Examining the "Bloody Bender" Family and their Macabre House of Horrors

In the era immediately following the American Civil War, the Benders, a violent family of serial killers preyed on travelers passing by their Kansas homestead. This is the story of the Bloody Benders

Depiction of the Bloody Benders.

Background

In the late 19th century, the Bender family's journey to Kansas marked the beginning of a chilling chapter in American history. Their arrival in the wake of the Osage Indians' relocation following the turbulent aftermath of the American Civil War set the stage for a series of gruesome events. This article unveils the eerie tale of the "Bloody Benders."

The Benders, led by John (Pa) Bender Sr. and son John Bender Jr., staked their claim on 160 acres adjacent to the Great Osage Trail, a pivotal thoroughfare for westward travel at the time. As they constructed their modest living quarters, their small cabin became more sinister.

Within its walls, a dark secret unfolded. The family's activities in their ostensibly humble general store concealed a dreadful truth. Meanwhile, Kate Bender, with her claimed ps…