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Fort Smith National Historic Site
Speeches of Judge Parker
 
Judge Parker seated at his bench in courtroom on 6th Street
Judge Parker
Sixth Street Courthouse
c. 1890s
 

During his lifetime career as a politician and judge, Isaac Parker was a prolific speaker and writer. His charges to juries were known to last up to two hours in length. As a federal judge of the late 19th century, Judge Parker's speeches reflect the social and legal thought at the time; certainly much of what Judge Parker said in his jury charges could be considered grounds for an appeal today.

The speeches contained here come from a variety of original sources, primarily historic newspapers, therefore they may not reflect exactly the words of the judge. However, only historic sources were used, in order to ensure the highest level of accuracy.

Use the links on this page to explore the words of Judge Parker, and allow him to speak for himself.

 

Charge to the Grand Jury, May Term, 1875

Sentencing of William Jackson Whittington, June 1875

Centennial Oration, July 4, 1876

Charge to Jury: Furstenheim & Wellford vs. J. Kittay, 1881

Sentence of Robert Massey, 1883

Sentence of Gus Bogles, 1888

Jury Charge -- Jack Spaniard, 1889

Sentencing of Crumpton and Alexander, 1890

Tribute to Elias C. Boudinot, 1890

Sentencing of Mary Kettenring (convicted of murder), 1895

Grand Jury Charge August Term, 1895

Address to the Petit Jury at close of August Term, 1895

Second Death Sentence of Crawford Goldsby, alias Cherokee Bill

The First Sentencing of Rufus Buck (convicted of rape), 1895

The Second Sentencing of the Rufus Buck Gang, 1896

Sentence of George Wilson, alias James Casharego (last man executed at Fort Smith), 1895

How to Arrest the Increase of Homicides in America

part of letter head showing I C Parker and US Judge
Letters of Judge Isaac C. Parker
letters and other documents written by Parker
more...
detail of courtroom drawing of Judge Parker
Judge Parker's Biography
link to story of Parker's life
more...
reproduction U.S. Deputy Marshal badge
Law Enforcement at Fort Smith
Unpublished manuscript by former NPS Historian Edwin C. Bearss on federal court period.
more...
Entrance to Visitor Center on south end of building  

Did You Know?
Fort Smith National Historic Site completed a major renovation of their Visitor Center in the summer of 2000.

Last Updated: October 02, 2007 at 10:57 EST