Did the Pinkerton Detective Agency Really Hunt Down Cowboys and Outlaws?

The Pinkerton National Detective Agency, founded in 1850 by Allan Pinkerton, fame for its investigative work and law enforcement presence during the 19th century, has long been associated with pursuing notorious cowboys and outlaws. This article delves into whether the Pinkertons were just as infamous as the tales suggest, examines the agency's methods, and discusses their impact on American law enforcement.

High-Profile Cases and Historical Significance

The Pinkerton Detective Agency was involved in numerous high-profile cases during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The agency's most famous cases include the pursuit of notorious outlaws such as Jesse James and the Younger brothers. They were also contracted to provide security for railroads and to investigate labor disputes, which often brought them into conflict with organized labor.

The agency's methods were diverse and included undercover operations, surveillance, and even the use of female detectives in disguise. Their reputation was mixed, with admiration for their skills and criticism for their often aggressive tactics. Despite this, the Pinkertons played a significant role in American law enforcement and the fight against crime during their early years.

Legacy and Influence

The Pinkerton Agency's influence extended far beyond its active years. Allan Pinkerton's work from 1860 to 1865, during which he guarded President Lincoln, led to the creation of the U.S. Secret Service. Pinkerton's innovations also inspired the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), particularly through J. Edgar Hoover. These innovations included setting up branch offices, centralizing records, and pioneering techniques such as taking photographs, composite drawings, fingerprints, and collecting detailed methods of operation for individual criminals.

Realities on the Ground

The portrayal of the Pinkerton Detective Agency in popular culture often exaggerates their role in hunting down cowboys and outlaws. In reality, a cowboy would only engage the Pinkertons for a very narrow range of crimes. For example:

Rustling Cattle: Ranchers might hire their own range detectives like Tom Horn or Charlie Siringo or a state or regional cattlemen's association to address widespread cattle rustling. Robberies and Bank Heists: A town marshal, county sheriff, or private detectives like W. F. "Bill" Cody could be involved in these cases. Bank Robberies and Wells Fargo Heists: Wells Fargo had their own field investigators and agents, such as Fred Dodge, who would pursue and bring criminals to jail. Train Robberies: The Union Pacific Railroad had its own special agents who could make arrests anywhere in the US, unlike US Marshals who were limited to their own jurisdictions.

The Texas Rangers, while having great authority, were often understaffed and underresourced but were capable of achieving impressive results. Private detectives like the Pinkertons were the only option for pursuing criminals beyond the county or state borders.

Conclusion

The Pinkerton Detective Agency was a significant force in American law enforcement and the fight against crime. While they did play a role in hunting down cowboys and outlaws, their involvement was often overstated in popular culture. This article has explored the truth behind the agency's work and its lasting legacy on American law enforcement.