Solve a Murder Mystery with CSI: Cville

“CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Feb. 10. -- J. Samuel McCue, formerly Mayor of this city, was hanged in the county jail here at 7:34 o'clock this morning for the murder of his wife on Sunday, Sept. 4, 1904.” These are the words that readers of the New York Times would have seen on the morning of February 11, 1905. Sam McCue was the former mayor of Charlottesville, Virginia who was found guilty of murdering his wife Fannie—some say it was to protect his mistress, Hattie Marshall—and then eventually hanged as punishment and buried on Afton Mountain.  However, there was no hard evidence against Sam, nothing to convict him, so who was the true murderer? Furthermore, after his conviction, Sam’s last words to the judge were, “I am as innocent as any other man in the courtroom,” a statement with vastly different interpretations.

So, what does any of this have to do with a getaway at Afton Mountain Bed & Breakfast? I’m glad you asked! You have the opportunity to explore the past and judge this murder mystery for yourself. Tell Me About It Tours is offering “CSI: Cville 1904-Style,” a 90-minute walking tour in Charlottesville: “Walk in the fatal footsteps of Sam McCue…Hear the witness testimonies.  See where it all happened.  Decide for yourself who is guilty.” If you’re a fan of ghost stories, you may be interested to know that there have even been some supernatural occurrences surrounding the McCue’s old house. (Some say that Fannie haunts the second floor while Sam haunts the basement.) Mostly though, the tour is based on historical fact and eyewitness accounts.

This tour runs through the end of October and takes place rain or shine, so be sure to dress appropriately. Click here to purchase your tickets, and don’t forget to book your room at Afton Mountain!