Tag: Arizona

Arizona, located in the southwestern region of the United States, is renowned for its diverse landscapes and cultural richness. Home to iconic natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona offers a dramatic and varied terrain that ranges from arid deserts to pine-covered mountains. The state’s climate is typically characterized by hot summers and mild winters, with the southern parts being desert-like while the northern regions experience a more temperate climate. Arizona is also rich in Native American history, with numerous tribes such as the Navajo, Hopi, and Apache having deep roots in the region. The state’s cities, including Phoenix and Tucson, blend modern urban life with a strong appreciation for the natural environment and cultural heritage. Arizona’s economy thrives on tourism, technology, and agriculture, making it a dynamic and multifaceted state.

Thomas McLaury 

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Thomas McLaury of Tombstone in 1879
Thomas McLaury of Tombstone in 1879

Tom McLaury, born as Thomas McLaury, was a key figure in the tumultuous environment of the American frontier during the late 19th century. His involvement in the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and his role in the broader context of frontier lawlessness and conflict make him a significant, though controversial, figure in Western history.

Tom McLaury was born in 1853 to a Southern family in Texas. He grew up in a post-Civil War environment that was marked by economic challenges and social changes. Details about his early life are sparse, but it is known that McLaury, along with his family, moved westward in search of better opportunities. His family settled in various frontier towns and became involved in ranching and other activities typical of the expanding West.

Life in Tombstone

McLaury, like many others, was drawn to Tombstone, Arizona, by the promise of wealth from the booming silver mines. He and his brothers became prominent figures in the region, engaging in ranching and business.

Tom McLaury, along with his brothers Frank and Ike, became known as part of the “Cowboys,” a loose group of outlaws and rustlers. The McLaurys were involved in various activities that brought them into conflict with law enforcement and other local figures.

The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place on October 26, 1881. Tom McLaury was present during the gunfight, which erupted between the Cowboys and the lawmen led by Wyatt Earp, his brothers Virgil and Morgan, and their ally Doc Holliday.

Tom McLaury, along with his brother Frank and fellow Cowboys Billy Clanton and Ike Clanton, was involved in the gunfight. During the confrontation, Tom McLaury was shot and killed. The gunfight lasted only about 30 seconds but had significant repercussions for both sides.

The aftermath of the gunfight saw the surviving Cowboys and their sympathizers rallying against the Earps and their allies. The gunfight deepened the rift between the law-abiding citizens and the outlaws in Tombstone, with ongoing tensions and conflicts.

The bodies of Tom & Frank McLaury and Bill Clanton after the shoot-out in Tombstone
The bodies of Tom & Frank McLaury and Bill Clanton after the shoot-out in Tombstone

Personal Characteristics and Legacy

Tom McLaury was known to be a rugged frontier individual, characteristic of many who lived during this turbulent period. His involvement with the Cowboys placed him in direct opposition to law enforcement, reflecting the broader lawlessness and instability of the frontier. His Legacy is intertwined with the broader history of the American West. His involvement in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and his role as part of the Cowboys has cemented him as a notable figure in Western folklore. The gunfight remains one of the most famous and mythologized events in Western history.

Tom McLaury’s life was emblematic of the harsh and often violent realities of frontier life. His death in the gunfight at the O.K. Corral marked a significant moment in the history of the American West, illustrating the intense conflicts that characterized the period and the complex nature of law and order in the frontier towns.

California Goldfields ( Lasthenia californica )

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Lasthenia californica, commonly known as California goldfields, is an annual flowering plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to California and is particularly prominent in the coastal ranges and valleys. This species is well-known for its vibrant yellow blooms that contribute significantly to the wildflower displays in California during the spring.

California Goldfields ( Lasthenia californica )
California Goldfields ( Lasthenia californica )

Taxonomy

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Eudicots
  • Clade: Asterids
  • Order: Asterales
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Genus: Lasthenia
  • Species: L. californica

Morphology

Lasthenia californica is characterized by its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. The plant typically reaches heights of 10-50 cm. Key morphological features include:

  • Stems: Erect, slender, and often branched.
  • Leaves: Basal leaves are linear to narrowly oblanceolate, often covered with fine hairs.
  • Flowers: Inflorescences are capitula, composed of numerous yellow ray and disk florets.
  • Fruit: Achene, with each achene being topped with a pappus aiding in wind dispersal.

Habitat and Distribution

Lasthenia californica is commonly found in a variety of habitats including grasslands, coastal prairies, and open woodlands. It thrives in areas with well-drained soils and full sunlight. The plant’s distribution is largely concentrated in California, though it can also be found in parts of Oregon, Nevada, and Baja California.

Ecology

California goldfields play a significant role in their ecosystems. They provide nectar and pollen for various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects. The plant’s early blooming period helps sustain pollinator populations before other wildflowers and crops bloom.

Reproduction

Lasthenia californica reproduces sexually through seed production. The flowering period extends from February to May, during which pollination occurs primarily via insects. After pollination, seeds develop and are dispersed by wind and gravity. The seeds have a dormancy period that allows them to germinate under favorable conditions in the following year.

Conservation Status

Lasthenia californica is not currently listed as endangered or threatened. However, its habitats are often threatened by urban development, agriculture, and invasive species. Conservation efforts focus on preserving native habitats and controlling invasive species to ensure the continued survival of this and other native wildflower species.

Cultural and Economic Importance

California goldfields are valued for their aesthetic contributions to natural landscapes and wildflower displays. They are also studied for their ecological interactions and adaptability to various environmental conditions. Additionally, they are used in restoration projects aimed at re-establishing native plant communities.

Lasthenia californica is a vibrant and ecologically significant wildflower native to California. Its bright yellow blooms are a hallmark of the spring season in many regions, contributing to the biodiversity and aesthetic value of the areas they inhabit. Understanding the biology, ecology, and conservation needs of this species is essential for preserving its role in native ecosystems.

References

Joseph Isaac Clanton

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Joseph Isaac Clanton, commonly knows as “Ike” Clanton was a notable figure in the American Old West, primarily recognized for his involvement in the notorious gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Born on March 1, 1847, in Calloway County, Kentucky, as Isaac Clanton, he grew up in a tumultuous time marked by the expansion and conflict of the frontier.

Historical photo of Ike Clanton in 1881 by photographer Camillus S. Fly, Tombstone, Arizona Territory.
Historical photo of Ike Clanton in 1881 by photographer Camillus S. Fly, Tombstone, Arizona Territory.

Early Life

Ike Clanton was the eldest of a large family that moved westward, eventually settling in Arizona. His father, Newman Clanton, was a prominent rancher and ranch hand, contributing to Ike’s early exposure to the rough and often violent life of the frontier.

The Clanton Family and the Cowboy Faction


Ike, along with his brothers and other family members, was part of a group known as the Clanton Gang, or the Cowboys. This group was a faction involved in various criminal activities, including cattle rustling and other illicit operations. The Clantons were known to have frequent conflicts with law enforcement and other factions in the region.

The O.K. Corral Gunfight

Ike Clanton is perhaps best known for his involvement in the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona, which took place on October 26, 1881. The gunfight was a pivotal event in the Earp-Clanton feud and involved notable figures such as Wyatt Earp, Virgil Earp, Morgan Earp, and Doc Holliday.

On the day of the gunfight, Ike Clanton and his brothers, along with other members of their faction, had a violent confrontation with the Earp brothers and Doc Holliday. The altercation lasted only about 30 seconds but became one of the most infamous shootouts in American history. Clanton, who had been verbally threatening the Earps, was disarmed and fled the scene. Although he survived the gunfight, the event marked a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict between the Cowboys and the lawmen.

Later Life and Death

After the O.K. Corral gunfight, Ike Clanton faced increasing challenges and threats. His involvement in the events surrounding the gunfight made him a target for both law enforcement and rival factions. In 1887, Clanton was killed in a gunfight with a lawman named Frank “Buckskin” Leslie in a dispute over a stolen horse.

Ike Clanton’s life and actions reflect the tumultuous nature of the Old West, characterized by lawlessness, frequent violence, and personal vendettas. His involvement in the O.K. Corral gunfight solidified his place in Western history, often remembered as a symbol of the frontier’s rough and dangerous era.

Virgil Walter Earp

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Virgil Walter Earp ( July 18, 1843 – October 19, 1905) was born in Lincoln County, Kentucky, was a prominent lawman and frontier figure known for his role in the American Old West. As the eldest of the Earp siblings, Virgil took on a leadership role within the family, guiding his younger brothers Wyatt, Morgan, and James. A seasoned law enforcement officer, Virgil served as a deputy U.S. marshal and, later, as the town marshal of Tombstone, Arizona. His most notable moment came during the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral on October 26, 1881, where he, alongside Wyatt and Doc Holliday, confronted a group of outlaws known as the Cowboys. Despite surviving the gunfight, Virgil’s tenure in Tombstone was marred by violence and personal loss, including the assassination attempt that severely injured him and ultimately led to the death of his brother Morgan. Virgil’s resilience and sense of justice left a lasting imprint on the lore of the Old West.

Virgil Earp 1843 -1905
Virgil Earp 1843 -1905

Early Life and Family

Virgil Walter Earp was born on July 18, 1843, in Hartford, Kentucky. He was the second of Nicholas and Virginia Ann Cooksey Earp’s five sons. The Earp family moved frequently during Virgil’s childhood, eventually settling in Pella, Iowa. Growing up in a large and adventurous family, Virgil, along with his brothers James, Wyatt, Morgan, and Warren, developed a strong sense of camaraderie and loyalty that would shape their future endeavors.

Civil War Service

In 1861, at the age of 18, Virgil enlisted in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He served with the 83rd Illinois Infantry Regiment and later transferred to the 17th Illinois Cavalry. His service was marked by bravery and resilience, traits that would later define his career as a lawman. After the war, Virgil returned to civilian life, married his first wife, Ellen, and started a family. Unfortunately, Ellen died shortly after the birth of their daughter.

Life as a Lawman

Virgil’s career as a lawman began in the 1870s. He held various positions across different towns, working as a constable in Prescott, Arizona, and as a deputy U.S. marshal. His reputation for enforcing the law with determination and fairness quickly spread. In 1879, Virgil moved to Tombstone, Arizona, where he would play a crucial role in one of the most famous events in Western history.

The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

Virgil Earp’s most notable moment came on October 26, 1881, in Tombstone. As the city marshal of Tombstone, Virgil, along with his brothers Wyatt and Morgan, and their friend Doc Holliday, faced off against the Clanton and McLaury brothers in what became known as the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The confrontation, which lasted only about 30 seconds, resulted in the deaths of three outlaws and left Virgil seriously wounded. Despite his injuries, Virgil’s leadership and bravery during the gunfight cemented his place in the annals of the American West.

Later Years and Legacy

Following the gunfight, Virgil is held for a preliminary trail for his role in the gunfight which led to the death of three men. On November 19th, 1881, Virgil Earp, still seriously injured from the gunfight, testified from his bedside at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. He is exonerated on November 30, 1881 with the finding on Judge Wells Spicer.

Virgil’s troubles were far from over. In December 1881, he was ambushed and shot by unknown assailants, leaving him with a permanently crippled left arm. Despite this setback, Virgil continued to serve as a lawman, moving to California, where he worked as a law enforcement officer in various capacities, including city marshal of Colton and constable in Vanderbilt.

Virgil Earp passed away on October 19, 1905, in Goldfield, Nevada, at the age of 62. He was buried in the Riverview Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. His life, marked by courage, resilience, and a commitment to justice, left a lasting legacy in the history of the American West. Virgil Earp’s story, along with those of his brothers, continues to captivate the imaginations of those fascinated by the era of the Old West.

Virgil Earp in the news

On December 30, 1881 the Los Angles Daily Herald broke the news of the Assassination attempt on Marshall Virgil Earp

Los Angeles Daily Herald – December 30, 1882

On December 30, 1881 the Los Angles Daily Herald broke the news of the Assassination attempt on Marshall Virgil Earp The Los Angles Daily Herald…
The Arizona Historical Newspaper, the Tombstone Epitaph announces the gunfight at the O K Coral.

The Tombstone Epitaph, October 27, 1881

The following is the original transcript of The Tombstone Epitaph published on October 27, 1881 on the infamous gun fight at the O K Corral…

Tombstone Daily Nugget, October 27, 1881

The Tombstone Daily Nugget, October 27, 1881 described the the infamous gun fight at the O K Corral between the Earps and the Clanton faction…

Earp Family Members

James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 )

James Cooksey Earp

James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 ) James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 ) was…
Morgan Earp historical photo, 1881. Probably taken by C.S. Fly.

Morgan Seth Earp

Morgan Seth Earp, born on April 24, 1851, in Pella, Iowa, was a notable figure of the American Old West, primarily recognized for his association…
Virgil Earp 1843 -1905

Virgil Walter Earp

Virgil Walter Earp ( July 18, 1843 – October 19, 1905) was born in Lincoln County, Kentucky, was a prominent lawman and frontier figure known for his…
Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 )

Warren Baxter Earp

Warren Baxter Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 ), the youngest of the Earp brothers, was born into a family that would…
Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp - Aged 39

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp (March 19, 1848 – January 13, 1929) was an American lawman and gambler who became a legendary figure of the Old…

Statement of Albert Billickie in the Preliminary Hearing in the Earp-Holliday Case

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Albert Clay Billicke ( June 22, 1861 - May 7, 1915 )
Albert Clay Billicke ( June 22, 1861 – May 7, 1915 )

Albert Bilicke became a successful hotelier and entrepreneur. He is best known for his role as a key business leader in Tombstone, particularly through his involvement in the development and management of the famous Tombstone Grand Hotel.

Bilicke’s connection to Tombstone began in the 1880s when he partnered with George R. Watt to establish the Grand Hotel, which opened in 1880. This luxurious establishment quickly became a social and economic hub in the town, attracting notable figures of the time, including lawmen like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The hotel was a symbol of the prosperity brought by the silver mining boom that had put Tombstone on the map.

Under Bilicke’s management, the Grand Hotel thrived until the decline of the silver mines led to economic hardships in the region. Despite these challenges, Bilicke remained an influential figure in Tombstone’s business community, known for his sharp business acumen and commitment to the town’s development.

Albert Clay Bilicke’s legacy in Tombstone is remembered as one of entrepreneurship, resilience, and a deep connection to the town’s early history. His contributions helped shape Tombstone during its most vibrant years, leaving an indelible mark on the community.

Statement of Albert Billickie

On this twenty-eighth day of November, 1881, on the hearing of the above entitled cause, on the examination of Wyatt Earp and J. H. Holliday; Albert Billickie, a witness of lawful age, being produced and sworn, deposes and says as follows:

Albert Billickie, Cosmopolitan Hotel, 409 Allen Street, Tombstone, Arizona, hotel keeper.

In response to questions:

[I] knew Tom McLaury by sight, and saw him on October 26th last, “walking down the south side of Allen Street and enter Everhardy’s butcher shop, and very shortly come out again, walk down the street a few steps further, cross Allen Street obliquely to the corner of Fourth Street. This was probably about 2 o’clock.”

(Q) State if you observed what change if any occurred between the time of his going into the butcher shop and the time of his coming out, with respect to his possession of any arms.

(A) I saw no arms on him, neither when he went into the butcher shop nor when he came out.

(Q) What was his appearance when he went in, and what was his appearance when he came out; with respect to the possession of concealed arms?

(A) When he went into the butcher shop his right-hand pants pocket was flat and appeared as if nothing was in it. When he came out, his pants pocket protruded, as if there was a revolver therein.

CROSS-EXAMINATION

 
(Q) You say in your examination in chief, that you only knew Tom McLaury by sight and had no personal acquaintance with him. How did it happen that you watched him so closely the different places he went and the exact position of his right-hand pants pocket when he went into the butcher shop and the exact form of a revolver in the same right-hand pocket when he came out?

(A) Every good citizen in this city was watching all those cowboys very closely on the day the affray occurred, and as he was walking down the street my attention was called to this McLaury by a friend and so it happened that I watched him very closely.

(Q) Do you know every good citizen in Tombstone, or did you on that day?

(A) I know not all of them, but a great many.

(Q) Do you know what the opinions of all good citizens of Tombstone were on that day by conversation or conversations with them about watching Thomas McLaury in this city, and if so, tell us who they were. [Question crossed, without comment.]

(Q) About how long did he stay in the butcher shop, and was he in your sight while in there?

(A) He was in the butcher shop but a few moments and was out of my sight from the time he entered until he again appeared. He then walked a few feet down Allen Street and crossed to the corner of Fourth and Allen and walked down Fourth Street. I did not see him alive anymore that day. Everhardy’s butcher shop is directly opposite the Cosmopolitan Hotel, and I was standing on the sidewalk in front of the hotel when I saw what I have related.

[Signed] Albert Billickie

References