Final preparations are underway for a special community update on new research into the infamous “Bloody Bender” family mystery in Southeast Kansas. The event, titled “Unearthing the Bloody Bender Mystery: Part 2,” will be held on Saturday, September 28, at the Parsons Municipal Auditorium, 112 South 17th St., starting at 5 p.m. with Wild Westera music. The main program begins at 6 p.m., featuring key research findings from experts who have investigated the former Bender family homestead in Labette County.
Renowned speakers include Bob Miller, the current owner of the Bender property, along with archaeologists Chris Hord, Dr. Blair Schneider, and Dr. Lauren Norman, all of whom have conducted extensive research at the site. Their work aims to uncover new clues about the murderous legacy of the Bender family, often referred to as the original serial killers of the Wild West. In the 1870s, the Benders operated a travelers’ inn near the Osage Mission Trail, where they allegedly robbed and murdered guests, burying them on the property.
The Bender family fled the area when their crimes were discovered, and their ultimate fate remains a mystery. As part of the event, Miller will discuss future plans for the property, which he purchased in 2020. His goal is to help bring closure to the story, especially by focusing on the victims and memorializing them appropriately.
The event is free and open to the public, and updates can be found on the Kansas Bloody Bender Facebook page.
