Well, boys, girls, and Submarine Race Fans, yet another week has gone by. Because of this and that, I'm running late on getting around to posting, and I do humbly apologize for that.
The bad news is that my Monthly Old West El Paso Gunfight Tour is postponed untill Saturday August 9th, 2008. And why you might ask? Because Heidi, the Buckaroo and I are heading to Lincoln, New Mexico for Billy the Kid Days. We'll head up Friday evening, deal cards and talk history, then race back Sunday evening. Ought to be fun.
Got an email from the friends of Pat Garrett. From the sound of it, Cal Traylor took his last group out to see the ranch and Garrett Murder/ Kill site. Only had one couple that didn't brave the rain last Saturday. Other than that, a good time was had by all. Did learn that there are some issues about access to the murder site. But they seemed to be under control.
Wasn't sure if there was a meeting of the Concordia Heritage Society. Not sure iffn I'll make the August one either.
And for the trivia for the day, it was on August 1st, 1895 that Officer John Selman Jr. arrested Beulah M'Rose for drunk & Disorderly, and carrying a gun. She was fined $50.00. Some claim that this arrest provoked hard feelings between Jr. and John Wesley Hardin. Personally, it just an excuse of Papa John Selman to killed the famed gunfighter.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Diamond Dick gets new head stone
Monday evening I got a call from a friend, letting me know that Sonny Zambrano was going to install the granite headstone for Ernest St Leon (Diamond Dick). For those of you unfamiliar with the name, Ernst St Leon was a Texas Ranger, Under Cover man, and Frontier Detective. He served with John R. Hughes and Frank Jones. He earned the name Diamond Dick by way of the large stickpin he habitually wore. He was killed in a gunfight in a Ysleta cantina in August of '98. He was taken to El paso's Hotel Dieu. Despite the doc's best efforts, Diamond Dick died of his bullet wounds on August 31st, 1898. He was only 39 years old.
As far back as we can remember, Diamond Dick didn't have any marker at all. Beth Jones of Concordia Heritage Association located the grave in 1999. Hamilton Underwood constructed and installed a very nice wrought iron cross to mark the grave site. There the situation sit until The CHA purchased a new granite marker for him. I got excited when the call came in, and started making calls myself. Besides my usual suspects, I called and or emailed the local media to let them know whats going on.
So yesterday morning there were quite a group waiting for Sonny. Deen and Ham Underwood, Leon Metz, Marilyn Weaver, myself, Heidi, and the little Buckaroo were all waiting. Sonny was right on time. Deen inspected the stone, and the decision was made on just how it was going to be installed. A camera man from KFOX-TV showed up and shot some good footage.
Leon, myself, and Deen made a few comments for the camera, and as the saying goes: A good time was had by all.
Photo courtesy of Ham Underwood
Monday, July 21, 2008
Weekly update
Well folks, another week has gone by. How many of us remembered the significance of July 15th, 1945? I have to admit I had forgotten myself until reminded by my friend Rod Linkous. It was that evening when the scientists working out at Trinity site detonated the world's first atomic explosion, thus opening the Nuclear era. There are stories of the confusion the racket and flash caused even as as far south as El Paso. Typical government response was that it was an ammo dump exploding. Some This never change.
Actually got to listen to the Leon Metz Show Saturday morning on KTSM Radio. Jon Hansen, El Paso County's commissioner to the State Historic Commission, and Frank Gorman, past commissioner were guests. I know both these gentlemen the county historic commission meetings, and my hat's off to them. Over all good show. From Jon, we learned that the State Commission in heavily involved with the restoration of the Governor's Mansion, especially after the recent fire ( it was arson). They also went over the Historic Commission's acquisition of the Magoffin Home.
Also got to read Leon's column in the Time's this morning. Great piece about the Coyote and him place in history and culture.
I did do a little research in the alleged closing of the Museum of History. After the fall out the previous week, it was decided by Counsel to propose a 2.5% increase in their budget, and well as the Libraries and Parks and Rec. I found it intrigueing that the CVB got a 6% increase.
Now am I wrong, but doesn't the CVB control the Plaza Theatre, McKelligan Canyon ( mainly Viva El Paso), the Chavez Performing Art's Center, and the Convention Center? And don't forget the same company controls the monopoly for concessions there as well ( $3.00 for a SMALL bottle of water- It's Plum Ridiculous!)? So with all the income these folks are raking in form the differnt venues, why do THEY need such a large increase in budget? Friend of mine wanted to throw a birthday party on the Plaza Annex, and by the time the catering and such was factored in, it would have cost her in excess of $25,000.00. Makes me wonder if I'm back in Cook County IL again. Just another of the questions I'd like to ask her majesty, Joyce the 1st if I become Mayor.
Regretfully I haven't had time to go down and review the Butterfield Trail exhibit at the MOH. If I know Barb Angus, it's a damned good Exhibit. Now there's an unsung heroine of El Paso. I remember back in the bad old days out on Americas Ave. She and Rene Harris would be able to accomplish so much, with so little, that they could achieve about anything with nothing. One of the few regrets I have about the new digs is that I can't waltz in the back door anymore and pitch in to help.
Actually got to listen to the Leon Metz Show Saturday morning on KTSM Radio. Jon Hansen, El Paso County's commissioner to the State Historic Commission, and Frank Gorman, past commissioner were guests. I know both these gentlemen the county historic commission meetings, and my hat's off to them. Over all good show. From Jon, we learned that the State Commission in heavily involved with the restoration of the Governor's Mansion, especially after the recent fire ( it was arson). They also went over the Historic Commission's acquisition of the Magoffin Home.
Also got to read Leon's column in the Time's this morning. Great piece about the Coyote and him place in history and culture.
I did do a little research in the alleged closing of the Museum of History. After the fall out the previous week, it was decided by Counsel to propose a 2.5% increase in their budget, and well as the Libraries and Parks and Rec. I found it intrigueing that the CVB got a 6% increase.
Now am I wrong, but doesn't the CVB control the Plaza Theatre, McKelligan Canyon ( mainly Viva El Paso), the Chavez Performing Art's Center, and the Convention Center? And don't forget the same company controls the monopoly for concessions there as well ( $3.00 for a SMALL bottle of water- It's Plum Ridiculous!)? So with all the income these folks are raking in form the differnt venues, why do THEY need such a large increase in budget? Friend of mine wanted to throw a birthday party on the Plaza Annex, and by the time the catering and such was factored in, it would have cost her in excess of $25,000.00. Makes me wonder if I'm back in Cook County IL again. Just another of the questions I'd like to ask her majesty, Joyce the 1st if I become Mayor.
Regretfully I haven't had time to go down and review the Butterfield Trail exhibit at the MOH. If I know Barb Angus, it's a damned good Exhibit. Now there's an unsung heroine of El Paso. I remember back in the bad old days out on Americas Ave. She and Rene Harris would be able to accomplish so much, with so little, that they could achieve about anything with nothing. One of the few regrets I have about the new digs is that I can't waltz in the back door anymore and pitch in to help.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Yet Another Week
They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. If that's the truth I should make Popeye look like an amenic weakling. The old faithful blue pick'em up decided to fry a starter Thursday, so any plans I had for the week end were trashed.
Heidi and I DID make it to see Viva El Paso Saturday night. Yeah they play fast and loose with the history, but overall it was a well put together show, and worth the trip.
The El Paso County Hiscotirc Commission is on hiatus this month, so no meeting to report on this week. Next meeting should be September.
A bunch of folks in town depart Tuesday for Tulsa, OK for the Round Up of the Wild West Historical Association, the result of the merging of Nola and Wola. From what I've seen of the progran for this week, it ought to be a hell of a convention. Paul Cool has a break out session of John B. Tays. I'd kill to be able to sit in on that one. When folks get back, I'll pass on the comments they had.
Speaking of Comments and what the little birdies say, July 27th was the scheduled Dedication of the Concordia Cemetery State Historical Marker. I wasn't able to attend, but from what I heard, A lot of praises were sung for the Probationers and their good work, but nothing on the official agenda about the dedication. If this is true, my question is; "What Gives?" Anyone out there who attended and heard differnt, plus send in your comments.
Another gripe I am looking into. Heard a snipet on Leon Metz's show Saturday morning that the city is talking about shutting down the Museum of History because of buget restraints.
IF true, My question to Hiz Honor and Joyce the 1st is:
1: If we can't afford a museum of history, despite the bond money raise to build it, How can we afford the attorney fees to fight the reopening of ASARCO?
2: If we cant afford to keep the Museum of History open, How can the city afford to build a new Puzzle Palace? If the one atop MCGinty Hill isn't big enough, clear out the deadwood in city Hall. How many secretaries or aids do the Mayor and the Reps actually need?
on well thats for another blog.... when I officially begin my bid for Mayor.
Once I get settled in tonight, I'm going to go over the budget and see where this all is coming from. Once I get a good grip on the details I will post them here.
For anyone that went down town Thursday, I apologize for not being there. With the truck starter going up in smoke, was stuck out in the North East trying to figure out how to get home
Heidi and I DID make it to see Viva El Paso Saturday night. Yeah they play fast and loose with the history, but overall it was a well put together show, and worth the trip.
The El Paso County Hiscotirc Commission is on hiatus this month, so no meeting to report on this week. Next meeting should be September.
A bunch of folks in town depart Tuesday for Tulsa, OK for the Round Up of the Wild West Historical Association, the result of the merging of Nola and Wola. From what I've seen of the progran for this week, it ought to be a hell of a convention. Paul Cool has a break out session of John B. Tays. I'd kill to be able to sit in on that one. When folks get back, I'll pass on the comments they had.
Speaking of Comments and what the little birdies say, July 27th was the scheduled Dedication of the Concordia Cemetery State Historical Marker. I wasn't able to attend, but from what I heard, A lot of praises were sung for the Probationers and their good work, but nothing on the official agenda about the dedication. If this is true, my question is; "What Gives?" Anyone out there who attended and heard differnt, plus send in your comments.
Another gripe I am looking into. Heard a snipet on Leon Metz's show Saturday morning that the city is talking about shutting down the Museum of History because of buget restraints.
IF true, My question to Hiz Honor and Joyce the 1st is:
1: If we can't afford a museum of history, despite the bond money raise to build it, How can we afford the attorney fees to fight the reopening of ASARCO?
2: If we cant afford to keep the Museum of History open, How can the city afford to build a new Puzzle Palace? If the one atop MCGinty Hill isn't big enough, clear out the deadwood in city Hall. How many secretaries or aids do the Mayor and the Reps actually need?
on well thats for another blog.... when I officially begin my bid for Mayor.
Once I get settled in tonight, I'm going to go over the budget and see where this all is coming from. Once I get a good grip on the details I will post them here.
For anyone that went down town Thursday, I apologize for not being there. With the truck starter going up in smoke, was stuck out in the North East trying to figure out how to get home
Monday, July 7, 2008
Another week. Life was beginning to sound like a Country Western Song. Bobby was sick and cranky, truck broke down, and some one stole all my money. And me with out a beer in the house! Oh well.
Saturday July 5th had some good stuff going on. First was my regularly schedualed "Old West El Paso Gunfight Tour". Unfortunatly, no ne showed up again. I really need to find the resources to advertise out of town....
Henri Flores and his crowd had there Concordia Ghost tour as well. Being without the truck, I couldn't slip by and see what sort of turn out he had.
Trying to contact City Rep Castro, and the Police Chief today. Thursday sees a city anniversary we really out to recognize. See if Ms Castro's secratary ships me off to the Guitar Player's secratary yet again.
And what's so special about Thurday you might ask? It Marks the 125th anniversary of the first El paso Police Officer killed in the line of duty.
Tom Mode was a former Texas Ranger, serving under Lt. James A. Tays in 1878. He also ran a small ranch outside of town. By 1883 Mode was an assistant under City Marshal Frank Comstock. By all accounts he was a hard working capable officer.
Howard Doughty operated the Hart Brothers' Willo Spring Ranch, just outside of SIlver City,New Mexico. He and a couple of friends had sold a herd of cattle in Chiuhuahua, and were celebrating the sale. Doughty was drunk and quarrelsome, raising Cain at the National Theatre on Ekl Paso Street. He even went so far as to hurl empty whiskey tumblers at the performers on stage. Adding two more friends to the group (including Nic Biddle, a reporter for the Lone Star) the quintet made their way to Utah street and the Mansard Roof, a bordello operated by Miss Cora Bell. Doughty was just as troublesome there as at the National, demanding the the house fighting men take him on. Tiring of the Mansard Roof's wares, Doughty led his group across the street to Alice Abbott's Bordello. Doughty doing his best to woo Miss Dora Scott.
Mode and city jailer W.H. Wheat had answered the drunk and disorderly call at the National Theatre. Mode trekked to the Mansard Roof, and found his quarry at Abbott's. Wheat brought Biddle out to the porch, where Mode questioned him about the real culprit in the trouble. Doughty watched this questioning through the window, slipping his .45 behind the couch.
When Tom Mode entered the parlor and informed Doughty he was under arrest, the rancher whipped out his pistol and began firing wildly. Mode attempted to drew his own six-gun, but caught the muzzle in the hem of his coat. Before he could get it clear, Doughty had hit him in the chest. Tom Mode Staggered outside and collapsed in the muddy street. Doughty, his companions and jailer Wheat all scedattled out of the area. In his defense, Wheat claimed it was to fetch a doctor and the marshal. it was two weeks before Capt Murray of the Rangers arrested Doughty in Colorado City. With the legal manuvering and such, it wasn't until April of 1885 that Doughty stood trial. he was acquited on grounds of self defense
To mark the occasion, I invited the Chief of Police, NE CIty Representaive Castro, to join me in the parking lot on South Mesa Street, between Overland and Piasano Thursday evenng at 7:00. Be interesting to see if anyone shows up.
Saturday July 5th had some good stuff going on. First was my regularly schedualed "Old West El Paso Gunfight Tour". Unfortunatly, no ne showed up again. I really need to find the resources to advertise out of town....
Henri Flores and his crowd had there Concordia Ghost tour as well. Being without the truck, I couldn't slip by and see what sort of turn out he had.
Trying to contact City Rep Castro, and the Police Chief today. Thursday sees a city anniversary we really out to recognize. See if Ms Castro's secratary ships me off to the Guitar Player's secratary yet again.
And what's so special about Thurday you might ask? It Marks the 125th anniversary of the first El paso Police Officer killed in the line of duty.
Tom Mode was a former Texas Ranger, serving under Lt. James A. Tays in 1878. He also ran a small ranch outside of town. By 1883 Mode was an assistant under City Marshal Frank Comstock. By all accounts he was a hard working capable officer.
Howard Doughty operated the Hart Brothers' Willo Spring Ranch, just outside of SIlver City,New Mexico. He and a couple of friends had sold a herd of cattle in Chiuhuahua, and were celebrating the sale. Doughty was drunk and quarrelsome, raising Cain at the National Theatre on Ekl Paso Street. He even went so far as to hurl empty whiskey tumblers at the performers on stage. Adding two more friends to the group (including Nic Biddle, a reporter for the Lone Star) the quintet made their way to Utah street and the Mansard Roof, a bordello operated by Miss Cora Bell. Doughty was just as troublesome there as at the National, demanding the the house fighting men take him on. Tiring of the Mansard Roof's wares, Doughty led his group across the street to Alice Abbott's Bordello. Doughty doing his best to woo Miss Dora Scott.
Mode and city jailer W.H. Wheat had answered the drunk and disorderly call at the National Theatre. Mode trekked to the Mansard Roof, and found his quarry at Abbott's. Wheat brought Biddle out to the porch, where Mode questioned him about the real culprit in the trouble. Doughty watched this questioning through the window, slipping his .45 behind the couch.
When Tom Mode entered the parlor and informed Doughty he was under arrest, the rancher whipped out his pistol and began firing wildly. Mode attempted to drew his own six-gun, but caught the muzzle in the hem of his coat. Before he could get it clear, Doughty had hit him in the chest. Tom Mode Staggered outside and collapsed in the muddy street. Doughty, his companions and jailer Wheat all scedattled out of the area. In his defense, Wheat claimed it was to fetch a doctor and the marshal. it was two weeks before Capt Murray of the Rangers arrested Doughty in Colorado City. With the legal manuvering and such, it wasn't until April of 1885 that Doughty stood trial. he was acquited on grounds of self defense
To mark the occasion, I invited the Chief of Police, NE CIty Representaive Castro, to join me in the parking lot on South Mesa Street, between Overland and Piasano Thursday evenng at 7:00. Be interesting to see if anyone shows up.
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