In the world of crime history, few cases are as chilling and captivating as that of Barbara Jane Mackle. On December 17, 1968, the life of this young woman took a dramatic turn when she was kidnapped and buried alive in Georgia. Her harrowing ordeal lasted over 80 hours, yet against all odds, she survived. This article delves into the details of her kidnapping, the investigation, and the impact it had on both her life and society.
The Kidnapping of Barbara Jane Mackle
Barbara Jane Mackle, a 20-year-old college student at Emory University, was abducted from an Atlanta motel room she shared with her mother, Jane. In the early morning hours, two armed men burst into their room, chloroforming Jane and forcing Barbara into their car at gunpoint. The kidnappers were Gary Steven Krist and Ruth Eiseman-Schier, who meticulously planned the abduction to extort a ransom from Barbara's wealthy family.
Later that day, a family friend received a mysterious phone call directing them to check the northwest corner of the Mackle family’s yard in Florida. There, they discovered a ransom note demanding $500,000 for Barbara's safe return. The FBI quickly became involved, launching a massive manhunt to locate the missing heiress.
The Burial and Rescue
Krist and Eiseman-Schier transported Barbara to a secluded location in Gwinnett County, Georgia. They placed her in a custom-built coffin-like box equipped with air vents and buried her underground. Despite the dire circumstances, Barbara remained calm, conserving her limited oxygen supply while waiting for rescue.
After three and a half days, law enforcement agents followed clues left by the kidnappers and located Barbara's burial site. Digging frantically through the soil, they unearthed the box just in time. Barbara emerged alive and well, though understandably traumatized by her experience. Her survival was nothing short of miraculous, given the precarious conditions she endured.
The Aftermath
Gary Steven Krist and Ruth Eiseman-Schier were swiftly apprehended and brought to justice. Krist was sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating the crime, while Eiseman-Schier received a lesser sentence due to her cooperation with authorities. Their actions shocked the nation, highlighting the lengths some individuals would go to exploit wealth and privilege.
For Barbara Jane Mackle, life continued beyond the headlines. She went on to marry Stewart Hunt Woodward in 1971, and together they raised two children. Though her kidnapping remains a defining moment in her life, she managed to rebuild and lead a fulfilling existence. Her resilience serves as an inspiration to many who face adversity.
Cultural Impact
The story of Barbara Jane Mackle captivated audiences worldwide and inspired several adaptations. Gene Miller chronicled the events in his book 83 Hours 'Til Dawn, which later became the basis for two television movies. These works ensured that Barbara's story would endure in popular culture, reminding us of the strength and determination required to overcome unimaginable challenges.
In conclusion, the kidnapping of Barbara Jane Mackle stands as one of the most infamous crimes of its era. It tested the limits of human endurance and showcased the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement. As we reflect on this case, let us remember not only the horror but also the triumph of spirit demonstrated by Barbara Jane Mackle.
