Lot #8044

[Jesse James] H. H. Craig (2) Autograph Letters Signed, Preparing to Arrest Jesse James: "Whenever the 'round up' comes, I am to be there"

Description

Craig prepares to arrest Jesse James: "Whenever the 'round up' comes, I am to be there"

Police commissioner of Kansas City (1848–1914) who assisted in the capture of James-Younger Gang outlaws Dick Liddil and Bob Ford in Clay County, Missouri, precipitating a series of events that ended in the murder of Jesse James. Two ALSs, signed "H. H. C.," and "H. H. Craig," each one page, 5.75 x 9.5, personal letterhead, March 5 and 13, 1882. The first, in part: "The enclosed letter from the Governor has just been received. In response to that part of it which refers to 'money' I told him to send it along as we had paid out about all we cared to of our private funds &c &c. When it comes will notify you at once—Any news? Keep me advised and remember whenever the 'round up' comes, I am to be there." The second, written in pencil, in part: "When will you send me that Liberty paper with the 'letter in your favor' in it, I want to be interviewed over here and I would like to have that letter as a basis." In very good to fine condition, with some light creasing. Ultimately, the presumed 'round up' never happened—Jesse James was shot and killed by Bob Ford less than a month later, on April 3, 1882.

Auction Info

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