The Untold Heroes: Frank Hamer And Maney Gault In The Bonnie And Clyde Saga

The infamous outlaw duo Bonnie and Clyde captured the imagination of America during the Great Depression. Their criminal exploits made headlines, but the men who ended their reign of terror remain largely overlooked. Frank Hamer and Maney Gault were the lawmen who brought this notorious pair to justice, and their stories are equally compelling. Through their bravery and skill, they reshaped the narrative of law enforcement during a turbulent era.

Hamer's Early Life and Marksmanship

Frank Hamer was born on March 17, 1884, in Fairview, Texas. Growing up as the son of a blacksmith, he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors. After completing only the sixth grade, Hamer spent much of his time in the wilderness, honing his survival skills and becoming adept at ranching and farming.

This immersion in nature profoundly influenced Hamer's perspective on crime and justice. He often drew comparisons between people and animals, believing that a criminal resembled a coyote—always on the lookout for danger—while a murderer was akin to a "cold-blooded rattlesnake." Hamer identified himself as an antelope, symbolizing curiosity and agility.

Joining the Texas Rangers

Hamer's natural abilities made him a prime candidate for the Texas Rangers, and he officially joined the force in 1906. Over the next twenty-five years, he served in various capacities, including as a marshal in Navasota. It was during this time that he acquired his famous Colt .45, affectionately named "Old Lucky."

His tenure with the Rangers was marked by numerous challenges, including a deadly blood feud that almost cost him his life. Hamer's resilience and quick thinking earned him a reputation as a formidable lawman. By 1921, he returned to the Rangers as a senior captain, based in Austin.

Defending Justice and Morality

Throughout the late 1920s, Hamer became known for his strong moral compass. He took a stand against the Texas Bankers Association's bounty system, which incentivized the killing of bank robbers. Hamer's commitment to justice extended to defending African-American suspects from lynching, though he faced immense challenges and societal backlash.

Despite his efforts, public violence erupted in 1930 when a lynch mob burned down a courthouse in Sherman, Texas, in pursuit of a rape suspect. By early 1933, with changes in the political landscape, Hamer was no longer an active Ranger, but his legacy as a principled lawman remained intact.

Maney Gault: A Reliable Partner

Ben Maney Gault was born on June 21, 1886, in Travis County, Texas. He started his career in a furniture manufacturing plant but transitioned into law enforcement through undercover moonshine investigations. Gault officially joined the Texas Rangers in 1929 and quickly established himself as a reliable and tough officer.

Much like Hamer, Gault was known for his quiet demeanor and honesty. He was not physically imposing but was capable of handling himself in difficult situations. Their shared values and interests, particularly in hunting and poker, fostered a strong bond between the two lawmen.

The Hunt for Bonnie and Clyde

By early 1934, Bonnie and Clyde had been on the run for two years, eluding law enforcement across the South and Midwest. Their violent exploits had reached a breaking point when a prison break at Eastham Prison resulted in the death of a guard. Texas prison superintendent Lee Simmons approached Hamer, granting him full authority to pursue the notorious couple.

Hamer meticulously researched Bonnie and Clyde's movements and established vital connections with local law enforcement. One sheriff, Henderson Jordan, played a crucial role in their mission's success, assisting Hamer and Gault in tracking the criminals.

The Turning Point

With Gault by his side, Hamer focused on Clyde's known associate, Henry Methvin. When Methvin's father, Ivy, offered to help, the duo devised a plan to lure Bonnie and Clyde into a trap. On May 23, 1934, they anticipated the couple's return to the Methvin home, setting the stage for a fateful encounter.

When Bonnie and Clyde approached, the situation turned chaotic with the arrival of a logging truck. In the ensuing confusion, gunfire erupted, resulting in the lawmen firing 167 rounds into the couple's vehicle, decisively ending their crime spree.

The Aftermath and Legacy

Despite their success, Hamer and Gault were uncomfortable with the media attention following the shootout. Hamer refused to attend public celebrations and declined media interviews, preferring to maintain a low profile. Gault similarly remained silent about the incident, continuing his service with the Rangers until his passing in December 1947.

Hamer transitioned into a lucrative career in private security. He made headlines again in 1948 when he investigated allegations of voter fraud involving Lyndon B. Johnson's operatives. He passed away in his sleep on July 10, 1955, leaving behind a legacy of courage and unwavering commitment to justice.

Key Takeaways