Nellie Jennie: The Untold Story of Bass Reeves’ Ex-wife

Do you know or have heard of Nellie Jennie and wonder why her life history is still relevant today? Nellie Jennie was far more than an ordinary person; she absolutely lived her life with an amalgam of bravery, determination and hard-working spirit. Her history is an example to many people, as it demonstrates how various obstacles can be overcome with commitment and hard work. So, let us analyze why the story of Nellie Jennie is still of interest to many and what lessons we can draw from her experience.

Birth, Parents, and Education

Nellie “Jennie” Reeves was born around the year 1840 and is assumed to be born in Grayson County, Texas. Her mother was Betty Haynes; details on her father are not available. Very little is known about Jennie’s early years and childhood education, which is not surprising considering that most African Americans born to slaves during those years had very limited social opportunities.

Considering the period and her circumstances, it is very possible that she received no formal education.

Nellie Jennie and Bass Reeves: A Love Story

Meeting: Nellie Jennie and Bass Reeves were both enslaved laborers on the ranch owned by Colonel George Reeves in Grayson County, Texas, in the 1860s. The specifics of how the two first met are not known, although it is likely that they were already familiar with each other from their circles.

Marriage: They exchanged vows in 1864, just a while after Bass Revees escaped from slavery. The emancipation of the couple in 1865 just added another beautiful chapter to the love story of the couple.

The family made their residence in Van Buren, Arkansas and started their life together. They had a strong marriage with mutual respect for each other, which was particularly important due to the fact that Bass Reeves worked long hours in the police force and had to leave home often.

Children: Bass and Nellie Jennie shared ten children together during their marriage. The children were born between 1861 and 1882. Here is the list of their children in order of birth

• Sarah (also known as Sally) was born in 1861
• Robert, born in 1866
• Harriet, born in 1868
• Georgie, born in 1870
• Newland, born in 1872
• Edgar, born in 1874
• William, born in 1876
• Benjamin, born in 1878
• Alice Mae, born in 1880
• Lula, born in 1882

Nellie Jennie remained a loyal and supportive partner throughout their life together until her death in 1896. Bass Reeves later remarried Winnie Sumter in 1900 and had one more child, Bass Reeves Jr.

Who Was Bass Reeves?

Bass Reeves was one of the most remarkable lawmen in American history, celebrated for his incredible work as a Deputy U.S. Marshal. Born into slavery in Crawford County, Arkansas, in July 1838, Reeves eventually escaped bondage during the Civil War and fled to Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma). After gaining his freedom, he became a skilled tracker and marksman, which helped him later in his law enforcement career.

In 1875, Bass Reeves was appointed as Deputy U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas. His main task was to capture criminals hiding in the vast and dangerous Indian Territory. Despite the immense risks, Reeves apprehended over 3,000 felons during his career—a record few could match.

Known for his resourcefulness and bravery, Bass Reeves often went undercover to catch criminals, disguising himself in creative ways. His dedication to upholding the law earned him a reputation as one of the most feared and respected lawmen of his time.

His Skills and Achievements

Reeves was an exceptional marksman known for his ability to shoot with precision. He was also highly skilled at tracking fugitives, a talent he developed while living in the wilderness after escaping slavery. Reeves was fluent in several Native American languages, which helped him navigate the diverse and challenging Indian Territory.

Despite facing racism and countless dangers, Reeves carried out his duties with integrity. He was one of the first Black Deputy U.S. Marshals west of the Mississippi River, breaking racial barriers in a profession dominated by white men.

Career of Nellie Jennie’s Children

Bass Reeves and Nellie Jennie had ten children, and each of them led their own unique lives. Here’s a simple overview:

• Sarah (Sally): Sarah got married in the early 1900s and had two children.
• Robert: Robert followed in his father’s footsteps and worked as a deputy, but sadly, he died in a train accident.
• Harriet: Harriet’s life details are not well documented, but she was one of Bass and Jennie’s daughters.
• Georgie: Georgie moved to Los Angeles and was mentioned in Bass’ will, suggesting she lived until 1913 and had a child.
• Newland: Newland faced some legal troubles and was imprisoned at one point, but he was pardoned in 1899.
• Edgar: Edgar tragically died in 1913 in Oklahoma City.
• William: There isn’t much information about William’s life.
• Benjamin: Benjamin ended up in prison for killing his wife, and the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
• Alice Mae: Alice Mae had a son named Newell with her first husband, James Green, before marrying Augustus Spahn.
• Lula: Lula passed away from epilepsy when she was just 17 years old in 1889

Final Words

Nellie Jennie’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience, love, and dedication during a challenging time in history. Her life alongside Bass Reeves shows the strength of family and the impact of overcoming hardships. By understanding her journey, we honor her legacy and the values she stood for, inspiring us to face challenges with courage.