Josh Gates, the inquisitive host of Discovery’s Expedition Unknown, embarks on a new adventure in the upcoming episode, focusing on the infamous Reno Gang. These daring outlaws became notorious for their train robberies across the American Midwest in the 1860s. This episode, “America’s First Train Robbers,” investigates the gang’s activities and the mystery of their hidden loot. Learn more about Expedition Unknown on the official Discovery website.
The Reno Gang’s criminal enterprise, though short-lived, left a lasting mark. Their innovative strategies, such as disrupting telegraph communications to hinder authorities, were groundbreaking in the history of American crime. This episode examines the gang’s methods, exploring how they managed to evade law enforcement while accumulating considerable wealth. From their initial heists to their eventual downfall, Gates reconstructs the narrative of these pioneering criminals. Discover fascinating details about the gang in the Smithsonian’s article about the Notorious Reno Gang.
A key aspect of Gates’ investigation is the whereabouts of the Reno Gang’s missing treasure. Legend places the substantial fortune in a concealed cave. Gates follows historical records and local lore, traversing the landscapes once occupied by the Reno Gang. The episode chronicles his quest to uncover the truth about the missing riches.
The episode also addresses the Reno Gang’s violent end. Lynched by a mob in 1868, their fate reflects the harsh justice prevalent in the Wild West. Gates investigates the events surrounding their deaths, providing context for their reign of terror and the public’s response. The episode provides a window into the societal climate of that era.
Expedition Unknown: America’s First Train Robbers (Season 14, Episode 4) airs Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 9:00 PM on Discovery.
