The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad was robbed July 15,1881 east of Winston and west of Gallatin, Missouri in Daviess County. During the robbery William Westfall, the conductor was shot twice and was killed as well as Frank Mc Millan Jr. a stone mason who was caught in crossfire. Stories of revenge surfaced afterwards indicating that Mr. Westfall was the conductor for the Pinkertons the night they threw the bomb at the James Farm Home which killed young Archie Samuel and resulted in mother Zerelda James-Samuels arm being amputated.
It is generally believed that there were five to seven robbers at the Winston Robbery. The men could have netted as much as $ 2,000.00. There were reports varied $ 8,000.00 to $15,000.00.
In August 1883, Frank James was tried and acquitted.
Following the trial a lawyer commented of his confidence in achieving Frank's verdict. He said to achieve a not guilty verdict you need only three things, farmers, southern sympathizers, and Democrats.
Trains, Banks, Stagecoaches. . .
The Desparados.
The Victims.
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