George Scarborough (cowboy)

George Scarborough (1859-1900) was an American lawman, cowboy, and gunfighter primarily known for his involvement in the Lincoln County War and his later career as a U.S. Deputy Marshal.

Scarborough was born in McLennan County, Texas. His early life was spent working as a cowboy. He gained prominence during the Lincoln County War in New Mexico, where he allied with the Murphy-Dolan faction. His participation in several gunfights during the conflict solidified his reputation as a skilled and dangerous man.

Following the Lincoln County War, Scarborough served as the sheriff of Lincoln County for a time. He then transitioned to working as a U.S. Deputy Marshal, focusing on tracking down outlaws and maintaining order in the often-lawless regions of the Southwest. As a Deputy Marshal, he was involved in numerous shootouts and manhunts.

Scarborough was considered a controversial figure. While some viewed him as a dedicated lawman who helped tame the Wild West, others criticized his ruthless tactics and involvement in the violent feuds of the era.

He died in 1900 from wounds sustained in a gunfight near Deming, New Mexico, while pursuing a group of cattle rustlers. His death marked the end of a turbulent life spent on the edges of the law. He is buried in the Masonic Cemetery in Deming.