Blood-chilling new evidence in one of Dayton's most bloodcurdling murders might change verdict

Scenes from the trial of Albert Frantz as depicted by a newspaper sketch artist. During the trial, a sporting goods store clerk said he had sold Albert Frantz a .32 caliber revolver just two weeks before the murder. ARTICLE: Dayton’s Ridge Avenue Bridge has haunted history as site of notorious 19th century murder

Scenes from the trial of Albert Frantz as depicted by a newspaper sketch artist. During the trial, a sporting goods store clerk said he had sold Albert Frantz a .32 caliber revolver just two weeks before the murder. ARTICLE: Dayton’s Ridge Avenue Bridge has haunted history as site of notorious 19th century murder
Arts & Entertainment
By Amelia Robinson
July 6, 2016
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One of the most bloodcurdling cases in Dayton crime history is getting a new trial.

As part of its Old Case Files project, Dayton History is once again re-examining the evidence that sent Albert J. Frantz to the electric chair for gunning down his pregnant lover Bessie Little.

The Frantz case has been featured as part of the series before, but Merry Masterson, Dayton History's assistant director of education, said there is new reason for a second look this month and next.

"New evidence has come to light," she said. "We found some historical evidence that might change the verdict."

It's too late for Albert, but it could be entertaining, educational and interesting for the living.

>>5 of Dayton's most shocking murders

In its sixth year, the Old Case program uses newspaper, court and other documents to re-enact trials with actors dressed in period costumes inside the Old Court House.

Audience members play jury and decide guilt or innocence based on evidence.

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Scenes from the trial of Albert Frantz as depicted by a newspaper sketch artist. The trial lasted 16 days and featured more than 100 witnesses. (Hey, did you notice the typo?)

WANT TO GO?

What: Old Case Files

Where: Old Court House , 7 N. Main St. in downtown Dayton

When: Performances will be held  July 22-24, July 29-31, and Aug. 5-7. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday performances start at 3 p.m.

Cost:  $12  for Dayton History members and $15 for non-members. Refreshments will be sold.

More information:  Dayton History

Albert J. Frantz was accused of shooting his pregnant lover Bessie Little on the Ridge Avenue Bridge on Aug. 27, 1896, and trying to pass her death off as a suicide. She is said to have haunted the bridge. 

>> Haunted history of Dayton bridge

The jury didn't buy Albert's defense.

A press box will be added this year for those who want to play reporters.

"(Reporters) can shout things at the judge and the lawyers if they want," Masterson said of those in the press box.

Members of the press were known to throw objects in Frantz and Little's time.

"It is going to be a really exciting time," Masterson said. "We are looking forward to it."


 5 of Dayton's most titillating and downright shocking murders, item 1

Photo of Albert Frantz from the Ohio Department of Rehablitation and Correction. Drawing of Bessie Little from Dayton Daily News Archive. The old Ridge Avenue Bridge, where Bessie Little was murdered, as it appeared around 1910.

About the Author

Amelia Robinson