The American West was a grand meeting place of folks from all corners of the world, and their words often carried the dust of their travels. The way a man spoke could tell you more about his history than a dog-eared map. From the slow drawl of a plainsman to the refined speech of a city gentleman, here are some examples of the different tongues heard across the frontier.
The Plainsman's Drawl
This fella’s talk is as wide open as the country he rides. His words are slow and deliberate, stretched out like an evening shadow.
Example: “Reckon the weather’s fixin’ to turn, ain’t it, partner? Best git that cattle a-movin’ 'fore the sky lets loose.”
The Greenhorn from the East
Fresh off the train from some big city back East, this one's voice is clean and precise. He might use grander words, but he’s often a touch out of place.
Example: “My goodness, the heat here is simply dreadful. I must admit, I find this entire undertaking quite… taxing, indeed. Are you certain we are on the proper path?”
The Scottish Immigrant
Aye, he's a hard-workin' man with a brogue as thick as a winter fog. His words are clipped, and he doesn't suffer a fool gladly.
Example: “Och, ye dinnae ken a thing abou' it, laddie. It's a wee bit o' work, and ye'll be set. C'mon now, dinnae be shy, get yer hands dirty!”
The Vaquero
He carries the sun and the dust of Mexico in his voice, with a rhythm born of the Spanish tongue. His words are polite and often come with a warm smile.
Example: "Por favor, mi amigo, you must try my wife's food. It is good, yes? Ah, you are a fine caballero to have at our fire. Come, sit, no?"
The Grizzled Prospector
He's spent more time in a mineshaft than a schoolhouse. His talk is rough and to the point, filled with words of hard labor and fortune.
Example: "Got a claim up near Blackwood Creek. Got a notion there's gold in that there dirt, but it's a helluva lot of diggin'. Might hit pay dirt, might just end up with a pile o' rocks."
The Chinese Immigrant
His talk is a mix of simple words and a careful rhythm, as he works to find the right English for his thoughts. He speaks with purpose, each word having meaning.
Example: "I think... you say... this gold. No? My family, they wait. I send home money. Good luck find here, yes? Good luck for all."
The Native American
His words are spoken with great thought, drawing on a deep connection to the land and the spirit world. His speech is often direct and without unnecessary filler.
Example: “The river runs fast. This is a bad sign. The spirit of the water is angry. The white man’s iron road cuts the heart of the earth. It brings sorrow, not the good life.”
The Irish Accent
A quick, rolling accent with a lyrical quality, often full of charm and a bit of quick wit.
Example: "Ah, sure an' you're a fine fella! What's the trouble, eh? It's a grand day for a bit of a ride, ain't it? Don't you worry now, it'll all be grand."
The Street Rat's Cant
His talk is fast and loose, filled with slang and a low-down kind of swagger. It’s the language of the back alleys and saloons, meant to be heard quick and understood quicker.
Example: "The coppers are on the prowl. Best tuck that stash o' hooch away 'fore they come snoopin'. Ain't no sense in givin' 'em the satisfaction, ya know?"