Notorious outlaw Rube Burrow, born in 1856, embarked on a deadly crime spree that captivated the American West.
Raised on a farm in Alabama, Burrow's fascination with the infamous Jesse James fueled his criminal ambitions.
At just 15, he attempted a failed robbery, setting the stage for a string of daring train heists across Texas, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
Targeting the U.S. Postal Service and railroad companies, Burrow and his gang incited a nationwide pursuit by Pinkerton agents and law enforcement.
Despite evading capture for a time, his criminal activities culminated in a deadly train robbery, leading to his arrest and eventual execution.
Burrow's tale epitomizes the rise and fall of a legendary outlaw during the Wild West era.
Key Takeaways
- Rube Burrow was inspired by outlaw Jesse James and became fascinated with a life of crime.
- Burrow formed an outlaw gang with his brother Jim and others, primarily targeting the U.S. Postal Service and rail companies for their thefts.
- The Burrow brothers managed to evade capture initially, but Jim Burrow was eventually caught and died in jail.
- Burrow continued his criminal activities with Leonard C. Brock, including robbing trains and even killing a passenger, until his capture and execution in March 1890.
Early Life and Criminal Inspiration
Rube Burrow, one of ten children, was born in Lamar County, Alabama, around 1856. He was inspired by outlaw Jesse James to pursue a life of crime, and this influence was further fueled by his brother Jim's shared fascination. Rube attempted his first robbery at the age of 15, but was caught by his father. However, this incident marked the beginning of his criminal mindset.
In 1872, Rube moved to Texas and formed an outlaw gang with his brother Jim, Henderson Bromley, and Nep Thornton. Their primary targets were the U.S. Postal Service and rail companies. The gang's criminal activities escalated when they successfully robbed a train in Bellevue, Texas, in December 1886. This robbery marked the beginning of their spree.
Rube Burrow's early criminal activity set the stage for his notorious and deadly crime spree.
Formation of Outlaw Gang
At the outset, Burrow, his brother Jim, Henderson Bromley, and Nep Thornton formed an outlaw gang with a focus on targeting the U.S. Postal Service and rail companies for their thefts. The gang employed daring tactics, often robbing trains in remote areas and swiftly evading capture.
Rube Burrow's crimes had a significant impact on the public perception of outlaws, as the audacious nature of their robberies instilled fear and fascination in the public's mind. The gang's ability to outmaneuver law enforcement and continue their criminal activities for an extended period further entrenched the notion of outlaws as elusive and formidable adversaries.
This portrayal of outlaws as cunning and daring individuals reshaped public perception, contributing to the romanticized image of outlaws in American folklore and history.
Evasion and Pursuit
The outlaws' evasion and pursuit by Pinkerton agents intensified after their robbery in Genoa, Arkansas. To evade law enforcement, Rube Burrow and his accomplices employed various strategies, including adopting aliases and seeking shelter in familiar territory. The pursuit significantly impacted Burrow's criminal activities, forcing him to constantly move and remain vigilant.
His ability to plan and execute robberies was hindered by the persistent pursuit, leading to increased pressure and risk. Despite the challenges, Burrow and his gang continued their criminal endeavors, but the relentless pursuit ultimately culminated in their capture.
The pursuit not only disrupted their criminal operations but also contributed to the demise of the notorious outlaw, marking the end of his deadly crime spree.
Continued Criminal Activities
Burrow and his gang continued their criminal activities, targeting trains and committing a murder during a robbery in Duck Hill, Mississippi, in December 1888. The murder raised concerns among the national press and railroad companies. Despite the mounting pressure, Burrow and his men received unwavering support from their extended family in Lamar County.
In July 1889, Burrow shot the local postmaster, resulting in the arrest of some of his relatives. Despite the escalating scrutiny, Burrow and his partner, Leonard C. Brock, remained in the area until September, planning their next robbery. Their continued criminal activities attracted the attention of national press and raised concerns among railroad concerns, intensifying the pursuit to bring Burrow to justice.
This period marked a critical juncture in Burrow's criminal career, ultimately leading to his final robbery and capture.
Final Robbery and Capture
Following a prolonged pursuit, Rube Burrow, his cousin Rube Smith, and accomplice Leonard C. Brock executed their final train robbery near Okolona, Mississippi, in September 1889.
- The trio targeted a train, seizing valuables and inflicting fear among passengers.
- Burrow and Smith were apprehended shortly after the heist.
- Burrow's execution marked the end of his notorious criminal career.
- The capture of Burrow had a profound impact on the national press and railroad companies.
- It brought relief and reassurance to the public and the railroad industry.
- Burrow's capture demonstrated the effectiveness of law enforcement and the resilience of the justice system.
- It served as a warning to other outlaws, effectively deterring further criminal activities.
Burrow's demise and the subsequent decline of train robberies brought a sense of security to the nation and a renewed faith in law and order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Was the Reaction of Rube Burrow's Family to His Criminal Activities?
Rube Burrow's family faced a moral dilemma due to his criminal activities. Despite concerns raised by the national press and railroad companies, some of Burrow's extended family in Lamar County provided support, highlighting the complex dynamics within the family.
How Did Rube Burrow and Leonard C. Brock Plan Their Robberies and Evade Capture?
Rube Burrow and Leonard C. Brock meticulously planned their robberies, using strategic reconnaissance and disguises. To evade capture, they sought refuge in Alabama and even returned to Lamar County. Their evasion tactics were cunning and daring.
Did Rube Burrow Have Any Other Aliases Besides "Joe Jackson"?
Rube Burrow used the alias Joe Jackson, but whether he had other criminal aliases is undisclosed. His family supported his criminal activities, and he planned robberies with his outlaw gang, evading capture. The national press and public responded with concern.
What Was the Response of the National Press and Public to the Murder Committed During the Train Robbery in Duck Hill, Mississippi?
The national press expressed outrage and concern over the murder committed during the train robbery in Duck Hill, Mississippi. Public reaction was one of heightened fear and scrutiny, as Burrow and his outlaw gang members continued planning robberies and evading capture.
Were There Any Other Members of Rube Burrow's Outlaw Gang Who Were Not Mentioned in the Article?
The article detailed the activities of Rube Burrow's outlaw gang, but it didn't mention any unnamed members. However, it described their criminal activities, family reaction, robbery planning, capture evasion, aliases, public response, train robbery, and murder controversy.
Conclusion
In the end, Rube Burrow's criminal exploits came crashing down like a train wreck. His life of crime, fueled by his fascination with outlaws, led to a deadly end. Like a shooting star, his rise and fall left a mark on the American West that will never be forgotten.
Despite his daring escapades, Burrow ultimately met his demise, proving that even the boldest outlaws can't outrun their fate.
Our Reader’s Queries
Where is Rube Burrow buried?
Allen Burrow’s father, Allen Burrow, greeted the train in Sulligent and was handed the coffin by the train attendants. “It’s Rube,” he said as he accepted his son’s body. He then brought Rube back to their home community near Vernon and laid him to rest in Fellowship Cemetery.
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