Dillinger’s Funeral in Newport, AR: A Detailed Multidimensional Overview

When the notorious bank robber John Dillinger was killed by the FBI in Chicago on July 22, 1934, his body was transported to his hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana. However, it was not there that he was laid to rest. Instead, his funeral took place in Newport, Arkansas, a small town with a significant connection to the infamous criminal. Let’s delve into the details of this unusual funeral and the events surrounding it.

The Decision to Hold the Funeral in Newport

John Dillinger was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, on June 22, 1903. After serving time in prison for robbery, he became a notorious bank robber in the 1930s. His death at the hands of the FBI on July 22, 1934, sparked a national frenzy. Despite his criminal past, Dillinger had a loyal following, and many people wanted to pay their respects to the man who had become a folk hero of sorts.

After Dillinger’s death, his family decided to hold his funeral in Newport, Arkansas, where he had lived for a brief period during his childhood. Newport was home to Dillinger’s mother, who had moved there after her marriage to William Edward Kinsella. The family chose Newport as a way to honor Dillinger’s roots and to provide a sense of closure for his loved ones.

The Funeral Service

The funeral service for John Dillinger was held on July 26, 1934, at the First Christian Church in Newport. The church was filled to capacity, with many people unable to get inside. The service was conducted by Reverend J. W. Hargrave, who delivered a eulogy that honored Dillinger’s life and legacy.

Dillinger’s body was laid in a casket adorned with a U.S. flag and a silver dollar. His mother, Sarah Kinsella, was the first to view the body, followed by his sister, Mary Dillinger. The service was attended by several hundred people, including law enforcement officials, reporters, and members of the public.

The Burial

After the funeral service, Dillinger was buried in the Newport Cemetery. His grave is marked by a simple headstone that reads, “John Dillinger, Born June 22, 1903, Died July 22, 1934.” The burial was attended by a small group of family members and friends.

The Aftermath

The funeral of John Dillinger in Newport, Arkansas, was a significant event in the town’s history. It brought national attention to Newport and sparked a renewed interest in Dillinger’s life and legacy. The town has since become a popular destination for fans of the infamous criminal.

Over the years, the Newport Cemetery has become a place of pilgrimage for Dillinger enthusiasts. The grave of the notorious bank robber is often visited by tourists and researchers who want to learn more about his life and death. The town has also capitalized on its connection to Dillinger by establishing a museum and a historical marker at the site of his funeral home.

Table: Key Details of Dillinger’s Funeral in Newport, AR

The funeral of John Dillinger in Newport, Arkansas, was a poignant event that brought together a diverse group of people to honor the life of a man who had become a symbol of rebellion and freedom. Today, the town of Newport continues to remember