My new historical true crime book, The Madness of John Terrell: Revenge and Insanity on Trial in the Heartland, published by Kent State University Press, has been released.
The story of my great-uncle's sensational murder of his estranged son-in-law in 1903 made headlines across the nation, including on the front page of the New York Times. But the murder was just the beginning. It was followed by a dramatic trial, then a descent into insanity that left John Terrell, once one of the richest men in Indiana, penniless.
To launch the book, I gave a presentation to a full house at the Wells County Public Library in Bluffton, Indiana. The site was special because the library stands on what was once the site of the old Wells County Jail, where John Terrell was housed while awaiting his trial in 1903.
Among those attending was a gentleman who now owns part of what was once John Terrell's farm. Another person attending had connections to the church in the crossroads community in Domestic -- the same church that over 120 years ago held the funeral for Melvin Wolfe, John Terrell's victim.
Those attending the book launch were excited about the book. They had lots of questions, and before the night was through, had purchased every copy of the book that I had available -- including my own personal copy.
But no need to worry. I've already ordered more copies from my publisher for my upcoming presentations.
