Ralph Horton (1904-1932), a farmer and school teacher, was killed by a posse in Boone, Watauga County, North Carolina. Ralph and his brother George had confronted Fred Tarham, a construction company boss, over the firing of a Black employee. Tarham reported them to the police. Officers R.S. Swift and J.C. Farthing arrested George, then forced their way into the Horton home, where they found Ralph and his brother Norton. Norton shot Farthing (who was the sheriff’s son), critically injuring him. Ralph and Norton then fled. The posse caught up with them at the Tennessee line and opened fire when the brothers allegedly drew weapons. Ralph was killed, Norton injured.

Ralph Horton