Damon “Chub” Anderson has Died
November 24, 2010
I am sorry to report that my collaborator of the past five years, Chub Anderson, died today, November 24, 2010, at 6PM. He had recently stopped his dialysis treatments and signed a “do not resuscitate” order. In his sixty-nine years Chub had packed in enough adventures, and misadventures, for several lifetimes.
Chub Anderson and Sheriff Wayman, 2009, Part 3
Part Three of a Serious Dialogue…
This video was made as Chub and the former Sheriff were aging and battling health problems. They were both facing the possible end of the road in their lives and the tone of their conversation reflects that. The feeling throughout their meeting was very respectful, without any anger or recrimination towards one another. They were able to thoughtfully discuss many details about the Mullendore murder, including some false leads such as the much discussed bone chip that some claim had landed on Chub’s hat.
Check out the most recent installment in my profile of the Sheriff which gives you a greater understanding of the character of this man who has been haunted by the two crimes he could never solve.
Then keep your eyes peeled for a new posting next week from my travels under Down The Road as I take a side trip to Branson, MO to check out this year’s Christmas events.This is one of my favorite places to visit and I am sure that many of you are already familiar with it. If you haven’t been there the holiday season is one of the best times to go.
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The Chub Anderson Story
This story is about the most famous unsolved murder in the southwest and the life of the man who still holds the key to that murder. On September 20, 1970, E.C. Mullendore III, the heir to the three hundred thousand acre Cross Bell Ranch empire in Oklahoma was murdered in his own home. The only other person with him was ranch employee Damon ‘Chub’ Anderson who was also shot. At the time of his death Mr. Mullendore held the largest life insurance policy in the United States. As the result of mistakes made during the investigation no one has ever been charged in the murder despite the involvement of numerous law enforcement officials, lawyers, investigators and TV personalities.
After the murder articles appeared in the Wall Street Journal, The Atlanta Journal and The Atlanta Constitution, The Daily Oklahoman, The Tulsa World and The Tulsa Tribune as well as in all the local papers. Television stations across the region also sent investigate reporters to the area but with little result. Through the years the story has continued to fascinate the public and both the national and the regional media have covered possible new leads in great detail. Most recently the murder has become the topic of several internet blogs with people from across the country logging on and offering their theories of the crime.
Chub Anderson’s life in the years following the murder became a legend of its own. In 1980 he was arrested for growing the largest marijuana crop in Oklahoma history and this arrest was followed by a string of indictments involving other crimes. Then in 1990 when he was arrested for cultivation in Kansas, Anderson became a fugitive from justice and eluded capture for 17 years. He was on the Ten Most Wanted list in the State of Kansas and was also frequently mentioned as a prime suspect in the Mullendore murder although no charges were ever filed. In June 2006 a sick and penniless Anderson was apprehended in Helena, Montana where he had been living under the name of Jack Evert, a deceased World War II veteran.
I am a columnist for a local newspaper in Oklahoma and when Anderson was arrested I decided to follow the case. After a fluke introduction in the judge’s chambers during his sentencing I began visiting him on a weekly basis in Lansing State Prison forming a bond that has strengthened since his release in early 2007. Together we have been working on a book which focuses on his experiences and the pivotal unsolved murder of E.C. Mullendore – an event that has shaped his life for the past 41 years.
Your website is very interesting. Have followed info about Chub for a few years. Even met some folks that said some members of their family knew him. Went to a BBQ at the ranch and of course was one of the first to open the cabana and check it out. Couldnt figure it out at first until I realized I was “upstairs”. Friends think I am crazy or obsessed. I dont think so any more than anyone else. Its a good mystery. You have had a colorful life yourself. I think I will enjoy following along.
I was working at Jane Phillips Hospital when Jr. Mullendore was killed. In fact, E.C. Sr. was a patient of mine at one time. I was born and raised in Bartlesville and I think everyone loves a good mystery, especially when it involves all that this case involves. I live in Virginia now but am thankful we have the internet so I can follow this again after all of these years.
8-17-2012: Watched a show last night on the ID channel, concerning the Mullendore mystery, and I believe it was the worst produced show that I have seen on TV. I guess Gary Glanz was getting the $100,000,00 that he wanted to reveal the true story. It should have been made into a movie, rather than into a twenty minute short story. Dale, have you published “footprints in the dew” yet?
Thanks for your comments- the book is not published yet but stay tuned- thanks, Dale
My grandfather worked for Gene Mullendore on his ranch near Fairfax, Oklahoma many years ago. I have read the Mullendore Murder Case written by Jonathan Kwitny and am familiar with this publication. I just found your website and the interviews with Chub Anderson and George Wayman. I am interested in the revelations of Chub Anderson after Mr. Wayman left. You make several remarks concerning later conversations and interviews with Chub and his revelations to you. I look forward to the publication of the book “Footprints in the Dew.” Do you know when you will be getting the book published and when it will be available for purchase? It has been and continues to be a mystery as to what really happened the night E. C. Mullendore was murdered. Who killed E.C? I am interested in the story that Chub shared with you. He was the only one there with E. C. when he was killed. What is Chub’s story? Thank you for sharing the interviews. I hope you are planning on getting your book published and available for sale to the public soon.
Hi Dale,
It was good to see you at OKC again. I finally got my computer connected. I’m slow, but sure!!
It’s been so crazy around here with the tornadoes and all. My daugher-in-law was caught in the Moore tornado inside the Medical Center. All the patients and personnel got inside the cafeteria area and were saved. My heart sank, but my son called and assured me that she was safe!
Take care and keep writing, Carol Cook
Well well well if I remember correctly you showed me the Mullendorn ranch for the first time way back in the day. You’ve come a long way. Good luck with the book.
Thanks Mindy, Sorry I am so far behind in my replies-I have started a campaign on kickstarter.com to help fund publication of the book-please support the project and spread the word to your contacts-you can follow the link to kickstarter from the homepage of my website- thanks so much, Dale