Juaquin Murietta. From 1850-1853 that name generated fear up and down the rivers and creeks of Alta California. Considered a ruthless bandit, Murietta moved like a ghost to protect the displaced Hispanos when Europeans jumped their claims after the Mexican American War. Joaquin did what he could to return the value taken from those who had legal mining claims. He fought off claim jumpers. He robbed banks and stages. He did what he could to give back to his displaced compatriots. But he also intercepted multiple loads of ore intended for shipment to San Francisco. Ore shipping ground to a halt. The situation was unacceptable. In 1853 the governor sent Harry Love and his California Rangers out to hunt Murietta and end the disruption. Love claimed the Rangers corralled the bandit and his band killing its leader.

But did they get the right man?