Cincinnati's Oldest Unsolved Murder: The Harry Baldwin Case
On a March night in 1879, a gunshot rang out near Washington Platform Saloon. William Schaller, the son of a very wealthy brewer, was immediately arrested for firing a gun inside city limits. The charge against Schaller, who had just left one of the city’s premiere brothels, was not taken seriously — not until a respected young businessman and newlywed named Harry Baldwin was found staggering down an alley beside this brothel partially unclothed, and fighting for his life. The following hours begot the city’s first high-profile murder investigation, and the days and months ahead added nothing but more twists, turns, allegations and dead ends. The crime almost destroyed the Schaller-Gerke brewing empire, threatened to expose a celebrity Madam’s list of exclusive and influential clientele, and laid bare the depths of Cincinnati’s moral depravity. Guests often reach firm — and different — conclusions about how Harry Baldwin died, who perpetrated the crime, and why. However, although Baldwin’s death riveted the city, corruption and incompetence helped ensure that the case went cold.
Murder on the Menu begins with a brief walking tour of the 1879 crime scene. Guests then return to Washington Platform and begin a four-course, nineteenth-century inspired meal. Each course reflects items that were popular in Cincinnati in the late 1800s. Some of these foods and preparations have stayed with us through time, while many have been rediscovered by Chef Jon Diebold. Each course is paired with local craft beer. Author and attorney, Michael D. Morgan, unwinds the major theories of the case between courses. Ticket price is all-inclusive.
This is a private version of this event being held for the Hamilton County Coroner's Office at a discounted ticket price. Attendance is restricted to Coroner Office invitees.