Human Systems Research
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Human Systems Research
Human Systems Research
Human Systems Research
Human Systems Research
Human Systems Research

Digging for Truths: The Archaeology of Billy The Kid

by David Kirkpatrick

For over 100 years, Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War (1878-1879) have fascinated historians and the public alike have provided material for for western novels and movies. THe Lincoln County War in New Mexico Territory was a violent strugle between two rival factions of businesspeople, ranchers, and lawyers for political and economic control of the largest county in the United States. The Alexander McSween house in Lincoln was the scene of one of the events of the war- the famous five day battle that ended with the burning of the structure, the death of McSween and four others, and Billy the Kid's daring escape during gunfire. Archaeological excavations of the McSween house ruiuns during three seasons from 1986 to 1988 led to the development of a public education and interpretation program. The program focused on the reality versus the myth of Billy the Kid; the causes of the Lincoln County War; and therevision of the public's perception of archaeology, archaeologists, and historic preservation.

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