Robert Widenmann by J.Young
Robert Widenmann was born on January 24th 1852 to Karl Robert Widenmann and Pauline Garttner in Ann Arbor Michigan. Even though he faced challenges at home with an abusive father, his mother instilled in him strong values and religious beliefs. Robert attended The First German Parochial School of The Bethlehem Methodist Church and later went to Stuttgart, Germany to complete his education under the care of his uncle. After returning to Ann Arbor in 1870, he settled for a couple years before eventually moving to New Mexico.
Rob was appointed as a US Deputy Marshal by New Mexico territory under Marshall John Sherman Jr. shortly after his arrival in Lincoln in February 1877. During his tenure, he had the privilege to become acquainted with some prominent personalities such as John Chisum and John Tunstall. The latter becoming Roberts closest friend and confidant.
In February 1878, John Tunstall embarked on his final ride into Lincoln with companions such as Rob, Dick Brewer, Billy the Kid, and other individuals. Unfortunately, Tunstall was separated from his party while they chased wild turkeys, and he was tragically murdered by members of the Murphy Dolan faction. This event has become legendary and has been told in various accounts.
In March 1878, Deputy Marshal Widenmann’s appointment was revoked by Governor Axtell following Murphy Dolan boys’ disclosure of his prior involvement in law enforcement. However, US Marshal John Sherman reappointed Widenmann on March 30th, as reported by the Santa Fe New Mexican.
Deputy Marshal Widenmann with the Regulators as his deputies tried to make arrests but failed. As a result of their failed attempts, on April 1st 1878 The Regulators ambushed Sheriff Brady and his deputies from behind a wall Brady was riddled with at least a dozen holes and one of his Deputies- Hindman fell dead as well.
Afterward, Rob Widenmann became a suspect in the killing of Brady and was pursued by legal authorities. He ultimately surrendered himself to the Fort Stanton military fort. When questioned about the incident, he maintained that he was feeding Tunstall’s dog at McSween’s residence at the time of the killing. In response to being spotted carrying several weapons that day, Widenmann explained that the dog was prone to aggression. Although he was let go due to a lack of legal documentation, he was re-arrested three days later for his alleged involvement in Brady’s murder. Widenmann was held in lock-up at Fort Stanton until April 18th when a jury ruled for his release. The indictment remained solely against Billy the Kid.
The Lincoln County War reached its peak and unexpectedly ended in July of 1878 when the McSween home was consumed by a great fire, resulting in the tragic murder of McSween. It is widely accepted that this event marked the culmination of the Lincoln County War, and unfortunately, The Regulators were ultimately defeated after a valiant struggle.
In October 1878, Widenmann departed for Mesilla due to concerns for his personal safety. During this time, Rob traveled to the eastern seaboard to embark on a voyage to London, where he planned to visit the father of John Tunstall.
Mr. Widenmann returned to New York in 1896 and assumed the position of Director at The Haverstraw Light and Gas company in Rockland County. He remained in this role for many years. In April 1930 at Haverstraw, New York, Robert A. Widenmann was laid to rest in Mount Repose Cemetery at Haverstraw, Rockland County, New York.
More info I have will be added  to The Widenmann bio very soon, check back later.