The legend of Davy Crockett is etched into American history, a frontiersman, soldier, and folk hero. But amidst the tales of his daring exploits, a question often lingers for those who delve deeper into his life What Happened To Davy Crockett’s Wife. While Davy’s story is widely known, the fate of his wives is less frequently discussed, leaving a void in our understanding of the man behind the myth.
The Wives of the King of the Wild Frontier
Davy Crockett was married twice during his tumultuous life. His first wife, Polly Finley, was a woman of hardy stock, much like Davy himself. They were married in 1806, and their union produced three children. Polly was a supportive partner, enduring the hardships of frontier life alongside Davy. However, tragedy struck this family. The health of Polly Finley, Davy Crockett’s first wife, deteriorated rapidly, and she passed away in 1815. The exact cause of her death is not definitively recorded, but it is widely believed to have been a common illness of the time, perhaps a fever or epidemic that swept through the region.
After Polly’s death, Davy eventually found love again. He married Elizabeth Patton, a widow with two children of her own, in 1817. Elizabeth, often referred to as “Betsy,” brought a resilience and strong will to Davy’s household. She managed the family and farm while Davy was away on his many expeditions and political endeavors. Her presence provided stability for Davy and a nurturing environment for their blended family. The challenges of frontier living were ever-present, and Betsy proved to be a capable and devoted wife.
| Wife’s Name | Marriage Year | Fate |
|---|---|---|
| Polly Finley | 1806 | Died in 1815 from illness |
| Elizabeth Patton | 1817 | Remained married to Davy until his death |
Elizabeth remained Davy’s wife until his fateful encounter at the Alamo. Unlike Polly, Elizabeth did not predecease Davy. She survived the Texan Revolution and continued to live in Texas after Davy’s death. The historical records indicate that Elizabeth Patton lived a long life after Davy’s passing, though details about her later years are not as prominently documented as Davy’s own adventures. She is often mentioned as the woman who remained steadfastly by his side through much of his extraordinary life.
To learn more about the lives of Davy Crockett’s wives and the context of their times, delve into the detailed historical accounts and biographies provided in the next section.