The creators of the western drama based on the life of a Black deputy U.S. marshal were inspired by the challenge of filling in the lost history of the famous lawman.
Fort Smith Times Record
May 9, 1905: The ambassador from Italy to the United States, Baron Emondo Mayo des Planches, visits Fort Smith during a tour of the southwest. A reception for him is held at the Hotel Main.
May 9, 1980: The first planeload of about Cuban refugees lands at the 188th on their way to Chaffee. About 20,000 refugees passed through the 188th.
May 10, 1875: Federal Judge Isaac C. Parker presides over his first court session in Fort Smith. Of 18 tried for murder, 15 are convicted and eight sentenced to die.
May 10, 1992: Mayor Ray Baker and former Mayor Bill Vines officially turn the valve to release the first of Lee Creek’s drinking water into the city water system.