New Year's Day Raid 1888

 

Randolph McCoy

On New Year's Day 1888, a group of nine to fourteen Hatfields and supporters launched an attack on the cabin where Randolph McCoy and his wife Sally lived. A nighttime raid, it led to the burning of the cabin, the severe beating of Sally McCoy, and the death of two adult children of Randolph and Sally, Alifair and Calvin.

Historians are uncertain of the reasons for the raid. Some attribute it to retribution for McCoy incursions into Logan County, others to an attempt by Anderson Hatfield to finally end the "feud" by killing his clan rival Randolph McCoy.

Despite the reasons, this event was very damaging to Anderson Hatfield. Although he was not present at the raid, his reputation was ruined, even with his supporters. His local political influence was done with, he became a virtual outcast amongst family members, and ultimately sold his land and moved away from the Tug Valley.

Nine men suspected of being involved in the raid were brought to trial. Eight (some records claim seven) were given a life sentence for the killing of Alifair and Calvin, only one, Ellison Mounts received the death penalty. 

This was the last recorded violence of the legendary feud. All that remained to put an end to the hostilities between the families was the hanging of Ellison Mounts.