6/16/2021 | First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site | St. Charles, MO
Join the interpreters of First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site on Wednesday, June 16 at 7 p.m. when they host authors Vicki Berger Erwin and James W. Erwin and explore crimes, criminals and victims from the violent history of the last 200 years in the Show-Me State. From the duel on Bloody Island to the “Missouri Miracle” kidnapping and recovery of Shawn Hornbeck, Missouri has seen its share of notorious crimes. It was home to the first Western gunfight in a town square, fought between Wild Bill Hickok and Dave Tutt. The three trials of the alleged murderer of Col. Thomas Swope, the founder of Kansas City’s Swope Park, enveloped the state. Residents also saw the killings within a few blocks of each other that inspired the songs “Stagger Lee” and “Frankie and Johnny.” Come hear these infamous crime stories and more!
About the Authors
Vicki Berger Erwin has been in the publishing industry for more than 30 years in various capacities, including sales, book distribution and as the owner of a bookstore in St. Charles, Missouri. She is the author of 30 books in varied genres: picture books, middle-grade mysteries and novels, local histories, and true crime. James W. Erwin practiced law in St. Louis for 37 years. He is the author of five books of local history. This is their second book together. They live in Kirkwood, Missouri.
For more information about this free event, please call First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site at 636-940-3322.
Event Time: 7 p.m.
This is one of many events Missouri State Parks is hosting to commemorate the state's bicentennial. To see a complete list of bicentennial-related events and learn more the commemoration, click here.
First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site is located at:
Associated activities
- Interpretive Programs