Daily Independent

A Duel Story as Told by an Old Timer

The Nevada state oath provides that no dueling shall take place in the state and whosoever is called upon to take the oath—man or woman—swears they will not battle nor assist in a battle. One of the old time duels which took place between Nevada men, but was fought across the border in California, was told of by the 'old timer' a few afternoons ago. The duel was fought at the 'Bodie Ranch' an old station on the Bodie-Aurora road and took place in 1865. In those days you were either Union or Secesh. There was no half way spot. Doctor Ecklewroth was a Unionite and was also a candidate for public office. The Aurora Democrat was supposed to be Secesh and was edited by a man named Draper. In one of its issues Draper paid his respects to 'Doc' Ecklewroth in terms which were anything but polite. That morning the Doctor sent his card to the editor, the challenge was accepted, pistols were named and the 'Bodie Ranch' chosen as the location of the dueling grounds. A number of rigs were hired and the principals with their seconds and friends repaired to the field and when the word was given, both men fired. The editor leaped into the air, shouting that he was killed but changed his mind when he learned that he had only received a flesh wound which had removed a corn from his third toe on his right foot. The doctor escaped injury. As blood was drawn the anger of the doctor was appeased and the many returned from the bloody battle ground, happy in the thought that the undertaker was not needed.

Carson News.