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Today in History: Gun Battle Over Hanford Land Leaves Seven Dead

5/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On May 11 1880, a land-title dispute between settlers and the Southern Pacific Railroad erupted into a gunfight on a farm five miles northwest of Hanford, California, killing seven people. The Mussel Slough Tragedy sparked widespread protests and cemented the railroad’s reputation as a California villain.

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Story summary

On May 11 1880, a land-title dispute between settlers and the Southern Pacific Railroad erupted into a gunfight on a farm five miles northwest of Hanford, California, killing seven people. The Mussel Slough Tragedy sparked widespread protests and cemented the railroad’s reputation as a California villain.