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Tennessee ex GIs seize county jail in tense election era
In Athens Tennessee on August 4 1946 rumors of a comeback sparked a lull into a makeshift gun arsenal at McMinn County jail and courthouse as ex soldiers armed with rifles and ammunition gathered amid a heated local election pitting GL candidates against Sheriff Pat Mansfield. Vigilance committee led by Reverend Hernin Mampton vowed order while denying planned violence. 18 were wounded in a six hour clash and several remain in serious condition as former Sheriff Mansfield and deputies surrendered after the election.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Athens
Tenn
McMian County
Court House
Pat Mansefield
Hernin Mampton
Ccat
Hampton