Please let me know how the book is going!!! When I was researching I came across this book: John Wesley Hardin, Texas Gunman by Nordyke, Lewis. Although it is a little embellished as a novel, I enjoyed actually getting into the perspective of living as him and the true life details we will never historically find. It started my interest in historical fiction, although I can't call it that. So much is missing because he was running. I also hate that I am from Texas and he truly began and ended as one of the last "Texas Outlaws" but most of his story takes place in other states hidden away. Many shouldn't claim his lineage completely leaves Texas because Texan family, I feel, has more ties, interest, and relationship to the Texan's life.
I have carried his genes, or at least his spirit, since I was born. My father's family has stayed in Texas for generations. My grandfather is John Wesley Hardin, Sr. and my father is Jr. My great grandmother was Cherokee which is why I know his family tree can't go that far from Texas. By the way, is there any way to prove historically that it is Hardin with an "i" not an "e". I hate seeing it both ways and have met many Harden's that have no clue about JWH. Even visiting our State History museum has it written both ways in one paragraph. Totally confusing! I am interested in continuing my research because not only would I be proud to have such an ancestor, but that his elder uncle Augustine actually signed the Texas Declaration of Independence! This could prove that I am a daughter of the republic of Texas. My grandmother says she has researched the lineage and it is true, but so many people claim relation. I truly think his life and lovers will remain a mystery unsolved. He spent the majority of his life covering up any proof he existed and hiding the Hardin name. I am intrigued that so much interest exists but I think following his trail, state to state, cattle trails to trains, no real proof can exist. Even he left out so much in his own story. If I never know the truth, I am still inspired by my family, and I frequently find myself acting like the JWH I studied. Truly, he never shot a man for snoring... and reasoned never shooting anyone that didn't deserve it, which is how I act towards others during conflict...it needs a reason. I know he was no mass murderer, just a man with reason, morals, and a short temper. I hate that quality about myself, especially as an teacher (just like he was at one proud time), but I feel that it makes us more parallel than any genes can prove. Plus I am one hell of a card player! Anyways, I would like to hear about your investments with JWH, and read your book! Any findings about family in Buda, TX? I will contact my grandmother for her research and if I find anything interesting I will get back to you. P.S. What is your relation to JWH?