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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Frequently asked questions

Looking to vacation at a spa hotel in Pearce?

Book one of our fantastic spa hotels and treat yourself from the moment you arrive. Take part in recreational activities such as golfing during your vacation. Spa hotels are a great way to break out of your routine and add a layer of luxury to your weekend away.

How many spa hotels are there in Pearce?

Among Expedia’s 13 accommodation options in Pearce, there is 1 spa hotel.

What's there to see and do in Pearce?

Experience Pearce and visit Boothill Graveyard, Birdcage Theater, and Allen Street. If you have a little extra time during your trip, you might want to make a stop at Big Nose Kates and Tombstone Historic District.

What is a Pearce spa hotel?

Spa hotels in Pearce have on-site spas which offer services including facials and a selection of body treatments. Some also provide a selection of in-room treatments for the ultimate luxury. Spa hotels are a must if you want to give yourself an extra treat while on vacation.