http://ashejournal.com/ten/43_davisson.pdf

“Burroughs first encountered the concept of the Johnson Family while still a boy reading the book You Can’t Win by Jack Black. First published in the 1920’s Black’s autobiographical account of hobo life was immensely popular in its day. Burroughs describes the Johnsons in -The Place of Dead Roads- :

‘The Johnson Family’ was a turn-of-the-century expression to designate good bums and thieves. It was elaborated into a code of conduct. A Johnson honors his obligations. His word is good and he is a good man to do business with. A Johnson minds his own business. He is not a snoopy, self-righteous, trouble- making person. A Johnson will give help when help is needed. He will not stand by while someone is drowning or trapped under a burning car.”