Gunfights & Grifters: A Historical Walk on the Wild Side

Austin’s history has long been shrouded in a veil of lawlessness and vice, where notorious outlaws and colorful characters roamed the streets. From the saloons of the Red Light District to the bribery scandals that rocked the city, this vibrant yet dangerous past is a testament to the resilience and spirit of a community that has endured it all. But what secrets lie buried beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• Explore the notorious Red Light District of 19th century Austin, where brothels, saloons, and gambling dens thrived alongside violent confrontations.

• Explore the bribery scandal that rocked the city, revealing corruption at the highest levels of government and leading to reforms.

• Discover the colorful characters who shaped Austin’s seedy past, from legendary saloon owners to corrupt politicians.

• Learn about the gun-toting outlaws who engaged in deadly shootouts and robbed local businesses within the Red Light District.

• Uncover the stories behind the district’s notorious watering holes, such as the Bon Ton Saloon and the Lulu White Saloon.

Austin’s Red Light District

Although Austin was founded in 1839 as the capital of Texas, the city soon developed a notorious Red Light District in the late 19th century.

Brothels, saloons, and gambling dens sprang up around 4th Street, attracting a colorful cast of characters – from lawless outlaws to corrupt politicians.

The district’s infamy even earned it the nickname "Pecan Street," a euphemistic reference to the area’s seedier activities.

Despite efforts to clean up the area, the Red Light District thrived until the early 1900s, when progressive social reforms and a civic crackdown finally shuttered the district’s illicit establishments.

Notorious Saloons and Watering Holes

Alongside the brothels and gambling dens that proliferated in Austin’s notorious Red Light District, a vibrant array of saloons and watering holes also flourished.

Thirsty patrons could choose from:

• The Bon Ton Saloon, a prime destination for drinking, gambling, and other illicit activities.
• The Driskill Hotel Bar, a more upscale hotel frequented by the city’s elite.
• The Lulu White Saloon, known for its lively entertainment and questionable clientele.

These establishments catered to diverse clientele, from politicians and businessmen to outlaws and gamblers, contributing to Austin’s reputation as a hub of vice and debauchery.

The Bribery Scandal That Rocked the City

The bribery scandal that rocked the city of Austin in the late 19th century revealed a disturbing level of corruption at the highest levels of government. Powerful city officials and wealthy business owners conspired to funnel money into the pockets of politicians in exchange for favorable legislation and contracts. The scandal exposed a tangled web of backroom deals and payoffs that had been operating in the shadows for years.

Bribery Tactics	Corrupted Officials	Impacted Sectors	Aftermath
Cash payments	Aldermen	Real estate	Public outrage
Lavish gifts	City council members	Utilities	Investigations
Promises of future gain	Judges	Licenses	Resignations
Threats and intimidation	Law enforcement	Permits	Reforms

This scandal shook the very foundations of Austin’s political hotel, leading to sweeping reforms and a renewed commitment to transparency and accountability in government.

Gunfights, Robberies, and Other Violent Encounters

Amidst the political corruption that plagued Austin in the late 19th century, the city also grappled with a darker underbelly of violence and lawlessness.

Gun-toting outlaws often roamed the streets, engaging in deadly shootouts that left bystanders caught in the crossfire. Saloons and brothels were frequent sites of robberies and brawls, as criminal elements sought to take advantage of the city’s growing prosperity.

• Notorious outlaws like Sam Bass and his gang terrorized local businesses, staging daring heists and escaping arrest.

• Violent confrontations between rival gangs and law enforcement resulted in multiple casualties, sowing fear throughout the community.

• The city’s notorious Red Light District was a hotbed of illegal activities, from illegal gambling to violent turf wars between criminal enterprises.

Colorful Characters Who Shaped Austin’s Past

While the streets of Austin were ravaged by violence and corruption, the city also played host to a colorful cast of characters who left an indelible mark on its history.

Larger-than-life figures like Chicken Sandwiches, a legendary saloon owner known for his ornate mustache and outrageous antics, and Mattie the Madame, who presided over the city’s notorious brothels, captivated the public’s imagination.

Even the city’s corrupt politicians, like Boss Settler, who brazenly accepted bribes, had a certain notoriety.

These colorful personalities embodied the dynamic, if sometimes seedy, nature of Austin’s past.

Exploring the Haunts of Infamous Grifters

Alongside the colorful characters who shaped Austin’s past, the city also played host to a notorious collection of grifters and con artists who prowled the streets, looking to separate the unsuspecting from their hard-earned cash.

Tour-goers will discover the haunts of these infamous scoundrels, including:

• The old saloons and brothels of the Red Light District, where swindlers and pickpockets preyed on patrons

• The offices of crooked politicians, who traded favors and influence for personal gain

• The shadowy alleys and back rooms where high-stakes card games and rigged bets took place, leaving many a mark penniless

The Transformation of Austin’s Seedy Underbelly

Though the city’s seedy underbelly was once rife with notorious grifters and corrupt officials, Austin has since undergone a remarkable transformation.

The old red-light district and saloons have given way to trendy shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Bribery and backroom deals no longer dominate local politics.

Today, Austin celebrates its vibrant arts and music scene, thriving tech industry, and reputation as a hub of progressive ideals.

While remnants of the city’s scandalous past remain, they now serve as intriguing historical footnotes rather than a defining feature of Austin’s identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. The tour overview provides no explicit restrictions on photography, so participants are free to capture images throughout the guided experience to preserve their memories.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?

Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and beverages on this tour. The tour provides drinking water, but participants are welcome to bring additional refreshments if they’d like. Just be mindful of any restrictions at the tour locations.

Is the Tour Offered in Any Other Languages?

The tour is only offered in English. The description doesn’t mention any other language options being available. Travelers who require a tour in a different language may need to inquire about availability or look for an alternative option.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds are given for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour start time.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

Tickets should be purchased in advance. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour has a maximum group size of 20 travelers, so advance booking is recommended to secure your spot.

The Sum Up

Austin’s lawless past casts a long shadow over the city’s vibrant present. Though the Red Light District and its saloons have long since vanished, the tales of notorious outlaws, violent confrontations, and colorful characters continue to captivate. This historical journey through Austin’s wilder days offers a glimpse into the city’s storied and tumultuous origins, leaving a lasting impression on all who venture into its past.