Madge Oberholtzer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Madge Oberholtzer
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Madge Augustine Oberholtzer
November 10, 1896 Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
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| Died | April 14, 1925 (aged 28) Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
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| Cause of death | Homicide |
| Known for | Murder victim |
Madge Augustine Oberholtzer (November 10, 1896 – April 14, 1925) was an American woman whose death led to big changes. Her case played a key role in the decline of a powerful group called the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) in the 1920s.
In March 1925, Madge was working for the state of Indiana. She was helping with a program to teach adults how to read. During this time, she was taken by D. C. Stephenson. Stephenson was a very important leader, known as the Grand Dragon, of the KKK in Indiana.
Stephenson held Madge captive in his private train car. While she was held, she was seriously injured and became very ill from poison. Madge died from these severe injuries and the poisoning.
After she became ill, Stephenson's men took Madge back to her home. They thought her injuries would soon cause her death. They also believed their powerful leader would not face any legal trouble. However, Madge woke up and was able to give a signed statement to the police. She described what had happened to her. Her statement led to Stephenson being found guilty in court. This event also caused a quick drop in KKK membership in Indiana.
Madge Oberholtzer's Early Life
Madge Oberholtzer was born on November 10, 1896. Her parents were of German descent. She grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her father worked as a postal clerk. Her family attended the Irvington Methodist Church.
Madge went to Butler College in Irvington. She studied subjects like English, mathematics, zoology, and logic. She left college before finishing her third year. The reasons why she left are not known. She lived with her parents in Irvington her whole life.
When she met Stephenson, Madge was the manager of the Indiana Young People's Reading Circle. This was a special part of the Indiana Department of Public Instruction. She had heard rumors that her job and the Reading Circle program might be cut due to budget issues.
Madge Oberholtzer in Media
Madge Oberholtzer's story has been shared in other ways.
- Actress Mel Harris played Madge in a TV miniseries called Cross of Fire. This show came out in 1989.
