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Meagher Co. Deputy Sheriff O.M. Rader's Holster

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:150.00 USD Estimated At:400.00 - 600.00 USD
Meagher Co. Deputy Sheriff O.M. Rader's Holster
For your consideration is this holster belonging to Harlowton, Montana Deputy Sheriff Oscar M. Rader (1873-1958), the son of former Special Deputy William Rader (1852-1893), when he was employed in 1907. This is an amazing and rare piece of early Montana history. Special Deputy William Rader was shot and killed as he and a posse attempted to arrest two men who were wanted on larceny warrants out of Wyoming. The suspects had been involved in a shootout with a posse days earlier but had escaped. When the second posse located them, another shootout ensued in which Special Deputy Rader was wounded and killed. The suspects were again able to escape but were located two days later. Deputy James Mackay was shot and killed during a third shootout and the suspects escaped for a third time. Special Deputy Rader had also served as Sheriff of Meagher County. He is buried at Mayn Cemetery in White Sulphur Springs, Montana. William's son, Oscar M. Rader, became Deputy Sheriff in Harlowton, Meagher County, Montana in the late 1890s to early 1900s. This holster belonged to Oscar when her served on the force and is marked on one side reading, "O. M. Rader / 1907 O. M. Rader Deputy Sheriff Harlowton, Meagher Co., Montana" The holster shows a nice leather construction and is mounted on the shoulder. The holster shows good condition overall with wear present from its age and use over the years, but no signs of major of damage is noted. The holster measures 20" L x 5 1/8" W x 2 1/4" D and weighs 8 ounces.