Who was Bass Reeves?

The history behind Taylor Sheridan’s newest series.

FTW-Bass-Reeves

Bass Reeves

Phot courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Yesterday, we reported that Taylor Sheridan — Paschal high graduate and creator of “Yellowstone” and “1883" — has a new show, “Bass Reeves” set to film in Fort Worth this month.

But just who was Bass Reeves?

Born in 1838, Bass Reeves was a former slave who became the first Black US Deputy Marshal west of the Mississippi River in 1875. He rode the Oklahoma territory and Texas in search of outlaws.

Said to be one of the most honest and upstanding lawmen in the Wild West, legend has it that he killed 14 outlaws and apprehended 3,000+ criminals, including his own son.

Known to have ridden a large white stallion with a Colt pistol in each hand, Reeves is believed to be the inspiration for the Lone Ranger.

Reeves is set to be played by British actor David Oyelowo in the new show on Paramount+. The Fort Worth Film Commission is looking to fill crew positions for the six-part series. Email your resume to apply.

More from FTWtoday
Texas temperatures are known to be extreme — from frigid winters to holidays in shorts, we’re breaking down some of the record-breaking winters we’ve experienced in North Texas.
We’re getting closer to the end of the year, and thanks to the winter outlook from the Climate Prediction Center, we have an even better idea of what winter weather will be like in Fort Worth this season.
The world’s largest honky-tonk, the country’s last cowboy hat store, and twinkling lights over Fort Worth? Yep, we’d watch this holiday flick.
Taking the train isn’t just for commuters — it’s also a method of leisure travel that’s growing in popularity.
The $800 million bond program — approved in 2018 — includes five large-scale projects. Let’s review what’s already been completed and what to look forward to.
Dig into delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian fare in every corner of Fort Worth.
We get it — the holidays are a busy time. Let FTWtoday make the plans for you, so you have one less thing to worry about.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
On Monday, phase one of the Convention Center expansion was completed with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a VIP gathering.
It’s that time of year again — Spotify Wrapped is out, and so is ours. Ready to see which stories Fort Worthians tuned into?