A beloved prankster and local political leader was tragically murdered in a saloon by a scorned loved one. But local legend says their spirit lives on in a main street establishment. But this isn't your typical establishment. Here, whispers abound of a playful presence. We’re talking about a local legend known for his pranks and charm, whose spirit lingers at a local watering hole.
TRANSCRIPT
Raise a glass to George "Devil" Davis, a man whose spirit lingers beyond the grave at the Tonopah Liquor Company. This historic watering hole isn't merely known for its fine selection of whiskeys; it also boasts a reputation for being haunted by the playful soul of George "Devil" Davis. Despite the moniker "Devil," George was not a harbinger of malice but rather a charming prankster and a beloved figure in Tonopah's community.
George was not just a joker; he was also a respected leader within the local black community and a prominent voice on civic issues. His charisma drew people to him, making him a figure not easily forgotten in Tonopah's history books.
One fateful night, George's vibrant life came to a sudden and tragic end in a saloon brawl. The Tonopah Bonanza recounted the grim details: "George ‘Devil’ Davis, Victim of Wife's Fury who Fires Four Shots Into Back of Husband. Onlooker Receives a Bullet in Ankle. Woman Had Threatened to Kill." Witnesses described the chaotic scene at the Eureka saloon, where George was fatally shot by his own wife amidst a heated altercation.
The newspaper article painted a grim picture of the events: "Davis was standing at the crap table near the rear door when the woman entered. Without a word she fired a Colt revolver. There was a big crowd at the time, and a rush for the doors and windows ensued. A stray bullet struck 'Kitty' Brune in the ankle. Five shots were fired in all, four of which struck Davis."
Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, local legend has it that George's love for laughter and merriment persists beyond the grave. Patrons of the Tonopah Liquor Company have reported playful pranks, a glass that mysteriously moves, items that vanish only to reappear, and an inexplicable sensation of a friendly presence nearby.
Whether one believes in spirits or not, the unique atmosphere of the Tonopah Liquor Company is undeniable. George "Devil" Davis's jovial spirit seems to linger, adding a touch of whimsy to the historic bar that bears witness to his enduring presence.
While George's playful haunting adds charm to the Tonopah Liquor Company, questions linger about the true motives behind his tragic demise. Was jealousy indeed the catalyst for Mrs. Davis's actions, or does a deeper truth lie buried beneath the headlines of the Tonopah Bonanza?
Visitors curious about George "Devil" Davis's story can pay their respects at his grave in the Old Tonopah Cemetery, adjacent to the infamous Clown Motel. His headstone stands as a silent testament to his life and untimely death: "Died June 12th, 1907. Politician and owner of the Eureka Saloon. Gunshot wounds inflicted by his wife."
Also check out:
George "Devil" Davis's grave at the Old Tonopah Cemetery
Tonopah Bonanza, “George Devil Davis, Victim of Wife's Fury who Fires Four Shots Into Back of Husband. Onlooker Receives a Bullet in Ankle. Woman Had Threatened to Kill."
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