William Dixon (September 25, 1850 – March 9, 1913) was an American scout and bison hunter who operated extensively in the Texas Panhandle during the nineteenth century. As a frontier figure, Dixon was deeply involved in the early history of the region, contributing directly to its development by helping to found the settlement of Adobe Walls. His life and activities in the Panhandle reflected the volatile environment of the American frontier during this era.
Dixon is best remembered for his actions during key conflicts on the frontier. At the Second Battle of Adobe Walls, he fired a famous, long-distance shot with a buffalo rifle that became a legendary feat of marksmanship. Later, his conduct during the Buffalo Wallow Fight earned him national recognition. For his bravery during this engagement, Dixon was awarded the U.S. Medal of Honor, making him one of only eight civilians to ever receive the nation's highest military decoration.
