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Bonnie & Clyde Garage Apartment facts for kids

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Bonnie & Clyde Garage Apartment
Bonnie and Clyde Garage Apartment.jpg
Bonnie & Clyde Garage Apartment is located in Missouri
Bonnie & Clyde Garage Apartment
Location in Missouri
Bonnie & Clyde Garage Apartment is located in the United States
Bonnie & Clyde Garage Apartment
Location in the United States
Location 3347 1/2 Oak Ridge Dr., Joplin, Missouri
Area less than one acre
Built c. 1927 (1927)
Architectural style Bungalow/craftsman
NRHP reference No. 09000302
Added to NRHP May 15, 2009

The Bonnie and Clyde Garage Apartment is a two-story building located at 3347 1/2 Oak Ridge Drive in Joplin, Missouri. It was built around 1927 and has a classic American Craftsman style, with a gently sloped roof and exposed wooden beams. This apartment became famous because it was a secret hideout for the well-known Barrow gang, led by Bonnie and Clyde, in the spring of 1933.

A Secret Hideout in Joplin

For about twelve days in April 1933, the Barrow gang stayed hidden in this apartment. They had been involved in various activities across Missouri and nearby states. Neighbors in Joplin noticed unusual things happening at the apartment. They reported their suspicions to the police.

The Police Raid

On April 13, 1933, the Joplin Police Department decided to investigate. They raided the apartment, hoping to catch the gang. During the raid, a shootout happened, and two police officers sadly lost their lives as the gang managed to escape.

Clues Left Behind

Even though the gang got away, they left important clues behind. Police found undeveloped photographs inside the apartment. These pictures showed the gang members, which helped authorities identify them. They also found items that connected the gang to a recent crime in Joplin. These clues were very helpful in the ongoing effort to find the gang.

A Place in History

The Bonnie and Clyde Garage Apartment is important because of its connection to this famous historical event. It shows a moment in time when a notorious gang was briefly cornered.

Becoming a Historic Site

Because of its unique history, the apartment was recognized as a significant place. On May 15, 2009, it was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This means it is a protected site, recognized for its historical importance in the United States. The National Register of Historic Places is a list of places that are important to American history.