On March 20th, 1868, the infamous Jesse James Gang struck again, robbing a bank in Russellville, Kentucky, of $14,000. This was just one of many successful heists carried out by the gang during their notorious career.
The Jesse James Gang, which included Jesse James and his brother Frank James, began their criminal activities during the aftermath of the American Civil War. The gang initially targeted trains and stagecoaches, but eventually turned to robbing banks, which proved to be a more lucrative enterprise.
The robbery of the bank in Russellville was a daring and well-planned operation. The gang arrived in town the night before the robbery, posing as travelers and staying at a local hotel. They carefully scouted out the bank and made preparations for the following day.
The robbery itself was carried out with precision. The gang entered the bank, held up the employees at gunpoint, and forced them to open the vault. They then collected the money and made their escape, eluding the posse that was quickly organized to pursue them.
The Jesse James Gang continued their criminal activities for several years, becoming one of the most notorious outlaw groups in American history. However, their reign of terror eventually came to an end, as several members were killed or captured by law enforcement.
The legacy of the Jesse James Gang has endured through popular culture, with numerous books, films, and television shows depicting their exploits. The robbery of the bank in Russellville, Kentucky, remains a testament to the audacity and cunning of this infamous group of outlaws.
