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Fort Smith National Historic Site
July 6, 1888 Execution
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Gus Bogles was executed by the federal court on July 6, 1888.  He had been found guilty by a jury of murdering J.D. Morgan.  On June 27, 1887, conducters removed Gus Bogles, J.D. Morgan, and three other men from a train near McAlester because they had not paid their fares. The next day Morgan's body was found, robbed and beaten to death. Officers arrested Bogles in Texas where he confessed to the crime. Although he recanted the confession during the trial, the jury still found him guilty.

Lady Bird Johnson speaking at Fort Smith NHS dedication  

Did You Know?
Lady Bird Johnson came to Fort Smith National Historic Site to dedicate the park on October 27, 1964.

Last Updated: June 16, 2007 at 16:20 EST