Peirce, Ellis Taylor, 1846-1926
Dates
- Existence: 1846 - 1926
Biography
Ellis Taylor Peirce (1846-1926) was an author and story-teller who lived in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Ellis Taylor Peirce was born 24 April 1846 in Oak Hill, Pennsylvania, to Joseph Peirce and Prudence Blackburn. In 1863 he graduated from the state normal school in Millersville, Pennsylvania, and joined the Union Army during the Civil War.
Peirce moved to the Black Hills of South Dakota in 1876, becoming one of the pioneers of the area. In 1878, he elected sheriff of Custer County. He later moved from Custer to Rapid City, went into a partnership in a hotel with Dan J. Stafford, and was elected sheriff of Pennington County. In 1902 Peirce was elected to the state legislature from Fall River County. In his later years he ran a barbershop in Hot Springs.
Peirce became acquainted with many interesting characters who lived in frequented this region, including leaders of Native American tribes. Stinking Bear of the Oglala tribe named him "Bear Tracks." Peirce became known as a story-teller of life in the Black Hills region in the late 19th Century, and often published his stories in the local press.
Ellis Taylor Peirce died on August 13, 1926, in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Ellis Taylor Peirce correspondence
Letters, mostly typed, to and from Ellis Peirce. The missives largely are to and from family members and friends and are concerned with family and friendship matters. They also mention the publication of books by Ellis' associates, and refer to relations with Indians. Also includes some photographs. Dated 1921-1925.