The other bears only the name “M. Ringo,” nothing more. And yet, research brings to light a fascinating tale: Martin Ringo, veteran, wagonmaster and freighter during the war with Mexico, was enroute to California with his family. While camped near Deer Creek an accident caused his gun to discharge, mortally wounding him. To John, his 14-year old son, fell the distasteful task of burying his father. John continued with his family, successfully reaching California. But perhaps the traumatic experience of his father’s death proved his undoing, for Martin’s son reportedly grew up to be the notorious gunman and outlaw of the southwest, Johnny Ringo. (Research by Mr. Ed Bartholomew of Fort Davis, Texas.)

Reprinted from Glenrock Historical Commission brochure.