MissouriMud, the MO pen in Jefferson City is the only one I can find; the song, like many that are widespread in tradition, departs from factual content.

It is difficult to trace the growth of the song and its variants; more information is needed on its beginnings and spread. Other crimes in other localities than the Shelton-Lyons shooting in St. Louis may contribute to some versions.

The development of an event into legend is always interesting.

I also would like to see original news reports; were they detailed and abundant or was it a back-page event?