The storied landscapes of the American West were shaped by individuals who embraced both its untamed wilderness and its burgeoning civic life. Among these figures was Valentine Johnson Herring, a man widely known in trapping circles as “Old Rube.” His life journey is a compelling narrative of transformation, from a rugged fur trapper navigating the perilous Rocky Mountains to a respected government official in the rapidly developing state of California.
This article delves into the remarkable life of Valentine Johnson Herring, exploring his early years in the fur trade, his adventures as a free trapper, and his surprising pivot to public service, ultimately leaving a significant, though perhaps understated, mark on the history of the American frontier.
The Early Lure of the Fur Trade
Born in Illinois in 1812, Valentine Johnson Herring received a foundational education that would later prove invaluable, even as he was drawn to the wilder prospects of the frontier. As a young man, he migrated to St. Louis, Missouri, a bustling gateway to the West and the undisputed hub of the American fur trade. Here, the raw energy of exploration and commerce converged, attracting adventurers, entrepreneurs, and skilled frontiersmen alike.
It was in this vibrant, albeit rough-and-tumble, environment that Herring began his career. In 1831, he was hired by the prominent fur trader John Gantt for a trapping expedition into the majestic, yet unforgiving, Rocky Mountains. This early experience immersed him in the harsh realities of frontier life: the relentless pursuit of beaver pelts, the constant vigilance against natural dangers and rival groups, and the camaraderie formed under extreme conditions. Just two years later, his growing reputation and skill led him to work alongside another titan of the fur trade, William Sublette, on the upper Missouri River. These apprenticeships were crucial, teaching him not only the art of trapping but also the survival skills and geographical knowledge essential for navigating the vast western territories. He later returned to St. Louis, where Nathaniel Wyeth, another significant figure in western exploration, enlisted Herring’s expertise to guide him to Fort Hall in Idaho, further solidifying his credentials as an experienced and reliable frontiersman.
From Company Man to Free Trapper
As the fur trade evolved, so too did the roles within it. Many trappers initially worked for large companies, bound by contracts and supplied by outfits that controlled the entire supply chain. However, a growing number of men, including Valentine Johnson Herring, sought greater independence, transitioning to become what were known as free trappers. This status afforded them the freedom to hunt and trap where they pleased, selling their pelts to whoever offered the best price at rendezvous points or trading posts. It was a life of unparalleled autonomy, but also one of heightened risk and self-reliance.
In 1841-42, Herring’s capabilities were recognized when he was placed in charge of Fort Lupton, a crucial trading post in eastern Colorado. This role was a testament to his leadership qualities and his deep understanding of the region and its inhabitants. As a free trapper and fort manager, Herring gained an intimate knowledge of the land, its challenges, and its diverse populations, from Native American tribes to fellow trappers and traders. His experiences during this period undoubtedly honed his decision-making skills and his ability to navigate complex social dynamics, qualities that would serve him well in his later life.
The Taos Incident: A Glimpse of Frontier Justice
Life on the frontier was rarely without conflict, and Herring’s time in Taos, New Mexico, provided a stark illustration of this reality. Taos, a vibrant crossroads of cultures and commerce, was also a place where disputes could quickly escalate, often settled outside the formal confines of law. It was here that Herring found himself embroiled in a gunfight with a man named Henry Beer, the confrontation reportedly stemming from a dispute over a Mexican woman. Such incidents were not uncommon in the rough-and-tumble settlements of the West, where personal honor and swift retaliation often took precedence over legal niceties.
While the precise details of the Taos gunfight are sparse, its occurrence underscores the dangerous and often volatile environment in which Rube Herring lived for many years. It paints a picture of a man who, while capable of leadership and diligent work, was also prepared to defend himself and his interests in a world where personal strength and resolve were paramount. This episode offers a vivid glimpse into the prevailing code of frontier justice, where individual agency and a willingness to confront danger head-on were often prerequisites for survival and respect.
A New Chapter: Public Service in California
By 1849, the allure of the fur trade was waning, and the American West was undergoing rapid transformation. The California Gold Rush beckoned, drawing countless individuals seeking new opportunities. Valentine Johnson Herring, ever adaptable, made his way to California, settling in San Bernardino County. This move marked a significant turning point in his life, as he transitioned from the wild, independent life of a trapper to one of civic engagement and public service.
Herring’s capacity for leadership and organization, honed in the rugged frontier, found a new outlet in the burgeoning communities of California. In 1853, he was appointed superintendent of schools, a remarkable shift for a man whose previous career had involved stalking animals in remote wildernesses. This role indicated a deep trust placed in his character and administrative abilities. His commitment to the community didn’t stop there; he went on to serve in a variety of other crucial public offices, including justice of the peace and county assessor. These positions required integrity, a keen understanding of local issues, and the ability to mediate disputes and manage public resources—skills he had undoubtedly developed during his years in the fur trade, albeit in a different context.
Perhaps most notably, Old Rube Herring was elected sheriff in 1859. This role, combining law enforcement with maintaining order in a still-developing territory, was a natural fit for a man who understood the complexities of human nature and the necessity of justice on the frontier. His journey from a solitary trapper to a respected public official in multiple capacities highlights his versatility and his profound adaptability to the changing landscape of the American West. He continued to serve his community until his death in 1883, leaving behind a legacy that transcended his early adventurous life.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Valentine Johnson Herring
Valentine Johnson Herring, known to many simply as “Old Rube,” epitomized the spirit of transformation that defined the American West. His life arc, from a young man seeking fortune in the demanding fur trade to a respected public servant in a rapidly growing state, is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the frontier generation. He witnessed and actively participated in the profound shifts that occurred in the American landscape, transitioning from a wild, untamed wilderness to a region of established communities and governance.
Herring’s story reminds us that the pioneers of the West were not monolithic figures, but complex individuals capable of embracing diverse roles. From the solitude of the mountain man to the responsibility of a civic leader, his journey illustrates how the skills forged in the crucible of the wild could be reapplied to build the foundations of civil society. His contributions, both in mapping the wilderness and in building institutions, secure his place as a memorable figure in the rich tapestry of American history.
