THE CRIPPLE CREEK STRIKE — CONTINUED.
Monday, September 21st, 1903, was an eventful day in the history of the State of Colorado, for events transpired on that day in Cripple Creek that almost gave the lie to our boasted American liberty.
District Judge Seeds, of Teller County, had issued writs of habeas corpus for Sherman Parker, C. H. McKinney, Charles Campbell and James Lafferty, returnable, after the original date had been extended, on September 21st.
The military kept these four men imprisoned in a bull pen without warrant and without charges of any kind against them.
On the afternoon of September 21st, shortly before court convened, a detachment of infantry and cavalry surrounded and took possession of the Court House, and soon armed guards were stationed at every door and approach. A Catling gun was placed in position so that it commanded the main approach to the court, and a number of sharp-shooters were stationed on the roof of the National Hotel, which is opposite the court building.
Rifles and small arms were loaded and made ready for instant action. No one was allowed to enter the Court House unless he could produce a pass signed by the military commander.
At last Brigadier General Chase hove in sight at the head of a company of cavalry, in whose midst were the four prisoners.
General Chase, his staff, and about thirty heavily armed guards, out of respect for the court, left their horses outside of the court room ; but to