From Patriot to Pirate
The Untold Story of Sam Mason
From the lawless caves of the Ohio River to the dusty bends, Sam Mason’s trail cuts through the very bones of early American frontier history.
From Patriot to Pirate: The Untold Story of Sam Mason
From the lawless caves of the Ohio River to the dusty bends of the Natchez Trace, Sam Mason’s trail cuts through the very bones of early American frontier history. This is a sharing spot for you to learn more about Sam and his family.
All about Sam Mason—America's first Organized Crime Boss.
Welcome to the official home of Pirate Sam Mason, and a deeply researched and vividly told journey into the life of a Revolutionary War hero turned river pirate. This site brings together readers, historians, and descendants to rediscover the truth behind one of America’s most enigmatic figures. Whether you’re here to read the books, follow the timeline, uncover research, or share your own family connection, you’re part of keeping this incredible story alive. Take the time to let us know you were here!
Adventure Series
In the forthcoming historical fiction Roots of the Rogue, Sam Mason’s tale begins in the rugged hills of colonial Virginia. A boy bound by duty. A man forged by war. This is the story of how one man’s loyalty to liberty gave way to a life of lawlessness.
Highlights
Sam Mason’s journey from captain to pirate
Step into the rugged, unpredictable world of early America through the dramatic milestones of Sam Mason’s life. From Revolutionary War captain to infamous river pirate, this interactive timeline traces his transformation across real places, fateful decisions, and untold stories. Discover the events that shaped a man—and a legend—through maps, visuals, and firsthand historical accounts. Walk through the key events of Sam Mason’s life—from his military roots to his notorious downfall. Explore historic moments and real frontier locations.
historical fiction Series
Memoirs of a River Pirate
This site brings together readers, historians, and descendants to rediscover the truth behind one of America’s most enigmatic figures.
What Sets This Series Apart
Hidden Story
In the waning light of the 18th century, the border between hero and outlaw was as muddy as the Ohio River. Sam Mason stood astride it. Whether sipping Madeira by the fire or retracing paths through Tennessee brush and Kentucky limestone, you’ll find the past has flavors worth chasing. Walk through the key events of Sam Mason’s life—from his military roots to his notorious downfall. Explore historic moments and real frontier locations.
Are You Connected to Sam Mason?
We welcome descendants, amateur sleuths, and professional historians. Submit your family stories, theories, and archival finds. Help us continue uncovering the truth about Sam Mason.
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Author
Retired Criminal Investigator, Criminal Justice Professor
Dr. Carter F. Smith – Historian, Researcher, Storyteller
After 22 years in military and federal law enforcement, I turned to the archives—where I found Sam Mason, a Revolutionary War veteran turned river pirate, waiting in the footnotes of forgotten trials. My work bridges past and present, tracing how crime, justice, and power collided on the frontier. I’ve written on gangs, organized crime, and early American law in both academic journals and books like From Patriot to Pirate and The Trial of Sam Mason. Mason was no myth—just a man shaped by war, whiskey, and weak borders. And I’ve spent years chasing his story downstream.
These are the thoughts that didn’t make it into the book — but should have.
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