The practice of teaching evolutionary theory has never been popular in the South, and never less so than the third decade of the 20th century. However, small towns of the region, like many towns across the nation, would often conspire for a bit of headline-grabbing news to flash in the ‘big city’ newspapers, in hope that such boosterism would induce investments and«put our town on the map». Such was the intent of the city fathers of fair Dayton. In the spring of 1925, the ACLU announced it would finance the defence of a Tennessee teacher arrested for violating the Butler Act, which prohibited the teaching of evolution in Tennessee public schools. A meeting was held in a local drugstore on Main Street(Robinson’s) and a committee decided that such a violation could be arranged, and a quick trial following would garner a great deal of publicity. Since time was of the essence and no tenured teacher could be found to risk their job, John Scopes, a substitute teacher/football coach was approached. Mr Scopes had no ties to the area, and agreed to be the test defendant. Things mushroomed quickly, and the pockets of the ACLU brought Clarence Darrow with a strong defence team. The prosecution countered with William Jennings Bryan and an equally strong council. Thus, the stage was set for a monumental clash. As expected, newspaper coverage was extensive with reporters from across the country and London England in attendance. Extra telegraph operators were brought in by train. WLS radio Chicago set up the first-ever live-feed of a trial. Film of the trial was flown out daily. Unexpectedly, were the hucksters and their carnival-like atmosphere that descended upon the town. Trained chimpanzees performed under the stately oaks on the courthouse lawn. The streets were crammed with itinerant preachers and shouting atheists alike. Because of the July heat and weight of the spectators, proceedings were moved out of doors. Eight days of trial led to nine minutes of deliberation: Scopes was convicted. Dayton was humiliated. Luckily, the notoriety quickly faded, and the Scopes Trial became a simple footnote in the continuing discourse of Evolution vs Creationism, and the state’s responsibility regarding the rights of either. Google Scopes Trial or pick up a copy of Summer for the Gods, for further details. The courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and has undergone a multimillion dollar restoration, returning the second floor courtroom to its 1925 glory. My great-grandfather, who sat in that jury would feel right at home.
