Bill ONeal Books

The biography explores the life of Captain Harry Wheeler, a dedicated lawman and soldier known for his service as a Captain of the Arizona Rangers and Sheriff of Cochise County. It highlights his tumultuous experiences, including fatal shootouts and personal loss. After the disbandment of his Ranger company, Wheeler continued to serve as sheriff in Tombstone, where he was involved in the controversial Bisbee Deportation. His patriotic spirit led him to join the army during World War I, despite his age. The book offers new insights into this remarkable figure from America's frontier history.

Set in Caldwell, Kansas, during the 1870s, the narrative explores a lawless village along the Chisholm Trail. Known as the Border Queen, it served as a first stop for weary drovers, providing whiskey and companionship. The town's vibrant yet dangerous atmosphere attracted countless cowboys, leading to a backdrop of shootouts and lynchings, capturing the essence of the Wild West's tumultuous spirit.

The narrative explores the rich history of cowboys and longhorn cattle in West Texas, detailing the influence of Spanish conquistadores and Mexican vaqueros on cattle handling techniques. Post-Civil War, the demand for beef spurred the growth of cattle drives along trails like the Chisholm Trail. The book highlights iconic ranches such as the King Ranch and the XIT, showcasing the evolution of cowboy culture through attire and skills adapted from vaquero traditions. It captures the essence of a transformative era in American ranching history.

Set against the backdrop of the Johnson County War in the early 1890s, this narrative explores the fierce conflict between cattle barons and homesteaders in Wyoming. The story unfolds through violent confrontations, including lynchings and ambushes, culminating in a dramatic last stand involving numerous combatants. This tumultuous period has inspired countless works in literature and film, solidifying its place in the American West's history and culture.

The book highlights Texas's significant role in World War II, showcasing the contributions of nearly 830,000 Texans, including 12,000 women, who served in the military. It features notable figures such as Lt. Audie Murphy and Adm. Chester Nimitz, emphasizing Texas A&M's exceptional output of officers. The state was pivotal in training 1.5 million military personnel and supplying vital resources, including oil and war machinery, which bolstered the Allied forces. The narrative underscores Texas's profound impact on the war effort both on the battlefield and at home.

Rich in history, the Pacific Coast League has produced numerous legendary baseball players who later achieved fame in the majors. Bill O'Neal's thorough research uncovers the stories of forgotten players and pivotal moments, showcasing the league's significant impact on the sport. Notable figures like Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, and Gaylord Perry emerged from this league, ultimately earning their places in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, highlighting the league's vital role in baseball history.

The narrative centers on a tumultuous early 20th-century feud between two West Texas families, sparked by the ill-fated marriage of Gladys Johnson and Ed Sims. Their union quickly deteriorates due to Gladys's rebellious nature and Ed's alcoholism, leading to a bitter divorce. Tensions escalate when Ed attempts to claim their daughters during a Christmas visit in 1916, resulting in a shocking confrontation where Gladys and her brother Sid fatally shoot him in a bustling public square.

Doris Miller's remarkable journey from a Texas cook to a celebrated World War II hero unfolds in this compelling narrative. He distinguished himself during the Pearl Harbor attack, becoming one of the first sailors to earn the Navy Cross and serving as an inspiring figure for both the African-American community and the nation. Despite his fame, Miller returned to combat and ultimately lost his life in action. Bill O'Neal chronicles his heroic life, detailing his early years in Waco, Texas, and his courageous contributions to the war effort.

Cheyenne's rise as a railroad boomtown encapsulates the essence of America's last West, characterized by its vibrant and tumultuous atmosphere. Known as the "Magic City," it attracted a diverse array of figures, including cattle barons, soldiers, and famous personalities like President Grant and Wild Bill Hickok. The story highlights the colorful characters and urban pioneers who shaped the city, illustrating the dynamic interplay of lawmen, gamblers, and vigilantes in this iconic frontier setting.

Featuring over 250 photographs, this travel guide explores the homes of influential political figures in Texas, including the Governor's Mansion and the Texas White House. It highlights both public and privately owned residences, offering insights into the lives of past governors and presidents. Visitors can discover Victorian B&Bs and historical homes across various towns, accompanied by detailed directions and engaging stories about the families who lived in these significant structures, ranging from ranch houses to grand mansions.