What was McMurdo’s reason for traveling from Chicago to Vermissa Valley?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

McMurdo’s mysterious journey

Hugh McMurdo’s journey from Chicago to Vermissa Valley is shrouded in mystery. It is known that McMurdo was a member of the Ancient Order of Freemen, a secret society that operated in the area. However, the exact reason for his trip remains unknown.

Chicago to Vermissa Valley: the route

McMurdo’s journey took him from Chicago to Vermissa Valley, a distance of over 700 miles. It is unclear how he traveled, but it is likely that he used a combination of trains and horses to make the journey. The route would have taken him through several states, including Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas, before reaching Vermissa Valley in Colorado.

Seeking refuge in the Valley

When McMurdo arrived in Vermissa Valley, he sought refuge with the Ancient Order of Freemen. This group provided him with a place to stay and protection from the local authorities. It is believed that McMurdo was fleeing from some sort of trouble or danger, although the specifics are not known.

The shadow of the Ettie family

While in Vermissa Valley, McMurdo became involved with the Ettie family. This group was known to be involved in criminal activities, and McMurdo’s association with them raised suspicions about his own intentions.

The connection with Scowrer gang

It is also believed that McMurdo had connections with the Scowrer gang, a notorious group of criminals operating in the area. Some have speculated that McMurdo was working undercover to gather information about the gang for the authorities.

The lesser known aliases of McMurdo

McMurdo was known to use several different aliases during his time in Vermissa Valley. These include John McMurdo, Jack McGinty, and Birdy Edwards. It is unclear why he used these different names, but it is possible that he was trying to hide his true identity from those around him.

The role of the "Bodymaster"

McMurdo was initiated into the Ancient Order of Freemen by the group’s leader, known as the "Bodymaster." This individual held a great deal of power within the group, and it is likely that McMurdo was required to swear loyalty to him as part of his initiation.

The initiation ceremony of the Lodge

The initiation ceremony of the Lodge involved several rituals that were meant to test the loyalty and bravery of new members. It is believed that McMurdo successfully completed these tests, which helped to cement his position within the group.

The possibility of McMurdo being undercover

There is some speculation that McMurdo was actually working undercover for the authorities. His connections to both the Ettie family and the Scowrer gang suggest that he may have been gathering information about criminal activity in the area.

The aftermath of his trip

After his time in Vermissa Valley, McMurdo disappeared. It is unclear what happened to him, but it is possible that he returned to Chicago or went into hiding elsewhere. Some have speculated that he was killed by the Scowrer gang, although there is no concrete evidence to support this theory.

The unanswered questions

The mystery surrounding McMurdo’s journey to Vermissa Valley remains unsolved to this day. Scholars and historians continue to debate the reasons for his trip, as well as his connections to the various groups operating in the area. Without more information, it is likely that the true story of McMurdo’s journey will never be fully known.

Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

Leave a Comment