John Bourke - (1846-1894)
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Campbell County High School, Gillette, Wyoming
I. Biography
John Bourke was born in Philadelphia, June 23, 1846. By the age of eight, young Bourke was studying Greek, Latin, and Gaelic. He also loved to learn and research about Indians whether it be learning Indian sign language, the making of Sioux shields, or baking sweet bread in the fields.
II. Professional Life
Bourke's career as a soldier began in 1862. At the age of 16, he enlisted with the 15th Pennsylvania Cavalry on August 12. Bourke's first battle as a soldier took place at the Battle of Stone River, Tennessee, in January of 1863. On July 5, 1865, his remarkable intelligence earned him an appointment to West Point Academy as a cadet. He began to study to be an author on October 17, 1865, and he also graduated on June 15, 1869, 4th in his class of 39. One year later Bourke was assigned to Third Cavalry. Bourke would remain in this Calvary until his death on June 8, 1894, nearly 27 years later. Through his military career, Bourke began to keep journals concerning events and personalities as a form of personal record of his experiences in the Old West.
III. Regional Influences
Though many military officers and school teachers influenced his life as an author, Bourke's parents were profound influences. He enjoyed all the good books and learning. Many famous tribes and chiefs gave him hope of the Old West.
IV. Other Influences
Some of his fellow soldiers were big influences on his life. His assistant on his journals was 1st Lt. Thaddeus Hurlbut Capron (Co. C, 9th Inf.). Robert Strahom, a reporter for the Chicago Tribune and the Rocky Mountain News, would say of Bourke that he could work his rifle as well as his pen.
V. Literary Works
On The Border with Crook
Bourke's Journals
VI. Works Cited
Willert, James. Bourke's Diary: From Journals of 1st Lt. John Gregory Bourke June 27-Sept. 15, 1876. La Mirada, CA, 1986.
This essay was submitted by a student of Nathel Coca, a teacher at Campbell County High School in Gillette, Wyoming.