PIONEER STORY OF Charles Rouark, age 78, EARLY DAYS IN LINCOLN COUNTY

by Frances E. Totty, February 14, 1938

I went to Lincoln County in the early days, but was not in the war. The people around Lincoln say Garrett didn't kill Billie the Kid. I can take you to the grave in Hells Half Acre, and old government cemetery, where Billie was supposed to be buried and show you the grave.

The cook at Pete Maxwells was always putting flowers on the grave and praying at it. But...after Garrett killed the man at Maxwell's home her grandson was never seen again! Billie was seen by Bill Nicholi and an indian scout. Both swore they saw Billie in old Mexico!

Pat Garrett and Billie had been good friends, and Garrett knew that Billie wasn't yellow or a coward. Billie never killed without a cause. Billie wasn't mean--he was just quick on the draw and did have to practice hours to hit his target. Billie didn't steal--he might borrow a man's horse from his corral, but he would always seen that it was returned to him.

Billie the Kid was welcome at chuck and at all at the dances. He was a good dancer and had nice manners, and always respected everyone. Billie was a jolly happy go lucky person that seemed to bring laughter with him as well as death to his enemies.