Among the rugged and colorful characters who shaped the early history of Nevada, few left as memorable an impression as Red Frank Wheeler. Widely known across the Silver State, Frank Wheeler was not just a pioneer; he was a legend, famed for his generous spirit, convivial nature, and a truly unique approach to personal reformation. His story, recounted by contemporaries, offers a vivid glimpse into the life and ethos of the American West’s most fascinating figures.
Originally hailing from the bustling northern mines of California, Red Frank Wheeler was among the initial wave of adventurers to reach Nevada’s promising Reese River mining section. This era was defined by arduous journeys, the lure of striking it rich, and the constant challenges of an untamed landscape. Frank, like many, tried his hand at prospecting, enduring the demanding search for precious metals, but found only indifferent success. His subsequent venture into milling also proved to be no more fruitful, hinting at a restlessness and perhaps a calling beyond the typical miner’s grind.
The Lure of the Silver State and a Search for Purpose
In the burgeoning town of Austin, a central hub for the Reese River district, Frank sought stability in a more conventional role. He served for a period as Deputy U.S. Postmaster under Colonel Allen, an occupation that, while offering a semblance of routine, soon proved too confining for his spirited personality. The structured environment of the post office contrasted sharply with the open-ended possibilities and spontaneous camaraderie that defined the frontier. It was clear that Frank’s true inclination lay elsewhere, leading him to resign and embrace a role far more suited to his character and social prowess: manager of King & O’Leary’s Saloon.
Austin’s Saloon Scene and Frank Wheeler’s New Domain
Saloons were the pulsating heart of any frontier mining town, serving not only as drinking establishments but also as social centers, makeshift banks, news bureaus, and even impromptu courts. As manager of King & O’Leary’s Saloon, Frank Wheeler found his true calling. Here, his desires for social interaction and entertainment, particularly his favorite pastime of playing poker, could flourish without conflict. Unlike many employees who might face the scowl of an employer for such indulgences, for Frank, it was simply part of the business, fostering a lively atmosphere that drew in the hardy toilers of Nevada.
Despite his convivial nature and penchant for card games, Frank never neglected his duties. He maintained the saloon with diligence, and when off shift, he would often aid his employer, O’Leary, in the storeroom behind the main bar. It was in this backroom, amidst the barrels and bottles, that Frank’s eyes were opened to the less glamorous, and frankly, deceptive, side of the liquor trade. He observed firsthand the practices of making “Oregon cider” and “reducing liquors”— euphemisms for diluting and adulterating spirits, often with inferior ingredients, to increase profits. This revelation struck a chord with Frank, sparking a profound, albeit peculiar, resolution.
A Revelation and a Radical, Humorous Resolution
The discovery of these adulterations ignited a desire for reform within Frank. He resolved to change his ways, a decision he conveyed to his old mining “pard” named Rhodehimer in a letter that has since become a testament to Frank’s unique character and dry wit. Rhodehimer, recalling the substance of this extraordinary correspondence from memory, shared it, ensuring Frank’s distinctive voice would echo through history.
After the customary salutations, Frank’s letter unfolded with a dramatic flair:
“I have a surprise in store for you which will seem so incredible that I fear you will dismiss it by saying I don’t mean it. I have resolved, at this late day in life, to follow the good advice you gave me, ‘many a time and oft,’ which went unheeded through pure cussedness on my part. It is really startling, and hence I have prepared you for it with this slight introduction. Know then, my dear old boy, that your wayward friend, over whom you have so many times shed tears of honest grief for his persistent indulgence in the cup that inebriates, know, I say, that I have resolved to stop drinking whisky.”
The build-up created by Frank was considerable, leading to a declaration that was both earnest and, ultimately, comically revealing of his personality:
“I fear that you will doubt my resolution and, therefore, I must again assure you that I am in deep earnest and mean what I say. Never again will I permit a drop of the pernicious liquid to trickle down my gullet. Never, on my sacred honor, do I swear it. And I would have all my friends go and do likewise, and for the sake of the ties that bind us together as old ‘pards,’ I sincerely trust you will follow my example. Promise me this, and I will be happy. It will be easy for you to take the pledge. Nothing will ever tempt you to break it. You will have no desire once your eyes are opened, as mine have been. In fact, you will admit, as I do, that any man is a d—–d fool to drink whisky when he can get good brandy. From now on, I shall drink brandy.”
This pledge, with its unexpected and humorous twist, became the defining anecdote of Red Frank Wheeler’s life. It wasn’t a complete abstinence from alcohol, but a refined, principled stand against what he considered an inferior and adulterated product. It showcased his distinctive blend of self-awareness, stubbornness, and pragmatic wit, making his reformation all the more memorable.
A Pledge Maintained to the End and an Enduring Legacy
True to his word, Frank Wheeler upheld his specific pledge until the very end of his life. Even as his later years brought affluence and luxury—a fortune he amassed through a valuable tip from Sam Jones concerning the Belcher mine, yielding him a remarkable $50,000—he never wavered. His commitment to drinking brandy and forswearing whisky was absolute. Indeed, the very last act of his life was to take a sip of brandy, a final, fitting testament to his unwavering, if idiosyncratic, vow.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legend of Red Frank Wheeler
Red Frank Wheeler stands as a testament to the vibrant and often unconventional spirit of the American frontier. From his early days as a hopeful prospector in California and Nevada to his pivotal role as a saloon manager in Austin, Frank carved out a unique place in history. His story, particularly his distinctive pledge against whisky in favor of brandy, encapsulates a blend of frontier pragmatism, personal conviction, and a charmingly rebellious spirit. He was more than just a man; he was a living legend, whose generous deeds and unforgettable character endeared him to a wide circle of pioneers, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of Nevada’s colorful past. His tale reminds us that even in the rugged West, individuality and humor often shone brightest.
