Find Buffalo Bill Cody
Col. William F. 'Buffalo Bill' Cody is the much loved and celebrated founder of Cody, who shaped much of its identity and tradition after establishing the town in 1896.
Overview
Buffalo Bill is the much celebrated founder of Cody, Wyoming and has had a remarkable influence on the area. Buffalo Bill founded the original town of Cody in 1896 and poured his money into irrigation systems, mines and financed friend's businesses to help develop Cody into the thriving town it has become. He pioneered the Wild West Shows, still popular in Cody to this day, and is a significant factor is Cody's history and identity.
Early Years
Young William 'Buffalo Bill' Cody was born on February 26th, 1846 in Iowa before moving with his family to Kansas in 1853 and was among the first settlers. By the age of 11, Cody had signed on as an ox-team driver before graduating to assistant wagon master, joining the gold rush to Colorado. By age 14, he was a pony express rider before working his way up to becoming a buffalo hunter, where he earned the nickname "Buffalo Bill".
Legacy
Buffalo Bill was not only the founder of Cody but also influenced the rodeo lifestyle with his touring Wild West Show. He poured his money into developing Cody he is fondly remembered and his name lives on through the The Buffalo Bill Historical Centre, The Buffalo Bill Dam and the Buffalo Bill state Park.
