This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: maryachtrh Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.stevens/4167/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Appears in "The Wapanucka Press" 19 February 1903 Wapanucka, Johnston County, Indian Territory, now Oklahoma FIGHT WITH HORSETHIEVES Gang Located by Officers Near Blue Jacket - Two Killed, One Captured Vinita: There was a fierce fight in the country near Blue Jacket, between Deputy United States Marshals and a band of horse thieves. Two of the horse thieves were killed and the third arrested. Deputy Sheriff Bowland of Caddo County, Oklahoma learned that thieves were stealing horses and mules here and taking them into Oklahoma and selling them, and also stealing Oklahoma stock and selling same in Indian Territory. The Oklahoma officers got a clue that the thieves made their headquarters near Blue Jacket, and secured warrants here and left for that place, accompanied by three deputies, I. L. Gilstrap, G. S. White and Isaac Teeples. The posse surrounded the house where the men were lodging. White knocked on the door and demanded admission. He was met at the door by "Doc" Wattenberger, who came out and opened fire on the officers. A fierce fight followed and when the smoke cleared away "Doc" Wattenburg and "Jim" Stevens were dead with their revolvers grasped in their hands. "Ben" Stevens surrendered to the officers and is now in jail here. Many horses stolen in Oklahoma were found and identified before the attempt was made to arrest the men. After the house was surrounded and the men asked to surrender they were heard loading their guns and the officers got ready for a fight. Wattenberger appeared in the doorway firing as he came. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.