LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A new addition to the Arkansas State Capitol was unveiled on Dec. 18, honoring Bass Reeves, a legendary U.S. marshal, lawman, and Crawford County native.
Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston and U.S. Marshals officials gathered to commemorate the life and legacy of Reeves with a portrait painted by artist James Loveless.
"Today, we gather here not just for the unveiling of a portrait, but for the remembrance of a legacy, a story of courage, integrity, and resilience," US Marshal Cory Harris said.
Reeves, born into slavery in Crawford County in the 1840s, became a trailblazer in law enforcement. Harris said his portrait should be a reminder that Arkansas's history is rich with stories of people who stood tall for what is right.
"Bass Reeves rose above unimaginable challenges to become one of the first black U.S. deputy marshals west of the Mississippi River, having arrested over 3000 fugitives with unwavering fairness," Harris said.
At Wednesday's historic unveiling, Thurston said this is the first non-governor portrait and the first African American portrait to be displayed in the Capitol.
"There are a lot of kids that come into this building, and they'll be able to see this portrait and begin to have questions about law enforcement," Thurston said. "Hopefully, they'll read some of the information and it will trigger whatever callings within them [to] perhaps serve in law enforcement."
Reeves' life story, which includes his journey from enslavement to a decorated career in law enforcement, continues to inspire.
"He did not allow his chains, both figuratively and literally, to hold him back from fulfilling his calling," Thurston said. "His desire to contribute to society that at one point had him enslaved, is remarkable and led to an extraordinary career and reputation, which made him a legendary figure in law enforcement."
The portrait is accompanied by a special historical exhibit on Reeves' life, which will remain on display at the Capitol until next summer.
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