Internet scams would be right up Robert Boatright’s alley

Kimberly Harper shared the historical resources of her book about the notorious Webb City con man, Robert Boatright, on Saturday at the Webb City Public Library.

Harper’s book is, “Men of No Reputation: Robert Boatright, the Buckfoot Gang and the Fleecing of Middle America.”

She discussed how Boatright and his “con mob” of associates swindled their greedy, rich victims primarily by fixing foot races and prize fights.

They operated under a previous organization, the Webb City Athletic Club, or otherwise known as the Buckfoot Gang.

Harper learned through her research that Boatright remained successful with the help of corrupt, powerful allies in Jasper County.

If Boatright, buried in a mausoleum in the Webb City Cemetery, were alive today, Harper said he would probably be operating internet scams.

Harper signed copies of her book, but she readily suggested borrowing it from the library. Her talk was sponsored by the Webb City Historical Society, Webb City Area Genealogical Society and the library.