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.
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).
[1][5] 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.
[1] Their travels occurred during a local economic boom on the Texas frontier, as demand for bison hides spiked in the mid and late 1870s.
They became upstanding citizens in the community, with Frank eventually becoming vice president of Deming National Bank and Lottie helping to found St. Luke's Episcopal Church.
[4] Miss Kitty Russell, a character from the long-running American radio and television show Gunsmoke, starring James Arness, is based on Lottie Deno.
[1] Lisa Gaye played Deno in the episode "Lottie's Legacy" of the syndicated anthology series Death Valley Days, hosted by Robert Taylor.