If tourists truly want to see Tombstone, you need to visit Ringo’s Grave, too. It’s a must-see.
A lonely place, dark and sullen under a giant five-stemmed blackjack oak. You might not believe in Old West lore, but you are heedful when you approach it.

It’s the place where John Ringo died. The tree where he supposedly shot himself in the head with his Colt .45, ending an apparently troubled life.

In front of the tree on the west side of Turkey Creek near the Chiricahua Mountain foothills is a body-length cairn with a scratch-worded epitaph:

“The remains of this noted gunman and outlaw lie here . . . A coroner’s jury reported the death to be suicide, and Ringo was buried on the spot. There were others who viewed the body and maintained that the July 13, 1882 death of Ringo was murder.”

Ringo the legend has had more extravagant claims about him than Wyatt Earp, Billy the Kid, Wild Bill Hickok, Jesse James and Buffalo Bill combined, writes author Jack Burrows in “John Ringo: The Gunfighter Who Never Was.”

There is a feeling he was “a coward and a backshooter,” Duhanich says. “But he did stand up to Doc Holliday.”

Area newspapers, including those in Tucson, bought the Ringo myth of him being a deadly gunslinger, but the closest he apparently came to killing anyone was when he got mad at a guy in a Safford bar who declined his offer of whiskey for a beer. Ringo shot him point-blank, but hit only his ear.

His judged suicide may be the most compelling story. He was cradled in the tree, the rifle placed carefully against it, boots hanging nearby on his saddle. And he was partially scalped.

One rumor was Wyatt Earp was after him. But the close range angle of the bullet to the right temple clearly indicated the wound was self-inflicted.

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"Our stay was very peaceful, I recomend it for anyone wanting some privacy and peace. The sound of the river at night while in the tub was wonderful, the lighting ambiance was perfect. Will definitely stay again!"

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Frequently asked questions

What's the best pet-friendly place to stay in Pearce?

Red Roof Ranch - Pearce, Az. Fifeteen miles to Chiricahua National Monument. is a top dog-friendly B&B, and offers laundry facilities along with in-room washing machines for its human guests.

What's the best time of year to travel to Pearce with my pet?

When you're traveling with pets, keeping tabs on the weather can make the trip safe and fun for everyone. The hottest months are usually June and July with an average temp of 79°F, while the coldest months are January and December with an average of 48°F. Average annual precipitation for Pearce is 11 inches.

What is there to see and do with your pet in Pearce?

Known for its wineries and golfing, Pearce has lots to offer visitors. See the local sights and visit Keeling Schaefer Vineyards. When you're in the area, make time for a stop at Boothill Graveyard.

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Red Roof Ranch - Pearce, Az. Fifeteen miles to Chiricahua National Monument.

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Landmark Lookout Lodge

Trail Rider's Inn

Katie's Cozy Cabins