Ryder

In the spring of 1865, while serving as a Union Army scout, William “Will” F. Ryder had seen enough to turn his stomach! The abuse of the Navajo Indian nation made him cringe each time he heard a whip pop or saw a soldier strike an Indian brave with a rifle butt. Colonel Zachary Carlson’s unit was sometimes brutal as they marched the Navajo Indians at gunpoint from their beloved sacred mountains near Canyon de Chelly, Arizona, to Bosque Redondo, New Mexico. That’s when he determined enough is enough! He had no regrets as he saddled his paint stallion, Captain, and headed for Texas. He knew the risk involved as he traveled alone. Little did he know his life would be changed forever. A psycho killer was on the loose in Eastern New Mexico. By chance, Will Ryder would become involved as the killer terrorized the citizens of Hondo, along with ranchers throughout the area! Ryder stood six foot three inches and covered all the ground he stood on. He was not afraid to take chances when necessary, sometimes depending on his .44 Henry rifle or his .44 Colt sidearm to settle life issues. These dangers included warring Indians, buffalo hunters, bullies, drunks, rattlesnakes, and a psycho, blood-thirsty killer! He would take on all comers, not necessarily in that order. In the days, months, and years ahead, he sought only peace with all mankind. Along life’s trail, he encountered the beautiful Claudia Marie Watson, owner of the Silver Top Ranch. At first meeting, little did he know she would become a big part of his life. Let the story begin.