Oliver Lee (New Mexico gunfighter)

Oliver Milton Lee (October 22, 1865 – September 3, 1941) was a prominent rancher, lawman, and alleged gunfighter in the southeastern region of New Mexico during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is most well-known for his association with the Lincoln County War and the Fountain disappearance, controversial events that cemented his place in New Mexico history.

Born in Buffalo Gap, Texas, Lee moved to Lincoln County, New Mexico, as a young man and established a successful ranching operation. His reputation for toughness and his skill with firearms quickly grew, making him a figure of considerable influence.

Lee became deeply involved in the violent conflicts that plagued Lincoln County. He was a close associate of Albert B. Fall, a powerful lawyer and politician, and aligned himself with the faction opposed to the influence of the Murphy-Dolan mercantile and banking interests. This association led to confrontations with rival factions, including those loyal to Alexander McSween and John Tunstall, figures central to the Lincoln County War.

Lee's most significant notoriety stems from his suspected involvement in the disappearance of Judge Albert Fountain and his young son Henry in 1896. Fountain, a prominent lawyer and politician, was investigating cattle rustling and other crimes in the area, implicating Lee and his associates. While Lee and his men were charged with the murder of the Fountains, they were acquitted in a highly publicized trial. The disappearance of the Fountains remains unsolved to this day, adding to Lee's enigmatic and controversial legacy.

Despite his reputation as a gunfighter and his involvement in violent events, Lee also served as a lawman, including a period as a deputy sheriff. He was later elected to the New Mexico State Legislature, demonstrating his enduring political influence. In his later years, Lee became a respected figure in the community, known for his philanthropy and commitment to civic affairs. His ranching operations continued to thrive, and he remained an influential figure in southeastern New Mexico until his death in 1941. Oliver Lee's life remains a subject of historical debate, a complex blend of frontier justice, political maneuvering, and unsolved mystery.