A gang of ruffians who infested New York about 1855–60. The “Dead Rabbit Gang riot” occurred July 5, 1857.—See N.Y. Evening Post, March 4, 1909.
1858. A distinguished “Plug-Ugly,” of Baltimore, and a highly talented “Dead Rabbit,” of New York.—Knick. Mag., lii. 431 (Oct.).
1859. Having … been either semi-slain by Dead-Rabbits, or hustled by Killers.—Id., liv. 371 (Oct.).
