In 1869, Texas Jack moved to Fort Hays, Kansas, where he met California Joe Milner and Wild Bill Hickok, the latter being sheriff of Ellis County at the time. Later that year, Jack met and befriended William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, who was working with the 5th US Cavalry at Fort McPherson, and Jack was hired as a scout and trail guide during the Indian Wars.Logan (1954), pp. 31–33; 45. Special permission had to be obtained as the US government did not generally permit the employment of ex-Confederate soldiers. During the Battle of Summit Springs, Texas Jack captured his well-known white horse from Indian Chief Tall Bull.
