Ernest Haycox was born in Portland, Oregon on October 1, 1899. He graduated with a degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. During his lifetime, he wrote more than 20 novels, most of which were first serialized in Collier's Magazine or The Saturday Evening Post, and more than 300 short stories. His works include Trouble Shooter, The Earthbreakers, and The Adventurers. Several of his novels were adapted into movies including Stagecoach, Union Pacific, and Canyon Passage. He died from cancer on October 13, 1950 at the age of 51.