Polly Bartlett: The Murderess of Slaughterhouse Gulch
Background
Polly Bartlett, also known as "The Murderess of Slaughterhouse Gulch," was a notorious figure in the Wyoming Territory during the 19th century. She is said to have been the first serial killer in Wyoming, before it was even incorporated as a state. Polly and her father, Jim Bartlett, operated a lodge in South Pass City, where they lured wealthy travelers and businessmen, ultimately leading to their demise.
Crimes
Polly Bartlett's modus operandi involved poisoning her victims with arsenic-laced meals and whiskey. Her father, Jim, assisted in burying the bodies on their property. The Bartletts' criminal activities began in Ohio, where they ran a saloon and robbed isolated men. They later moved to Wyoming, where they constructed a lodge to continue their murderous schemes.
Victims
Polly Bartlett's victims included:
- Lewis Nichols - Polly's first victim, left her and Jim with $4000
- Theodore Fountain - Son of mine owner Bernard Fountain, killed in August 1868
- Ed Ford's brother, Sam - Victim of the Bartletts
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