William Poole | |
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![]() An 1888 engraving of Poole | |
Born | Sussex County, New Jersey, United States | July 24, 1821
Died | March 8, 1855 | (aged 33)
Cause of death | Murder by gunshot |
Resting place | Green-Wood Cemetery, Kings County, New York |
Nationality | American |
Other names | Bill the Butcher |
Occupation(s) | Butcher, fireman, criminal gang leader, politician |
Known for | Nativism, was a pugilist and leader of the Bowery Boys, a street gang of Know Nothings and volunteer firemen; murdered by supporters of his political rival, John Morrissey of Tammany Hall |
Founded by | William "Bill the Butcher" Poole |
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Founding location | Washington Market, Manhattan |
Years active | 1840s |
Territory | Washington Market, Manhattan |
Ethnicity | English American |
Membership (est.) | ? |
Criminal activities | ? |
Founded by | William "Bill the Butcher" Poole |
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Founding location | Bowery, Manhattan, New York City |
Years active | Mid-19th century |
Territory | Bowery, Manhattan, New York City |
Ethnicity | Non-Irish, European American |
Membership (est.) | ? |
Criminal activities | ? |
Rivals | Dead Rabbits, Plug Uglies |
William Poole (July 24, 1821 – March 8, 1855), also known as Bill the Butcher, was the leader of the Washington Street Gang, which later became known as the Bowery Boys gang. He was a local leader of the Know Nothing political movement in mid-19th-century New York City.