Bill Whitley Gang – Train Robbers of Texas
The late 1880s in Texas were a time of burgeoning growth, rapid expansion, and, unfortunately, escalating lawlessness. Against this backdrop emerged the Bill Whitley Gang, also known as the Brack Cornett Gang, a band of approximately twelve outlaws who carved a niche for themselves through daring robberies of banks and trains. Led by the audacious William "Bill" Whitley and the equally formidable Brack Cornett, this group left a trail of chaos and notoriety across the Texas landscape. Their story is a blend of audacity, cunning, and the relentless pursuit of lawmen in a state struggling to maintain order.
The Bill Whitley Gang‘s operations unfolded during an era when the railroad had become the lifeblood of the Texan economy, transporting goods, people, and, most importantly to the outlaws, money. Banks, too, were becoming increasingly vital institutions, holding the wealth of communities and businesses alike. The temptation to seize these riches proved too great for Whitley, Cornett, and their cohorts, who saw these establishments as prime targets for their criminal endeavors.
One of the earliest documented exploits of the Bill Whitley Gang occurred in June 1887 near Flatonia, Texas. The gang brazenly halted a train, relieving passengers of approximately $600 in cash and $1,000 worth of jewelry. This act of audacious theft sent ripples of fear throughout the region and prompted swift action from law enforcement. The Wells Fargo Company, a frequent target of such robberies, offered a substantial reward of $1,000 for the capture and conviction of the perpetrators. The State of Texas, equally determined to bring the outlaws to justice, added an additional $500 to the bounty. Despite the increased pressure and relentless pursuit by lawmen, the Bill Whitley Gang managed to evade capture, disappearing into the vast expanse of the Texas countryside.
Undeterred by the close call near Flatonia, the Bill Whitley Gang continued their criminal activities. In the following year, they turned their attention to a bank in Cisco, Texas, successfully making off with a considerable sum of $25,000. Emboldened by this success, they targeted the International-Great Northern Railroad just days later, escaping with another $20,000. These daring heists solidified their reputation as a force to be reckoned with, but also amplified the determination of law enforcement to bring them to justice.
Their ambitious streak led them to plan a robbery of a Southern Pacific train out of Harwood, Texas, scheduled for September 22, 1888. However, their plans were foiled by a stroke of misfortune. U.S. Marshal John Rankin, through unknown means, learned of the gang’s intentions. Acting swiftly, Rankin, along with Deputy U.S. Marshal Duval West and a contingent of Texas Rangers, concealed themselves aboard the train, anticipating the gang’s arrival.
As expected, the Bill Whitley Gang intercepted the train just three miles outside of Harwood. However, their attempt to rob the train was met with fierce resistance from the concealed lawmen. A gunfight erupted, and the gang, caught off guard and outgunned, was forced to retreat. Despite the intense pursuit that followed, the would-be robbers managed to escape, leaving behind their thwarted plans and a renewed sense of urgency among law enforcement.
The relentless pursuit by numerous posses finally cornered the Bill Whitley Gang just a few days later, on September 25, 1888, in Floresville, Texas. The confrontation that ensued was a violent and decisive showdown. When the law closed in, a fierce gunfight erupted. In the ensuing chaos, Bill Whitley was killed, marking a significant blow to the gang’s leadership. Another member of the gang was captured, further weakening their ranks.
However, Brack Cornett, the other leader of the Bill Whitley Gang, managed to escape the deadly encounter in Floresville. He fled westward, seeking refuge in the rugged terrain of Arizona. But his escape was not to be a lasting one. Texas Ranger Alfred Allee, known for his tenacity and unwavering pursuit of justice, relentlessly tracked Cornett across state lines.
Allee’s pursuit eventually led him to Frio, Arizona, where he finally caught up with the elusive Brack Cornett. Another gunfight ensued, a final and desperate act of resistance from the outlaw. When the smoke cleared, Brack Cornett lay dead, bringing an end to the reign of the Bill Whitley Gang.
The demise of the Bill Whitley Gang marked the end of a brief but tumultuous chapter in Texas history. Their audacious robberies and daring escapes had captured the attention of the public, both inspiring fear and fueling the legends of the Wild West. While their criminal activities brought them wealth and notoriety, they ultimately met a violent end at the hands of the lawmen who relentlessly pursued them.
The story of the Bill Whitley Gang serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in the late 19th century American West. The vast distances, rugged terrain, and limited resources made it difficult to track down and apprehend criminals. However, the dedication and bravery of lawmen like John Rankin and Alfred Allee ultimately prevailed, bringing justice to those who had terrorized the communities of Texas. The legacy of the Bill Whitley Gang lives on, not as a celebration of their crimes, but as a testament to the enduring struggle between law and lawlessness in the American West. Their story continues to be told, a cautionary tale of ambition, greed, and the inevitable consequences of a life lived outside the bounds of the law.