Selection Of The Fittest: The United States Marshals In American History
Class | Registration opens Tuesday, February 3, 2026 10:00 AM
The Office of the United States Marshal is one of the oldest—and perhaps least understood—federal institutions in our nation’s history. From enforcing order during the Whiskey Rebellion to pursuing justice in the Old West, from the Reconstruction era to the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, U.S. Marshals have played a crucial role in shaping America.
Join David Kennedy, Curator of Collections & Exhibits, for an engaging, interactive session exploring how, since 1789, the Marshals have served as the “teeth” of the federal courts—the first federal law enforcement officers tasked with upholding justice and tackling the jobs no one else could.
Participants will dive into stories of political intrigue, true crime, the Founding Fathers, Civil Rights, and the Wild West through artifacts, case studies, and discussion. Learn how this dynamic agency earned its reputation as “the other duties” arm of the government—taking on everything from capturing outlaws to protecting witnesses and securing vaccines. This session offers a compelling, hands-on look at the evolution of American law enforcement and the enduring legacy of the U.S. Marshals.
This program will meet in person at OLLI Headquarters (HQ), located at 481 S. Shiloh Drive, Fayetteville, AR 72704. Please read your class reminder email for the exact room location.
Class changes occasionally happen; please watch for (and read) announcements or emails from OLLI regarding your class.
Click on the link below for a Google map shot of our location:
OLLI HQ
David Kennedy
David Kennedy is the Curator of Collections and Exhibits at the United States Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He is responsible for the collections and exhibits telling the story of America’s oldest federal law enforcement office. Mr. Kennedy has studied and speaks about the American West, firearms, and the United States Marshals. He believes that museums are an educational equalizer and that the strength of museums lies in the collections they hold and protect.