The James Gang of Missouri – Legends of America
The name "James Gang" evokes images of daring train robberies, thrilling escapes, and a band of outlaws who roamed the American Midwest in the late 19th century. Led by the infamous Jesse James, this gang etched its name into the annals of American history, becoming both feared and romanticized. This article delves into the history of the James Gang, exploring its origins, its members, its criminal activities, and its ultimate demise.
The Genesis of the James Gang
The James Gang emerged in 1879, three years after the downfall of the James-Younger Gang. The James-Younger Gang’s attempt to rob the First National Bank in Northfield, Minnesota, on September 7, 1876, was a turning point. The robbery went awry, resulting in the deaths of two gang members and the capture of the Younger brothers and Charlie Pitts. Pitts died in a shootout, while the Younger brothers were imprisoned. However, Frank and Jesse James managed to evade capture.
Following the disastrous Northfield raid, Frank and Jesse James sought refuge in Nashville, Tennessee. While Frank seemed to adapt to a peaceful life, Jesse grew restless. In 1879, he began assembling a new crew, marking the birth of the James Gang and his return to a life of crime.
The James Gang: A Rogues’ Gallery
The James Gang comprised a diverse group of individuals, each with their own motivations and backgrounds. Over time, the gang’s ranks included:
- Ed Miller: A participant in several train robberies.
- Robert and Charley Ford: Brothers who would later play a pivotal role in Jesse James’s demise.
- Bill Ryan: A convicted train robber.
- Dick Liddel: A key member who later turned state’s evidence against Frank James.
- James "Windy Jim" Cummings: A farmer who attempted to turn himself in after the gang’s breakup.
- Tucker Basham: An accomplice who was captured and named his fellow gang members.
- Woodson and Clarence Hite: Brothers who joined the James Gang.
- Frank James: Jesse’s older brother and a constant presence in his criminal endeavors.
A Spree of Criminal Activities
The James Gang embarked on a series of robberies that spanned several states. On October 8, 1879, they robbed the Chicago and Alton Railroad near Glendale, Missouri, making off with approximately $10,000. Tucker Basham’s subsequent capture led to the identification of his accomplices.
The gang expanded their operations, targeting stores in western Mississippi, where they stole $2,000 in cash during the second robbery. These heists marked the beginning of a crime spree that extended to Missouri, Kentucky, and Alabama, with the gang robbing stagecoaches and trains along the way.
Internal Strife and Dissension
Unlike the James-Younger Gang, which consisted of battle-hardened guerrillas, the new James Gang was plagued by internal strife and suspicion. As some members were apprehended, the remaining outlaws grew distrustful of one another.
Their final train robbery occurred on September 7, 1881, when they robbed the Chicago and Alton train at Blue Cut, near Glendale, Missouri, stealing $3,000 in cash and jewelry from the passengers. The following month, Jesse James killed Ed Miller, allegedly for divulging too much information about the gang’s activities.
The Downfall of Jesse James
In November 1881, Jesse James moved his family to St. Joseph, Missouri, with the intention of abandoning his criminal lifestyle. However, his past caught up with him when gang member Bob Ford assassinated him in his home on April 3, 1882.
The Fate of the James Gang Members
Following Jesse James’s death, the remaining members of the James Gang faced varying fates:
- Tucker Basham: Testified against Bill Ryan, married, moved to California, and died in June 1922.
- James "Windy Jim" Cummings: Became a farmer in Arkansas, attempted to turn himself in, and died in the Old Soldiers Home in Higginsville, Missouri, on July 9, 1929.
- Charles Ford: Fearful of retribution from Frank James, committed suicide on May 6, 1884.
- Robert Ford: Assassinated Jesse James to collect a reward and secure amnesty, but was later killed in Colorado on June 8, 1892.
- Clarence Hite: Arrested in February 1882, confessed, was imprisoned, but received an early pardon due to tuberculosis and died at the age of 21 on June 12, 1883.
- Robert Woodson Hite: Killed by Dick Liddel on December 4, 1881, during an argument over a woman.
- Alexander Franklin James: Surrendered in October 1882, was tried twice, acquitted both times, and died of a heart attack on February 18, 1915.
- Dick Liddel: Turned state’s evidence against Frank James, but Frank was acquitted in August 1883. Liddel died of a heart attack in Kentucky on July 13, 1901.
- Ed Miller: Killed by Jesse James in December 1881 for revealing too much about the gang’s activities.
- William "Bill" Ryan: Sentenced to prison for train robbery, found dead in the woods shortly after his release in April 1889.
The Legacy of the James Gang
The James Gang’s exploits have been immortalized in numerous books, films, and songs. They remain a captivating part of American folklore, representing a time of lawlessness, adventure, and moral ambiguity. While their criminal actions cannot be condoned, the James Gang’s story continues to fascinate and intrigue, solidifying their place in the legends of America.