Battle of Stone Corral facts for kids
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The wounded John Sontag lying next to the possemen.
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| Date | June 11–12, 1893 |
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| Location | 36°30′50″N 119°10′51″W / 36.513851°N 119.180784°W |
| Also known as | Gunfight at Stone Corral |
| Participants | Chris Evans; John Sontag |
| Outcome | 1 killed 2 wounded |
The Battle of Stone Corral, also known as the Gunfight at Stone Corral, was an important event in June 1893. It was the last major gunfight involving the Sontag-Evans Gang. After searching for many months, a small group of lawmen, called a posse, found John Sontag and Chris Evans. This posse was led by Marshal George E. Gard. They surprised Sontag and Evans at a cattle pen, or corral, near Visalia, California.
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What Was the Battle of Stone Corral?
The Battle of Stone Corral was the final clash between law enforcement and two well-known figures, John Sontag and Chris Evans. This event took place over two days in June 1893. It marked the end of a long chase across California.
Who Were Sontag and Evans?
John Sontag and Chris Evans were two individuals who were wanted by the law in the late 1800s. They were known for being involved in train robberies. For a long time, law enforcement officers, including marshals and deputies, tried to capture them.
The Long Chase for Justice
The hunt for Sontag and Evans lasted for many months. There were several earlier encounters and gunfights. These events made the chase famous across the region. Lawmen were determined to bring them to justice.
Why Were They Pursued?
Sontag and Evans were pursued because they were suspected of committing train robberies. These acts were serious crimes at the time. Law enforcement worked hard to stop such activities and keep people safe.
The Final Showdown at the Corral
On June 11, 1893, Marshal George E. Gard and his posse located Sontag and Evans. They found them hiding at a stone corral. This corral was a strong structure, offering some protection. The posse planned to surprise them there.
What Happened During the Battle?
The posse surrounded the corral, hoping to capture Sontag and Evans. A fierce gunfight began. Both sides exchanged gunfire for a long time. The battle lasted into the next day.
The Outcome of the Gunfight
During the battle, John Sontag was seriously wounded. Chris Evans was also injured. One person from the posse was killed, and two others were wounded. The fight ended with Sontag being captured. Evans managed to escape for a short time but was later caught.
The Aftermath of Stone Corral
The Battle of Stone Corral brought an end to the Sontag-Evans Gang's activities. It was a significant event in the history of the American Old West. It showed the challenges faced by law enforcement in those times.
