Jacksonport State Park to host dinner, mock trial based on historic events
Trial based on actual 1885 events and trial
(JACKSONPORT, Ark.) – Jacksonport State Park will host “Justice in Jacksonport 1885” mock dinner trial on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 6 to 9 p.m. After enjoying a catered meal, event participants will take part in a living history drama, playing the roles of defendant, witnesses, lawyers and jurors to determine the fate of the accused.
The mock trail is based on an actual 1885 trial that took place in the Jacksonport courtroom in which Phillip Hott accused his wife of adultery and demanded a divorce. Is Mrs. Hott guilty? Only the jury can decide.
Admission is $30 per person and advance registration is required. The deadline to register is Monday, Feb. 6. The event is limited to a minimum of 25 participants and a maximum of 42.
The visitors center and courthouse have full accessibility for those with disabilities. Please call the park for more information.
For more information or to register for the event, call 870-523-2143 or contact jacksonport@arkansas.com.
Jacksonport State Park
Jacksonport was an important trade center in early Arkansas due to its location near the confluence of the Black and White rivers. During the Civil War, Confederate and Union forces occupied the town due to its strategic location. Jacksonport became the county seat in 1852, and the restored courthouse now stands as a museum.
Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Mike Mills serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.
