Dreamscape Desperado: Billy the Kid and the Outlaw in America

The exhibit will explore who the real Billy was, and highlight the Billy of our collective imagination. This romanticized icon of the American West, shot and killed by legendary lawman Pat Garrett at a mere 21 years old, has inspired 60 films (more than any other historical figure,) a ballet with score by Aaron Copland, songs, plays, a small library of historical works, and novels by several Pulitzer-prize winners.

Dreamscape Desperado attempts to explain just why Billy rides across the world’s imagination with such power. The opposing traits of criminal and fighter for justice place him alongside Robin Hood and Ned Kelly in the gallery of international outlaws. His fame in America mirrors that of other notorious outlaws from Jesse James to John Dillinger and Bonnie and Clyde. Yet, Billy remains unique.

Even before his death in Fort Sumner, New Mexico, on July 14, 1881 the territorial press had built him into legendary status. At the same time the eastern press had picked up on the story of the Kid’s daring escape from the Lincoln County jail where he left two dead deputies in his wake. At least eight New York newspapers published stories on his death, as did The Times of London.

Dreamscape Desperado will include historic artifacts from Billy and his era, along with a unique collection of pop culture items inspired by his legend. These will encompass everything from songs about Billy to comic books to movie clips.