The Hounds facts for kids
The Hounds were a group in San Francisco during the exciting time of the California Gold Rush in 1849. They were known for being unfriendly towards new immigrants, especially people from Hispanic countries. They were a bit like other gangs in big cities, but they focused on newcomers to San Francisco.
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Who Were The Hounds?
This group was officially called the San Francisco Society of Regulators. But most people knew them as The Hounds. Many of their members were tough people and even some soldiers who had fought in the Mexican–American War.
Their Beginnings
The Hounds were connected to a political group called the "Know Nothing" party. This party believed that people born in America should have more rights than immigrants. After the war with Mexico, the Hounds used feelings of patriotism to try and push foreigners away from the new gold fields.
What They Did
At first, some people in San Francisco supported The Hounds, even though their methods were harsh. The gang often attacked unarmed Mexican and Chilean immigrants in an area called Clarks Point. They would also demand money from immigrants who had found gold. Soon, The Hounds started demanding "protection money" from other city residents. They would steal from stores, burn them down, and hurt anyone who tried to stop them.
The Attack on Little Chile
On July 15, 1849, The Hounds attacked an area known as "Little Chile." They robbed and hurt several immigrants there. Before this, city officials were slow to act against The Hounds. But this attack finally made the public angry and turned them against the gang.
How They Were Stopped
People in the city decided it was time to act. Money was collected for the city's top official, Dr. T.M. Leavenworth. Along with Sam Brannan, Captain Beezer Simmons, and other citizens, they demanded that the city take action. About 230 men were made temporary police officers to arrest The Hounds.
However, most of the gang had already run away from the city. About 20 members were caught, including a leader named Sam Roberts. Roberts and another member named Saunders were sentenced to prison. Other members received shorter sentences.
What Happened Next?
Even though they were caught, politicians from the "Know Nothing" party were able to get their sentences overturned. This meant the gang members were released. But the public was so angry at The Hounds that the gang could not get back together. Most of them left San Francisco soon after they were released. Some went to mining camps, where they faced even tougher situations from the miners. Others, like Jack Powers, went south to Southern California and continued to cause trouble there.
