Hotsprings
Hotsprings
The sun is barely up on Central Avenue, when City Alderman, Frank Flynn strides out of his saloon, draws his revolver and guns down the editor of "The Hot Springs Hornet." Flynn will be acquitted of all charges, but the murder will be the catalyst for one of the greatest blood feuds in American history, pitting the Hot Springs County Sheriff's department against the City Police in a war over the control of the country's first resort town.
Hot Springs is a one-hour Historical Crime Drama, based on true events. The isolated resort town famed for its healing mineral baths, wild gambling halls, and black middle class- made infamous by the outlaws and crime syndicates that ruled the city for more than seventy years.
The series will examine the gritty pursuit of power in the first progressive city in the South with an authenticity that shows the parallels of our current cultural climate. Season One will start in 1896 and center around Ex Union Officer, Frank “ Boss Gambler” Flynn, his brother in law, Arkansas's first black lawyer, JD Page, and their deadly feud with two of the towns rival business magnets, Bob Williams and Gracie Lane.
JD Page controls a third of the voting population in Hot Spring and he keeps Flynn in power. Flynn's unassuming title of City Alderman gives him alone the authority to grant gambling licenses in Hot Springs, making him the most powerful man in the city. Years of kickbacks and bribes have given him and JD a longstanding relationship with Garland County Sheriff, J.H. Nichols, and Mayor, T.F. Linde. Together, they prevent intervention by other law enforcement and punish Flynn's rivals.
Recently widowed, Gracie Lane blames Flynn for her late husband's death. She ignites a war by supplying the editor of the Hot Springs Hornet with damning information on Flynn and his business partners illegal activity. The article leads Flynn to commit murder and throws the city into chaos.
With Flynn and his men under close watch by the State Government, Bob–a former Confederate officer–has a chance to take the reins of the city. Bob and Gracie have a different view of the way the town should be growing. Bob wants Jim Crow laws firmly implemented and Black Broadway removed. J.D has a vision for the city that he trusts only in his own hands and will set it on fire before he relinquishes control. The question of who will control the town and the mountains of cash pouring in will drive Hot Springs into one of the greatest blood feuds in history, ultimately pitting the County Sheriffs against the local Police in a fight to the death.
In Spa City, the American Dream and all of its sins were on full display. Uninhibited Black Culture thrived, but the proud community that was built will be tested by the implications of coming Jim Crow Laws. Women owned booming businesses even while they lacked the right to vote. The city was larger than life. One could visit the springs and be reborn.
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CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT
The legendary thermal baths in Hot Springs, Arkansas, brought a colorful mix of characters to the small city. Many traveled from far and wide to be treated for their ailments, and as word of the rejuvenating water spread, Hot Springs became America's first resort destination. In town you would find a diverse mix of Ex-Union and Confederate soldiers, churchgoers and sin-seekers, criminals and lawmen, visitors seeking solace and those looking for trouble.
If you were somebody, you wanted to bathe at the luxurious bathhouses and be seen at any number of the lavish casinos or the beautiful Arlington Hotel. But beneath it's clean and glamorous face, there was another side to Hot Springs altogether. Violence was a constant around the card tables of the gambling halls and behind the locked doors of the brothels. Many had traveled across the country for some new experimental treatment, but more often than not the doctors did just as much harm as good.
Grand Victorian Bathhouses lined the east side of Central Ave, while gambling halls and saloons occupied the west. To the north, The Arlington Hotel sat opposite the lavish Opera house. Further south stood the Post office, National Bank, and a handful of churches.
"Houses of Pleasure” occupied the upstairs apartments above of the gambling halls. Madams would grow to be very powerful, they were left unhindered if they paid a fine to the city each month.
Gambling was the life-blood of the Spa. Although it was illegal, a blind eye was turned for a small fee. Frank Flynn controlled all gambling in Hot Springs.
The Arlington Hotel
Bathhouse Row
Grand Victorian Bathhouses lined the east side of Central Ave, while gambling halls and saloons occupied the west. To the north, The Arlington Hotel sat opposite the lavish Opera house. Further south stood the Post office, National Bank, and a handful of churches.
"Houses of Pleasure” occupied the upstairs apartments above of the gambling halls. Madams would grow to be very powerful, they were left unhindered if they paid a fine to the city each month.
Gambling was the life-blood of the Spa. Although it was illegal, a blind eye was turned for a small fee. Frank Flynn controlled all gambling in Hot Springs.
The Arlington Hotel
Bathhouse Row
If you were somebody, you wanted to bathe at the luxurious bathhouses and be seen at any number of the lavish casinos or the beautiful Arlington Hotel. But beneath it's clean and glamorous face, there was another side to Hot Springs altogether. Violence was a constant around the card tables of the gambling halls and behind the locked doors of the brothels. Many had traveled across the country for some new experimental treatment, but more often than not the doctors did just as much harm as good.
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Hot Springs was an exceptionally progressive city in the Deep South, following the Civil War. It’s booming tourist economy discouraged overt racial tension, and provided a wealth of service jobs that would give rise to the nations first African-American middle class.
Hundreds of former slaves flocked to the sleepy valley, many driven out of “Sundown Towns” – communities that posted signs at city limits stating that people of color had to leave by sundown or they would be hung. If they managed to escape this gauntlet of violence and terror and reach Hot Springs, they soon found themselves in a paradise of opportunity. In addition to work at the hotels, bathhouses, and other tourist attractions, there were opportunities for black doctors and policemen. There was even a renowned black lawyer in Spa City.
However, with the passing of Jim Crow laws, business would be threatened, and the Black Community would be in jeopardy of losing the quality of life they had worked so hard for. The leadership would be forced to choose sides over the coming bloodbath that would likely decide their fate.
"Black Broadway" was a section of Church Street. that housed the black-owned businesses and clubs. African American jazz musicians, singers, and entertainers from across the country came to Spa City for the chance to perform here.
"Black Broadway" was a section of Church Street. that housed the black-owned businesses and clubs. African American jazz musicians, singers, and entertainers from across the country came to Spa City for the chance to perform here.
Hot Springs was an exceptionally progressive city in the Deep South, following the Civil War. It’s booming tourist economy discouraged overt racial tension, and provided a wealth of service jobs that would give rise to the nations first African-American middle class.
Hundreds of former slaves flocked to the sleepy valley, many driven out of “Sundown Towns” – communities that posted signs at city limits stating that people of color had to leave by sundown or they would be hung. If they managed to escape this gauntlet of violence and terror and reach Hot Springs, they soon found themselves in a paradise of opportunity. In addition to work at the hotels, bathhouses, and other tourist attractions, there were opportunities for black doctors and policemen. There was even a renowned black lawyer in Spa City.
However, with the passing of Jim Crow laws, business would be threatened, and the Black Community would be in jeopardy of losing the quality of life they had worked so hard for. The leadership would be forced to choose sides over the coming bloodbath that would likely decide their fate.
No area in the country had more heated politics than Hot Springs. Every election was hotly contested and kickbacks from the quazi-legal industries such as whoring and gambling made the offices worth fighting for, and there was always a challenger looking to throw his hat into the ring.
Propaganda was a powerful tool in Spa City, and newspapers were a competitive business. Dozens came and went, supporting different interests. Offending the wrong person with a story sometimes meant dueling that person in the street with revolvers.
Propaganda was a powerful tool in Spa City, and newspapers were a competitive business. Dozens came and went, supporting different interests. Offending the wrong person with a story sometimes meant dueling that person in the street with revolvers.
No area in the country had more heated politics than Hot Springs. Every election was hotly contested and kickbacks from the quazi-legal industries such as whoring and gambling made the offices worth fighting for, and there was always a challenger looking to throw his hat into the ring.
Private businessman owned the luxurious Bathhouses, Hotels, and Saloons. Among them was a spirit of cooperation in renovating Hot Springs so as not to scare off the tourists that were their life blood. The debate over whether or not Hot Springs should legalize gambling and become an “Open Town” was a hot button issue, many people fearing that the already dangerous environment would get worse.
Private businessman owned the luxurious Bathhouses, Hotels, and Saloons. Among them was a spirit of cooperation in renovating Hot Springs so as not to scare off the tourists that were their life blood. The debate over whether or not Hot Springs should legalize gambling and become an “Open Town” was a hot button issue, many people fearing that the already dangerous environment would get worse.
CHARACTERS
CHARACTERS
Frank, an ex-Union Officer and a City Alderman, wielding sole control over who could obtain a gambling license in Hot Springs, which made him the most powerful man in town. Being slight of stature, even wiry, he was not physically intimidating, but his movement like his speech was quick and decisive. Calculating and quick with a gun, he would garner respect no matter where he went.
Frank's opinions on race were strengthened after he befriended his wife's half-brother, JD Page. Together, they gained control over most of the saloons and gambling halls in the Spa. Flynn famously did not work well with others and struggled to maintain personal relationships even but he understood what was as stake and use his power to oversee the growth of the spa and would forever shape the town.
Frank “Boss Gambler” Flynn
J.D. Page
Born into slavery, J.D. would become one of the first African American lawyers in the country and the face of "Black Broadway". Champion of equal rights. He would oversee the growth of the Black middle class in Spa City. When this man speaks, everyone listens. Every One.
His half sister Annie would marry Frank Flynn and JD would become the Flynn's Legal counsel. JD is a man of strong principles, guided by the values of God, family, and community, is torn between loyalty to his family and his duty to his community. In the tumultuous environment of Hot Springs, he tries to maintain his moral compass and do what he believes is right. But the lines between right and wrong become blurred as he is forced to navigate the complex web of power dynamics in the town of Hot Springs.
Bob Williams is a former Confederate Officer and calculating businessman who stops at nothing to regain the position of Garland County Sheriff in Hot Springs. He served eight consecutive terms as Sheriff before being beaten by J.H. Nichols. After his loss, Bob was forced out of Hot Springs politics and developed a resentment towards Flynn and the black community that supported Nichols. The same time Bob's wife developed consumption and would pass away soon after.
He found solace in the arms of a widow named Gracie Lane who shared his hatred for Flynn and JD. Bob and Gracie's plan was to get revenge on Flynn by having Bob re-elected as Sheriff and his brother Coffee appointed as Police Chief, effectively destroying Flynn and JD's control of the city. However, Flynn and JD proved to be a formidable opponent and matched Bob and Gracie's ruthless business tactics, resulting in an epic game of chess between them on opposite sides of Central Ave.
Robert "Bob" Williams
Tom Toler
Tom, an orphan who had a fondness for gambling halls and saloons, became a Police Deputy to earn a steady income. He struggled with gambling habits and was quick to hold a grudge. However, when he came across a woman being beaten, he intervened, earning the respect of the brothel's madam, Black Jane. They fell in love, and she shaped him into a fearless Police Chief. Tom's motives aligned with Jane's desire for equality, and he would become a wild card to the two leading factions. Only when Black Jane and her community are threatened, does Tom choose to do the bidding of Frank Flynn.
Gracie was the most powerful Madam in Hot Springs, calculating, ruthless, and intelligent. She ultimately dictated the city's future from the shadows. Gracie persuaded the love of her life, Jim Lane, to maneuver his way into the gambling business. When Jim's dealings with Frank Flynn went sour, Jim's body was discovered at the bottom of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. His death was ruled a suicide, but Gracie knew in her heart that Frank Flynn was responsible.
Realizing she would need a powerful ally to take on Flynn, she saw an opportunity when she met ex-Sheriff Bob Williams. The two came together over their hatred for Flynn and exacted a plan for retribution.
Gracie Lane
Freda "Freedom" Matthews
Tough and stubborn. Freedom grew up working the printing press at her father's newspaper. An outsider in Spa City, not because of her mixed race, but from her uncompromisable journalistic integrity. She would become the youngest newspaper editor in the state of Arkansas, after taking over The Hornet, following her father's death. As she gets closer to justice, the hotter the city burns with violence and chaos. The town's fate will be in freedom's hands when she is forced to decide between revenge and progression.
Jane "Black Jane" Jones
Madam of the only Black-owned brothel house in Hot Springs. Beautiful, confident and strong willed. She will guide Tom Toler to back Frank Flynn, in order to protect her community. Tom will grow to be the love of her life. A secret they must keep for Tom's political career, but when Bob Williams finds out he will use her to threaten Toler’s re-election for Police Chief. Her love for her man and calculating wit will ultimately determine the future of Hot Springs.
Major A.C. Doran
Major A.C. Doran
Former Union Army Major turned drifter and hired gun. Wanted for killing men in four states. Stood 6’ 3” and weighed 220, and was impeccably groomed and dressed. Rumored to have both male and female sexual partners. Guided by his own unique set of southern principles. He was paid $6,000 to open The Monarch and Palace casinos, and more if Frank Flynn wound up dead in the process. Feared by any intelligent man, Doran will be the unpredictable force that devastates the beautiful town of Hot Springs.
Coffee Williams
"The man in black" Impetuous brother to Sheriff Bob Williams. Drank too much and spent too much time hanging around the gambling clubs. Quick to violence with a notorious temper. Arrived in Hot Springs to help his brother, soon after the murder of Charles Matthews.
"The man in black" Impetuous brother to Sheriff Bob Williams. Drank too much and spent too much time hanging around the gambling clubs. Quick to violence with a notorious temper. Arrived in Hot Springs to help his brother, soon after the murder of Charles Matthews.
Sherriff J.H. Nichols
60s. Nichols is still strong, and he easily commands respect as one of the fastest guns in the county. A Union veteran and seasoned law enforcement officer, he’s been Sherriff of Garland County for four elected terms. He once made five arrests after taking away pistols from five quarreling men. He takes kickbacks from the various rackets around town, including a partnership of sorts with Flynn. He frequently turns his back on his morals for Frank 's endeavors. After surviving countless gunfights he would die at his desk at the hands of a woman.
Buck Allen
28,. Athletic and intelligent, he is proud to be an officer of the Law. He is Tom Toler's partner and closest friend. Buck's greatest hope in life, is to follow in his mentor's, J.D. Page's, footsteps.
Annie Flynn
40's. Beautiful and elegant, she is Frank's loving wife. From a prominent family, she is well respected within her church community, and she is the sole reason Frank had been looked at as a legitimate businessman in this old Southern town. She has a big heart and does a lot for the black men and women of the city.
Billy Flynn
40s. Second oldest of three Flynn brothers, he was temperamental and considered by most as Frank's back alley enforcer. Loyal to a fault. When Frank was facing life in prison he would surface to testify on Franks behalf, knowing he will go to jail for life, to ensure his brother's freedom.
Colonel D.C. Rugg
50's. A boisterous man, the Colonel always feels entitled to give an opinion. He loves attention and craves being the center of it. Former Union Officer, and large property holder in Garland County. Co-Owns the Arlington Hotel with Fordyce and Flynn.
Sam Fordyce
Late 60's. Sam is a former Captain in the Union Army, where he was wounded multiple times. He has gone on to become a railroad baron, financing over 24,000 miles of track connecting Hot Springs to the rest of the USA. Invested heavily in the city of Hot Springs, including the construction of the Arlington Hotel, Opera House, the trolley system, and many of the cities utilities.
James Madison
30's. Determined, with a chip on his shoulder. Nothing could stop James when he had his mindset. Regarded as first “black leading gambler” and co-owner of a black bar and gambling club, The Onyx.
Sarah Flynn
20's, A fiery temper and a sharp intellect drive this blonde beauty to be more than what the current culture will allow. She has the soft features of her mother and the same intensity as Frank. As the city grows into a frenzy so does her resentment for her father.
