. Two of the most notorious outlaws of early American history were the Harpe brothers, Big Harpe, Micaijah, and Little Harpe, Wiley, were responsible for the murders of over 50 men, women and children. A posse caught Big Harpe but Little Harpe escaped, changed his name to John Seton, moved south and joined two other outlaws: Samuel Mason and James May. Together they became the scourge of the Natchez Trace, known then as “the Devil’s backbone.” When a reward was placed on Mason, dead or alive. Harpe killed him in his sleep with a tomahawk and he and Mays carried the corpse to Natchez, hoping to collect the reward. However, Harpe was recognized, both were hanged and their heads staked on the Trace to warn other highwaymen. This gruesome bit of Americana should cause us to pause and consider Obadiah’s words, “as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee; thy reward shall return upon thy head.” This is Just-a-Minute with Ed Boggess
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Ed Boggess
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J. Randal Matheny 9:43 am on April 16, 2012 Permalink |
When I first saw the opening, I thought you’d accidently reposted the first installment of this story. Then I read further and found a blessing. :) Thanks!