Welcome edit
My name is David Kennedy and I often go as montanakennedy online. I am a historian, museum professional, gun nerd, musician, and a ton of other things.
I don't edit articles as often as I would like - for a variety of reasons. Time, energy, and ADHD can be cruel mistresses.
Background and Education edit
I have lived in many locations around the country and have a ridiculously wide range of interests. I hold both a Bachelors and Masters degree in History. My studies placed emphasis on history of the American West, military history, and the use of firearms in history. Separately, I have also studied issues around the modern militia movement, anti-government activism, and white supremacy.
Professional Information edit
I am currently the Curator of Collections and Exhibits for the United States Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
In this capacity, I am responsible for the objects and exhibits telling the story of America's oldest federal law enforcement agency. I have also become a subject matter expert on the history of the Marshals, their history, operations, and personnel.
I am also a recognized authority on the subject of Museums and Firearms - especially as pertains to care, storage, and legal issues.
Bass Reeves edit
As part of this work and research, I have regularly researched the genealogy of individuals hoping to find information about their ancestors who may have been U.S. Marshals or deputy U.S. marshals. For the last five years, much of this work has involved the family of deputy U.S. marshal Bass Reeves. Much of the publicly-shared information regarding Bass is incorrect and based on family stories, folklore, and hearsay from old-timers chasing clout when he started to be known/popular.
I am currently working on a project to produce information along these lines for a public audience. When this is available, I plan to start sharing it more publicly - on Wikipedia and elsewhere.
Frank Eaton edit
Frank Eaton, AKA "Pistol Pete", is a special person. While he was a legit cowhand and farmer in Oklahoma Territory, most of his origin story is based on tall tales. The tales of his father's murder, his revenge ride, and his service as a deputy U.S. marshal appear to have been made up from whole cloth. I have been unable to find any information supporting any of these stories.
I have still not been able to determine if he was trying to make a name for himself, if he just wanted to entertain others, or if he was suffering from a mental disorder which instigated attention seeking or similar.
My Edits edit
Any edits I make on WIkipedia are made in good faith and are intended to provide the best current factual information about these subjects.
If you have an issue with any edits I make, please tag me on the talk page for the subject in question.
Cheers!