Lot #8048

[Jesse James] Thomas T. Crittenden Autograph Letter Signed on Jesse and Frank James: "Sentimentality is now with the people in the manner of Jessie's death"

Description

"Sentimentality is now with the people in the manner of Jessie's death. Our action in breaking up the gang has aroused a feeling of opposition to such lawlessness throughout the state"

American politician (1832–1909) who served as governor of Missouri from 1881 to 1885, known for raising a bounty for the capture of famed outlaw Jesse James; this led to James's murder by Robert Ford, who was subsequently pardoned by Crittenden. Significant ALS signed “Thos. T. Crittenden,” one page both sides, 8 x 10, State of Missouri Executive Department letterhead, June 12, 1882. Handwritten letter to Sheriff James Timberlake, who led investigations into the James-Younger Gang. In part: "As Frank is still in jurisdiction of the state I think he should be taken in 'out of the wet' if that is done soon after the arrest of the Brookfield bank robbers…Sentimentality is now with the people in the manner of Jessie's death. Our action in breaking up the gang has aroused a feeling of opposition to such lawlessness throughout the state, which will grow stronger day by day." In fine condition.

Frank James would ultimately negotiate a surrender with Governor Crittenden through an intermediary, newspaper editor John Newman Edwards. On October 4, 1882, he walked into the governor's office, placed his holstered gun in his hands, and proclaimed: 'I have been hunted for twenty-one years, have literally lived in the saddle, have never known a day of perfect peace. It was one long, anxious, inexorable, eternal vigil.' He then ended his statement by saying, 'Governor, I haven't let another man touch my gun since 1861.'

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Old West, Outlaws, Lawmen, and Gangsters
• Dates: #720 - Ended 05/22/2025