On the eve of the Battle of Hammertown, Sheriff Jack Gordon issued a final ultimatum to Walter Cole and the rebel faction occupying Northern Settlement. The notice ordered them to release the hostages, surrender the settlement and return control to the lawful authorities within forty-eight hours.
“We asked for better pay. Then fair treatment. Then a voice. They said no every time.” — James “Big Jim” Barlow
OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF
IRONWOOD COUNTY
To: Walter “Hammer” Cole
You are hereby ordered to immediately release all hostages held within Northern Settlement and surrender the settlement to the lawful authority of this office.
You are hereby granted forty-eight (48) hours from receipt of this notice to comply with these demands.
Failure to comply within the stated period will be regarded as an act of open defiance against the law. Should you and your men refuse to stand down, this office will be compelled to employ the full force of the law to restore order and secure the release of the hostages.
This notice shall serve as your final warning.
Jack Gordon Sheriff of Ironwood CountyNotes
- The ultimatum marked the final failed attempt to resolve the Northern Settlement crisis without further bloodshed. Hammer’s refusal to surrender led directly to the confrontation that would become known as the Battle of Hammertown.