Ormond W. Wright Original Story By Kathie Bell
Most who tried to bring religion to early Dodge were scared off by the rowdy buffalo hunter or cowboy, but one man of the cloth stuck to his guns and helped settle down wild and rowdy Dodge City.
Despite his age and inexperience (or perhaps because of) he was one of the first ministers not to be scared out of Dodge or discouraged away by a cold reception from the ruffians. Wright had a good rapport with the locals. Ormond W. Wright born in Acworth, New Hampshire in 1850, arrived in Dodge City in early 1877 at the age of 26. Though he had graduated from Hamilton College in Clinton, New York in 1873, he was not ordained when he got to Dodge. On August 6, 1877, four visiting Presbyterian ministers ordained Reverend Wright at the interdenominational Union Church. This church was built in 1874 or 1875, preceding Wright's arrival, at First Avenue and Spruce north of the downtown. It cost $1,000 to construct and held at least 100 worshipers. |
Wright's ordination allowed him to establish and construct a new church. It was the first denominational church in Dodge City, which served the Presbyterian congregation. Though the Presbyterians placed the cornerstone for this church in 1878, it was not completed until 1880. After additions and renovations this building was replaced by the current structure in 1924 at the same location at 803 Central Avenue.
Much of Wright’s support came from the shadier side of Dodge City. When he and his recent bride, Minnie B. Starr Wright, fell on hard times, the saloon keepers and working girls came up with a larder of groceries and $200 to tide the family over. |
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Much of Wright’s support came from the shadier side of Dodge City. When he and his recent bride, Minnie B. Starr Wright, fell on hard times, the saloon keepers and working girls came up with a larder of groceries and $200 to tide the family over.
Though the more transitory residents assisted Rev. Wright in times of need, they did not maintain his cause. It was the permanent “God fearing” settlers who steadily attended services who kept the dream alive with their perseverance.
Nonetheless, Wright was a man of great conviction and, like Jesus, he welcomed those of a less than pristine background into the faith. It was his ability to take things in stride and exhibit a sense of humor that helped him get along so well in Dodge City.
In fact, the citizens here felt comfortable enough with him to include them in their practical jokes. In June 1877, his prize pony was “stolen” by the likes of “Luke McGlue,” Dodge City’s infamous and fictitious prankster. Unaware it was a hoax, he could not be consoled. A deputy sheriff, who was part of the practical joke, told the Reverend that the culprit who stole his pony had been found and asked Wright whether the criminal should be shot or hanged. Momentarily, Wright struggled between the urge for revenge and his sense of Christian forgiveness. But the Reverend figured out quickly the crook was none other than Luke McGlue and his pony was quickly returned. Wright’s good-natured response earned him the admiration of the Dodge City “gang.”
Rev. Wright stayed in Dodge City as Presbyterian pastor until 1882, when he finally “burned out” and was placed in a private institution for health reasons. Within a couple of years he recovered and continued his ministry in Barnegat, New Jersey for thirty years. He died around 1936 at the age of 86.
Though the more transitory residents assisted Rev. Wright in times of need, they did not maintain his cause. It was the permanent “God fearing” settlers who steadily attended services who kept the dream alive with their perseverance.
Nonetheless, Wright was a man of great conviction and, like Jesus, he welcomed those of a less than pristine background into the faith. It was his ability to take things in stride and exhibit a sense of humor that helped him get along so well in Dodge City.
In fact, the citizens here felt comfortable enough with him to include them in their practical jokes. In June 1877, his prize pony was “stolen” by the likes of “Luke McGlue,” Dodge City’s infamous and fictitious prankster. Unaware it was a hoax, he could not be consoled. A deputy sheriff, who was part of the practical joke, told the Reverend that the culprit who stole his pony had been found and asked Wright whether the criminal should be shot or hanged. Momentarily, Wright struggled between the urge for revenge and his sense of Christian forgiveness. But the Reverend figured out quickly the crook was none other than Luke McGlue and his pony was quickly returned. Wright’s good-natured response earned him the admiration of the Dodge City “gang.”
Rev. Wright stayed in Dodge City as Presbyterian pastor until 1882, when he finally “burned out” and was placed in a private institution for health reasons. Within a couple of years he recovered and continued his ministry in Barnegat, New Jersey for thirty years. He died around 1936 at the age of 86.
REFERENCES
Faith and Fortitude in the Frontier: Reverend Ormond W. Wright's Inspiring Saga of Resilience and Divine Intervention in Dodge City
In this riveting podcast episode, we delve into the life and times of an unsung hero, Reverend Ormond W. Wright, who brought faith and fortitude to the frontier town of Dodge City. Despite the wild and unpredictable nature of this famous town, Reverend Wright, armed with resilience, humor, and divine intervention, managed to make a significant impact on its citizens and history.
Reverend Wright arrived in Dodge City at the age of 26, an unordained minister fresh from Hamilton College in New York. This young man from Acworth, New Hampshire, found himself amidst rowdy buffalo hunters and cowboys. Yet, he was not intimidated. Instead, he quickly built rapport with the locals and became a beacon of faith, leading the town with divine intervention.
The story of Reverend Wright is marked by numerous amusing anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of his character and resilience. One such incident involved notorious prankster Luke McGlue, who stole Wright's prize pony. The citizens of Dodge City, including the more notorious characters, rallied to support the Reverend during this and other hardships. Such was his impact that he won over the shadier side of town, who often came to his aid during challenging times.
Despite the tumultuous setting, Wright achieved the extraordinary. He established the first denominational church in Dodge City, an endeavor that required considerable faith and determination. Though it took several years to complete, the church was a testament to Wright's tenacity and dedication to his cause.
Wright's journey was not devoid of hardships, but his undying spirit, sense of humor, and steadfast faith saw him through. His resilience earned him the respect and admiration of the Dodge City gang and the town's more permanent settlers alike.
Wright's stint in Dodge City ended in 1882 when health issues required him to take a break. However, his commitment to his calling did not waver. After recovering, he continued his ministry in Barnagat, New Jersey, for another 30 years until his death at age 86.
The tale of Reverend Ormond W. Wright serves as an inspiring chronicle of resilience, faith, and divine intervention in the Wild West. His story is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and a dash of humor in conquering the most formidable challenges. So join us as we journey back to the frontier days of Dodge City and unravel the fascinating saga of Reverend Ormond W. Wright.
Reverend Wright arrived in Dodge City at the age of 26, an unordained minister fresh from Hamilton College in New York. This young man from Acworth, New Hampshire, found himself amidst rowdy buffalo hunters and cowboys. Yet, he was not intimidated. Instead, he quickly built rapport with the locals and became a beacon of faith, leading the town with divine intervention.
The story of Reverend Wright is marked by numerous amusing anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of his character and resilience. One such incident involved notorious prankster Luke McGlue, who stole Wright's prize pony. The citizens of Dodge City, including the more notorious characters, rallied to support the Reverend during this and other hardships. Such was his impact that he won over the shadier side of town, who often came to his aid during challenging times.
Despite the tumultuous setting, Wright achieved the extraordinary. He established the first denominational church in Dodge City, an endeavor that required considerable faith and determination. Though it took several years to complete, the church was a testament to Wright's tenacity and dedication to his cause.
Wright's journey was not devoid of hardships, but his undying spirit, sense of humor, and steadfast faith saw him through. His resilience earned him the respect and admiration of the Dodge City gang and the town's more permanent settlers alike.
Wright's stint in Dodge City ended in 1882 when health issues required him to take a break. However, his commitment to his calling did not waver. After recovering, he continued his ministry in Barnagat, New Jersey, for another 30 years until his death at age 86.
The tale of Reverend Ormond W. Wright serves as an inspiring chronicle of resilience, faith, and divine intervention in the Wild West. His story is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and a dash of humor in conquering the most formidable challenges. So join us as we journey back to the frontier days of Dodge City and unravel the fascinating saga of Reverend Ormond W. Wright.