Lottie Deno

Carlotta J. Thompkins, also known as Lottie Deno (April 21, 1844 – February 9, 1934), was a famous gambler in Texas and New Mexico during the nineteenth century known for her poker skills as well as her courage.

She was born in Kentucky and traveled a great deal in her early adulthood before coming to Texas. Much of her earlier life and even her real name at birth are a matter of debate among historians, but her fame as a poker player in the Southwest is not. According to author Johnny Hughes, "In the late 1800s Texas' most famous poker player was Lottie Deno (a shortened form of dinero - Spanish for money )." Her family was reportedly quite wealthy and her father, a racehorse breeder and prominent gambler, is said to have traveled extensively with Lottie, teaching her the secrets of winning at cards at some of the finest casinos. Cowboys and traders flush with cash during the period became targets for gamblers in frontier communities. Gaining fame as a gambler, Lottie became associated with various Old West personalities, including Doc Holliday.

During her travels, she gained numerous nicknames. In San Antonio she was known as the "Angel of San Antonio." At Fort Concho she became known as "Mystic Maud." At Fort Griffin she was called "Queen of the Pasteboards" and "Lottie Deno." It was this last moniker by which she became best known.