OUR MUSEUM
Visiting Buffalo Bill’s is like stepping back in time to the days of the Old West. Every part of our facility is a living museum where yesteryear is brought to life. Whether you are eating or drinking or enjoying a special event, you will be surrounded by the largest private collection of western memorabilia in Arizona. From life-size figurines of famous characters, to full-size buffalo models, to art, to authentic relics of the past, our private collection is impressive. The buffalo from the famous scene from “Dancing with Wolves” can be found here. The town of Show Low’s unique name is explained in a set of life-size figurines. There are antique firearms and cowboy hats and wanted posters. We offer a treasure trove of history and stories for you to explore in a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
HISTORICAL FIGURES WE HONOR
Buffalo Bill
Buffalo Bill was a scout, buffalo hunter and showman who popularized the American "Old West". His real name was William Frederick Cody, but he created the name “Buffalo Bill” to capture his larger-than-life persona and add to the allure of his performances. During Buffalo Bill's lifetime, he was a Wagonmaster, Stagecoach Driver, Pony Express Rider, Cavalry Scout, Indian Fighter, Buffalo Hunter and Showman Supreme. For almost 50 years he was the genuine hero of every American, as well as a trusted friend to presidents, kings, and statesmen. At Buffalo Bill's, we re-capture some of the feeling of his era. It is a privilege for us to represent a great visionary such as W.F. '"Buffalo Bill" Cody who made an indelible imprint on American culture. He was the right man, at the right place, at the right time and set the mold for modern American celebrity. Smart, ambitious and creative, he showed what it took to become larger than life.
WHO WAS BUFFALO BILL?
A Hero - He was awarded the Medal of Honor by Congress in 1872.
A Patriot - He began every performance in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show with the "Star Spangled Banner" long before it became our National Anthem.
An Activist - He advocated for American Indians and Women's Equal Rights.
A Globetrotter - He visited over 14 countries and 1,400 cities in 30 years.
A World Citizen - He employed performers from every inhabited continent.
An Environmentalist - He called for the preservation of the buffalo and other wild animals along with wilderness areas like the Grand Canyon.
He grew up in the West.
He rode for the Pony Express.
He fought in the Civil War.
Hunted buffalo to feed railroad workers.
He Scouted for the Army.
He was inspired by his experiences to create his WIid West Show.
He was certainly a legend of the West, but much more.
Step back into the Wild West
Jesse James
Jesse James was a notorious outlaw, bank and train robber, and leader of the James-Younger gang. Romanticized as a Robin Hood-like character despite his crimes. His life of crime came to an end when he was betrayed by a member of his own gang for the bounty reward.
Calamity Jane
Born Martha Jane Cannary, Calamity Jane was a frontierwoman and professional scout. Becoming an icon to the West due to her adventures, often in mens clothing alongside Wild Bill Hickok.
Wyatt Earp
A famed lawman and gambler in the American West, Wyatt Earp was particularly known for the Gunfight at the O.K Corral. He worked in various frontier towns, building a reputation as a peace officer who wouldn’t hesitate to enforce the law.
Billy the Kid
Billy the Kid is his real name being Henry McCarty, he was also known as William H. Bonney. Billy was an infamous gunfighter and outlaw in the West; with a notorious reputation for escaping the law. He participated in the Lincoln County War, becoming a key figure due to his fast draw and quick temper.
Wild Bill Hickok
A legendary figure of the American Old West, Bill Hickok is known for his skills as a gunfighter and lawman. Gaining fame for his sharp-shooting, gambling, and his involvement in several shootouts. Hickoks wild style for life has made him into a cantral figure in frontier folklore and Wild West mythology.
