Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Ordinance Number 9
Since the West was so wild, hence the name “Wild West,” towns did whatever they could do to keep control. To keep the peace. In an effort to keep law and order, Tombstone instituted Ordinance Number 9. It states:
Ordinance No.9:
“To Provide against Carrying of Deadly Weapons” (effective April 19, 1881).
Section 1. “It is hereby declared to be unlawful for any person to carry deadly weapons, concealed or otherwise [except the same be carried openly in sight, and in the hand] within the limits of the City of Tombstone.
Section 2: This prohibition does not extend to persons immediately leaving or entering the city, who, with good faith, and within reasonable time are proceeding to deposit, or take from the place of deposit such deadly weapon.
Section 3: All fire-arms of every description, and bowie knives and dirks, are included within the prohibition of this ordinance.”
As we will find out, this ordinance played a big part in the gunfight at the OK Corral.
