Hangmans Tree - Gold Fever Trail - Big Bear California

Description:

Description: English: Historic Western Juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) tree in Holcomb Valley of the San Bernardino Mountains, Southern California. Note: "This stately Juniper stands today as a lone symbol of the law and justice of the early turbulent days of Holcomb Valley. As miners and prospectors came to seek their fortune, outlaws, claim jumpers, gamblers, and general troublemakers followed close behind. In late August, 1861, the notorious little valley was taken over by an organized gang of horse thieves from Salt Lake City known as the Button's Gang. This gang ruled so fiercely that its members could take over almost any cabin, or force storekeepers to give them the equipment or supplies they wanted. Two incidents are illustrative of the 40 or 50 murders committed the first two years after the discovery of Holcomb Valley: When "Greek George" jumped the claim of "Charlie the Chink", a duel to the finish ensued. "Hell Roaring Johnson" was shot when he tried to fix the first election held in the valley. Not all of the fugitives evaded justice. There is recorded evidence of as many as four convictions and subsequent hangings at one time on this tree. When the victim of a hanging was finally cut down, the branch from which the rope hung was chopped off. So you can tell how many met their Maker here.". Date: 31 December 2007, 14:26:16. Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/86542064@N00/2158201642. Author: Kevin Stanchfield.