Historical Atlas of the Outlaw West

A very interesting writing of some of the outlaws of the old west. It also has photographs of the era and maps to help put things in perspective. A good book to just read about the "good old days" or to do some serious study.

This book is chock full of information concerning the people and places where our western history took place. The author's interest lies mainly in bank robberies, train robberies, and supposed sites of buried treasure. His subjects are well known outlaws of the day, and many that are still not widely known. He will picque your interest with clues to the where-abouts of long ago secrets hideouts, and remind you that more research in this area may lead to new discoveries just waiting to be found. While this book was written in 1985, and subsequent research has improved our knowledge of some of the subjects covered, Richard Patterson is a well repected wild west historian for a reason. Are you a wild west buff looking for a way to spice up your next road trip vacation? This book may just be your next vacation guide.

Richard Patterson's Historical Atlas Of The Outlaw West offers the western history buff a state-by-sate, town-by-town guide to the outlaws, gunmen, and desperadoes of the Old West. The lively, informal narratives of hold-ups and gunfights are illustrated by historical photography. Facsimile 19th-century maps show the land the way it was during this era, while road directions to ghost towns, hideouts, and hold-up sites are provided (when ever possible) making the Historical Atlas Of The Outlaw West a useful travel guide as well. Of special value is the system of cross-references, useful for following the careers of outlaws and lawmen across the state boundaries. Whether as an historical reference for scholarship or novelists seeking accuracy, or just for the fun of the stories themselves for the western fan, Historical Atlas Of The Outlaw West is very highly recommended reading.

I bought this book when I saw that it was in its sixth printing, which means it must be good reading. It is. The author covers the famous outlaw sites in most of the western states and many of the not so famous sites. It's an especially good book to take along on a trip through the West. I strongly recommend it.