The Resurrection of Bass Reeves. “The tales of his captures are legendary – filled with intrigue, imagination, and courage. Bass Reeves would become the first black U.S. Deputy Marshal west of the Mississippi River and one of the greatest frontier heroes in our nation’s history, known for his exceptional shooting skills and his ability to dodge bullets. Over the 35 years that Bass Reeves served as a Deputy United States Marshal, he earned his place in history by being one of the most effective lawmen in Indian Territory, bringing in more than 3,000 outlaws and helping to tame the lawless territory.” “Maybe the law ain’t perfect, but it’s the only one we got, and without it, we got nuthin” Bass Reeves