The Street Preacher on Pioneer Square

The case of Charles Frank Jones, the former newspaper man charged with insanity, was on trial yesterday before Judge Lichtenberg and a jury, whom the accused had demanded to hear the case. When the case was called, the courtroom was crowded with spectators. The accused man appeared rational, occasionally whispering to his attorney, Frank H. Knapp. Mrs. Jones, a witness for the state, testified that they were married six years ago. Up to a year ago, he had been prone to dissipation and drink. Since he found religion, his conduct became milder, though he insisted that God had called him to preach. Having no support from him, she was compelled to open a boarding house. Captain D. F. Willard and Lieutenant F. E. Sims testified to Jones' arrest after he had been parading about Pioneer Square with an open Bible held aloft in one hand, an American flag in the other, and a placard inscribed with the word 'Freedom' fastened across the front of his hat. Witnesses for the defense, including a prohibition orator, Rev. E. B. Sutton, argued that Jones was not insane, but rather a victim of religious persecution, likening him to historical figures such as John Wesley and Martin Luther. The trial was adjourned to be resumed the following afternoon.