A famous gambler in the state of Texas, Lottie was born Carlotta J. Thompkins in Kentucky in 1834. Born to a plantation family, her father died in the Civil War. She left home, and in about 1865 arrived in Texas. Known for her poker skills and courage she reportedly bested Doc Holliday. The character of "Miss Kittie" on Gunsmoke is said to be based on Lottie. She was in several locations in Texas including San Antonio, Fort Worth, Jacksboro (Near Fort Richardson), and Fort Griffin where the took the name Lottie Deno. She later moved to New Mexico where she married Frank Thurmond and they became respected citizens. She deid in 1944 in New Mexico.