Dive into the chilling true story of the Bickel Family Massacre, one of the most brutal and mysterious crimes in 19th-century Texas. Join host Jeff Flinn as he interviews authors Richard Tomlinson and Catherine Adam Hurst about their new book, "Murder in Boerne, Texas: The Untold Story of the Bickel Family Massacre." Discover the dark secrets behind John Bickel, the events leading up to the massacre, the investigation, and the lasting impact on the Boerne community. This episode uncovers new evidence, explores local legends, and reveals the real people behind the headlines. Perfect for true crime enthusiasts and Texas history buffs!

00:00 - Introduction & Host Welcome

00:29 - The Bickel Family Massacre: What Happened

00:54 - Community Response and Initial Investigation

01:17 - The Book: "Murder in Boerne, Texas" and Author Introductions

02:11 - The Mass Grave and Mysterious Monuments

02:44 - Discovering New Documents in the Courthouse

03:36 - John Bickel’s Violent Past and Family Secrets

04:33 - The Stabbing of Bickel’s Daughter

05:19 - Theories on Motive and Family Dynamics

06:05 - Bickel and Spangenberg’s Background and Immigration

06:28 - The Fate of the Surviving Family Members

07:24 - The Massacre’s Aftermath: Lynching and Local Justice

08:04 - The Names of the Men Who Lynched the Suspects

09:09 - Book Details and Where to Find It

09:49 - Recounting the Night of the Attack

10:47 - The Escape of the 12-Year-Old Survivor

11:31 - Motives: Robbery or Revenge?

12:20 - Theories on the Real Killers and Business Dealings

13:05 - Lawlessness and Military Involvement in the Aftermath

14:00 - The Role of Newspapers and Early Reporting

14:39 - Research Challenges and Discoveries

15:02 - The Search for George Wilkins Kendall’s Diary

15:51 - Jury Dynamics and the Retrial Request

16:24 - Book Recap and Where to Buy

16:54 - Are There Any Surviving Photos or Drawings?

17:29 - Closing Remarks, Book Signing Details, and Farewell

Original Air Date: December 6, 2025, as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

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