Red Jack Gang Outlaw Loot
The vast landscapes of the American West, particularly the rugged territories of Arizona, are steeped in tales of daring outlaws, lucrative stagecoach heists, and the ever-elusive promise of buried treasure. Among these legends, the story of the Red Jack Gang, led by the notorious "Red Jack" Almer, also known as Jack Averill, stands out as a testament to the era’s lawlessness and the enduring allure of hidden wealth. This gang terrorized the Arizona territory in the early 1880s, leaving behind a trail of robbed stagecoaches, a legacy of violence, and persistent rumors of buried loot. The name Red Jack Gang still evokes images of dusty trails and daring robberies.
The early 1880s in Arizona were characterized by rapid expansion, fueled by mining booms and the promise of prosperity. This influx of people and wealth also attracted those who sought to exploit the burgeoning economy through illegal means. Stagecoaches, the primary mode of transporting passengers, mail, and valuable cargo, became prime targets for outlaw gangs. The Red Jack Gang quickly established itself as one of the most audacious and feared of these groups, focusing its attention on the vulnerable stage lines crisscrossing the territory.
"Red Jack" Almer, the charismatic and ruthless leader of the gang, was the mastermind behind their operations. His cunning and daring plans were instrumental in the gang’s success, and his reputation for both ruthlessness and a flair for the dramatic quickly spread throughout the territory. He was not merely a common bandit; Almer was known for his audacious disguises and clever schemes, often employing deception to gain an advantage over his targets. The legend of the Red Jack Gang is largely built on the personality and exploits of its leader.
The San Pedro River region became a favored hunting ground for the Red Jack Gang. Its remote location and sparse population made it an ideal place to ambush stagecoaches and evade law enforcement. The gang’s operations were marked by meticulous planning and a willingness to use violence when necessary. Stagecoach robberies were carefully orchestrated, with gang members strategically positioned to maximize their chances of success. They gained a reputation for efficiency and a willingness to resort to deadly force when confronted with resistance.
One particular incident, which occurred near Riverside on August 10, 1883, epitomizes the audacity and cunning of the Red Jack Gang. The gang targeted a Wells Fargo stagecoach, a common carrier of valuables. As the robbers approached, the Wells Fargo guard, aware of the potential danger, vehemently insisted that the stagecoach was not carrying any gold. However, a dramatic turn of events unfolded when a female passenger, seemingly contradicting the guard, jumped from the stagecoach and accused him of lying.
In a shocking revelation, the "female passenger" was none other than "Red Jack" Almer himself, disguised in women’s clothing. Almer, having previously observed the placement of gold under one of the seats, signaled his men to advance on the stagecoach. When the guard reached for his weapon, Almer swiftly drew a gun from beneath his flowing skirts, and in a swift and decisive action, shot the guard, killing him instantly. The gang then seized almost $3,000 in currency and gold before making their escape. This incident not only highlighted Almer’s penchant for disguise but also underscored the ruthless nature of the gang’s operations. The audacity of the Red Jack Gang was on full display in this daring robbery.
The brazen act of violence and the significant loss of wealth prompted Sheriff Bob Paul to organize a strong posse to bring the Red Jack Gang to justice. Sheriff Paul, a seasoned lawman known for his tenacity and dedication, was determined to put an end to the gang’s reign of terror. The posse, comprised of experienced trackers and skilled marksmen, embarked on a relentless pursuit of the outlaws, following their trail through the harsh and unforgiving terrain of Arizona.
The pursuit eventually led the posse to Willcox, Arizona, where they discovered Almer in hiding on October 4, 1883. A fierce gunfight erupted as the posse attempted to apprehend Almer. "Red Jack," true to his reputation, refused to surrender and attempted to fight his way out. However, he was ultimately outgunned and fatally wounded by Sheriff Bob Paul and his posse. The death of "Red Jack" Almer marked the end of the Red Jack Gang’s criminal activities.
While the death of their leader effectively dismantled the gang, the legend of the Red Jack Gang lived on, fueled by tales of their many stagecoach robberies and, more importantly, rumors of buried loot. According to local lore, the gang was said to have buried their ill-gotten gains in various locations near their hideout in Willcox. One particularly persistent rumor suggests that approximately $8,000 in gold coins remains buried somewhere near Prescott, Arizona.
The prospect of finding this hidden treasure has captivated treasure hunters and amateur historians for generations. Many have searched the areas surrounding Willcox and Prescott, hoping to uncover the lost loot of the Red Jack Gang. However, despite numerous attempts, the treasure remains elusive, adding to the enduring mystery and allure of the Red Jack Gang’s story.
The legend of the Red Jack Gang serves as a reminder of the turbulent and often violent history of the American West. It speaks to the allure of wealth, the daring exploits of outlaws, and the enduring power of folklore. While the actual treasure may never be found, the story of the Red Jack Gang continues to capture the imagination and inspire dreams of uncovering a piece of the Wild West’s hidden past. The hunt for the Red Jack Gang’s outlaw loot continues, keeping the legend alive.