Inspired by historical figures from Bellingham’s past — though the story, events, and dialogue are purely fictional.
Beneath the veneer of prosperity, tensions simmered. Business partnerships dissolved in bitter rivalries, secret deals were struck in smoke-filled backrooms, and more than one prominent citizen harbored dark secrets that could destroy reputations – or lives. It was in this atmosphere of ambition and dangerous secrets that tragedy would strike…
This immersive murder mystery experience takes place in the historic setting of early 1900s Bellingham at the Roeder residence. Guests will investigate clues, question suspects, and work to solve the mystery before the evening concludes.
A smooth-talking financial power broker who operates at the intersection of law, politics, and money. This character built their influence through strategic loans, political connections, and real estate deals. Their charm masks a calculating nature and deep fear of financial ruin.
Arrive in character, but feel free to ask any questions about the game to the host. Here are some character attributes to help you get into character:
During the introductions phase, give this introduction about yourself. Feel free to paraphrase, but don't stray from the core concepts:
Split into small groups and spread this gossip about the other character that are not in earshot:
Workers at the cannery whisper that the Cannery Executive has been cutting corners on safety to boost profits — there was an accident last month they tried to cover up.
The Landowner has been seen meeting with a lawyer from Seattle — supposedly about challenging some old timber claims that could affect several people's properties.
People say the Lumberman has been illegally cutting timber on disputed land, and there's a federal investigation brewing that could ruin them.
The Magnate's copper mine investments are failing — I heard they've been borrowing heavily to cover losses and might be facing bankruptcy.
The Partner seems unusually worried lately — I've seen them arguing with their spouse about business matters, saying some dealings have 'gone too far.'
The Poet has been writing scathing articles about local business corruption for eastern newspapers — someone's secrets are about to be exposed nationally.
The Railroad Baron has been spotted meeting with out-of-town investors — word is they're planning to bypass Fairhaven entirely and build a competing rail line.
Ask each person a question about where they were on the night of the murder:
Your cannery workers seem restless lately. Any labor troubles brewing?
I've heard rumors about your family's land being surveyed recently. What's that about?
Your timber contracts with the Magnate have been rocky. Any bad blood there?
You mentioned a big announcement tonight. Care to give us bankers a preview?
You seem worried about your spouse's business dealings lately. Everything alright?
You've been writing some pointed pieces about local business. Anyone in particular you're targeting?
I heard you've been meeting with outside investors. Planning something that affects local interests?
Answers to give:
Innocent: My banking serves all industries equally. I have no special grudge against the cannery business.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to expose my fraudulent loans to failing businesses. I couldn't let that happen.
Innocent: My banking business keeps me above petty land disputes. I focus on loans and investments, not feuds.
Guilty: The Magnate has been threatening to foreclose on several properties I've financed. Someone had to stop them.
Innocent: Business disagreements are normal. I've had no serious conflicts with anyone here tonight.
Guilty: The Magnate cost me a fortune in failed timber deals. I couldn't let them destroy more lives.
Innocent: As a fellow businessman, I've always respected the Magnate's vision, even when we compete.
Guilty: They discovered my illegal land schemes and threatened to destroy my political career. I had no choice.
Innocent: I have great respect for both you and your spouse. Your charitable work benefits our whole community.
Guilty: Your spouse was getting too close to the truth about my shady dealings. I had to silence them permanently.
Innocent: As a banker, I appreciate the arts. I've even funded some cultural projects around town.
Guilty: The Magnate threatened to expose my questionable land deals after your articles got too close to the truth.
Innocent: Competition is healthy for business. I harbor no ill will toward fellow entrepreneurs.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to reveal how I've been using insider information from railroad deals to manipulate land prices.
Questions to ask:
Your cannery workers seem restless lately. Any labor troubles brewing?
I've heard rumors about your family's land being surveyed recently. What's that about?
Your timber contracts with the Magnate have been rocky. Any bad blood there?
You mentioned a big announcement tonight. Care to give us bankers a preview?
You seem worried about your spouse's business dealings lately. Everything alright?
You've been writing some pointed pieces about local business. Anyone in particular you're targeting?
I heard you've been meeting with outside investors. Planning something that affects local interests?
Answers to give:
Innocent: My banking serves all industries equally. I have no special grudge against the cannery business.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to expose my fraudulent loans to failing businesses. I couldn't let that happen.
Innocent: My banking business keeps me above petty land disputes. I focus on loans and investments, not feuds.
Guilty: The Magnate has been threatening to foreclose on several properties I've financed. Someone had to stop them.
Innocent: Business disagreements are normal. I've had no serious conflicts with anyone here tonight.
Guilty: The Magnate cost me a fortune in failed timber deals. I couldn't let them destroy more lives.
Innocent: As a fellow businessman, I've always respected the Magnate's vision, even when we compete.
Guilty: They discovered my illegal land schemes and threatened to destroy my political career. I had no choice.
Innocent: I have great respect for both you and your spouse. Your charitable work benefits our whole community.
Guilty: Your spouse was getting too close to the truth about my shady dealings. I had to silence them permanently.
Innocent: As a banker, I appreciate the arts. I've even funded some cultural projects around town.
Guilty: The Magnate threatened to expose my questionable land deals after your articles got too close to the truth.
Innocent: Competition is healthy for business. I harbor no ill will toward fellow entrepreneurs.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to reveal how I've been using insider information from railroad deals to manipulate land prices.
Talk amongst yourselves to try and gather theories. This is unstructured time.
Once you have your theory, vote.
If called upon, give your final statement:
Innocent: I've spent my career building this community through honest banking and sound investments. The Magnate's death is a tragic loss for Whatcom County, but I had no part in it. My focus has always been on legal, profitable ventures that benefit everyone.
Guilty: Yes, I killed the Magnate. They discovered my fraudulent land schemes and threatened to destroy my political career and banking reputation. I couldn't let decades of work be ruined by one person's meddling. Sometimes business requires difficult decisions.