★
Special Event
Event
Trial Reenactment
This event has already occurred. This page is provided for reference only.
Fee:
Free.Dates & Times
Date:
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Time:
6:00 PM
Duration:
1 hour and 30 minutes
Type of Event
Living History
Talk
Description
Henry Wilson said he would be gone for five or six days; it had been two weeks. His sons begin the search, collecting a crowd of locals to look for ‘Old Man Wilson’. When deputies discover Wilson’s belongings in the hands of James Beems and the Jones brothers, all signs point to their possible guilt.
After questioning, Jeff Jones admits to shooting at Wilson. He even leads them to the body but claims self-defense. However, the bullet holes are in the victim’s back! All three are brought up on murder charges. Witnesses to the crime range from those singing the defendants' praise as ‘good boys’ to others who say they admitted to killing Wilson and taking his belongings. Wilson’s family and friends want justice, but a guilty verdict would mean an execution. You be the jury!
This is a BRAND NEW, never-before-seen trial transcript! Join us as we reenact this historic trial in the courtroom it took place in!
Reservation or Registration: Yes
Tickets are free but must be reserved beforehand. Spots fill quickly! Contact the park at 479-226-3700 or visit us at 301 Parker Ave, Fort Smith, AR to reserve your seats.
Image Gallery
NPS Photo