The authentic story of a highly intelligent family which was able to create and maintain a feudal empire in upstate New York during the 19th century. The Loomis gang ruled for over 100 years until they became an international scandal. They were New York State's version of the James Boys and the Dalton Gang.
While spending so much time recently paddling on the Nine-Mile Swamp - I wondered about the infamous Loomis Gang that once thrived and hid their stolen horses and other loot in the vicinity.
The writing style of this book lacks fluidity, but using excerpts from newspaper articles, and facts gathered from countless interviews, the author portrays a lifestyle reminiscent of the "wild wild west", which included relentless stealing, arson, gunfights, even murder. They gained international fame during the 1800's.
The gang terrorized central NY for 100 years, protected by corrupt attorneys, judges and law officers whom they bribed. Frustrated victims even organized a vigilante posse to lynch the leaders of the clan at one point.
An amazing glimpse into an era I wouldn't have wanted to experience first hand!
Very interesting read, especially after having lived in Central New York for a good portion of my life. Truly amazing how this group of criminals operated for many years and managed to constantly 'beat' the legal system in place at the time.