Patrick Coghlan owned a cattle ranch in the Three Rivers area of New Mexico. Lawmen, including the legendary Charlie Siringo (photo), found some hides from LX branded animals at Coghlan’s place in March 1882. He confronted the rancher, who asked for some time to round up the cattle. Siringo agreed. But soon after, traveling near Coghlan’s ranch, would-be assassins fired three shots at Siringo. He escaped unhurt. Nobody was ever tried in the case. Coghlan eventually paid $150 for handling stolen cattle.
True West November/December 2024