Egan's Rats: The Untold Story of the Prohibition-era Gang That Ruled St. Louis

Daniel Waugh
Cumberland House Publishing (2007)
ISBN 9781581825756
Reviewed by Leslie Granier for Reader Views (8/07)


“Egan's Rats” is a novel that will delight history lovers and anyone who is interested in the roots of gangster activity in St. Louis.  This book chronicles the actions of a group known as Egan's Rats (so named for Tom Egan who was their original leader) as well as a few lesser competitors who attempted to gain some of the power held by the Egan gang.
The accounts cover the time span of the late 1800s through the times of Al Capone, probably the most famous gangster ever.

Daniel Waugh provides a very detailed and specific record of the criminal activities that were prevalent in this time, such as bootlegging, bank heists and kidnapping.  The widespread political corruption that existed during this period and its connection to the gangs was examined.

I found it interesting that although the police often knew who had committed particular crimes, the accused were often released due to lack of evidence or were acquitted after a trial.  In fact, the gangs themselves internally did more to eliminate their own members than did law enforcement or rival gangs.  It was surprising to learn that the Rats in the beginning were not particularly a violent pack towards the public as most gangsters are portrayed on television and in the movies.  They actually often left their victims unharmed as long as they were cooperative.

I enjoyed learning about some of the colorful nicknames that were given to the gang members.  I also appreciated the section at the end of the book that discussed what became of several of the central figures after the gangs were all but disbanded.  At times during this narrative, I felt the author spent too much time listing the names of gang members who were really minor players in these escapades, making it difficult for the reader to remember with which side the person was affiliated. 

I believe it would have been better to focus on a few major figures.  “Egan's Rats” provides a thorough and well-written history of gang activity in the Midwest and its impact on the population during the time of prohibition.  It also offers a comprehensive review of the major players in the underground crime world.  The interesting facts and background stories provide an enjoyable reading experience.

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