This circa 1860-61 CDV is quite possibly the most historical and most valuable image in my Montana collection. It is in the Super rare class. Second from left is U.S. Marshal of Montana Territory, George M. Pinney. Far left is Deputy Marshal John Featherstun. On the left of Pinney is Deputy Marshal Neil Howie, and far right is Deputy Marshal J. X. Beidler. Neil Howie became the Sheriff of Madison County (Virginia City was seat of government) in about 1863 and resigned in 1865. J.X. Beidler became his Deputy Sheriff until 1865. Both Neil Howie and J. X. Beidler signed the Oath of the Vigilantes and Howie served in the Vigilantes under Capt. Williams. Beidler is famous for becoming its Hangman. This is the only photograph extant of the U.S. Marshal and these Deputies known. I have great pride owning it.
