Capture of John A.Murrell

John A. Murrell, known as the "Great Western Land Pirate," was captured near this site in the winter of 1834. He was said to have killed over 400 people, including many kidnapped slaves. His arrest was brought about thought the clever maneuvering of Tom Brannon, a local African~American slave. An attempt had been made by the outlaw to recruit Brannon as a contact man for his far~reaching empire of crime. Brannon was awarded $100 for his bravery and his name was publicized across the country.