One of the most interesting exhibits on display at the Gann Museum is a story of two murders.
On January 24, 1877, Hattie Staner and neighbor, Parcell Taylor were murdered in the Staner residence with a poker from the Staner’s fireplace. It was said that their nephew, Tom Staner had been acting strange that day. Later, Tom Staner, confessed to the murder of his Aunt and her neighbor.
Tom Staner was tried and convicted of the murders. His execution took place on November 2, 1877. The execution took place on the courthouse lawn, the only legal execution of Saline County, Arkansas. Included in the exhibit are some artifacts from the Staner residence, including the family Bible, as well as the murder weapon, the fireplace poker.
