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Original period photograph of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody with newspaper and circus magnate Harry H. Tammen on the railroad station platform at Kansas City in 1913.
This documented scene is especially significant in Buffalo Bill history. Contemporary material preserved by the William F. Cody Archive identifies Cody and Tammen together on the Kansas City station platform during this pivotal period in Cody’s career.
In 1913, Cody’s Wild West operation suffered severe financial difficulties and its assets were sold. Tammen, co-owner of the Denver Post and Sells-Floto Circus with Frederick G. Bonfils, became closely involved with Cody during the aftermath. Later that year Cody, Tammen, Bonfils and others became involved in the Buffalo Bill Historical Picture Company.
The photograph measures approximately 13.5" x 10". The reverse bears period editorial/archive markings including the number “50051” and a circled “6.” Please review all photographs for the exact markings and condition.
This is an original photographic print and not a modern reproduction.
The Historical Moment:
This photograph captures the unraveling of a legendary partnership. By 1913, Buffalo Bill had fallen into a deep financial crisis after borrowing substantial funds from Tammen, a prominent Denver businessman and owner of The Denver Post. This depot meeting was a pivotal encounter during that tense period, as Tammen effectively tightened his grip on the finances of the Wild West show.
The "Candid" Difference:
This is not the widely circulated, posed "official" press photograph where both men are smiling for the camera. This is the original candid shot.
The Interaction: Unlike the posed versions, this photo captures the genuine tension of the conversation. You see Buffalo Bill looking intently at Tammen rather than the camera, and a third gentleman appearing in the background, framing this as an unscripted, real-life moment on the depot platform.
Archival Provenance: This 13.5” x 10” print is an authentic archival piece, not a reproduction. The reverse features the original markings—the negative number "50051" and the editor’s circled "6"—confirming its history as a primary source document used in the era.
Photograph Details:
This approximately 13.5" x 10" photographic print bears period editorial/archive markings on the reverse, including the number "50051" and a circled "6." These markings are shown clearly in the photographs and form part of the piece's documentary history.
The photograph shows William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody and Harry H. Tammen together on the Kansas City station platform in 1913, a scene also documented in contemporary material preserved by the William F. Cody Archive.
Condition:
Vintage photographic print with age-appropriate handling and surface wear. Please review all photographs carefully for exact condition, including the front, edges, corners, and reverse markings.
