Jesse and Frank James: The Family History [Paperback]

Phillip Steele (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 30, 1987

The daring exploits of Frank and Jesse James have fascinated America for more than a century. Myth and fact have meshed together to create a legend of monumental proportions. Anxious to bask in the reflected glory of the James clan, many people have claimed a family connection to these two famous outlaws. Now noted Western historian and folklorist Phillip W. Steele has penned an authoritative chronicle of the James family, drawing on sources newly discovered in the past two decades. Anecdotes, family stories, and complete genealogies of all members accurately document the James clan's history in this entertaining, readable volume, which includes more than forty rare photographs. Individuals who believe they may share a blood tie with the James brothers will find this book invaluable in authenticating their claim; those who are merely captivated by the romance and mystery of two of America's most wanted men will discover much to add to their understanding of these celebrated figures. Journey through the old West with Jesse and Frank James and trace the history and heritage of these American folk heroes. The late Philip Steele was the author of several books on the Ozarks and the Wild West including Ozark Tales and Superstitions, Civil War in the Ozarks, and The Last Cherokee Warriors, all published by Pelican. Phillip W. Steele passed away on November 8, 2007.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

"Anyone interested in Jesse and Frank James should buy this book." -True West "For anyone who wonders about the James clan, [this book] is essential." -Wild West The daring exploits of Frank and Jesse James have fascinated America for more than a century. Eager to bask in the reflected glory of the James clan, many people claim a family connection to these two famous outlaws. In response, notable historian, folklorist, and expert on the Ozarks Phillip W. Steele penned an authoritative chronicle of the James family, drawing on sources discovered in the past few decades. Anecdotes, family stories, and genealogies of all members, along with more than forty rare photographs, accurately document the James clan's history. Individuals who believe they share a blood tie with the James brothers will find this book an invaluable resource in authenticating their claim. Those who are merely captivated by the romance and mystery of two of America's most wanted men will discover startling facts about these celebrated figures. Phillip W. Steele (July 20, 1934-November 8, 2007) was a well-respected folklorist and historian. He was a member of the Western Writers of America, Jesse James Historical Society, and National Association for Outlaw and Lawman History. Steele is also the author of Pelican's Phillip Steele's Ozark Stories, Ozark Tales and Superstitions, Outlaws and Gunfighters of the Old West, The Last Cherokee Warriors, The Many Faces of Jesse James, Starr Tracks: Belle and Pearl Starr, The Family Story of Bonnie and Clyde, Civil War in the Ozarks, and Two Longs and a Short: An Ozark Boyhood Remembered.

About the Author

Western writer Phillip W. Steele serves as president of the National Outlaw and Lawman History Association and is a member of the Western Writers of America. Steele's other books include The Many Faces of Jesse James (pb), Jesse and Frank James: The Family History (pb), and Outlaws and Gunfighters of the Old West (pb/cass). All are published by Pelican.

Product Details

• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Pelican Publishing; First Edition edition (June 30, 1987)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0882896539
• ISBN-13: 978-0882896533
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #297,422 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Of Questionable Value, September 30, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Jesse and Frank James: The Family History (Paperback)

I am being charitable to have given this book a 1 rating. If you want a reliable book, try to find BACKGROUND OF A BANDIT: THE ANCESTRY OF JESSE JAMES by Joan M. Beamis and William E. Pullen. Otherwise this will have to do. Steele's book has a chapter on the "Tennessee James Family" that should be taken with a barrel of salt. There are plenty of James families scattered across the country, but it's a subject of question as to whether there is any relationship with Jesse James of Missouri. I have heard that the errata in this particular book would be substantial.

8 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Jesse And Frank James: The Family History, May 31, 2000

By 

carol james (Fort Worth, Texas) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Jesse and Frank James: The Family History (Paperback)

This is an execellent resource book for James family researchers. All background information appears in order. Very detailed and full of family knowledge. A book worth investing in for any James Family historian.