A Notorious Outlaw with Local Roots

In 1887, a young Harry Longabaugh was caught stealing a horse near Sundance, Wyoming. What seemed like a minor crime would soon set him on a path to becoming one of the most infamous outlaws of the American West. It was during his time in jail in Sundance that he earned the nickname The Sundance Kid, a name that would follow him into legend.

After serving his sentence, Longabaugh drifted through the frontier, eventually joining the Wild Bunch, an outlaw gang led by the charismatic Butch Cassidy. Together, they orchestrated daring bank and train robberies across the American West, often outsmarting law enforcement with their quick getaways and careful planning. The Wild Bunch was known not only for its criminal exploits but also for its strict code of loyalty and non-violence whenever possible.

Despite his reputation as a dangerous outlaw, The Sundance Kid was known for his charm, intelligence, and ability to evade capture. He and Butch Cassidy eventually fled to South America, hoping to escape the relentless pursuit of the Pinkerton Detective Agency. Reports suggest they continued their criminal activities in Argentina and Bolivia, but their ultimate fate remains shrouded in mystery. Some believe they were killed in a Bolivian shootout in 1908, while others speculate that The Sundance Kid may have returned to the United States under a new identity.

Today, visitors to the Crook County Museum can stand in the very courtroom where Longabaugh was tried and convicted in 1887. The museum’s exhibit features original 1887 courtroom furnishings, rare historical documents, and firsthand accounts of his time in Sundance. This immersive display brings history to life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the real story of the Sundance Kid and his connection to Wyoming’s lawless past.

🔎 Visit the museum and uncover the legend for yourself!