Dear Editor,
Dr. Osborne did have the remains of “Big Nose George” Parrot, one the two outlaws who killed Robert Widdowfield and Tip Vincent. Parrot’s remains were stored in a barrel. Some of the skin of Parrot was used to make a pair of shoes and a small patch.
Dr. Osborne gave one of the items to James Fisher, a relative of Widdowfield. James gave it to his son Richard who left it in a trunk at the ranch for his son, also named Richard, my husband.
Many folk passed through the ranch including employees tending sheep, hunters, fishermen, and those traveling to the ghost town of Carbon and the cemetery. Often they stopped for coffee with one of the owners, foremen or employees of the ranch.
Old Carbon was often discussed at this time. One of the personnel at the ranch elected to show off the “Big George” skin item. Immediately several said, “This ought to be in the Carbon County Museum.” They all agreed and the item left for Rawlins.
Is it not possible that the carrier could have been an employee of the bank who didn’t wish to be identified with the item of its notoriety or other reasons? Or could have the carrier thrown it into a box, forgot about it, and down the years it was lost.
The important point is Dr. Osborne did have the remains of Big Nose George.
Incorrect spelling of names has been mentioned. I know even spell check would give you several variations on some names. It is sometimes difficult for a reporter to choose. For instance is Fischer or Fisher. Ours happens to be Fisher.
My apologies for the error or misunderstanding about the item made from the skin when I gave my interview about Old Carbon in the Saratoga Sun. One thing this does prove is that people do read the paper.
Speaking of Old Carbon, to the list of contributing to the clean up of the Carbon Cemetery and its restoration would be Ron and Julie Withow. Ron made and donated the beautiful gate. To the many who labored to restore the cemetery, thanks to each and everyone of you, and all the descendants of Carbon.
I also want to thank all who read the newspaper.
Sincerely ,
Jeannette Fisher
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