Tombstone Vigilante Historian
Who we are
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Purpose and Goals

As an incorporated civic organization, we are dedicated to the betterment of the city of Tombstone, Arizona. We promote a western atmosphere and maintain publicity to this sort to the city of Tombstone, the surrounding community, county and State tourism programs as called upon.We support and cooperate with all other organizations in this same effort.

The Vigilantes also, in the spirit of civic duty and trust, assist in the soliciting, recieving, and distribution of of donations, supplies, provisions and money to aid and assist the poor, sick, helpless, and distressed of our community, both local and nationwide.

We are a non-profit charitable organization committed to the purposes previously stated.


History of Vigilantes

As many of you already know, the Tombstone Vigilantes, Inc. is one of the longest lasting re-enactment groups in the country. Our earliest roots are tied to the Heldorado Celebration which was first observed in 1929. Although not in existance at that time,  the concept of the organization was born in the form of the open cast re-enactments which were a major part of the celebrations. In fact, newsarticles from the time referred to the re-enactment players as Vigilantes

The Vigilantes, as an organization, were formed and first official recognized as such in 1949. In 1956 the group was incorporated officially under the name "The Tombstone Vigilantes" and have been a regular fixture on the streets of Tombstone ever since.


Our Elected Board

2008 elected officers:
(See the full list of appointed positions on the New Contributions page)
Chief - Ken Bie

Assistant Chief - Kent Cooksley

Secretary - Patrick Kelly

Treasurer - Char Opperman

Board of Directors:
Tim Montemayor
Bill Hurll
Karl Opperman (Past Chief)

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