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Topic: 1870 Vigilantes
Conf: Cowley County Queries, Msg: 24712
From: Deleted User
Date: 4/30/2001 01:21 PM

My name is Lisa Miles. I am a Ph.D. candidate in American History at the University of Kansas. I received a B.A. and an M.A. from Emporia State University. I am currently working on my dissertation. The topic is vigilantism and violence in the mid-19th Century American West. As a case study, I am examining the 1870 Douglass incident, involving the "798 Vigilantes."

The events leading up to the lynchings that occurred in November and December 1870 were reported in the local papers. This was a very controversial event that threatened to divide the region. I am hoping to find descendants of the vigilantes, of their victims, or of members of the community who can tell me how (or if) the events were explained within the family or the community. How the events have been retold and the impact that the events have, even years later, are important aspects of my examination.

I would appreciate hearing anything you have to say about the topic. Since I moved to Texas last summer, it has become even more challenging to gather the information. I am relying on the telephone, e-mail, and a few well-planned trips back to the area.

Thank you for your help!
Lisa Miles
12304-A Cahone Trail
Austin, Texas 78729
512-401-8322
LisaMiles@msn.com