The Death of Old Man Rice - by Martin L Friedland (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The Story of One of the Most Remarkable Trials in All History! Sensational trials--the Menendez brothers, the Rodney King case, the Preppie Murder--are not unique to the age of television. The year 1900 saw one of the most dramatic criminal trials in American history, described by one newspaper at the time as America's most remarkable murder case.
When William Marsh Rice, the founder of Rice University, was found dead in the New York City quarters he shared with his only servant, suspicion immediately fell on Albert Patrick, a young lawyer. Rice, whose fortune was pledged to Rice Institute (later Rice University), had, it seemed, been killed by chloroform poisoning and his will forged to give Patrick his vast estate. Patrick was immediately arrested and, in a spectacular trial, tried for first-degree murder, a crime then punishable by execution.
In this combination murder mystery and murder history, Martin Friedland recounts the events leading up to the trial and the case as it played itself out in court. Skillfully guiding the reader through the trial and its outcome, Friedland sheds new light on the events, casting doubt on what, at first glance, seems an ironclad case.
Provocatively illustrated with over 60 photographs that capture the circumstances of the trial and the mood of New York City at the turn of the century, The Death of Old Man Rice is not only a gripping tale of murder and intrigue, but a timely window onto many aspects of criminal justice in America. Touching on issues of great contemporary relevance-- such as the influence of the popular press; the purchase of expert witnesses; the problems of multiple appeals; the inadequacy of penal institutions; and the advantages of wealth--Friedland combines scholarship with suspense in his trademark who done it style.
A murder mystery, a historical study, and a fascinating window into the world of forensic science, The Death of Old Man Rice is that rare book that can engage any reader.

From the Back Cover

This book tells the tale of one of the most remarkable criminal trials in American history.

Review Quotes

"Friedland proves himself an indefatigable researcher, breathing life into a case laid to rest decades ago."-- "Publishers Weekly"

"I found the book fascinating!"--James A. Baker III, former U.S. Secretary of State

"Rarely rivaled by real life or fiction as a gripping narrative, the William Marsh Rice case is the subject of Martin L. Friedland's authoritative account. . . . A fascinating depository of information that invites readers to develop their own theories of what happened. . . . A gripping and completely trustworthy account of one of the great criminal stories of our century."-- "Houston Chronicle"