Robber and hero: the story of the raid on the First National Bank of Northfield, Minnesota, by the James-Younger band of robbers, in 1876.

"Robber and Hero: the Story of the Raid on the First National Bank of Northfield" by George Huntington is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The narrative recounts the infamous attempted bank robbery by the James-Younger gang in 1876, focusing on the heroism displayed by Joseph Lee Heywood, the bank's bookkeeper, who loses his life while bravely resisting the assailants. The book aims to preserve the memory of this tragic event and highlight the valor of those who defended the town against the robbers. The opening of the book sets the tone for the dramatic tale ahead, introducing the reader to the characters and the immediate tension as the robbers enter Minnesota under false pretenses. The narrative paints a vivid picture of the gang's meticulous planning and their eventual decision to target Northfield after being thwarted in Mankato. It details the brave and fateful moment inside the bank where Heywood, faced with violence and threats, steadfastly refuses to betray his duty, ultimately leading to a tragic confrontation that stirs the community into action. The early chapters promise a riveting tale that juxtaposes criminality and heroism, making for an engaging exploration of this historical event. (This is an automatically generated summary.)