During the late 1880’s, the Cornett-Whitley gang rose on the Texas scene with a daring train robbery at McNeil Station, only miles from the capital of Texas. In the frenzy that followed the robbery, the media castigated both lawmen and government officials, at time lauded the outlaws, and indulged in trial by media. At Flatonia the gang tortured the passengers and indulged in an orgy of violence that earned them international recognition and infamy. Private enterprises, such as Wells Fargo, the railroads, and numerous banks, joined forces with law enforcement to combat them. Lawmen from cities and counties combined with federal marshals and the Texas Rangers to further cement what would become “the brotherhood of the badge”. These efforts succeeded in tracking down and killing or capturing a good number of gang members.Readers of the Old West and true crime stories will appreciate this sordid tale of outlawry and the lawmen who put a stop to it.
“Having tackled the Mason County War, John Ringo and the Horrell Brothers, noted historian and author David Johnson sets his sights on the Cornett-Whitley Gang. A worthy addition to his body of work, this book is a meticulously research and engaging volume that sheds light on a largely band of Texas desperados. Observing Americans’ love-hate fascination with outlaws, Johnson strips away the romance and myths to tell the true story of these ruthless criminals and the relentless law men who brought them to justice.”—Darren L. Ivey, Author of the Ranger Ideal series.
Author DAVID JOHNSON has received degrees from Pennsylvania State University and Purdue University. He is the author of John Ringo, King of the Cowboys; The Horrell Wars, and the Mason County “Hoo Doo” War, 1874-1902, all published by the University of North Texas Press. Johnson has also edited two editions of The Life of Thomas W. Gamel.