On October 5, 1892, a pivotal event in Old West history occurred in Coffeyville, Kansas, when the notorious Dalton Gang attempted a highly ambitious and ultimately disastrous simultaneous robbery of two banks.
The Ill-Fated Bank Raid
The day began with the five-member Dalton Gang riding into Coffeyville with the intention of robbing both the C.M. Condon & Company's Bank and the First National Bank at the same time. This bold strategy was an attempt to establish their dominance as one of the most formidable outlaw gangs of the era.
The gang consisted of:
- Grat Dalton
- Bob Dalton
- Emmett Dalton
- Bill Power
- Dick Broadwell
As the gang members crossed the central plaza to approach their respective targets, a critical turn of events unfolded. Despite their disguises, several observant townspeople recognized the Daltons. This immediate recognition quickly led to an alarm being raised throughout the town, transforming what was intended to be a swift robbery into a fierce and deadly gunfight.
Key Figures in the Dalton Gang
| Gang Member | Role in Raid |
|---|---|
| Grat Dalton | Participated in the attempted bank robbery |
| Bob Dalton | Leading member of the Dalton Gang |
| Emmett Dalton | Member of the Dalton Gang |
| Bill Power | Member of the Dalton Gang |
| Dick Broadwell | Member of the Dalton Gang |
The courageous actions of the citizens of Coffeyville in recognizing and alerting others to the presence of the Daltons were instrumental in thwarting the robbery. This day remains a significant moment in the history of Coffeyville and the broader narrative of American outlaws.
For more details on this historic confrontation, you can visit the official Dalton Museum website.
