Early Twentieth Century
Murder Mysteries
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 powerful railroad magnate who built an empire through steel rails and ruthless ambition. This character embodies the aggressive entrepreneurial spirit that shaped the American West, wielding influence through transportation networks and business deals. Known for cutthroat competition and an unforgiving memory for perceived betrayals.
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:
I've heard the Banker has been quietly buying up waterfront properties under false names, possibly to corner the market before some big announcement.
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.
Ask each person a question about where they were on the night of the murder:
Your political connections run deep. Any favors owed that might compromise your integrity?
Shipping fish requires reliable transport. Are you giving fair rates, or squeezing for profit?
My rails cross your family land. Any complaints about compensation or property rights?
Timber transport built my fortune. Are you satisfied with our business arrangements?
We've competed fiercely over the years. Ready to discuss burying old grievances?
Your charitable concerns are noted. Do you think progress requires sacrificing some traditions?
Transportation brings stories together. Do you see the railroad as connecting or dividing communities?
Answers to give:
Innocent: My railroad dealings are transparent. I compete hard but fairly, without resorting to underhanded tactics.
Guilty: The Magnate threatened to expose my bribes to government officials for favorable railroad routes. I had to silence them.
Innocent: Transportation and fishing are natural partners. I provide reliable service at competitive rates.
Guilty: They discovered I was sabotaging their shipments to force them to pay higher rates. I couldn't let that be exposed.
Innocent: I've always tried to work fairly with property owners affected by railroad development.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to reveal how I seized family lands through fraudulent eminent domain claims.
Innocent: Railroads and timber built this region together. Despite disagreements, I respect the lumber industry.
Guilty: They threatened to testify about my illegal logging partnerships and kickback schemes.
Innocent: Business competition can be fierce, but I've always maintained professional respect for worthy opponents.
Guilty: You cheated me out of millions in railroad deals and threatened to destroy me completely. I had to strike first.
Innocent: Progress requires balance between development and community values. I respect diverse perspectives.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to expose how I've been embezzling from charitable railroad funds.
Innocent: Railroads connect people and ideas across vast distances, enriching communities through shared culture and commerce.
Guilty: They planned to publish articles exposing my corruption unless I stopped your funding. I chose a permanent solution.
Questions to ask:
Your political connections run deep. Any favors owed that might compromise your integrity?
Shipping fish requires reliable transport. Are you giving fair rates, or squeezing for profit?
My rails cross your family land. Any complaints about compensation or property rights?
Timber transport built my fortune. Are you satisfied with our business arrangements?
We've competed fiercely over the years. Ready to discuss burying old grievances?
Your charitable concerns are noted. Do you think progress requires sacrificing some traditions?
Transportation brings stories together. Do you see the railroad as connecting or dividing communities?
Answers to give:
Innocent: My railroad dealings are transparent. I compete hard but fairly, without resorting to underhanded tactics.
Guilty: The Magnate threatened to expose my bribes to government officials for favorable railroad routes. I had to silence them.
Innocent: Transportation and fishing are natural partners. I provide reliable service at competitive rates.
Guilty: They discovered I was sabotaging their shipments to force them to pay higher rates. I couldn't let that be exposed.
Innocent: I've always tried to work fairly with property owners affected by railroad development.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to reveal how I seized family lands through fraudulent eminent domain claims.
Innocent: Railroads and timber built this region together. Despite disagreements, I respect the lumber industry.
Guilty: They threatened to testify about my illegal logging partnerships and kickback schemes.
Innocent: Business competition can be fierce, but I've always maintained professional respect for worthy opponents.
Guilty: You cheated me out of millions in railroad deals and threatened to destroy me completely. I had to strike first.
Innocent: Progress requires balance between development and community values. I respect diverse perspectives.
Guilty: The Magnate was going to expose how I've been embezzling from charitable railroad funds.
Innocent: Railroads connect people and ideas across vast distances, enriching communities through shared culture and commerce.
Guilty: They planned to publish articles exposing my corruption unless I stopped your funding. I chose a permanent solution.
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 built the railroad that made Fairhaven possible. Competition is fierce in business, but I've never needed murder to succeed. The Magnate and I had our differences, but I respected them as a worthy opponent.
Guilty: Yes, I poisoned the Magnate! They cheated me out of millions and threatened to destroy everything I built. When someone steals your life's work and tries to ruin you completely, you fight back with everything you have.