Forming the Walshers in the late 1870s, Walsh's violent tactics would dominate the Bowery in several years.

Walsh would soon become involved in what would become a long a bitter feud with Johnny Irving's Dutch Mob during the early 1880s as the two fought over the Bowery.

On three occasions, the two gang leaders fought each other in knife fights although these proved inconclusive.

Porter in turn killed Walsh and was then shot by Draper.

Although Porter survived, neither he nor Draper were charged with either Walsh or Irving's death.