Just as millions of people saw Buffalo Bill in his Wild West shows during his life, millions have continued to visit his grave since 1917. One of the top visitor attractions in Denver and Colorado, the museum captures hearts while showcasing an influential part of American culture. Illustrating the life, times and legends of the American west show star, the exhibits feature Buffalo Bill’s life and Wild West Shows, Indian artifacts, and even firearms. It’s no wonder hundreds of thousands still visit this attraction each year.
A Man to Admire
Buffalo Bill, or William Frederick Cody, was an American scout, bison hunter, and showman. He began working at eleven years old after his father’s death, became a rider for the pony express at the age of 14, and a few years later served for the Union during the American Civil War. William later served as a civilian scout to the US Army during the Indian Wars and received the Medal of Honor in 1872. The nickname, “Buffalo Bill,” then began when he had a contract to supply Kansas Pacific Railroad workers with bison (commonly known as buffalo) meat. William Cody is said to have killed 4.282 American bison in just 18 months. The adventures and stories of Buffalo Bill became the basis of which an American writer published a highly successful novel on. Not long after, he helped permanently preserve the legend of the Wild West by embellishing it into an appealing show for Eastern audiences.
The Buffalo Bill Story
The Buffalo Bill Story exhibit is based on the latest research about Buffalo Bill. It included rare and never before seen artifacts like the Stetson hat worn by Buffalo Bill at the last performance before his death, a peace pipe that belonged to Sitting Bull and the head of the last buffalo shot by Buffalo Bill. Visitors will also hear early recordings of Buffalo Bill’s voice introducing the Wild West show and the “Buffalo Bill Farewell March,” which played during the 1912 performance season.
Buffalo Bill’s Death
An exhibit focused on Buffalo Bill’s Death displays many of the little known details leading up to Buffalo Bill’s burial on Lookout Mountain in 1917 with over 20,000 in attendance. Located in Lookout Mountain Park, the grave site of William F “Buffalo Bill” Cody overlooks the natural beauty of the Great Plains and the Rockies, which attract over 400,000 visitors each year.
Buffalo Bill: The Showman
The all impressive life of Buffalo Bill was synonymous with the Western adventures, but his legendary status was gained during his years as a showman and founder of the Wild West Exhibitions. The exhibit showcases a chronology of Buffalo Bill’s life as a showman.
The Americans Exhibit
Buffalo Bill’s relationship with American Indians advanced during his lifetime. He was originally a scout during the Indian wars but later became an advocate for American Indians. He even became known for treating them with equality and respect during his years with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West.
Firearms Exhibit
This firearms exhibit features an important part of the American West. One of the two exhibits is focused on guns that belonged to or relate back to Buffalo Bill and the Wild West, while the second features weaponry favored by Native Americans of that time.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- Photography is encouraged!
- A gift shop is located on-site.
- The Pahaska Tepee Café, located in the gift shop, offers full grill service including buffalo entrees, burgers, ice cream and homemade fudge.