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Making America's Best Idea Even Better
Fort Smith National Historic SiteCherokee Bill on scaffold with noose hanging above his head. His mother stands next to him.
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Fort Smith National Historic Site
April 30, 1896 Execution
noose
On April 30, 1896 three men were executed on the Fort Smith gallows.  Webber Isaacs, a Cherokee Indian, robbed Mike Cushing, a 60 year old peddler, and then beat him to death. Isaacs tried to burn the body of his victim to destroy evidence of the crime but letters found near the scene confirmed Cushing's identity. In November 1894, George and John Pierce, brothers, murdered William Vandever, their traveling companion, as they rode through the Cherokee Nation. The Pierces robbed Vandever of his horses, mules and a wagon.
Children and families helping to raise the garrison flag on Flag Day 2006  

Did You Know?
The garrison flag flown on the old military parade ground of Fort Smith National Historic Site bears 37 stars and is 20 x 30'. On special occasions visitors assist in raising the huge flag.

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Last Updated: June 19, 2007 at 15:11 EST