Weddings and Target Practice




As I write this evening, I am completely baffled at the workings of the human mind. A number of things have happened since I last wrote. It seems Cupid has made his appearance in Deadwood as of late. I was informed of the recent engagement of Mr. Landar to a lady by the name of Lillian of whom I have not made acquaintance with. From what I am told, she is quite the beauty and Mr. Landar seems genuinely proud of her. I wished him every happiness even though I don't believe that marriage brings it to most people. I think of my own parents and how their marriage was at one point happy but then grew into this ..arrangement...almost like a business arrangement after many years. I also think of my sisters marriages.....they too are also arrangements....some sort of security in my sisters' minds and of course some type of honorable, natural course of life for their husbands, whom I am sure frequent the local houses of ill repute where they both live. It seems this town is starting to have social events...or something of that nature...Mr. Runningbear and Miss Bertrand have decided to sponsor a bake off with the two town drunks! How amusing! I had suggested to Mr. Runningbear to have the loser dance at the Bella in a dress. He seemed to love the idea! I, of course, would have a spread of food and refreshment laid out made with only ingredients from the general store of which they are proprietors. I almost certain it will help drum up some business for Mr. Starsmith and we do have one of the only pianos in town. This should definitely prove most amusing. I was also asked by Mr. Runningbear to be one of the judges. I am in much agreement with Miss Fran when she says that the two should thoroughly sterilize their hands before baking. Speaking of the those two, it seems that they have somehow misunderstood Miss Mah's Christian concern for human beings as a romantic interest in Ol' Twinkle Toes! It has disturbed Miss Mah so much, she convulses or faints whenever it is brought up. I can't say that I blame her. How brazen of those fools to think that a lady of Mah's stature, would even be remotely interested in a drunken sod! The other evening, I joined the red-headed girl working at the Cricket at shooting glass bottles on the street! What has come over me?? I have also heard on one occasion, her mention of being hungry so, I snuck into the Cricket this afternoon when no one was there and left a pie on the counter. I can't stand the thought of those girls not eating....or anyone not eating. I went through periods of no food during the war....that ache in my stomach is something I wish on no one! I am also most excited that we now have three dancing girls working at the Bella! One is a Miss Eloise. I have met her a couple of times...she used to help the Widow Kuhr at her laundry tent. The most recent is a girl by the name of Justine of which I haven't met yet. The other is a Miss Mabel....she is a sweet girl and very pretty too. She and I seem to enjoy each other's company and I think I may have found a good friend in her. She seems to be having romantic troubles with the juggling man on the unicycle that plays harmonica and blows fire out of his mouth by the name of William. Seems this fella has a wondering eye like most men no less. It hurts me to see women having to suffer under the so-called dominant sex. I have found little use for men....other than to pay me my wages and lift heavy objects. I have only met one man in my life that ever proved me wrong about the ways of menfolk.....but it was only temporary proof. When Cole returned to his wife, I do have to admit, as much as I don't want to, he never took liberties with me other than that one and only kiss. I also have to admit...that kissed stirred something in me more powerful than any other physical action he might have tried. Oh but I must get that man out of my head.....it is so hard, especially what with all the talk of marriage lately. I have found myself indulging in spirits more and more....I even stooped as to buy some corn liquor that the two town drunks distill in their filthy cabin. What has come over me? I have even took to swearing on occasion....this place....it's people......I have noticed I am not the same timid, well mannered, hopeful young woman I used to be. That girl left when Cole walked out of my door and in her place.....this person of which I don't know who she is. Sometimes, I catch a glimpse of her.....when I hear a song on the piano at the saloon...or in quiet moments of reverie. No, here I can not be that girl anymore....here I must survive and I must do it alone.

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 10:09 PM , 0 Comments

Injun's In The Hills!






















What a nerve shattering day! First, my door gets busted through by that fool Thom...trying to scare the life out of me! After we stepped outside to talk...we spotted a native running down the street and hiding behind a shack. Thom ordered me back in the house and to get my rifle. I did as he asked. He opened the door and drug another lady into my house shortly after. She introduced her name as Dee. I stood by the window watching out with my rifle ready to go. Then Thom decided we should try to run to Fran's place and warn other folks. So quickly we slung open my door and made a run for it ....Thom and I with weapons at the ready. I don't think the lady Dee was armed.






We made it to Fran's and told her and her barkeep, Mr. Amgar of the native we seen running through town. Mr. Amgar asked if anyone wanted anything and me having my nerves completely wrecked....I responded "Hell Yeah sir!" Yes, it was most unlady like but at this point...I really had no concern for manners. Just as I was about to take my drink...it dawned on me....those two girls whom I had the run in with had no type of protection or warning. As much as I despised their filthy attitudes towards me....my conscience got the better of me. It only took one moment to decide...I bolted for the door with my rifle ready. I quickly and cautiously ran down the street staying close to the sides of the buildings and shacks. Upon reaching "The Palace" where those two work, I burst through the door and shouted "Anyone in here??" I didn't see anyone in the front part of the establishment but heard stirring in the back and finally a female voice shouted back, "Who's there?" I responded, "It's Miss Abbot." Not that they would remember my name but surely my voice and once they saw me....my face. They poked their heads out of the makeshift curtain door and recognized me. I quickly and solemnly told them in between gasps for breath about the Indians in the hills and to protect themselves and stay inside.






One of the girls noted the other's flame red hair and that Indians loved those kind of scalps...I suggested she put her hair up in a cap or scarf to hide it just in case. Another man came in, the one I met in the hills near the abandoned cabin...the one who works at The Progressive. Upon hearing about Indians...a light came in his eyes it seemed and he promptly headed out with a pep in his stride. It turned out the girls had rifles in the back so I felt a little at ease about them having some kind of protection. I bid my farewells and left running as fast as my shoes would carry me back down near Miss Fran's.






Everyone was standing outside upon my arrival. Thom was livid...."Where the fuck did you go?" he shouted at me. I told him where I had went. Thom, Mr. Amgar, Fran and Mr. Seth went down the street a ways. I stayed there close to the side of the saloon when I heard it........shots fired!






It was confusion ....more shots fired.......the little crowd started to scatter. I backed against the side of the saloon.....my rifle at the ready...just in case. I seen Thom run past me back towards the hills shouting about flanking or something of that sort.....military talk I suppose. He ran up towards the incline....I stayed a little ways behind him.....keeping my eye on him just in case he needed my help. I managed to stay out of sight as we made it up the hill. I stayed behind the trees hearing more shots fired. Finally......silence.....minus a few shouts from voices I recognized. I moved closer......the men had gathered over something. I yell out " Thom did ya get em?" No response. I moved closer and seen they indeed had shot the two savages.






The sight I saw was one forever etched in my memory. One of the Indians was lying on his back gasping bloody gasps of air while the other was a goner. Finally, after struggling for air for a minute or so....the Indian went silent and stared up into the sky with no movement. It then became apparent that we needed to do something with the bodies. Mr. Seth was against a proper Christian burial...which is understandable. There was mention of leaving them there but I protested it. The reasons were numerous...one obvious one was the possibility that a scouting party could find them and send the whole blasted tribe to kill us in our beds at night and there was also the wild animals to consider, not to mention the stench and rot that could wash down into our water supply. While the men were considering it ...I decided to notify the few folks in town that it was safe at least for now. Mr. Seth followed as did Thom and Mr. Seth informed the girls in "The Palace." I then informed myself and the others that I needed a good stiff drink!






I headed down to the Bella and shakily poured myself a glass full of whiskey. I drank it with urgency as my mouth was as if I had ate cotton and my nerves were as if I were struck by lightning. I must admit, I don't drink often but I find myself indulging in the spirits more and more here in Deadwood. It steadies my nerves.






Thom and Dee came in the Bella.....I offered them both drinks... Dee only drank coffee. After gathering my composure.....I realized that I had been told that Miss Fran was injured. I walked over to her office. She was being bandaged up by Mr. Amgar. Luckily it was just a flesh wound in her arm. I was relieved she was alright. I couldn't stay in her office long because the familiar smell of antiseptic and items of a hospital nature lingered and pierced through my nostrils bringing back all those horrors I witnessed when Bellevue was turned into a Yankee hospital. I had to step outside...but only to be confronted and interrogated by the colonel. I told him what I knew...which wasn't much I suppose. After the days events...I have retired to my humble abode to pen this journal entry. I do hope someone has spoken to the Alderton's that run the new Black Hills Pioneer newspaper about Deadwood's Indian skirmish today. Perhaps if no one else has...I might see if I can help give information for an interesting article. I know I will have a restless sleep tonight.....a sleep with the vivid images of those two Indians laying on the ground.






~A.C. Abbot~






Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Friday, April 23, 2010 at 8:00 PM , 0 Comments

Catfight....almost


It seems more and more ladies of ill repute are filtering into the camp. Just yesterday, I was standing outside talking to Miss Gelles, minding my own, when a red-headed....woman ....so to speak, started shouting threats and profanities at us. Apparently she and her pasty faced friend were under the impression that Miss Gelles and I were of the same profession as they. They claimed, in loud, rude voices, that we were on their "territory" and to move along. Miss Gelles, being the strong willed woman she is, looked as angry as if she had been slapped in the face. I, myself, decided not to lower myself to scrapping with those gals, especially not in the middle of the street.

I turned and informed them of it indeed being a free country and that Miss Gelles and I could stand wherever we wished. This remark seemed to ruffle the woman's feathers and she and her pasty faced friend came out to us in the street. The small one took out a little knife, making threats to "gut" us. I couldn't help but laugh at the irony of the situation. I had no quarrel with these two women. I actually felt sorry for them. Sorry that they had to resort to this type of lifestyle in order to survive....but such is the case here in this town.

Miss Gelles couldn't contain her anger....both she and the red-head exchanged anger laced words and I stepped in between them. That is all this town needs...is the ladies scrapping with each other....as if we don't have to deal with enough from the boisterous menfolk. I kindly reminded them of such and it seemed to calm things down for a time. The little woman would not put her knife away and then more exchanging of words. This time...it drew a small crowd...of ...men! No, No.....this would not be a good thing right now.....not in front of these idiotic men. I kept reminding the girls of this. Finally, Ol' Twinkle Toes, as I call him, fired his gun in the air causing us to startle. The crowd broke up and I overheard the red-head mention about buying a knife. Regardless of her feelings towards me.....I couldn't help but think of her really needing that weapon....especially in her profession.......when some drunken fool of a man refused to pay her or worse.....I then breezed passed the woman, whose hair is the color of fire, and spoke with fair warning that she may indeed need that knife for those very reasons and tossed a piece of gold at her to buy it.

Strange situation indeed, but I figure.....even if the woman despises me, for whatever reasons, she can't deny I didn't try to help her somehow. I have a feeling that won't be the last time I see the flame colored hair woman...Lord only knows what will happen when I do run into her again...as this is a small camp. As for the pasty faced girl....her temper will more than likely get her in spots of trouble. If there is one thing my brother Andrew taught me.....is that one cannot survive anything with a hot head....always keep cool and you will always keep the upper hand. It seems to have kept me alive this long.

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at 11:18 AM , 2 Comments

A Hard Act To Follow






















It has been some days since my last journal entry. My wounds have all healed and I am happy to say that things have been going along for me in Deadwood. My boss, Mr. Starsmith, relocated his establishment at the North end of town and has since named it the Bella Union. I am still in his employment and happily so. I am getting better at my cooking skills. I am still not up to par with Nancy, but improving nonetheless.






Miss Cora and I ran into a bit of trouble yesterday as we were walking through town. It seems we were the target of rude comments from the menfolk. We were surrounded by several of them and the insults kept coming. Finally, my temper got the better of me and I drew my rifle and yelled at them to leave us be. I was quite frightened but did my best not to show them that I was. The gentleman I ran into up in the woods one day while inspecting a vacant cabin by the name of Seth, came up the street to help cease the commotion. Finally the men withdrew and left us alone. That was an uneasy experience. These menfolk are downright vulgar and verbally abusive but such is my lot...being a woman in a miner's camp. They keep insisting I go to a tea party. In all truth, I'd like to smash a teapot over most of their heads.






This evening was rather...entertaining so to speak. I was seeing to my cooking duties at the Bella, when I was taking a break and getting a breath of fresh air outside when the two town lushes happened to walk into the saloon. I grudgingly went back in to see to their needs as is my job. For a change, they weren't insulting....they mentioned the piano music they heard earlier and the urge to dance and so, I asked Miss Gelles to please serve them their whiskey while I sat at the piano. I struck up a lively tune and the one who had been called "Sera" stood up with effort and began to dance a jig! Oh what a sight! He was struggling a bit as he seemed to be in poor shape but he continued to dance. I looked over my shoulder and couldn't help but burst into laughter. His partner, the one they call Biscuit, kept cheering him on in a profanity laced manner. Miss Gelles and I were beside ourselves with amusement. I also noticed out the window that folks in town had gathered to look in to see what the commotion was. I heard laughter from outside the window. It was quite entertaining. I had mentioned to the man perhaps we give him a dress and some knickers and he could be a dancing girl. I played several tunes when finally the man named Sera exhausted and gasping for air, fell flat on his back. I declare, I haven't laughed so much in a long time. I felt obliged to the silly man to give him a round of whiskey on the house for entertaining us all. It was, for once, a merry time in this dangerous and solemn town. I have had my run ins with these two but for a change they brought laughter and merriment to my soul. I guess, in the end we are all human beings...even deep down underneath filth, liquor , and stench. Truly a memorable evening here in Deadwood. Heaven only knows what tomorrow will bring.






~A.C. Abbot~

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Monday, April 19, 2010 at 9:46 PM , 0 Comments

Employment


A brief journal entry today as my arm and now my hand have been wounded. I will quickly mention that I was, once again, the victim of the bandit running loose in the hills. He stumbled out of the office to have your gold weighed and compensated for after screaming profanities to Mr. Earl. Upon turning to myself and others gathered outside, we at once recognized him. I offered him the chance to leave peacefully but as I started to aim with my sore shoulder...he opened fire and a bullet nicked my hand. Luckily, Miss Fran was able to patch me up. I might also mention two other gentlemen fell victim to this lunatic's violent ways. One, a stranger whom I didn't get his name, and another.....the gentlemen from the other day that left his poncho in the Cricket.


When will some proper folks come to town to administer law and order? That seems to be the question on most womenfolk's minds. I hope soon. On a happier note...I ran into Mr. Starsmith again today. He is on the mend from his injuries and rest assured me that the little German boy was safe too. He offered me a job as a cook at his establishment named "The Bottom's Up Saloon." Indeed it is a questionable name for an establishment and I will have to deal with drunken miners and ruffians but it is a job nonetheless...an honest living. I will have to bide my time until more families come westward and settle and they will be in need of a school. I also have Mr. Starsmith's glorious piano to play in the meantime. I also ran into my friend Mr. O'Connel again...he is mending from his wounds too and ever the rebel I know him to be. Gallivanting around town in civilian garb. I laughingly expressed to him that if the Colonel caught him, he would be facing the whip. He has a restless spirit that man....his new bride must have her hands full with him. He has become a dear friend just the same and seems to be looking out for my safety.

The town is starting to get busier than ever with more newcomers and with more new faces come also those who bid ill will towards the good, kind folks. I pray for my friends' safety and for that of my own. These are dangerous times here in the camp. I must end now , for my hand is in need of much rest. ~A.C. Abbot~

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Monday, April 12, 2010 at 5:51 PM , 0 Comments

Bullet Wounds and Beethoven







It is with great pain that I struggle to pen this journal entry today. The pain comes from the very reason for the entry. Oh what a day it turned out to be! It began when I ran into the little German boy again. He motioned for me to come look with him into the window of a newly opened saloon. As I drew closer, I heard something that almost brought a tear to my eye....music!



The little boy was just as delighted as I to hear the sweet, joyous sound of a piano being played. Upon looking in the window, I saw a man pouncing away on the keys releasing a lively tune. It had been so long since I heard music. I was overcome with the sweet tinkling of the keys, as was the little boy. I was almost drawn to it....as it has been ages since I touched the ivory keys of a piano. I boldly walked in and begged of the man to allow me to play just once. He introduced himself as a one, Mr. Albert Starsmith. He was very kind in allowing me to play. I tried to get the little boy to come in with me but he was too frightened or didn't understand. The kind gentleman offered a glass of milk to him but the boy just stood outside looking in smiling.



I sat down at the glorious instrument and laid my callused fingers lovingly on the keys. The man asked if I needed sheet music but I didn't. I knew everyone note by heart. Oh I felt a rush of delight come over me as I began to play a lively ditty. As I turned and looked out the window, the boy was stepping in time with the song! What a wonderful sight it was. I think the kind gentleman was enjoying the scene as well. Playing music again felt like home....home! Even for a few moments while the song lasted, I was once again back at my family's house playing for my friends.



Mr. Starsmith was generous enough to let me play a second tune and the boy danced happily to that as well. The kind Mr. Starsmith extended an offer to allow me to come play whenever I fancied as long as the place wasn't filled with ruffians. I happily accepted as I find the most joy playing music. It wasn't long before I came back to reality and realized I had made a promise to give a treat to the young boy should I ever see him again. I thanked Mr. Starsmith hurriedly and quickly stepped outside to catch the little boy to give him his present. I looked anxiously around for him but could not find him.



I propped myself most unlady like against the pole outside the saloon as I heard the gentleman inside pick up one of the classics....Beethoven...Moonlight Sonata. Oh how I had played that a hundred times over for my brother Andrew. I closed my eyes to happily get lost in the reverie when I was startled by Mr. O'Connel sneaking up on me.



It had been some days since my seeing him and in those days I had learned of his recent marriage. We talked of happy occasion and I wished him the best in his new matrimony and of course lots of children. The sounds of the Mr. Starsmith's playing kept drifting outside...pulling me away from Deadwood and back to my beloved Bellevue. Somewhere in the melodic sounds I heard a scream.....



It was the little boy.........I also heard a commotion not far from the creek. Tom and I took off in a hurry to the creek to see what was happening. Shots fired! One man who was panning in the creek lay on the ground while a girl was standing there. I ran behind the tree and screamed for the girl to run so she wouldn't get hurt. The brave Mr. O'Connel took off in the direction of where the shots were coming from. I quickly gathered myself....straightened my thoughts and looked around the tree for a brief moment. Down went Tom! There was no one here...but me ....I heard voices in the distance but Tom was out there on the ground alone...needing help. I quickly grabbed my rifle out of the back sling and came out from the tree. I looked up in the rocky boulder within the trees and seen the man moving about. I fired ....smoke everywhere .....I fire again...but he was still moving......I fired a 3rd shot and then......the most horrible pain stabbed into my right shoulder and blood started pouring everywhere onto my dress.....down I went.



I heard Mr. Starsmith coming behind me ....yelling and shooting as well......so much confusion....I was blinded by the tears and smoke. The pain was intense in my arm. Then ...quiet.....I remember opening my eyes and seeing Tom through blurred vision once.......then the next I was being jolted around a bit and opening my eyes again I saw Mr. Starsmith ....he was carrying me. He carried me a long time until he came to the doctor's cabin. I was in excruciating pain and was very weak from the loss of blood. My mind started to come alive with worry about the little boy. Had that lunatic of a man gunned him down too? I didn't know. Was Tom alright...I didn't know. All of these things I longed to know. Mr. Starsmith gave me some whiskey to drink that I about choked on but drank anyway. Anything to lessen the pain. He insisted I rest and not put on such a fuss and move about. I finally fell into a deep slumber. When I awoken...Mr. Starsmith had stitched, cleaned and dressed my wound in my shoulder but he was nowhere to be found. I will forever be in debt to him....for showing me kindness and saving my life.



Later on when I had some strength...I snuck into his saloon while no one was there and even though it hurt a great deal....I played Beethoven. While the music poured out of the piano...it's sad and slow rhythm, I couldn't help but see Cole's face in my thoughts. I must end now as my arm is throbbing and sore and I must lay down to rest. Today was most certainly a day to remember. ~A.C. Abbot~

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 3:38 PM , 0 Comments

Folks











I, Ashton Claire Abbot, have decided to keep a record of my many happenings in the new bustling miner's camp known as Deadwood. My exhausting journey here finally ended when I arrived at the beginning of the week. I purchased horse and rifle and managed to rent a little makeshift house down on the main thoroughfare. The mud is horrendous and the space is limited, but I will make do for the time being.




Already, the little camp is starting to buzz with excitement. I have so far met quite an array of folks from all walks of life and continue to meet more each day. One of my first encounters was with a Yankee soldier, whom I was quite rude to upon first meeting. I sometimes forget the war is over, but those images of the Yankee soldiers maimed and dying in my beloved Bellevue return to me often upon seeing that blue uniform.




My second meeting was with yet another soldier, but this one happened to be a southerner such as myself. His name was Private Thomas O'Connel. He was very kind and it felt a bit like home again to hear the drawl in his voice. The gentleman O'Connel was quite helpful to me on several occasions. On one particular occasion, he had struck my curiosity while panning in the creek behind my new dwelling. I asked him to show me how to pan as well...and as such slipped and fell into the cold water. Fortunately, Private O'Connel was quite the clever one and built a fire and laid his bedroll out for me to warm up as my lips were turning the color of a navy frock I once owned. I seem to have found somewhat of a helpful friend in Private O'Connel, despite his wild and rebellious ways. I suppose he being from my glorious Dixie, will always have that rebel spirit within him.




I began to meet some of the ladies in town much to my happiness. A lady of the name of Mah Bertrand, who helps operate the local general store was exceptionally friendly to me and I am ever so grateful. I also met a lady of the name of Alderton....Grace as I call her. She has some failure of sight but it is a keen visionary for starting a local newspaper with her kind husband Wyatt. They have the most high spirited and beautiful daughters...Marrant and Mary. There is also their colored girl, America, who has a shining spirit of her own. I adore all three of the young girls as they truly brought a smile to my face. A smile I haven't had in quite some time.




I made acquaintance with the Colonel's wife, Mrs. Rau...or Cora as we all call her. She is a fine lady and spunky. She has the most beautiful dresses and the personality to match them. Her cousin, Fran, the local vet is most friendly as well. Among these wonderful ladies, I have befriended Nancy, a local cook at the Cricket Saloon. She is by far one of the sweetest souls I have seen in awhile. Like her wonderfully made dishes, her friendship is truly satisfying and comforting. She is smitten with a one, Mr. Howie and he quite smitten with her in return. Ol' Hot Lips is what I call him. He seems like a sweet man to her but they need to stop beating around the bush and just confess their feelings to one another.




Among the many colorful faces, one belongs to the china man...Mr. Bu. The Alderton girls and I spotted him one day as he scurried through the town looking for a tent or "butcha shop" as he called it. Though very different he seemed harmless and quite witty. The girls and I had hearty laughs with the exotic china man. I see so much promise and hope in those young girls...despite them picking on one another. Oh, and how could I forget Daisy. Daisy is Mrs. Grace's dog that helps her move around due to her bad sight. She is a tender ol' soul but don't cross her...for I am sure she would take a plug out of you.




The owner of the Cricket, Mr. Wylder, is also a kind soul, even if he portrays to be tough as shoe leather. I believe he has a soft heart or else he wouldn't have gave Nancy an opportunity to earn a living or taken his young nephew in. I can not rightfully decide what to make of Mr. Wylder's guard at his saloon, Hector. He seems very mysterious to me....almost too quiet. I am very leery of men as it is, but I have seen hints of him being an honorable gentleman or at least I hope so, as this town needs honorable gentleman. The other guardsman is Jack Landar, who works for Mah and her partner Mr. Runningbear. I met him but once, but he seemed polite enough. Although, I must confess, I am not sure Mah needs a guard at her store given the recent events upon which she bloodied a drunken sot's nose. Oh that evening was memorable. It drew quite the crowd. All of the ladies were quite proud of Mah and her boldness at letting the man have it. Afterwards, we all retired to Fran's place and toasted to the newly formed "Petticoat Army of Deadwood." Us womenfolk made a pact to stick together and help one another and to try to have good times whenever we can.




There seems to be a few scalawags running about drinking up all the liquor they can get their hands on and insulting the decent ladies of this town. I too was insulted a few times...men and their wasteful, indulgent ways....assuming I am a lady of ill repute...just for the simple fact that I am a lady. I witnessed the gentleman, Hector, toss a couple of the scoundrels out on their behinds one evening. He took his sweet time about it but he finally did it. He argued with me on the subject...I couldn't help be but taken aback by the intimidation of the man. I guess I am still but a lady.




I did happen upon a little German boy who doesn't speak English. I couldn't help but feel a motherly affection towards him. He looked so lonely that day by the creek with his raft. It just so happened I gave him a lollipop to help him realize not to be frightened of me. I wanted him to know he had a friend in me. On that same occasion, I once again fell into the creek. That Yankee soldier I first encountered came down by the creek again. This time I was polite and introduced myself. He stated his name was Joe. We both noticed the young boy having trouble with his raft. Seeing that he needed aid...I sloshed through the cold water to help the boy along with the gentleman named Joe. After helping to get the raft upon the shore, my cursed lace boots and heavily soaked petticoats caused me to slip and fall completely in the water. The young boy laughed, I too laughed and the man named Joe laughed as well. Joe tried to help me to my feet but in the process, I pulled him down into the muddy water as well. It was a sight! We all three laughed until our faces hurt. My pride being bruised slightly. The young man named Joe, extended an offer to dinner towards myself and the young boy. I had to decline as ..well....it is too soon for that yet. I'm afraid Cole's face is still to freshly burned into my memory. I promised the young boy a treat if I ever saw him again. I do hope he has a warm place to sleep and food to eat. I have made up my mind, if I do see him again, I will feed him a proper meal...and give him another treat.




I have spent my free time reading, writing and hunting! I so enjoy hunting...it reminds me of my long, lost days with Andrew and it gives me the opportunity to help some of the locals with food. I gave some venison to Nancy and Mr. Bu. Speaking of Mr. Bu, I ran into him again at the Cricket. He told me an interesting tale of deer. I laughed until tears ran...it was quite amusing. It wasn't long afterwards that Mr. Bu had a box of "boomsticks" as he calls them, and was going down the muddy road when all of a sudden they exploded and down went Mr. Bu! Fran and I ran to his aid but he seemed to be alright. Poor old soul....I worry for that china man. It turns out he opened a tin shop for the time being. I wish that man all the luck in the world.




I visited with Mrs. Grace and Marrant yesterday evening. It seems the butcher next door to them has had a stray dog problem. It also seems that Marrant is quite taken with "Buttercup," as she has dubbed the stray boy dog. The fleabag kept almost knocking me over...I much prefer Daisy myself...she has more smarts about her.




Tomorrow is a new day in Deadwood...Heaven only knows what awaits this interesting town and this lone woman. ~A.C. Abbot~

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Saturday, April 10, 2010 at 10:59 PM , 0 Comments

Ashton's Story




Down in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains of Virginia known as the Piedmont, lived a gentleman by the name of Silas Abbot. He had made his fortune growing tobacco and owning many slaves as well as producing household goods and raising livestock on his beloved plantation, Bellevue. He married the very proper and very attractive Elizabeth Claire.....daughter of neighboring planter, Andrew Claire. The young couple soon birthed their first child, a daughter, Aileen and almost 18 months later, another daughter came....Annabelle. They still held out hope for a son and finally their prayers were answered when Andrew was born two years after Annabelle. Following the birth of Andrew, a year later came another son, Aldin....and finally in May of 1851......Ashton Claire completed the Abbot brood.



Aileen and Annabelle were very selfish girls and always fussed over who would marry first and to which beau....they were older and paid little attention to the young Ashton. Aldin was much the same.......except he bullied Ashton and made her cry frequently because she was the youngest. Andrew, however, was completely wrapped around his baby sister's finger and was quite protective and loving towards her. Andrew was indeed a fine young gentleman and was considered the most eligible bachelor in the county. All of the young ladies dreamed of becoming Mrs. Andrew Abbot. He was a terrible flirt but never quite could decide on whom he would choose to marry much to his mother and father's dismay. Growing up, Ashton would undergo lessons in reading, writing, Latin, music, and all of the proper things a young lady was to learn being a planter's daughter. She loved reading and writing and playing her mother's grand harp. Her sisters and brother Aldin, would tease her for always keeping her nose in a good book. Much to her mother's disapproval, she taught some of the slave girls to read. Andrew would take his little sister under his wing...teaching her to ride well, fish, and even hunt venison. She especially loved her dear brother Andrew and was quite content those years she was growing up.

Aileen and Annabelle both were married off and Aldin was so wrapped up in his drinking and women chasing that for awhile it was just her and Andrew roaming around the family's land.



Then came the war of Northern Aggression. It took with it her beloved brother Andrew. He marched off with many of the county men that Ashton had spent long, lazy days with to join the fight for the glorious cause. Her brother Aldin didn't enlist, as he claimed he was physically unable. She would never forget the day the news came that Andrew had been killed at 2nd Manassas. She was irrevocably heartbroken.



The Yankees came and took over Bellevue to be used as a hospital for their wounded and dying. Ashton grew very bitter towards them and saw many grotesque and harrowing things while the Yankees occupied their home. Her father fell into a deep depression as he lost nearly everything and her mother caught a fever from one of the sick soldiers and died. After the war was over, the Abbot's were left with next to nothing except for their home which the Yankees had raised the taxes through the roof. Silas couldn't afford to pay the taxes and ended up suffering a stroke because of it.



Ashton was left with only her brother Aldin to look after her at the tender age of 16. He was a drunkard and a compulsive gambler but he was the only man she had in her life. Aldin and Ashton switched off staying with Aileen and her family and Annabelle and hers....but their families were large as it was and they had very little room or food to help feed Aldin and Ashton.



The year of 1875 would change everything forever in Ashton's outlook on life. After much debate and convincing and empty promises...Ashton agreed to go with Aldin west to start a new life. They travelled as far as Fort Laramie where Aldin fell deep into the lure of brothels, gambling and drinking. They stayed in a rented room in a boarding house. By day, Ashton earned a little money tutoring a local lady's children and by night she mended some dresses for the ladies in town. Aldin, however, had his own ways of earning money. He would spend his days and nights either in the local saloon drunk , gambling or in the company of the painted ladies of the town. He squandered almost every cent he had or made, while Ashton was very careful with her earnings. There were many nights Aldin was found slouched out in front of the boarding house in a drunken stupor...or tossed out of a brothel for passing out. Ashton would grow accustomed to spending nights and days alone when she wasn't tutoring the children until one day she happened upon a stranger......



"Whoa there missy.....you lucky you didn't bump yer head on the hitchin' post." She had twisted her ankle in a rut on the side of the street and the man was kind enough to help her up and carry her to a nearby restaurant. He ordered an ice pack and helped place her ankle up on a chair. Ashton was afraid to speak...she just looked at the strange man while wincing at the throbbing pain her ankle gave her. He was tall, rugged, and had the kindest face. She hadn't seen that sort of kindness in a man's face since her brother Andrew. His eyes were dark and sparkled when he looked at her. "Name's Cole Miss," as he tipped his hat.



Their friendship was instant and for once, Ashton didn't feel so alone. They spent many days together, taking long walks ...sometimes not saying much at all. She found out he loved to read books as well and came from somewhere in Tennessee. He was educated and loved many of the same things that Ashton did. She had told him of everything about herself, Andrew, the war, Aldin.....everything. Things went on this way for a many months and as the friendship grew she found herself feeling for this man something she had never felt for no man. Their friendship was turning into a deep love for one another. As the year turned into 1876, on one particular night, while Aldin was out at the saloon, Cole knocked on her room door. When he came in he took Ashton into his arms and kissed her with the greatest passion she had ever known. She became weak in her knees and felt herself on the verge of fainting. Then he pulled himself away from her and looked deep in her eyes and whispered "I love you Ashton Abbot....no matter what happens...just know that." Then with that he gave her a letter in an envelope and turned and walked out the door.



With shaking hands, Ashton tore open the envelope and read it's contents................"My dearest Ashton, I regret that I haven't been completely honest with you in some respects....my confession of my affections are as true as the sun rises...but the other truth is that I am indeed the husband of another lady and as such, must return to her in Tennessee. I am deeply sorry for hurting you this way but my beautiful Ashton....always....always remember me as I will remember you until my dying breath....and always remember what I told you on this night. You will always be in my thoughts.......Affectionately yours.....Cole



The tears swelled in her eyes and she collapsed to her knees in the middle of her lonely room and wept until her head hurt. She knew she would never see her beloved Cole again. What she didn't know was that as Cole rode out of town that night........he stopped on the outskirts of town, turned and whispered her name into the wind as his eyes stung with tears......



It was about 3 a.m. when Ashton heard footsteps outside her door....she awoke laying on the floor where she cried herself to sleep and seen the shadows of feet outside her door. She heard men whispering........She shouted to the door...."Who's there???" "Aldin....that you?" Suddenly the door burst open and in came two men dragging a third. She looked down to see who the man was that was being drug in and seen it was indeed Aldin. She saw the trail of blood as they pulled him across the floor and realized he was dead. Her eyes widened as she tried to let out a scream but one of the burly men covered her mouth. "Purty thang ain't she Zeke?" the man covering her mouth hissed to the other man apparently named Zeke. "Yep she shor' is." The other man holding his grimy hand over her mouth spat out..."I git to have a go at er first Zeke.....then you can ...you wait outside n' watch the damn door til' I'm dun with er'."



Zeke went outside and shut the door as the man holding drug her towards the bed. Ashton fought against the man's grip on her and finally bit down on his hand, as she did, he lost his grip on her and she stumbled towards the dresser. "Zeke, she's a gittin away!" Ashton grabbed for the pistol and through blurred tear soaked eyes took aim and fired! She then turned for the man named Zeke.....in an instant....the pain, the loss, everything ran through her mind in one flash....she took aim and fired another shot!



With both men laying in a pool of blood, she quickly packed a few things and ran into the night. Ashton had saved enough of her earnings and managed to hide out during the night and purchased stage fare the next morning. Before she left on the stage, she penned a letter to her sister, Annabelle, informing her of Aldin's demise and her plans to move to Deadwood to start her life over alone. She arrived in Deadwood shortly after and so begins the story of Ashton Claire Abbot in Deadwood.


If you happen upon Ashton, you will find she has a heart of gold, loves children dearly, stands up for what is right , is loyal to her friends, has a deep rooted grudge towards most men due to her brother, and her attackers, and her one love Cole for breaking her heart. She loves to read and write and loves to teach others to do so as well. She loves playing her beloved Harp and can play piano as well. She loves to hunt for venison and will be quick to hand out meat to the locals to help provide food for them. She believes in manners and respect but is also quick to spit out words of disdain and sarcasm. She tries to be tough even though she is still a lady and has her weaknesses. She has sworn off love for now, but perhaps one day someone may break the walls she built around her heart when Cole left her. Most of all she is determined to be a survivor....the overwhelming odds of a woman being alone here in this town drive her to stay tough and true. What adventures lay awaiting Ashton here in this rough and tumble town. Only time will tell.......

Posted by AshtonClaire Abbot

Friday, April 9, 2010 at 1:54 PM , 1 Comment

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