On May 26, 1896, the small town of Campbell, California, was shaken by the brutal murder of Colonel Robert P. McGlincy, aged 56, along with five other individuals. The crime, which took place at the McGlincy residence, was committed by James C. Dunham, the colonel's son-in-law. Dunham's heinous act resulted in the deaths of Colonel McGlincy, his wife, his stepdaughter (Dunham's wife), his stepson, a hired man named Robert Brisco, and a domestic worker named Minnie Shesler.
The gruesome nature of the crime, involving both an ax and a pistol, left the community in shock and horror.
The motive behind the murders remains unclear, though it is speculated that Dunham's strained relationship with his wife and his perceived mistreatment by Colonel McGlincy may have contributed to his actions. Despite being well-provided for and allowed to lead an easy life, Dunham's meanness and penurious nature were noted by those who knew him. On the night of the murders, Dunham waited until the family members had retired to their respective rooms before carrying out the massacre. The only survivor was Dunham's infant son, who was found lying asleep beside his strangled mother.
Following the murders, Dunham fled the scene on a small buckskin horse, triggering a massive manhunt. Despite extensive efforts by law enforcement, Dunham managed to evade capture, and his whereabouts remained unknown. The case garnered significant media attention, with sensational coverage highlighting the brutality of the crime and the subsequent investigation. The McGlincy estate, one of the most handsome tracts in the county, was left to Dunham's infant son, who was later adopted by his great-aunt and great-uncle.
The legal proceedings following the murders included a petition filed by Mrs. Michael T. Brewer, the sister of Mrs. Ada McGlincy, to adopt the baby boy. The adoption was successful, and the child, named Percy Osborn Brewer, was raised by the Brewers. The McGlincy house and its belongings were eventually sold, and the property changed hands multiple times over the years. Despite the passage of time, the memory of the McGlincy family massacre remains a dark chapter in the history of Campbell, California.
