Indian Raid Near the Present Town of Rhome

Jake Moffett, who lived about three miles east of Newark, had started west of the Trinity. He was killed and scalped by the Indians when he crossed the river at the Cregg Crossing.

Others

The savages then came down to the James Young Place and attacked Smith and Wright, about five miles northeast of Azle. Smith and Wright lived in Denton County, and were returning from Parker or Palo Pinto, where they had been attending a horse-race. Smith was riding a mule, and armed with a shotgun and six-shooter. Wright rode a racehorse, and was unarmed. When they were assaulted, Wright attempted to escape on his racehorses, but in a short time was wounded with approximately thirty-six arrows. Smith, however, retreated into the West Fork bottom, where he was soon surrounded by the savages. The Indians charged him many times, but always remained at a considerable distance. He was unharmed, however, excepting an arrow struck him on the nose. An Indian then laughed, so Smith took deliberate aim at this particular savage and when he shot, the red-man's laughter changed to loud groans, and his companions rushed to his side. The savages then held a short pow-wow, and rode away.

Note: Author personally interviewed: J.B. Sessions, and M. Roe, of Azle.

Further Ref.: Pioneer History of West County, by Cliff D. Cates.

The above story is from the book, The West Texas Frontier, by Joseph Carroll McConnell.