The Wild West Wonder From Western Ohio: How Annie Oakley Shot Down Barriers
In the 1860s, the Wild West enchanted Americans with fantasies of bucking broncos, untamed wildlife, and fearless gun-wielding cowboys. Against all odds, Phoebe Ann Moses, a poor farm girl living in Western Ohio, would represent this fantasy to the world.
Possessing keen eyesight, a strong work ethic, innate skill, and a powerful sense of morality, femininity, and humility, Annie Oakley became a Wild West sensation. By promoting strong morals, equal pay for equal work, female empowerment, and improving educational opportunities, the Little Sure Shot changed the way the show business industry views women and broke barriers for those who followed in her footsteps.
"[Annie Oakley broke barriers] by being totally herself, I'd say. She was a born risk-taker. And she knew how, and when, to follow her instincts."
~ Mary Zeiss Stange, Professor of Women's Studies at Skidmore College, personal interview, 2020
Annie Oakley poses for a portrait in New York, 1892. Note her graceful aging with the image on the right. (Digital Public Library)
A newspaper describes Annie Oakley as "The First America's Sweetheart", 1927. (The Oak Creek Times)
Annie Oakley's necklace was a gift from Prince Luitpold after she saved him from a bucking horse, 1922. (Digital Public Library)
