What actress was married to Jesse James? This intriguing question often sparks curiosity among fans of the infamous outlaw and his tumultuous personal life. Jesse James, a legendary figure in American history, was married to a number of women throughout his life, but the most famous of these was Zerelda Mimms, better known as “Zee.” Zee’s connection to Jesse James not only made her a part of history but also a symbol of the wild west’s romanticized past.
Jesse James was born on September 5, 1847, in Kearney, Missouri. He gained notoriety as a member of the James-Younger Gang, a notorious group of outlaws who robbed banks and trains during the late 19th century. Despite his criminal past, Jesse James was a charismatic and enigmatic figure, captivating the imagination of the American public.
Zerelda Mimms, born on April 22, 1849, was the daughter of a prominent farmer and politician in Texas. She first met Jesse James in 1869, when she was just 20 years old. The two quickly fell in love, and they were married on June 22, 1871. Their marriage was tumultuous from the start, as Jesse’s criminal activities often put him at odds with Zerelda and their family.
The James-Younger Gang’s crimes eventually caught up with them, leading to a series of violent confrontations with law enforcement. In 1882, Jesse and his brother Frank James were ambushed by the Missouri State Militia, resulting in the deaths of both brothers. After Jesse’s death, Zerelda was left to pick up the pieces of her life and her marriage.
Following Jesse’s death, Zerelda married her second husband, Robert Ford, who was actually responsible for killing Jesse. This controversial union only added to the legend of Jesse James and the complexities of Zerelda’s life. Despite the tumultuous nature of her relationships, Zerelda lived a long life, passing away on June 3, 1944, at the age of 94.
The actress married to Jesse James may not be a household name, but her story is an essential part of the Jesse James legend. Zerelda Mimms’ life as Jesse James’ wife, mother, and survivor of a violent past continues to captivate historians and moviegoers alike. Her story serves as a reminder of the tumultuous and complex lives of the outlaws who roamed the American frontier.
