Oliver Curtis Perry (September 17, 1865 - September 5, 1930) was an American train robber. He robbed a train known as the "American Express Special" on September 29, 1891, near Utica, New York. His robbery struck the public imagination for several reasons
Oliver Curtis Perry (September 17, 1865 - September 5, 1930) was an American train robber. He robbed a train known as the "American Express Special" on September 29, 1891, near Utica, New York. His robbery struck the public imagination for several reasons. A characteristic Western frontier crime had occurred in New York state. In an act of arresting gallantry, the robber later sent a note that revealed his own whereabouts in order to clear a train employee of suspicion. He managed to elude Pinkerton agency investigators, likely with the help of sympathizers or people charmed by the romantic outlaw mythology that developed around him. He attempted a second robbery the next year but after a long chase and stand-off was captured, tried and convicted. In his years as an inmate, he attempted a number of escapes, blinded himself, published poetry, and staged protracted hunger strikes. He was declared insane several times over and transferred to an asylum. Perry spent his final years at Dannemora State Hospital. He died just days before his 65th birthday having spent the last 38 years of his life behind bars.
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