Origins and early life
Patrick Floyd Garrett was born June 5, 1850, in Chambers County, Alabama, and raised on a financially struggling plantation in Louisiana after the Civil War devastated his family’s wealth. In 1869, the 18‑year‑old Garrett ventured west, eventually working as a cowboy and buffalo hunter in Texas, earning a reputation for toughness and resourcefulness on the frontier.
After marrying Juanita Martinez in 1879—who tragically died two weeks later—he wed Apolinaria Gutierrez in 1880 and began a large family. His leadership qualities earned him the position of deputy sheriff, and he was elected sheriff of Lincoln County in November 1880, a role that would soon define his legacy.
Pursuit of the outlaw
Once sheriff, Garrett was determined to capture William H. Bonney, better known as Billy the Kid, a notorious outlaw involved in the Lincoln County War. In December 1880, he ambushed the Kid’s gang at Stinking Springs, capturing several members and killing accomplice Charlie Bowdre during one skirmish.
Following Bonney’s jailbreak from Lincoln jail in April 1881, Garrett tracked the Kid for months. A tip led him to the Maxwell ranch near Fort Sumner, where, in the early hours of July 14, 1881, Garrett shot the unarmed Billy the Kid in the dark after the Kid unexpectedly entered the room.
The fatal encounter
The infamous confrontation made Garland history: Garrett later described entering the darkened room alongside Pete Maxwell and asking about the Kid’s whereabouts. When Billy stumbled in and demanded “Quién es?”, Garrett recognized him and fired two shots—the first striking the Kid in the chest. The event was quickly ruled justifiable homicide by local authorities.
Though widely celebrated, the killing sparked controversy. Some local newspapers praised Garrett as a hero, while others criticized the nighttime ambush and questioned whether the Kid had a chance to defend himself.
Authentic life of Billy the Kid
In early 1882 Garrett published The Authentic Life of Billy the Kid, ghostwritten by Marshall Upson, to justify his version of events and counter rumors that the killing had been staged. Initially it sold poorly, but later became a foundational source for historians studying Billy the Kid.
While Garrett intended it as an honest account, scholars now caution that the book contains embellishments and biases reflective of the era’s sensational storytelling.
Later career and controversies
After his brush with fame, Garrett held several public and private roles. He served as sheriff of Doña Ana County (1896–1902), was appointed customs collector in El Paso (1902–06), and attempted ranching and irrigation ventures—none of which were notably successful.
He also overcame stiff political resistance, losing many reelection bids and struggling to move past his connection to the Kid’s death. His personal and professional life remained turbulent until his death.
Mysterious death
On February 29, 1908, Garrett was shot near Las Cruces, New Mexico, by Wayne Brazel, a man leasing part of his ranch. Brazel claimed self‑defense, and a witness supported him, but speculation persists that Garrett was ambushed, possibly due to his numerous enemies.
Despite an acquittal, doubt remains: the fatal bullet struck Garrett in the back of the head, and many believe Brazel’s account may have concealed a plot.
Legacy
Garrett’s legacy is complex—many remember him as the unwavering lawman who ended Billy the Kid’s reign, while others view him as a man burdened by regret and controversy.
His book, though flawed, remains a seminal source for scholars, and his life story continues to captivate historians and enthusiasts of the American West.
Summary
Pat Garrett’s journey from plantation child to iconic lawman encapsulates the turbulence of the Old West. His decisive confrontation with Billy the Kid ended an outlaw legend—and etched his own name into history. Though later life brought failures and his death became a mystery, Garrett’s story endures as both fact and myth, illustrating the enduring fascination with America’s frontier.
