"Pikey" Jacobs

JACOBS

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 2/7/2008 at 10:49:01

Jackson Sentinel
July 19, 1844

“Pikey” Jacobs.

“Pikey” Jacobs, a young man of about 26 years, who was born and raised in Brandon township, and in his youth said to be of a kind hearted disposition, has in recent years grown to be the terror of the “Big Woods,” and a veritable desperado. About the time of the Preston, Ralston and Kelsall trials, Jacobs disappeared. He afterwards returned and for some unknown grievance called Jas. McNamie out of his house one night and gave him a severe beating. For this McNamie had warrants issued for Jacobs’ arrest, but he escaped from constable Bowling even though the constable fired on him. After that Jacobs declared no officer would take him alive. But Abe Tracy, a muscular fellow, didn’t fear to undertake the job, so with the proper papers and authority from Sheriff Mitchell, deputy Tracy found Jacobs in Tracy & Wagoner’s store at Emeline Monday eve and proceeded to take his man. Jacobs, who is agile as a cat, defied him and drew his gun. Tracy grappled with his man and called for help. The four or five men in the store feared to respond. Jacobs could not shoot his revolver but managed to use it in striking the officer some bloody blows on the head; but Tracy proved too strong and got the obstreperous man in irons and accompanied by Lon Templeton brought him to town Monday night, where he rested in the cooler until Justice Merrick found him guilty of assault and battery on the person of Jas. McNamie. He was fined $100 and costs, in default of which he was taken to the county jail Tuesday by Sheriff Mitchell and deputy Gurius. It is believed that several charges will be brought against the prisoner before his release that may land him in the pen.

“Pikey” has had much wild adventure and it is said traveled with Kelley’s army for several weeks.