Missouri’s Most Infamous Outlaws

In the mid-to-late 1800s, Missouri was known as the Outlaw State, with considerable justification. Missouri contributed far more than its share of bushwhackers, stock thieves, band and train robbers, and killers. Here’s a roll call of some of the most infamous outlaws.


Belle starr Fort Smith on a horse with a pistol. Public domain

February 3, 1846

This date in Missouri history: The “Bandit Queen,” Belle Starr, was born in Carthage, Missouri. She was probably the most infamous of all the pistol-packin’ mamas of those days.


Belle starr Fort Smith on a horse with a pistol. Public domain

February 3, 1846

The "Bandit Queen" Belle Starr was born in Carthage, MO. She was probably the most infamous of all the pistol-packin' mamas of those days. Read more about her in Tales From Missouri and the Heartland.