Dueling was once a common way of settling disputes. Although other weapons were used, the dueling pistol was the most popular weapon of choice. The first duel reported in America occurred in 1621 in Massachusetts. By the advent of the war for independence it was a widespread practice, especially in the South. A Code Duello was published, establishing rules and regulations for the practice. Perhaps, most importantly, all activity was organized through seconds, designated by the principals. A second was commonly a good friend or relative. After the deaths of more than a few prominent Americans, including Alexander Hamilton, there developed a popular sentiment to abolish the ritualized practice.
A confrontation in a Vermont border town in 1876 may well have been the last formal duel in the United States. The fact that it took place in the village of Richford is almost incidental to the story.
