An Outlaw’s Christmas Eve Greeting
Copyright By Craig MacDonald
The following is reprinted with permission from the acclaimed book, “Old West Christmas-Tales with a Twist” by Pulitzer Prize nominee Craig MacDonald and artist Bill Anderson. Much of this anonymous poem reportedly was found under an old building in Placerville, CA, long ago. Many think it may have been penned during the Gold Rush Days. Craig refined it to its present form for your enjoyment.
Once upon a time, All through the camp, Wasn’t a miner a-stirring, They was out like a lamp.
Their six guns were hung, By the beds with care, In case Big Red, Soon would be there.
The posse was nestled, All snug by the trail, Fearing an attack, On the Overland Mail.
But Big Red was coming, In kerchief and cap, To shoot up the diggings at Whisky Dog Flat.
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