Prohibition turned deadly on the evening of September 21, 1922, when Constable Stephen O. Lawson was gunned down by rum-runners in front of his office, which was also his family home.
The murder and trial were high-profile events in Alberta. The tragedy led to the hanging of Emilio Picariello and Florence Lassandro, the only woman hanged in Alberta. The Crowsnest Historical Society rehabilitated the original building, one of the few artifacts they had. Original building elements are highlighted with portals.
The design team developed the 1450 sqft space into an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to explore the Scene of the Crime. Who fired the fatal shot? Was justice served? Visitors can examine the evidence and decide for themselves.
Role: Interpretive planning, exhibit concept development, research, writing
“The Crowsnest Historical Society recently had the pleasure of working with Joan Lawrence on the exhibit for our new Alberta Provincial Police Barracks. Joan brought her expertise, knowledge, and guidance to the project. Her research and interpretation skills took the exhibit farther than we expected and the final product is something the entire team is very proud of. We wish we could have Joan part of all our projects, and recommend her highly.”
Chris Matthews
Executive Director
Crowsnest Museum & Archives
