Bat Masterson was a colorful figure of the American Old West

Bat Masterson was a colorful figure of the American Old West, known for his skills as a buffalo hunter, army scout, lawman, gambler, and journalist. He was born in Canada in 1853, but his family moved to the United States when he was a child. He grew up in Kansas and worked as a buffalo hunter and a stagecoach driver before joining the army as a scout.

After the Civil War, Masterson moved to Dodge City, Kansas, where he worked as a lawman and a gambler. He was known for his quick wit and his willingness to use his fists or his guns to enforce the law. In 1878, he was involved in the Gunfight at the Dodge City Opera House, in which he shot and killed a man who had been harassing him.

In 1881, Masterson moved to Tombstone, Arizona, where he worked as a lawman and a gambler. He was involved in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, in which he fought alongside Wyatt Earp and his brothers against the Clanton and McLaury gang. After the gunfight, Masterson left Tombstone and moved to New York City, where he worked as a journalist and a sportswriter.

Here is a more detailed account of Masterson's time in each city:

Dodge City, Kansas: Masterson served as a deputy marshal in Dodge City from 1876 to 1881. He was known for his tough stance on lawlessness and his willingness to use force to keep the peace. He was also a skilled gambler and a popular figure in the city's saloons and gambling halls.

Tombstone, Arizona: Masterson arrived in Tombstone in 1881, shortly after the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. He was appointed deputy marshal by Wyatt Earp and served in that capacity until 1882. He was involved in several other gunfights during his time in Tombstone, including the Battle of Contention and the Earp Vendetta Ride.

New York City: Masterson moved to New York City in 1886 and worked as a journalist and a sportswriter for the New York Morning Telegraph. He was also a successful gambler and became known as one of the most feared men in the city.

Masterson was a larger-than-life figure who lived a colorful and exciting life. He was a skilled gunfighter, a respected lawman, and a successful gambler. He was also a gifted writer and a keen observer of human nature. His life story is a testament to the American spirit of adventure and self-reliance.