Nearly a century ago, the quiet community of Stringtown became the site of a deadly gunfight that is etched into local history. Known as the 'Stringtown Shootout,' this 1932 confrontation involved local law enforcement and one of America's most notorious outlaws, Clyde Barrow.
According to historical records, the shootout occurred on August 5, 1932. Atoka County Sheriff C.G. Maxwell and Deputy Sheriff Eugene Moore were attempting to arrest Barrow and two of his associates, Raymond Hamilton and Everett Milligan, who were attending a dance at a local hall. As the two lawmen approached the group, the outlaws opened fire.
The surprise attack resulted in the immediate death of Deputy Moore, and Sheriff Maxwell was severely wounded. The outlaws, including Barrow, were able to escape.
