On the night of July 1, 1900, Deputy Constable George William "Will" Hardin, aged 25, was on duty in Greenville, Texas, along with Greenville Police Officers Lee Howard and Tom Ingram. The officers were investigating a potential violation of the Sunday closing law at Bob Bolton's Saloon on the east side of the town square. Officer Howard entered the saloon and was pushed out a back window by Bob Bolton. Howard then confronted Bolton at the front of the saloon, and both men drew their pistols and fired at the same time, though neither was hit.
Deputy Constable Hardin stepped into the doorway and was shot in the stomach by Bolton. Hardin managed to draw his pistol and fire several times, killing Bolton, but he himself fell mortally wounded. He succumbed to his injuries the following day at 6 p.m. Hardin was survived by his wife, Eva Mason Hardin, and is buried in an unmarked grave in the Mason family plot at East Mount Cemetery in Greenville, Hunt County, Texas.
The incident was a tragic result of a confrontation during a law enforcement operation. Bob Bolton, the suspect, was killed by Hardin in the exchange, and no further arrests or litigations were pursued as Bolton died at the scene. The case did not lead to any further investigations or legal proceedings, as the immediate cause of Hardin's death was the gunshot wound inflicted by Bolton.
Hardin's death was a significant event in the history of Greenville, and he is remembered for his service and sacrifice. His legacy lives on through the reflections and memorials left by those who honor his memory.
