The tale of Stagolee has been sung for over a century. Each singer shares a different version, adding to the legend. Known by many names—Stagolee, Staggerlee, Stack O’ Lee, and Stack O’ Dollars—this outlaw has become a symbol of African-American folklore. But the story is rooted in truth. It all began on Christmas night, 1895, when Stack Lee Shelton shot Billy Lyons over a Stetson hat in a St. Louis saloon.
Key points
Key Details:
- Date: December 25, 1895
- Location: St. Louis, Missouri
- Victim: William “Billy” Lyons
- Cause of Death: Gunshot
- Accused: “Stack” Lee Shelton
The Night of the Murder
Stack Lee Shelton was a prominent figure in the Deep Morgan neighborhood of St. Louis. He owned a saloon and brothel called the Modern Horseshoe Club. Known for his flashy style, Shelton was part of a group of St. Louis pimps called “macks.” On the night of the murder, he entered Bill Curtis’s Saloon dressed to impress.
Cecil Brown, in his book Stagolee Shot Billy, describes Shelton’s outfit: tailored shoes with mirrors, dove-colored spats, gray-striped pants, and a striking red velvet vest. He wore a high-roller Stetson adorned with an embroidered picture of his favorite girl, Lillie Shelton.
Inside the saloon, Shelton found his friend Billy Lyons, a levee worker who dressed more modestly. Despite their different styles, they enjoyed drinks and conversation. However, when politics came up, tensions flared. Billy was a Republican, while Stack Lee supported the growing faction of black St. Louis Democrats.
The Fatal Argument
The argument escalated when Shelton grabbed Billy’s derby hat and broke it. Lyons demanded money for a replacement, but Shelton refused. In retaliation, Lyons took Shelton’s Stetson. In a fit of rage, Shelton pulled out his .44 Smith and Wesson, threatening to kill Lyons if he didn’t return the hat.
Lyons, undeterred, pulled out a knife and challenged Shelton, saying, “You cockeyed son of a bitch, I’m going to make you kill me.” But Shelton was serious. He shot Billy Lyons, retrieved his hat, and calmly left the saloon.
Billy was rushed to an infirmary and then to a hospital, where he died around 4 AM. Meanwhile, Shelton was at home when the police arrived to arrest him. He was released on a $4,000 bail.
The Trial of Stack Lee Shelton
The trial began on July 15, 1896. Shelton hired Colonel Nat C. Dryden, a top criminal lawyer in St. Louis. Dryden argued that Shelton acted in self-defense. The jury deliberated for 22 hours but could not reach a verdict. The final count showed seven jurors for second-degree murder, two for manslaughter, and three for acquittal.
Tragically, Nat Dryden passed away on August 26, 1897, before Shelton could be retried. Although records of the second trial are scarce, it likely occurred soon after. On October 7, Stack Lee Shelton began serving a 25-year sentence at the Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City.
Life After Prison
Shelton was paroled on Thanksgiving Day, 1909, possibly due to petitions from influential St. Louis Democrats. However, his freedom was short-lived. Two years later, he was back in prison for robbery and assault. He died in prison from tuberculosis on March 11, 1912.
The Legend Lives On
Even before his death, Stack Lee Shelton transformed into the mythic figure known as Stagolee. The story of Billy Lyons’s murder evolved into a powerful narrative about a man who would not be denied. Since that fateful night, the song of Stagolee has been recorded over 285 times. Notable versions include Mississippi John Hurt’s 1928 recording “Stack O’Lee” and Lloyd Price’s 1959 hit “Stagger Lee.”
Cultural Impact
The legend of Stagolee reflects themes of pride, defiance, and the struggle for respect. It resonates with many, particularly in African-American communities. The story has been adapted into various forms of art, including music, literature, and theater. Each retelling adds layers to the legend, making it a rich part of American folklore.
The Evolution of the Stagolee Legend
As the story of Stagolee spread, it took on various forms and interpretations. Each artist added their own flair, making the legend a living narrative that evolves with time. The song “Stagger Lee” became a staple in American music, crossing genres from blues to rock and roll. Artists like Mississippi John Hurt and Lloyd Price helped popularize the tale, bringing it to new audiences.
The song often portrays Stagolee as a larger-than-life figure, embodying the spirit of defiance against authority and societal norms. This portrayal resonates with listeners who see Stagolee as a symbol of resistance, making the story relevant even today.
Stagolee in Modern Culture
In recent years, the legend of Stagolee has found its way into modern media. Films, documentaries, and books have explored the story, examining its historical context and cultural significance. The narrative serves as a lens through which we can view issues of race, violence, and justice in America.
For example, the song has been referenced in various films and television shows, often symbolizing rebellion or the fight against oppression. The character of Stagolee has become an archetype, representing the struggle for dignity and respect in a world that often denies it.
The Importance of Storytelling
The enduring nature of the Stagolee legend highlights the power of storytelling in preserving history and culture. Through songs and oral traditions, the tale has been passed down through generations, allowing new audiences to connect with the past.
Storytelling serves as a means of cultural expression, providing a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. The legend of Stagolee is a testament to the resilience of African-American culture and the importance of sharing stories that reflect the complexities of life.
Conclusion: A Legend for the Ages
The story of Stagolee is more than just a tale of murder; it is a reflection of societal issues, cultural identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The legend continues to inspire artists and storytellers, ensuring that the memory of Stack Lee Shelton and Billy Lyons lives on.
