Hicks, Steve, 1870-

Biography / Administrative History

Steven Hicks, or "Rocky Mountain Steve," was born in Blountville, Tennessee in 1870. His early family life was poor, and so he left home at the age of 11. He traveled to Texas, where he learned bronco busting and sharp shooting on a large cattle ranch. At age 21, he left Texas and traveled throughout the West and South, giving sharp shooting exhibitions. He finally settled in Dallas, where he created a roping, riding and sharp shooting show that drew large audiences. He often performed with his young son, William. Hicks was good friends with Geronimo and his daughter Eva; he also occasionally participated in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show and Miller's 101 Ranch shows. He acquired his name after spending time bronco busting in the Rocky Mountains in Mexico.