Bruce,
Thanks so very much for your quick response.
Other than questioning the existence of the newspaper (I've spoken to several that have heard of it), I can't refute any arguement you make about whether the hanging actually did occur. If indeed it is "bogus", it would explain why nobody from the County Historical Society can find any official record of it.
If you find any other tidbit regarding this story, or think of something else - please let me know.
I'll keep searching, but will also pass along your concerns to others I've been in contact with.
thanks again, Don