Little-Known Facts About Davy Crockett That Put The 'Hero' In A New Light
Popularly known as the “King of the Wild Frontier,” Davy Crockett was at the center of so many wild tales that he's become more of a folk hero than a historical figure. But while the line is often blurred between the man and the myth, there were plenty of outrageous events that actually occurred in this legendary American's life. And these little-known facts from history — including Crockett's bloodthirsty rise to the top and his tragic end — will make you see the frontiersman's legacy in a whole new light.
Extinct State Of Birth
On August 17, 1786, Davy Crockett was born in a U.S. state that no longer exists — Franklin. This is the area known as East Tennessee today, but in 1784 Franklin was a breakaway territory that claimed independence from North Carolina. Davy's life was already off to an unconventional start, then, and he soon showed that he was no ordinary boy.
Only Four Days Of Formal Schooling
One of John and Rebecca Crockett's nine children, Davy was scheduled to begin his schooling at the age of 13. Just four days into his academic career, though, Davy got into a fight with another student, prompting him to skip school. John Crockett was furious after finding out about his absence.
From Schoolboy To Farmhand
When he did hear about li'l Davy's absence, Mr. Crockett attempted to give his son a whipping. But Davy escaped from his father and decided to run away from home. He eventually met a group of cattle drivers and later began work as a farmhand. And by the time Davy returned home at the age of 16, he had completed four years as an apprentice hatter.
The Creek War
After marrying Mary "Polly" Finley and fathering three children, Crockett launched his military career. When the Native American Creek tribe split into two factions, the section known as the "Red Sticks" launched an attack on settlers at Fort Mims, Alabama. In response, the Tennessee state militia — for whom Davy volunteered — decided to strike back in what became known as the 1813 Creek War.
