When Rutherford B. Hayes appointed former General Lew Wallace as the Governor of New Mexico he did so in hopes that his friend could bring order to the chaotic state of affairs in the territory.
Between 1878 and 1881 Lew Wallace took an active role in attempts to quell the violence that had erupted throughout the territory, specifically in Lincoln and Colfax Counties.
During his short time in the Land of Enchantment, Wallace crossed paths with the likes of Billy the kid, Pat Garrett, “Dirty” Dave Rudabaugh, and many more colorful, and dangerous, characters, all while working in his spare time to finish his novel Ben Hur.
This lecture will explore the complex events that led to Wallace’s appointment, his eventful short tenure as governor, and the questions surrounding his eventual departure from the Territory of New Mexico.
