The land that is now Oklahoma was once a wild and lawless territory, home to some of the most notorious outlaws in American history. Before achieving statehood in 1907, the Oklahoma Territory was a hotbed of criminal activity, attracting outlaws looking to evade law enforcement and exploit the vast, unsettled land. Here are some profiles and stories of the most infamous outlaws who roamed the Oklahoma Territory.
Jesse James
Jesse James, perhaps the most famous outlaw of all, spent time in the Oklahoma Territory during his criminal career. Known for his daring bank and train robberies, Jesse and his gang became legendary figures. The story of Jesse James is filled with tales of daring escapes and bold heists, making him a central figure in the lore of the Old West.
Belle Starr
Belle Starr, often referred to as the “Bandit Queen,” was a notorious female outlaw who made her mark in the Oklahoma Territory. Known for her association with other infamous outlaws and her own criminal exploits, Belle Starr’s life was a mix of legend and reality. Her story is one of rebellion and resilience in a male-dominated world of crime.
The Dalton Gang
The Dalton Gang, composed of brothers Bob, Grat, and Emmett Dalton, along with several other members, terrorized the Oklahoma Territory in the early 1890s. They were infamous for their train and bank robberies, and their story came to a dramatic end with the ill-fated double bank robbery in Coffeyville, Kansas, where most of the gang was killed.
Bill Doolin
Bill Doolin, founder of the infamous Doolin-Dalton Gang, was another prominent figure in the outlaw history of the Oklahoma Territory. Doolin and his gang were known for their numerous bank and train robberies. Despite several run-ins with law enforcement, Doolin managed to evade capture for years before finally meeting his end in a shootout with U.S. Marshals.
Cherokee Bill
Cherokee Bill, born Crawford Goldsby, was a ruthless outlaw of mixed African American and Native American heritage. His criminal career was marked by a series of violent crimes, including robbery and murder. His story is a stark reminder of the harsh realities of life in the Oklahoma Territory during its most lawless years.
Discover More About Oklahoma’s Outlaw Legends
The stories of these outlaws are an integral part of Oklahoma’s rich history, providing a glimpse into a time when the land was untamed and the law was often just a step behind the criminals. By exploring these profiles and stories, we not only remember the past but also understand the events that shaped the development of the region.
If you’re fascinated by these tales and want to learn more, check out our collection of books at Osage Outlaw Press. Our books delve deeper into the lives and legends of these infamous figures, bringing the wild history of pre-statehood Oklahoma to life.
