July 20, 1921
Suspected bank robbers are confronted at Bruceton Mills
Citizens anticipating an attempted bank robbery confronted four men approaching Bruceton Mills after a reported robbery at John A. Benson’s home in Brandonville. According to the newspaper account, John Moore fired at Dr. Defoe, who returned fire, fatally wounding Moore and wounding William Madden. The other two men surrendered.
Research status
This entry has completed the project’s verified review level.
Its date, wording, and supporting evidence have been reviewed to the level described by the project’s research standards.
Sources and further reading
Where this entry comes from
Hinton Daily News, July 21, 1921, “Bank Robbers Have Rather Poor Success,” datelined Kingwood, July 20; West Virginia History OnView, identifier 053394 (photograph).
Research notes
What the evidence establishes
The Hinton Daily News clipping reports that the confrontation occurred that afternoon. July 21, 1921 is the newspaper’s publication date; July 20, 1921 is the event date established by its Kingwood dateline.
WVU catalogs the photograph as August 16, 1921; contemporary newspaper reporting places the confrontation on July 20, 1921. The significance of the later date is unknown.
Historical photograph
Photograph taken immediately after the confrontation
Reproduced with permission from the West Virginia and Regional History Center.
This news photograph documents the aftermath of the confrontation at Bruceton Mills. The WVU catalog identifies Kadel and Herbert News Service, New York, as its creator. WVU catalogs the photograph as August 16, 1921; contemporary newspaper reporting places the confrontation on July 20, 1921. The significance of the later date is unknown.
West Virginia and Regional History Center, West Virginia University · West Virginia History OnView, identifier 053394.
Keep exploring
Related history
Help strengthen this entry
Have a correction, source, or local detail?
Share what you know. The contribution form will automatically include this entry’s title and reference.