Home » Preservation Thursday: The Axelbee Gang

Preservation Thursday: The Axelbee Gang

DEADWOOD – Deadwood History, Inc. and the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission will host a presentation by Mike Madler at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center (HARCC), 150 Sherman Street, Deadwood. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members. 

In the lawless days of the frontier, the Black Hills was a notorious hotspot for outlaws, including the infamous Axelbee Gang. One of their hideouts, Stoneville (now Alzada, Montana), epitomized the chaotic spirit of the Wild West. In 1884, the gang’s reign of terror culminated in a bloody showdown with lawmen from Spearfish and Deadwood, leaving Stoneville scarred by history. Join a passionate local historian, Mike Madler, as he delves into the gripping saga of this legendary group of outlaws. 

Mike Madler, a seasoned professional land surveyor with 47 years of experience, brings a wealth of expertise and a deep passion for history to his presentations. Based in Spearfish with his wife, Donna, Madler’s career spanned Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Colorado, where he also served as a certified federal surveyor and spent over two decades working with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). His lifelong interest in frontier history has driven him to meticulously research and collect historical information from the regions he worked in. Since retiring, Madler has transformed his research into engaging exhibits and presentations showcased at libraries and museums across the area, sharing his knowledge and love of history with the community.

Preservation Thursday is co-sponsored by the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission, Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation, Deadwood History, Inc., Deadwood Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Black Hills Pioneer, Saloon No. 10, and the Silverado Franklin Historic Hotel & Gaming Complex.                                                      

-30-

Deadwood History, Inc. preserves and presents the history of Deadwood and the Black Hills through exceptional places, interactive exhibits, and engaging events.

Adams Museum, Days of ’76 Museum, Historic Adams House, Homestake Adams

Research and Cultural Center, The Brothel Deadwood, and Fassbender Photographic Collection.

Book Now