Annie Oakley (born Phoebe Ann Mosey) was born into poverty in 1860 in Darke County Ohio (about 20 miles N.E. of Richmond, Indiana). Her childhood was a mixture of poor homes, orphanages, and occasional stints on the family’s modest homestead. By her late childhood she had become an adept hunter of local game. She sold the game to hotels and restaurants in the area to support the family.

At age 15, she won a shooting contest against a very experienced professional marksman, Mr. Frank E. Butler. Although Butler lost the shooting match, he was enthralled by the young Annie.  They were married in 1876.

With Frank as the manager and assistant, and Annie as the star, Frank and Annie toured the country with their own sharpshooting show. Eventually, Oakley became the major attraction in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show from 1885 until 1902, touring the world demonstrating her incredible and impressive marksmanship.

While traveling in Europe, an impersonator, using Annie’s name, was arrested and thrown in jail for alleged drug use and theft. News of the arrest was published in William Randolph Hurst’s newspaper. Some forty other papers also ran with the story based on the Hearst publication. Upon hearing of the arrest of the imposter, the real Annie Oakley sued the newspapers for defamation. After many years, Oakley won every lawsuit, but even the substantial damage awards were not enough to cover her legal fees.

Annie was badly injured in an accident in 1901 which forced her to leave the rigors and physical demands of the Wild West Show. Anne starred in a successful stage play, specifically written for her. Frank continued to be her professional manager.

Annie and her husband Frank had a very successful and happy life together. They died in 1926, within 2 months of each other. Annie was 65 years of age.