He Hated the Irish

Charlie Harrison’s bigotry had a high cost.

It started as an argument over cards in a Cheyenne, WY, saloon. Gambler Charlie Harrison insulted Jim Levy, telling him that he hated Irishmen. Levy, who was from Ireland, quickly took offense and challenged Harrison to take it outside. Both men were experienced shootists. They squared off in the street; as the two pulled their six guns, Harrison’s shot went wild. Levy took more careful aim and hit Harrison, who fell to the ground. Though severely wounded, Harrison was alive and taken to his room at the Dyer’s Hotel. However, a week later, he died.