Ned Bushyhead, born Edward Wilkerson Bushyhead, emerged as a truly remarkable figure in American history, embodying a unique blend of Cherokee heritage, journalistic prowess, and steadfast commitment to law enforcement. His extraordinary life journey, spanning from the tumultuous years of the Trail of Tears to the burgeoning cities of California, paints a vivid picture of resilience and pioneering spirit. Edward “Ned” Bushyhead’s diverse career as a miner, newspaper publisher, and esteemed lawman left an indelible mark on both the Cherokee Nation and the developing West.
Born near Cleveland, Tennessee, on March 2, 1832, Ned Bushyhead was the son of Reverend Jesse Bushyhead, a prominent Baptist preacher, and Eliza Wilkerson Bushyhead. His formative years were profoundly shaped by one of the darkest chapters in American history: the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands.
A Child of the Cherokee Nation: Early Life and the Trail of Tears
Reverend Jesse Bushyhead, despite his opposition to the Cherokee removal policy, recognized the grim inevitability of the situation. With courage and leadership, he guided a contingent of approximately 1,000 Cherokee people on the harrowing journey known as the Trail of Tears. Seven-year-old Ned was among them, experiencing firsthand the immense suffering and displacement that defined this tragic event. The forced march, a testament to the Cherokee people’s enduring strength, culminated in their settlement on new lands near what is now Westville, Oklahoma, in 1839. This new community became known as Breadtown, a poignant reminder of the place where essential rations were distributed to the arriving Cherokee refugees from the East. Two years later, in 1841, Ned’s father further solidified the community by establishing the Baptist Mission, providing spiritual guidance and a sense of stability in their new home.
From Apprentice to Publisher: Ned Bushyhead’s Foray into Journalism
Ned Bushyhead’s intellectual curiosity and burgeoning talents quickly became apparent. In August 1844, a significant milestone occurred with the first issuance of the Cherokee Messenger newspaper. This publication held the distinction of being the very first periodical ever published in Oklahoma, a testament to the Cherokee Nation’s advanced literacy and commitment to communication. Tragically, Reverend Jesse Bushyhead passed away the same year. In the wake of this loss, the 12-year-old Ned Bushyhead began an apprenticeship at the Cherokee Messenger, immersing himself in the craft of printing and journalism. This early exposure instilled in him a lifelong passion for the press. As he matured, he expanded his experience, working as a printer in Fort Smith, Arkansas, further honing his skills in the rapidly evolving world of publishing.
California Goldfields and the San Andreas Register
The spirit of adventure and the promise of new opportunities beckoned Ned Bushyhead westward. In 1850, at the age of 18, he embarked on a significant journey with his brother Dennis, heading to California. They landed in Placerville, a hub for fortune-seekers, with the hope of striking it rich in the bustling goldfields. While the allure of gold was strong, Ned’s true calling remained in the realm of print. By 1853, he had relocated to Calaveras County, where his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own newspaper, the San Andreas Register, in October 1867. This venture, though short-lived, showcased his persistent dedication to journalism. His journey then took him to San Diego, a city on the cusp of significant growth, where he assumed the role of “silent” publisher of the San Diego Union. The first edition of this influential newspaper was published on October 10, 1868. While his brother Dennis returned to the Cherokee Nation that same year, Ned chose to remain in California, recognizing the potential and opportunities the region offered.
His involvement with the San Diego Union proved successful, and in 1873, he strategically sold his interest in the newspaper for a considerable sum of $5,000. This transaction demonstrated his business acumen and foresight. The San Diego Union itself continued to thrive for many years, publishing consistently until 1927, and even saw a brief resurrection between 1942 and 1947, a testament to its foundational importance in San Diego’s history.
A Distinguished Career in Law Enforcement: Deputy and Sheriff of San Diego
In 1875, Ned Bushyhead embarked on a new, equally impactful chapter of his life, transitioning from the ink-stained world of publishing to the demanding arena of law enforcement. He was appointed as a deputy sheriff of San Diego County, a role that required courage, integrity, and a deep understanding of justice in a still-developing frontier. The following year, 1876, marked another personal milestone as he married Helen Corey Nichols, establishing roots in the San Diego community. His dedication and effectiveness as a deputy quickly earned him respect and recognition, paving the way for further advancement.
His public service culminated in 1882 when he ran for the prestigious office of sheriff of San Diego County and won. This victory was a significant achievement, highlighting his popularity and the trust the community placed in him. A local newspaper, reflecting the public sentiment, lauded his character and capabilities with glowing praise: “No better man could have been selected. Thoroughly honest, cool, brave and intrepid in time of danger, patient, wary and sagacious when on the trail of a criminal; courtesy and gentle — generous almost to lavishness, he is a true type of thorough American gentleman.” This eloquent description encapsulates the qualities that made Sheriff Bushyhead such a respected figure. He served two distinguished terms as sheriff, overseeing law and order in a rapidly growing county, often navigating complex challenges inherent to the Old West. His tenure was marked by a commitment to justice and an unwavering dedication to public safety, solidifying his reputation as an exemplary lawman.
Chief of Police and Later Years
After his impactful terms as sheriff, Ned Bushyhead continued to contribute to his community in various capacities. In 1889, he joined the printing firm of Gould, Hutton & Company as a partner, returning, in part, to his earlier professional roots. However, the call to public service remained strong. In 1899, he once again stepped into a leadership role in law enforcement, becoming the Chief of Police in San Diego, California. He held this crucial position until 1903, playing a vital role in modernizing the city’s police force and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents during a period of considerable urban expansion. His leadership as Chief of Police underscored his consistent dedication to public order and community protection.
By 1907, due to declining health, he sought the quieter environment of Alpine, California, a decision aimed at improving his well-being. It was there that Edward Bushyhead passed away on March 4, 1907, at the age of 75. In a final testament to his enduring connection to his heritage, his body was returned to Oklahoma and laid to rest in the family cemetery at Tahlequah, among his Cherokee kin.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Edward “Ned” Bushyhead
The life of Ned Bushyhead is a compelling narrative of adaptation, perseverance, and significant achievement. From his childhood experience on the Trail of Tears to his rise as a respected newspaper publisher and a formidable lawman, Bushyhead carved out an extraordinary path. He navigated diverse worlds, excelling as a pioneering journalist who helped establish significant newspapers like the San Diego Union, and then transitioning seamlessly into a distinguished career in law enforcement, serving with integrity as both a sheriff and a chief of police. His story stands as a powerful example of an individual who, despite facing immense historical challenges, contributed profoundly to the development of both the Cherokee Nation and the American West. Edward “Ned” Bushyhead’s legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one person can have across multiple fields and generations.
