Fire damages building that housed Wigwam Saloon, John Wesley Hardin was part owner

In this note to the people of El Paso Hardin announces that he bought an interest in the Wigwam Saloon.

05/04/1895

John Wesley Hardin's Say

To the people of El Paso and to everyone to whom it may concern: I have noticed several articles in the TIMES and Tribune reflecting my character as a man. I wish to announce right now that in the past my only ambition has been to be a man and you bet I draw my own idea, and while I have not always come up to my standard, yet I have no kick to make against myself for default. My present and my future ambition is no higher than it has been in the past and I wish to say right now that whether in a gambling house or a saloon, and El Paso seems to be crowded with these places, my only aim is to acquit myself manly and bravely. And as to the Acme jack pot, I would not stand a hold out and got the pot without even threatening violence of drawing a gun. As to the Gem hold-up on craps, after I had lost a considerable sum I was grossly insulted by the dealer in a hurrah manner, hence I told him he could not win my money and hurrah me too, and that as he had undertook to hurrah me he could deliver me the money I had played and you bet he did it. And when he had counted out the $95 I said that is all I want, just my money and no more. He said all right Mr. Hardin, and when I left the room and had gotten half way down the stairs I returned, hearing words of condemnation of my play. I said to everyone in the house and connected with the play, I understand from the reflective remarks that some of you disapprove my play. Now if this be so be men and get in line and show your manhood, to which no one made any reply, but others nodded that I was right and that they approved my play. Now someone has asked for my pedigree.Well, he is to gross too notice, but I wish to say right here, once and for all, that I admire pluck, push and virtue wherever found. Yet I contempt and despise a coward and assassin of character, whether he be a reporter, a journalist or a gambler. And while I came to El Paso to prosecute Bud Frazier and did do it on as high a plane as possible, I am here now to stay. I have bought an interest in the Wigwam saloon and you, who, whether in El Paso or elsewhere, that admire pluck, that desire fairplay, are cordially invited to call at the Wigwam where you will have everything done to make it pleasant for you. All are especially invited to our blowout on the evening of the 4th.

Now I have no apology to make to anyone for my acts over a jackpot or a crap game, but solicit everybody’s custom and guarantee fair play.

JOHN W. HARDIN

The Wigwam later became the State Theater.

Comments

[K.L. Wilden]

The original building went up in 1883 as the Fashion Saloon. It was the first saloon in El Paso with electric lights. By 1889 it was the Wigwam. Before he was Constable of PCt 1, John Selman was a bouncer there. It was in the alley beside the Wigwam that Selman was fatally shot Easter Sunday, 1896 by Deputy US Marshal George Scarborough.

[Trish Long]

As always, thanks for the additional information.