Cody's Memoirs
Author's Note: Inspired by the book 'The Life of Buffalo Bill' by William F. Cody
William F. Cody, known worldwide by the famous moniker, "Buffalo Bill", sat down at his writing desk and gazed down at the beautiful, brown leather journal monogrammed with his initials 'W.F.C.'. It had been a gift from Louise and Kid Kidrickson, sister and brother of his heart on his last birthday. Lou had enclosed a note along with the gift, stating how she thought it was time that he put down the story of his life for posterity's sake.
Over the years there had been countless newspaper articles written about him and his 'Wild West' show, along with many a dime store novel. He had learned in time that only those who truly knew him really got their retelling of a tale they had experienced together accurately, or could really describe what kind of a man he really was. Cody was touched by the wonderful gift and had decided that once he was able to, he would sit down and actually try to recall some of the memories of his long and fulfilling life.
He wasn't certain anyone would want to read any of them once his memoirs were completed, but he could at least pass the book down to one of his many assorted nieces and nephews, blooded or otherwise, as a remembrance of him after he'd passed on to the grand stage overhead.
Cody dipped his pen into the inkwell, opened the book to the first clean page, and began to write.
My Debut-1845
My debut upon the world's stage occurred on a cold, blustery day in February 1845. The scene of this most important event in my adventurous career happened in the state of Iowa. My folks, Isaac and Maryann Cody, bestowed upon me the illustrious moniker of William Frederick. I was a welcomed and expected addition into the Cody household and doted upon by all.
I was the fourth child born to my folks. Martha, Julia and Samuel preceded me. After me came Eliza, Nellie, Mary, and Charles, born in the order for which I have just named them. We were a handsome lot, and who were well liked by our friends and neighbors.
My Ma told me that she would take walks with me in the afternoons, and often her friends and strangers alike, all clamoring to see me would swarm upon my carriage. Women, even then, seemed anxious to take a gander at my handsome features. They 'oohed' and 'aahed' over my cherubic face, sky blue eyes, golden locks, and infectious smile.
She told me that they would remark to her about how good a baby I was. How sweet natured my personality, and how eager I seemed to perform for them at such a tender age. I suppose one could call these earlier moments in my life the stepping-stones in my lifelong quest to entertain others.