Dueling for Honor in Fort Smith: When Words Led to Pistols at Dawn

True tales from the Old West frontier

In the mid-19th century, Fort Smith, Arkansas, stood as a frontier town where the code of honor often dictated that disputes be settled through duels. These confrontations, while now viewed as relics of a bygone era, were once considered a legitimate means to defend one’s reputation.

The Code Duello in Fort Smith

During the 1800s, the “code duello” was a set of rules governing duels, primarily among the Southern elite. This code emphasized that a gentleman must defend his honor, sometimes leading to formal challenges and deadly encounters. In Fort Smith, this practice was not uncommon, reflecting the town’s adherence to these societal norms.

Notable Duels of the Era

One significant duel occurred in 1843 between Benjamin Borden, editor of the Arkansas Gazette, and Solon Borland, editor of the Arkansas Banner. Their professional rivalry escalated into personal attacks, culminating in a duel in Indian Territory west of Fort Smith. Borden’s accidental discharge led to Borland shooting him through the side. Remarkably, Borden survived, and the two men later reconciled, becoming friends.

Another notable incident involved Albert Pike and John Roane in 1847. After exchanging shots twice, their surgeons intervened, persuading them to cease the duel. The two men then spent the evening together in Fort Smith, highlighting how duels could sometimes end without lasting animosity.

The Decline of Dueling

Despite its prevalence, dueling began to wane after the Civil War. The disappearance of the elite class and the changing societal values contributed to its decline. The last recorded duel in Arkansas occurred in 1878 between John D. Adams and State Land Commissioner J. N. Smithee in Little Rock.

Reflections on Honor and Conflict Resolution

These historical accounts prompt us to consider how societal norms influence conflict resolution. While dueling was once deemed an honorable way to settle disputes, modern perspectives favor dialogue and legal avenues. This evolution raises questions about how current societal norms will be viewed by future generations.

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