Legends of the Old West: MOUNTAIN MEN Ep. 5 | “Jeremiah Johnson: Myth and Legend”
Host: Chris Wimmer
Producer: Black Barrel Media
Release Date: October 9, 2024
Introduction to Jeremiah Johnson
In the fifth episode of Legends of the Old West, host Chris Wimmer delves into the enigmatic figure of Jeremiah Johnson, a legend whose existence blurs the lines between myth and reality. Drawing inspiration from the movie Jeremiah Johnson and the novel Mountain Man by Vardas Fisher, Wimmer explores the origins of Johnson's legend and the historical inaccuracies that have shaped his story.
Notable Quote:
"Presented as a non-fiction biography of John Johnson, Crow Killer is closer to what we would now call historical fiction."
— Chris Wimmer [00:30]
Origins and Early Life
The narrative begins with the skepticism surrounding the true existence of Jeremiah Johnson. Wimmer examines the primary sources, including the accounts from White Eye Anderson and Doc Carver, and highlights the dubious nature of their testimonies. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the legend of Johnson as the "Crow Killer" persists, fueled by campfire stories and Wild West folklore.
Key Points:
- Raymond Thorp and Robert Bunker's Crow Killer: Initially based on unreliable sources.
- Myth Creation: Emphasis on the transformation of oral traditions into a legendary saga.
- Character Introduction: John Johnson, later known as Jeremiah Johnson, emerges as a formidable mountain man.
The Tragedy and Vengeance
John Johnson's journey into legend begins with personal tragedy. In the summer of 1846, Johnson marries the Swan, the daughter of Chief Bear's Head of the Flathead Tribe. Tragedy strikes when Johnson returns from a profitable trapping trip to find his wife and unborn child brutally murdered by Crow warriors. This event marks the inception of his vendetta against the Crow Nation.
Notable Quote:
"Johnson swore a blood oath he would kill as many Crow as he could, wherever he could find them."
— Chris Wimmer [12:33]
Key Points:
- Marriage to the Swan: Establishes personal stakes in the conflict.
- Murder of the Swan and Child: Catalyzes Johnson's transformation into a relentless avenger.
- The Crow's Reaction: Rebranding Johnson as the "Crow Killer" and later the "Liver Eater."
Escalation of the Vendetta
Fueled by revenge, Johnson embarks on a brutal campaign against the Crow. Over several years, he meticulously hunts and kills Crow warriors, earning his fearsome reputation. His methods—scalping and liver eating—serve as psychological warfare, instilling terror among the Crow and other Native tribes.
Notable Quote:
"His actions quickly became legendary as his stories spread across the West."
— Chris Wimmer [12:33]
Key Points:
- First Kill: The decisive moment at Beaverhead River where Johnson kills the warrior responsible for his wife's death.
- Liver Eating Ritual: Symbolizes the stealing of the soul in Crow tradition, deepening the fear he instilled.
- Formation of Alliances: Johnson gains support from other mountain men, solidifying his role as both legend and leader.
- Notable Battles: The fierce confrontation at Fort Hawley and the subsequent retaliatory missions against the Crow.
Later Years and Legacy
As decades pass, Johnson's legend only grows. Despite his age, he continues his relentless pursuit of vengeance, participating in key events such as Red Cloud's War and the Civil War. His eventual reconciliation with the Crow, signified by peace offerings and mutual respect, marks the end of his vendetta. Johnson's later years are characterized by his role as a lawman and his enduring legacy as Jeremiah Johnson.
Notable Quote:
"John Johnson, also known as Crow Killer and Liver Eating Johnson, was buried beneath a simple military headstone... That was the legend of John Johnson, who is now known by most people as Jeremiah Johnson."
— Chris Wimmer [24:02]
Key Points:
- Civil War Involvement: Johnson's brief stint as a Union sharpshooter adds complexity to his character.
- Defensive Actions at Fort Hawley: Demonstrates his ongoing commitment to protecting settlers and avenging friends.
- Final Feud and Peace: Johnson's ultimate reconciliation with the Crow brings closure to his long-standing vendetta.
- Death and Burial: Ends with Johnson's death in 1900, leaving behind a multifaceted legacy.
Conclusion: Myth vs. Reality
Chris Wimmer concludes the episode by emphasizing the thin line between myth and reality in Jeremiah Johnson's story. While historical documentation is sparse and often contradictory, the legend of Johnson serves as a testament to the enduring allure of the American frontier and the men who roamed it. The episode sets the stage for the next installment, which promises to explore the true story behind the mythical figure of Jeremiah Johnson.
Notable Quote:
"Next time on Legends of the Old West, it's the true story, as much as is known, of the man who was most likely born John Johnston."
— Chris Wimmer [24:02]
Final Thoughts
Legends of the Old West masterfully navigates the complexities of historical legend through the lens of Jeremiah Johnson. By dissecting primary sources, highlighting inconsistencies, and weaving a compelling narrative, Chris Wimmer offers listeners a nuanced understanding of how folklore and history intertwine to create enduring legends.
Additional Resources:
- Research and Writing: Matthew Kearns
- Original Music: Rob Valliere
- Membership Information: Black Barrel Media's Black Barrel Plus program offers subscribers exclusive content and the ability to binge entire seasons without commercials. Memberships are available for $5 per month via the show notes or the Black Barrel Media website.
Stay Tuned: Join us next week for the season finale, where we will uncover the authentic story of the man behind the Jeremiah Johnson legend, shedding light on the real-life adventures and legacy of John Johnston.