Heroes Way Street Dedication to be held July 1

SUBMITTED BY TANEY COUNTY 100 CLUB

Sheriff Galba E ‘Galby’ Branson and Deputy Sheriff Edward Funk were shot and killed by three brothers who supported a different political party as the sheriff, while at a 4th of July celebration picnic in Kirbyville in 1889.

Now these true public heroes will be remembered in a public way. Join us on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 9 a.m. as we honor their sacrifice. Harp Lane will be designated a Heroes Way with a special dedication ceremony held at the Kirbyville Elementary School. Members of the Branson family will be present for the event.

The brothers, Bill, James and Emanuel Miles had been drinking and were brandishing their pistols around the crowd. In order to avoid a tragedy, Sheriff Branson and Deputy Funk approached the men, asking them to put away their weapons. Sheriff Branson announced he would have to arrest the brothers. One of the brothers pointed his gun at Deputy Funk, who drew his pistol in return. Another brother fired his pistol and struck Deputy Funk, and a shootout ensued. Twelve shots were fired, leaving Deputy Funk and Sheriff Branson dead. One of the brothers suffered a non-life threatening gunshot wound.

The brothers escaped into the dense brush. However, two were later located and charged with murder. In a sensational trial, brothers Jim and Bill Miles were tried and acquitted on September 6, 1890. The charges were then dropped against the other brother, Emanuel.

Sheriff Branson was a United States Marine Corps and Army veteran, serving as a Sargeant in the Gasconade County Battalion with the United States Reserve Corps, Missouri Home Guard, and as a Corporal in the 31st Regiment, Missouri Infantry in the Civil War. He was elected sheriff in 1888. He was survived by his wife and two children.

Some reports indicate Deputy Funk was also a U.S. Marshal.

Sheriff Branson and Deputy Funk are buried in the Branson Family Cemetery off of T Highway in Branson.

We will not forget their sacrifice.