Title: Letter from William F. Cody to Charles G. Penney
Date: January 5, 1894
Author: Cody, William Frederick, 1846-1917
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North Platte Neb Jan. 5th 94
Agt. Pine Ridge
S. Dak
Dear Capt.
Mr. Salsbury has just sent me the Form of Agreement for the Indians drawn by yourself.
[1] we both approve of it. And Just what we have wanted the Indians to for years. But as their contract was up or made out this way before they wished their money as soon as the show closed. but this will be much better for them each and all will have a little money when they arrive at the Agency.
[2]
this way
Accept our sincere thanks for your kindly interest
Wishing you a happily New Year.
Very truly yours
W. F. Cody
Note 1: The Wild West's employment contracts with Indian performers had to be approved by the agent in charge of the reservation where the Indians resided. In this case, it appears that Agent Penney took an active role in drafting the contracts himself. [back]
Note 2: Cody refers to the practice of withholding a portion of an Indian performer's salary until the individual returned to the reservation at the end of the show season. This was a common element in Wild West Indian contracts for the remainder of Cody's show career. [back]
Title: Letter from William F. Cody to Charles G. Penney
Source: NARA, Central Plains, Fairs & Expositions, Folder 047, Box 162
Date: January 5, 1894
Author: Cody, William Frederick, 1846-1917
Topic: Lakota Performers
Keyword: Frontier and pioneer life
People: Penney, Charles G., 1844- Salsbury, Nathan, 1846-1902
Place: Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (S.D.)
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