Changes coming to MOBIUS soon! Find out more.

The Midtown Carnegie Branch Library elevator from the basement to the 2nd floor is not operational. Please ask a staff member if you need assistance. The branch will close for renovations May 6. Find out more.

The Library

thelibrary.org Springfield-Greene County Library District Springfield, Missouri
Local History

Young Brothers Massacre

 On January 2, 1932, Jennings and Harry Young were wanted for auto theft and for the murder of Republic, Mo. Marshal Mark Noe. When approached by 10 police officers at their mother’s home in Brookline, Mo., they decided to fight it out. In the end six policemen were killed: Marcell Hendrix, Ollie Crosswhite, Tony Oliver, Sid Meadows, Charlie Houser and Wiley Mashburn. Several were injured. The Youngs made their escape and were later cornered in a home in Houston, Texas, where they either were shot by police officers or committed suicide or murder/suicide. Their bodies were sent back to Missouri for burial.

Bruce Davis' book provides a vivid account of events leading to the shootout and follows the possible path of escape to the grim ending in Houston, Texas. In addition to Mr. Davis’ book, the Springfield-Greene County Library has several books about the massacre and  a clipping file and microfilm of newspapers about the massacre at the Library Center .

The Young Brothers Massacre by John Woodside published 1932 is available on line.

Find this article at http://thelibrary.org/blogs/article.cfm?aid=244&lid=39