Delve into the life of Devil Anse Hatfield, a figure whose name is inextricably linked with one of America’s most infamous family feuds. His life story is a tapestry of conflict, leadership, and a legacy that continues to capture the imagination of historians and the public alike. Let’s journey back in time and uncover the narrative of this notorious patriarch of the Hatfield clan.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Family
William Anderson Hatfield, better known as “Devil Anse,” was born on September 9, 1839, in Logan County, which is now part of West Virginia. Born to Ephraim Hatfield and Nancy Vance, he grew up in the rugged terrain of the Tug Valley, an area straddling the border between West Virginia and Kentucky. The nickname “Devil Anse” is thought to have originated from his mother, who reportedly said he was “hale as a big, full-grown devil” during a childhood illness. Young Anse was raised in a family that valued strong kinship ties, a trait that would profoundly influence his later life.
The Hatfield-McCoy Feud
The Hatfield-McCoy feud is the event with which Devil Anse Hatfield’s name is most commonly associated. This notorious family feud between the Hatfields of West Virginia and the McCoys of Kentucky erupted in the years following the American Civil War. The conflict is believed to have been sparked by a combination of post-war tensions, disputes over timber rights, and even the theft of a pig. As the patriarch of the Hatfield family, Devil Anse played a central role in the feud, leading his kin in various violent skirmishes that resulted in numerous deaths on both sides. The feud reached its peak in the 1880s and became a symbol of Appalachian vendettas.
Later Life and Legacy
As the years passed, the intensity of the Hatfield-McCoy feud diminished, and Devil Anse, who had evaded the law on multiple occasions, finally turned to a life of relative peace. In his later years, he found religion and was baptized in Island Creek in 1911. He became a member of the Baptist church, which was somewhat ironic given his violent past. Devil Anse Hatfield passed away on January 6, 1921, leaving behind a complex legacy. He is remembered as a fierce family man, a wily leader, and a central figure in one of the most dramatic chapters of American folklore. His life and the feud have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and even a miniseries, ensuring that the tale of Devil Anse Hatfield lives on in popular culture.
Conclusion
Devil Anse Hatfield’s life story is a compelling narrative of loyalty, leadership, and the dark shadows of vendetta. His role in the Hatfield-McCoy feud has become legendary, a reminder of the turbulent times in which he lived and the powerful bonds of family. As the years march on, the legend of Devil Anse continues to be a topic of fascination, a testament to the enduring power of human stories to captivate and endure.