Nestled on land Carson Bradford acquired in Ocklawaha in 1892, the two-story Florida cracker-style home was built in 1930 by his son, who resided in Miami.
Boasting three bedrooms and two bathrooms within its 2,100 square feet, the tranquil retreat offered views of Lake Weir, Florida’s fifth-largest lake, and served as a weekend and summer escape for the Bradford family from the bustle of Miami.
Carson Bradford had never offered his lakeside home for rent. However, in late 1934, a surprisingly substantial offer arrived from an emissary representing a Mrs. T.C. “Kate” Blackburn, portrayed as a “sweet little old lady” seeking a secluded cottage to enjoy quality time with her sons. They desired a peaceful haven to recover from the harsh Northern winter.
Despite Bradford’s initial refusal, the rental offer escalated, accompanied by an offer of full cash payment in advance for the entire season. “It is the only time the house was ever rented,” recounts Carson Good, Bradford’s great-grandson.
Tragically, just two months later, the Bradford residence became the site of the longest FBI shootout in history, left scarred by a barrage of bullets. Only after the gunfire ceased did Bradford discover the true identities of his tenants. He had unwittingly rented his cherished retreat to the infamous gangster Ma Barker and her son Fred. They were fugitives, relentlessly pursued by the FBI, who had identified them as Public Enemy #1 following the apprehension and killing of John Dillinger, Al Capone, and Pretty Boy Floyd. Recognizing they were next on J. Edgar Hoover’s list, the Barker-Karpis gang shrewdly sought refuge in the secluded hideout overlooking Lake Weir.