Black Bart was the infamous stage robber "poet" of Northern California. His real name was Charles E. Boles. He was the only bandit that never rode a horse or used a gun in his crimes. He also never fired his weapon or hurt anyone.

Bart never robbed any passengers he only took from Wells Fargo Bank. The farthest north Bart is known to have robbed was September 16, 1880, Roseburg to Yreka, Jackson County, Oregon.

Black Bart was a poet, and had a great appetite for very fine food and lodging. He may have dined and lodged here in Columbia. The lawmen found his shirt after his last robbery on the ground and Wells Fargo investigators eventually found him because his laundry markings on his clothing. His shirt collar, and cuffs along with the handkerchief had the laundry mark that sealed his arrest. FXO7. He was sentenced to San Quentin Prison for six years, but it was shortened to four years for good behavior.

Reporters swarmed around him when he was released. They asked if he were going to rob anymore stagecoaches. "No gentlemen," he smilingly replied, "I'm all through with crime." Another reporter asked if he would write more poetry. He laughed, "Now didn't you hear me say that I am through with crime?"

The last time Bart was seen was in San Francisco on February 28, 1888 at the Nevada House. The next day he was gone. Leaving his belongings behind. A picture of Black Bart and two of his poems can be found on the front cover of our menu.

“Please throw down your strong box”

Black Bart the “P o 8”B