| Al Jennings Was Cowboy, Lawyer, Gunslinger, Train Robber, Jailbird, Evangelist, Musician, Politician, Author And Movie Man
By Bob Weaver 2024
W. E. R. Byrne, early explorer and outdoorsman, in this expansive book "Tales of the Elk," expounded on his meeting up with the "notorious" and attention-getting Jennings clan in 1878, they once living in West Virginia before moving West.
The Jennings bunch lived on Crummies Creek near Arnoldsburg, Calhoun County on 1000 acres purchased from Hays, always trying to make a name for themselves and chasing the need to become famous, then briefly living in a house on Court Street/River Street in Grantsville, more recently known as the Virden House.
Byrne recalls meeting Forney "Al" Jennings at a camp along the Elk River. describing him as "a fine young fellow and a favorite with everyone." The Jennings Boys had formed a brass band in Charleston, and had a tendency to play hooky from school and wander up the magical Elk.
Byrne says young Al bucked up to his dad, absolving our crew from the responsibility. The old man apologized and broke bread, departing with young Al by the ear.
OUTLAW FAMILY GRACED CALHOUN HILLS - Al Jennings Was Cowboy, Lawyer, Gunslinger, Train Robber, Jailbird, Evangelist, Musician, Politician, Author And Movie Man
Byrne then recalls meeting the family at Ripley, about the same time they purchased about 1000 acres of timberland in the Crummies Creek area of Calhoun County, then recalling Al's adventuresome escapades across America as a wanna-be outlaw and movie star.
SUNNY CAL JOURNAL - Sippin' Booze With Tex Ritter Along The Elk, Outlaw Buddy Al Jennings Once Lived In Calhoun
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