Oklahoma Outlaws

When you think of Oklahoma outlaws the Dalton or Doolin Gangs probably come to mind. Belle Starr or even the James/Younger Gang might be at the top of your list. The Sooner State has a long list of badmen who made the Indian Territory their haunt. I'll be doing a series of short stories on some of the lesser known outlaws. Their areas of operation could still hold some of their long hidden loot.

The Bill Coe gang was a group of renegades who numbers ranged from 15 to 50 at any given time. The outlaws terrorized travelers on the Santa Fe Trail. They headquartered in the Black Mesa region of the panhandle during the 1860's. Their hideout became known as Robbers Roost. It was located near Lookout Point not far from what is now known as North Carrizo Creek. The gang was very well organized and even tended a farm located near their hideout.

Robbing travelers and rustling were the main sources of income for this group. The Coe Gangs reign came to an abrupt end in 1867. The fortress like hideout was beseiged by troops and a cannon from Fort Lyons. The outlaws were either shot down or later rounded up and hung. With no time to recover any hidden loot and as successful as the gang was this would be a good area to research.

The hideout is on private property, but for those interested in visiting the area can contact the Boise City Chamber of Commerce to arrange for a visit.