The Reality of Train Robberies in the American West

The American West during the era of massive railroad expansion was a place where the lore of train robberies flourished. However, the prevalence and methods of these crimes were quite different from the portrayals in modern media. This article delves into the actual frequency of train robberies and how they were carried out, debunking some common misconceptions and exploring the historical context.

Frequency and Perception

Train robbery was indeed a significant concern for the railroad companies during the expansion era. Since there were no national databases of crime at the time, it is difficult to quantify the exact frequency of these incidents. However, it was certainly regarded as a substantial problem that necessitated security measures such as hiring private detective agencies like the Pinkerton National Detective Agency.

A notable incident involving the Pinkerton agency was its failed attempt to apprehend the notorious James brothers. The agency's attempt to bomb the James family home resulted in the tragic injury of a 12-year-old boy and the loss of a limb for their half-brother, as well as the dismemberment of their mother. This botched operation did little to enhance the Pinkerton agency's reputation and instead strengthened the support for the James brothers. This highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in the era of expanding railroad operations and the hurdles they had to overcome.

Methods of Train Robberies

Train robberies typically involved two main tactics. The first method involved blocking the tracks with obstacles such as boulders, logs, or other materials. In this scenario, it was possible for the engineer to accelerate the train and push through the barrier, leading to a high-speed crash that could result in significant damage and casualties.

The second method involved overpowering the train crew and commandeering the locomotive. If the robbers succeeded in taking control, they would force the train to stop at a predetermined location, where they would wait for accomplices with horses. If the robbers managed to cut telegraph lines or disable the train in some other way, the robbery could go unnoticed for hours, making it more challenging for authorities to respond.

Before carrying out the robbery, the robbers would often neutralize communication by cutting telegraph lines. This ensured that it would take a considerable amount of time for the robbery to be reported. Furthermore, if the criminals managed to get across county lines, local authorities would have little jurisdiction, reducing the likelihood of intervention.

Common Misconceptions

Despite popular belief, train robberies in the American West were not as common as depicted in modern films and television. While bank robberies were often easier and more lucrative, train robberies were not as frequent. A notable exception was Oliver Curtis Perry, who robbed trains in upstate New York in 1892, demonstrating that such crimes were not exclusive to the West.

Train robberies typically targeted trains carrying valuables such as bank payrolls and other valuable goods. Passengers were less likely to be targets, as evidenced by the unlikely scenario of a train robber making off with cash from passengers. This aligns with the operational characteristics of the era's trains: they moved at a maximum speed of 30 mph on good tracks in open country, which was relatively fast for passenger vehicles of that time. Additionally, these trains were steam-driven, requiring frequent stops for water and often encountering breakdowns and delays due to environmental factors such as animals on the tracks, debris, and broken bridges.

In mountainous or rugged areas, the train's speed would significantly decrease, exacerbated further by animal interference and debris impediments. In contrast, a good horse could achieve a top speed of 55 mph, making it possible to outrun a train over short distances.

Conclusion

The reality of train robberies in the American West was more complex than the romanticized depictions in modern culture suggest. While they were a significant concern, their frequency and methods were different from what is commonly believed. Understanding these nuances provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by both law enforcement and railroad companies during the period of massive railroad expansion.