On May 7, 1873, a search party descended onto the Bender’s deserted homestead with spades, shovels and plows. After the cabin was lifted and moved aside, a search was made under the house, but nothing was found. The search was about to be called off when Dr. William York’s brother, Colonel Ed York, from his buggy noticed the outline of a body's depression in the small orchard. Digging began and tragically Dr. York’s body was found buried, head downward, feet scarcely covered. His skull had been smashed from behind with a hammer and his throat had been cut. Harper’s Weekly, June 7, 1873, published the above sketch made from one of the photographs by Mr. Gamble of Parsons.  Cherryvale Museum Collection