Charlton Comics's CHEYENNE KID was another "white-guy-raised-as-an-Indian," but something about him-- possibly his raffish looks, perhaps better-than-average art-- resonated with readers of western comics. Cheyenne started out in the last issue of Charlton's anthology western WILD FRONTIER, in which he dominated most of the issue. WILD FRONTIER then was re-titled CHEYENNE KID, and from issue #8 to #99 (1957-1973) the character sustained an ongoing series. Like most such "men who knows Indians," he alternated between quelling renegade Indians-- usually attempting to broker peace-- and bringing down corrupt Caucasians.
Cheyenne is first seen surviving the massacre of a wagon-train by Indians. Despite the fact that "young Jones" (not given a first name in the story) has seen his father die, he accepts being adopted by the Cheyenne tribe that committed the assault, and even comes to regard his adoptive father Angry Bear as a surrogate parent. But in order to keep him from turning completely, he forms an acrimonious relationship with another young brave, Silent Otter. When the other brave stoops to unfair tactics in attacking another wagon-train, Cheyenne trounces his ally and switches allegiances.
He then attempts to adjust to a white life, but takes issue with a local merchants maltreatment of the Red Man:
Finally, he becomes a scout for the Army, and he essentially remains in that position for the rest of his career. The debut is marked by handsome Giordano-Alascia art, with a possible script by workhorse Joe Gill.
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