Dedication of Bass Reeves Statue

A week of special events are planned for the dedication of the Bass Reeves statue beginning with the “Artistic Grit” Art Exhibition opening on Friday, May 18 featuring both paintings and sculpture by artist Harold T. Holden.  The one week exhibition in the rotunda of the Convention Center will be open through May 25 during regular Convention Center hours. 

The Fort Smith Museum of History will host a “Meet the Artist and Welcome Party”  on Thursday, May 24, 5:00-7:00 p. m. with a cookout in the museum parking lot.  In appreciation of our supporters, museum members are invited to enjoy beer, brats and beans and meet Bass Reeves sculptor Harold T. Holden.  The event is open to non-members for $10 per person. Guests may enjoy  live music by local band Blue Fiddle.

Dedication Day activities will begin at 10:00 a. m. on Saturday, May 26, with the unveiling of the statue at 10:30.  Special guests include Mistress of Ceremonies Angela Taylor of 40/29 News, actor James Pickens, Jr. of “Grey’s Anatomy,” Alyse Eady, 2010 Miss Arkansas, the Fort Smith Community Band and local musicians  Bobby Lopez and Hershel Parker.

The Dedication Day Celebration Festival will continue throughout the afternoon with events scheduled at various locations.

The museum will host several activities through the afternoon: 1:30:  Talk with  artist Harold T. Holden2:00:  Talk and book signing with author Art Burton, Black Badge, Silver StarBass Reeves portrayal with  T. Baridi Nkokheli3:00:  Reading by authorVaunda Nelson, Bad News for Outlaws, the awarding winning children’s book.  Followed by a book signing.4:00:  Book signing with Judge Paul L. Brady, The Black Badge.  Judge Brady is the great-nephew of Bass Reeves.

For a complete list of events visit www.deputybassreeves.com

Bass Reeves was born a slave in Texas in the mid-19th century.  After escaping, Reeves spent many years in Indian Territory before settling in Van Buren after the Civil War.  Judge Isaac Parker asked Reeves to become a deputy because of his vast knowledge of Indian Territory.  Reeves brought in over 3,000 outlaws in his career.