Horse Thieves – Part 1 - 1915 Tales From Old Timers

 As in all western states, horse stealing was a crime punishable by death. Since it was a profitable business, many people took “chances”. Some fell by the wayside while others came through without a scratch, and went on to become prosperous and well respected citizens. Two individuals, Ravenwood and Bates were part of a band of reckless outlaws who invaded eastern Montana and western North Dakota. In 1885 the two men arrived in the settlement with several head of horses and went to work for J.L. Colton. All was well until a party of 16 men and 32 horses arrived from the west and camped just below Jim Johnson’s farm. Word circulated that they were trading so Ravenwood and the blacksmith, McDonald, went to the camp to make a trade. When they saw the brand on his horse he was ordered to throw up his hands and he was made prisoner. The group was a Vigilante Committee and then went after Bates. …. To be continued