Hurtsboro race riot facts for kids
News Coverage of the Stand Off
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| Date | December 1920 |
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| Location | Hurtsboro, Alabama, United States |
The Hurtsboro race riot was a serious conflict. It happened between Black and White people. This event took place in Hurtsboro, Alabama. It occurred in the last days of December 1920.
Contents
Understanding the Past: Why Conflicts Happened
America in the early 1900s saw many conflicts. Violence against Black people was not new. The country had just gone through a difficult time. This period is now called the American Red Summer of 1919.
The Red Summer of 1919: A Time of Unrest
During the Red Summer, attacks spread across many cities. More than 36 places saw white mobs attack Black neighborhoods. Sometimes, Black community groups fought back. This happened in cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C.. Many people died in rural areas. For example, the Elaine race riot in Arkansas was very deadly.
Events Leading to the Hurtsboro Conflict
In December 1920, a serious event happened in Hurtsboro. A white farmer's wife was said to have been attacked. Her husband heard her screams. He ran to help but was knocked out. He managed to call for help. Authorities quickly formed a group to find the person. This group was led by Deputy Sheriff Boss W.E. Dozier. He was from Russell County, Alabama.
The Search Begins: A Posse is Formed
Deputy Sheriff Dozier and his group, called a posse, had a tip. They believed the person they sought was in a house. This house was about four 4|mi|km from Pittsview, Alabama.
The Standoff: Shots Fired
On December 29, 1920, the posse approached the house. Suddenly, shots were fired from inside. Several members of the posse were wounded. George Hart, L.A. Brown, and two brothers named Bagley were hurt. The situation became a standoff. More weapons and ammunition were quickly sent. They came from the nearby city of Columbus, Georgia.
Capture: The End of the Standoff
Once more help and weapons arrived, the house was stormed. The men inside were taken into custody. Two of the Black men captured were identified. They were L.C. and Cleveland Hill, who were brothers.
