Benjamin "Bennie" Reeves was born July, 29, 1880 in Arkansas to Bass Reeves and Nellie Jennie. His father, Bass Reeves, was a U.S. Deputy Marshal and arrested him and took him to jail. Bennie shot his wife for infidelity.
The greatest testimony to his devotion to duty was the fact he brought his own son in for murder to avoid his injury or death. This is a true testament to a man who took an oath and a father who dearly loved his son. Reeves was one of the greatest peace officers in the history of the American western frontier.
Bennie did get out of jail, though the date is unknown. He married again to Etta Mae Witson in 1946, she died in 1983 and Bennie died 19 Feb 1958.
The 30" x 30" original charcoal drawing sells for $4500 and limited edition prints are available in two sizes and are shipped in canvas, signed and numbered.
Special thanks to Ernest Marsh, actor and Living History Reenactor for modeling as Bass Reeves Deputy Marshal. Also, thanks to Donald Lee for modeling as Bennie Reeves and thanks to Art T. Burton for consulting as a historian for this piece.