The Gruesome Saga of the Harpe Brothers: America’s First Serial Killers

In the era immediately following the Revolutionary War, Brothers Joshua and William Harpe left a trail of mayhem and murder throughout the rugged untamed frontiers of the newly formed United States

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Depiction of Micajah and Wiley Harpe (Image generated via Midjourney)

Background

The Harpe Brothers, Micajah, and Wiley emerged from a background rooted in Scottish heritage, although historical records about their early life remain ambiguous. Thought by some to be first cousins named Joshua and William, their familial connections linked to Scottish immigrant ancestors who settled in North Carolina. Engulfed in the turbulence of the American Revolution, the Harpes initially sided with the Tory Loyalists, their loyalty extending towards the British cause.

However, their attempts to join the American Patriot side were rebuffed, propelling them further into the Loyalist faction. Engaging in the conflict, they participated in battles such as…