The Daily Bugle, January 7, 1876
Finally, the town of Black Horse gets their justice.
Sheriff Herko Merritt, Deputy Booley McClain and a deputized posse disposed of Father Graham Rastus and over a dozen of his followers in a gunfight of epic proportions on January 3, 1876. The siege, attack and eventual conflagration took place in a church about a day’s ride from Black Horse.
The fire priest and his group, townspeople and seekers of additional meaning in their lives, were squatters on the property, a long-abandoned place of worship. Investigations had proved they were responsible for the death of the pastor in Black Horse and a fire that destroyed several buildings in that town, including a place beloved by primarily male clientele, Cantrell’s Hotel & Livery.
Unfortunately, this was to be Sheriff Merritt’s last official act as Black Horse protector and keeper of the peace. For he was shot and killed in the gunfight as he attempted to bring in Rastus and his followers.
Black Horse is currently accepting applications for a new sheriff.
This reporter suggests they should also be looking for some fire equipment, too.
The Last Chance Saloon burned down on or about the same time as the church. The Last Chance Saloon was located at the intersections of roads to Liberty, Black Horse and Dry Gulch.
Dry Gulch Bugle 