Frontier Justice

On this site, Bridgeport's most sensational court trial occurred June 9th, 1891. Ah Quong Tai, a local Chinese businessman accused of the cannibalistic murder of Poker Tom, a well known Paiute Indian, appeared in court defended by two attorneys, J. C. Murphy and W. O. Parker. Reportedly, several hundred people gathered around the Bridgeport Justice Court to observe this much anticipated trial. Although Deputy District Attorney Hayes made a strong case, Judge T. Fales ruled there was insufficient evidence to charge Tai with murder due to lack of witnesses, physical evidence and the body could not be identified. As Tai was being released, he met his fate. Ironically no charges were filed in the death of Tai due to the lack of witnesses, physical evidence, and the body could not be identified. Although this is only a footnote in California Case Law, it is a noteworthy example of the 1800's frontier justice.

Plaque dedicated September 12, 2009
Bodie Chapter No. 64
E Clampus Vitus