Eugene Cunningham

Eugene Cunningham (1896-1957) was an American author and journalist known for his writings about the American Old West, particularly his biographical works on gunfighters, lawmen, and outlaws. His most influential work was "Triggernometry: A Gallery of Gunfighters" (1934), which provided detailed accounts of famous Western figures like Billy the Kid, Wild Bill Hickok, and John Wesley Hardin. The book became a significant reference source for Western historians and enthusiasts. Cunningham served in World War I before beginning his writing career, going on to publish numerous books including "Famous in the West" (1926) and "Texas Triggers" (1937). His work in both fiction and non-fiction helped shape popular understanding of the American frontier period. Drawing from interviews with surviving witnesses and extensive research, Cunningham brought a journalistic approach to documenting Western history. His writing style combined factual reporting with dramatic storytelling elements that influenced later Western writers.

Readers highlight Cunningham's research depth and journalistic approach to Western history, with detailed first-hand accounts bringing authenticity to his work. On Goodreads, "Triggernometry" averages 4.1/5 stars from 85 ratings. What readers liked: - Primary source interviews and documentation - Balance of historical accuracy with engaging narrative - Technical details about weapons and gunfighting methods - Personal anecdotes that humanize historical figures What readers disliked: - Dense writing style that some find difficult to follow - Occasional digressions from main narrative - Limited availability of his books today - Some outdated language and attitudes from the era On Amazon, "Triggernometry" has 4.4/5 stars from 41 reviews. One reader notes: "His research and interviews with actual participants set the standard for Western historical writing." Another comments: "The level of detail about weapons handling and gunfighting techniques is unmatched in other books from this period." Most criticism focuses on readability rather than content accuracy. Several reviewers mention struggling with the "formal 1930s writing style."

Triggernometry: A Gallery of Gunfighters (1934) A collection of biographical accounts focusing on famous gunmen of the Old West, including Doc Holliday, Billy the Kid, and John Wesley Hardin.

Famous in the West (1950) Chronicles the lives of western lawmen and outlaws, with detailed accounts of their notable confrontations and careers.

Diamond Days (1931) A novel set in the American frontier depicting the adventures of a young man seeking his fortune during the diamond mining rush.

Bucking the Sagebrush (1935) A compilation of true stories about cowboys, ranchers, and settlers in the American Southwest during the late 1800s.

The Whistling Waddy (1941) A western novel following the story of a wandering cowboy who becomes involved in local range conflicts.

Texas Triggers (1937) A collection of stories about Texas Rangers and their encounters with outlaws during the state's formative years.

Quick Triggers (1940) Biographical sketches of western gunfighters with detailed accounts of notable shootouts and feuds.

Pistols for Hire (1943) A series of stories about professional gunmen who worked as hired guns in the American West.

Will Henry wrote westerns focused on Texas Rangers and frontier lawmen in the late 1800s. His works feature detailed historical research and emphasize gunfights between lawmen and outlaws.

Walt Coburn drew from his experiences as a Montana cowboy to write stories about range wars and cattle drives. His writing centers on working cowboys and their conflicts with rustlers and land grabbers.

Eugene Manlove Rhodes created stories about New Mexico Territory cowboys and lawmen based on his direct knowledge of the region. His work incorporates authentic dialogue and customs of southwestern ranch life.

William MacLeod Raine wrote about Colorado and Wyoming frontier conflicts between cattlemen, rustlers, and homesteaders. His stories feature historical accuracy about western law enforcement and outlaw pursuits.

Ernest Haycox focused on the Oregon Territory and Northwest frontier with stories about cavalry troops, stage lines, and range wars. His writing includes precise details about frontier military operations and civilian pioneers.