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The Death of Dick Broadwell: A Notorious Outlaw of the Old West

Introduction to Dick Broadwell

Dick Broadwell: A Key Figure in The Dalton Gang

Dick Broadwell was an infamous American outlaw born in 1862, who became notably associated with the Dalton Gang. This gang was notorious during the late 19th century, a time when lawlessness and robbery permeated areas of the American West. Broadwell's exploits with the gang made him a significant figure in the outlaw history of that era.

The Outlaw Life of Dick Broadwell

Living in a time when the Old West was marked by gunfights and bank robberies, Broadwell's discontent with mainstream society led him down a treacherous path of crime. He participated in many robberies that became infamous, but it was on October 5, 1892, that he faced his final heist; a failed bank robbery in Coffeyville, Kansas.

The Dramatic End in Coffeyville

The Coffeyville Bank Robbery Attempt

On that fateful day, Broadwell, along with his gang members, attempted to rob two banks simultaneously in Coffeyville. The robbery was doomed from the start, and what ensued turned into a deadly shootout. This encounter marked the culmination of Broadwell's outlaw career and ultimately led to his demise.

The Fatal Encounter

During the robbery attempt, the local citizens, armed and determined to defend their town, engaged in a fierce shootout with the gang members. Tragically, Broadwell was shot and killed, with the confrontation having claimed the lives of several others as well. He died at just 30 years old, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent, though infamous, member of the Dalton Gang.

Bad Choices and Consequences

The Legacy of Dick Broadwell

Dick Broadwell's life as an outlaw is a stark reminder of the choices people make and the consequences that follow. His early ambitions morphed into a career defined by criminal pursuits, leading to a premature and violent end.

Impact on American History

The events surrounding Broadwell's death had a lasting impact on the lore of the Old West. The notorious Coffeyville shootout became legendary, with stories recounting how locals banded together to protect their town. Broadwell's involvement in such history cements his place among the infamous figures of the American outlaw era.

Fun Fact

Dick Broadwell’s Notorious Reputation

Not many outlaws leave behind a name as recognizable as Dick Broadwell's. His association with the Dalton Gang has made him a subject of enduring interest, particularly in books and films about the Old West.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Dick Broadwell and the Dalton Gang

For those wanting to delve deeper into the life of Dick Broadwell, consider reading The Dalton Gang: The Notorious years or Outlaws of the Old West: The Dalton Gang. These accounts offer rich insights into the lives of outlaws during that era and the events leading to their downfall.