Who is the real Pistol Pete?
Consequently, was Pistol Pete a real person?
Pistol Pete originated with a real Oklahoma lawman named Frank Eaton, a bigger-than-life gunfighter. In 1868, when he was only eight years old his father was gunned down by a band of “regulators.”
Likewise, people ask, did Pistol Pete avenge his father?
Wyley Campsey was shot in a barroom gunfight along with two of his hired gunmen. Finally, after six long years, Frank Eaton was able to avenge his father's death. Each man drew his gun first, but came out "second best" in the end.
However, it was not until 1958 that "Pistol Pete" was adopted as the school's mascot. The familiar caricature of "Pistol Pete" was officially sanctioned in 1984 by Oklahoma State University as a licensed symbol. Each year, an average of 15 Oklahoma State students audition to portray Pistol Pete.