. His parents instilled in him a sense of duty and honor, while his siblings provided companionship and support. His experiences as a soldier, mercenary, and lawman left a lasting mark on the Wild West, and his legacy lives on in the stories told of his adventures.
One of the most iconic moments in Ben Thompson's life came when Buffalo Bill Cody presented him with a custom-made, engraved Stevens-Lord No. 36 target pistol. This gesture symbolized the respect and admiration that Cody, Hickok, and others held for Thompson, recognizing him as a true legend of the Old West.
Ben Thompson's life was a blend of excitement, danger, and honor. From his early days in the American Civil War to his time as a mercenary in Mexico, and his later career as a lawman in Texas, he embodied the spirit of the Wild West. His name will forever be remembered as one of the most fearless and skilled gunfighters of his time.