Old West Outlaw List – J
The era of the Old West, a period romanticized in countless tales of gunslingers, cattle rustlers, and daring robberies, was also a time of stark realities. Within this landscape of burgeoning towns and vast, untamed territories, outlaws carved their own paths, often leaving a trail of lawlessness and intrigue. This article delves into the lives and deeds of some of the individuals whose names begin with the letter "J" and who, for better or worse, became a part of the Old West Outlaw narrative. From cold-blooded murderers to cunning thieves, these figures represent a diverse spectrum of criminality that defined a tumultuous chapter in American history.
This compilation serves as a glimpse into the complex tapestry of the Old West Outlaw era, showcasing the individuals who operated outside the boundaries of the law. The list is not exhaustive but rather a snapshot of some of the more notable or documented figures whose actions contributed to the folklore and reality of the Old West.
Johnson Jacks: A name etched in infamy within the annals of Oklahoma’s outlaw history, Johnson Jacks is remembered for his violent confrontation with U.S. Deputy Marshal Beck. The details surrounding the murder remain somewhat obscure, but the act itself cemented Jacks’ place among the wanted men of the time. The murder of a U.S. Marshal was a serious offense, and Jacks would have been relentlessly pursued by lawmen.
Frank "Blockey" Jackson (1856-1930?): Described as one of the toughest outlaws in Texas, Frank "Blockey" Jackson’s story is intertwined with the infamous Sam Bass Gang. Joining Bass in 1877, Jackson participated in numerous robberies and escapades that terrorized the Texas countryside. After the demise of Sam Bass and Seaborn Barnes at the hands of the Texas Rangers in 1878, Jackson sought refuge in New Mexico. His later life remains shrouded in mystery, with the question mark after his death year highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his final fate. The Old West Outlaw Jackson’s transition from Texas to New Mexico speaks to the fluidity of the outlaw life, as individuals moved across state lines to evade the law.
Jesse Jackson: Unlike Frank Jackson, Jesse Jackson operated as a whiskey runner in Oklahoma. His association with other outlaws such as Ed Newcomb and Henry Starr places him within a network of illicit activities. His story takes a dramatic turn when U.S. Deputy Marshal Rufe Cannon shot off his right arm. This injury and subsequent surrender highlight the risks inherent in the outlaw life, where encounters with law enforcement could result in severe consequences.
"Teton" Jackson (18??-1893): The vast landscapes of Wyoming and Idaho provided ample opportunities for horse thieves like "Teton" Jackson. His capture by the renowned lawman Frank Canton speaks to the constant struggle between outlaws and law enforcement in the region. Sentenced to prison, Jackson met his end during an escape attempt in 1893. His death underscores the desperation and high stakes involved in trying to break free from the confines of the law.
Tom Jackson: Involved in a train robbery in Bowie, New Mexico, on January 6, 1894, Tom Jackson’s actions contributed to the growing problem of train robberies in the West. These acts of defiance against established institutions were a common feature of the Old West Outlaw lifestyle.
Alexander Franklin "Frank" James (1843-1915): Known also as "Buck," Frank Vaughn, the elder brother of Jesse James, was a prominent figure in the James-Younger Gang and the James Gang. Frank participated in numerous bank robberies, train robberies, stagecoach robberies, and murders. After Jesse’s death, Frank surrendered to Governor T.T. Crittenden, demonstrating a degree of pragmatism. Acquitted of murder and robbery charges, he lived a peaceful life in Kearny, Missouri, until his death in 1915. Frank James’ transformation from outlaw to peaceful citizen is a testament to the possibility of redemption.
Calvin James (18??-1886): A black whiskey runner in Oklahoma, Calvin James’ story is one of betrayal and violence. After traveling to Texas to acquire whiskey, he murdered one of his companions, Tony Love, to steal his four gallons. The testimony of the other whiskey runners led to his conviction and hanging at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on July 23, 1886. James’ actions highlight the ruthless nature of some outlaws, who were willing to kill for personal gain.
Jesse Woodson James (1847-1882): Perhaps the most famous name on this list, Jesse James was the leader of the James-Younger Gang and the James Gang. For sixteen years, he and his gang terrorized the Midwest, robbing banks and trains with audacious flair. His legendary status was cemented by his assassination at the hands of Robert Ford in St. Joseph, Missouri, on April 3, 1882. Jesse James remains an iconic figure in the Old West Outlaw narrative.
Theodore James: An outlaw linked with the William Christian gang in 1897, Theodore James represents the many individuals who operated on the fringes of the law, often in association with larger, more established outlaw groups.
John Janes: Hanged in Lincoln, New Mexico, on June 18, 1886, John Janes’ story serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of a life of crime in the Old West. The justice system, though often imperfect, could be swift and unforgiving.
John Jarrette (1836-1868? or 1906?): Married to Mary Josephine Younger, sister to the infamous Younger Brothers, John Jarrette’s life was intertwined with the world of outlaws. He rode with Quantrill’s Raiders during the Civil War and later joined the James-Younger Gang. Thought to have died in a house fire in 1868, rumors persisted that he lived in California as late as 1891. Recent evidence suggests that he died in Greenwood, British Columbia, Canada.
Bud Jenkins: An Oklahoma outlaw who rode with Al Spencer and Jelly Nash, Bud Jenkins was one of many individuals who drifted in and out of outlaw gangs, seeking fortune and notoriety.
James Gilbert Jenkins (1834-1864): A particularly violent outlaw, James Gilbert Jenkins engaged in a range of crimes, including horse theft, robbery, and murder. His victims included strangers, companions, law officers, and Indians. Hanged in Napa County, California, in 1864, Jenkins’ story illustrates the brutal reality of life on the fringes of society.
Alphonso "Al" J. Jennings (1863-1961): Al Jennings’ story is one of transformation. After his brother Ed was killed by Temple Houston, Jennings turned to a life of crime, joining the Little Dick West Gang before forming his own Jennings Gang. Captured by U.S. Deputy Marshal Bud Ledbetter, he served five years in prison. After his release, he became a lawyer, demonstrating a remarkable ability to turn his life around.
Frank Jennings: Brother of Al Jennings and a member of the Jennings Gang, Frank Jennings participated in train robberies and was captured and imprisoned along with his brother.
"Arkansas" Johnson: A member of the Sam Bass Gang, "Arkansas" Johnson was killed by Texas Rangers at Salt Creek, Texas, on June 12, 1878.
Chas Johnson: A member of the Backus Gang, Chas Johnson was lynched by the "Hoodoos" in Mason County, Texas, on June 12, 1878.
Bill Johnson: An accomplice of Jim Nite, Bill Johnson was apprehended by Deputy U.S. Marshal Dee Harkey near Sacramento Sinks, New Mexico, in 1908.
DeWitt C. Johnson: Hanged in Lincoln, New Mexico, on November 19, 1886, DeWitt C. Johnson’s story is another example of the harsh consequences faced by outlaws in the Old West.
Otter Johnson: Otter Johnson shot and killed Norman Buck in Deming, New Mexico, and received a three-year prison sentence.
Peter "Toppy" Johnson: Peter Johnson rustled cattle in New Mexico and was sentenced to prison in Santa Fe.
Samuel Johnson: Samuel Johnson, known as Rattlesnake Sam, was killed by a bartender in Canoncito, New Mexico, on December 3, 1879.
"Swede" Johnson: "Swede" Johnson rode with Butch Cassidy, killed a cowboy in 1899, and was killed by lawmen.
Tobe Johnson: Tobe Johnson rustled cattle around Hillsboro, New Mexico, in 1877.
"Acorn Head" Jones: Lynched by vigilantes for stealing horses in Sumner County, Kansas, on July 27, 1874.
"Chubby" Jones: A member of Dutch Henry’s Gang, "Chubby" Jones was lynched with eight others at Sweet Water Creek, Texas.
Factor Jones: A Choctaw Indian cattle rustler, Factor Jones was involved with the murder of George Taft and was shot and killed by an angry mob.
Jefferson Jones (18??-1890): Hanged at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on January 16, 1890, for robbing and murdering Henry Wilson.
John Jones (18??-1879): Killed with his brother, Jim, after robbing a train near Hugo, Colorado.
John Jones (18??-1900): Stabbed George Wagstaff to death in Blossburg, New Mexico, in 1897.
"Arkansas Tom" Jones: See Roy Daugherty.
Francisco Jordan: Lynched on November 25, 1881, in Cuchilla Negra, New Mexico.
Martin Joseph: Hanged at Fort Smith, Arkansas, on June 29, 1883, for murdering Bud Stephens and Stephens’ wife.
Christopher "Kit" Carson Joy (1860-1926): A cowboy who turned outlaw, Kit Joy led the Kit Joy Gang, who robbed only one train before being killed or captured.
Maoma July: A Creek Indian outlaw and member of the Rufus Buck Gang, Maoma July was hanged on July 1, 1896.
The individuals listed above, all whose surnames begin with the letter "J", provide a glimpse into the diverse and often brutal world of the Old West Outlaw. Their stories, though sometimes fragmented and incomplete, contribute to a broader understanding of this turbulent period in American history. They serve as reminders of the constant struggle between law and lawlessness that shaped the American West.