US Marshals Museum Director Benjamin Johnson on History, Leadership & the Museum’s Future

The U.S. Marshals Museum opened on July 1, 2023, in Fort Smith. (Michael Woods)

What interested you in the story of the U.S. Marshals?

The Marshals Service story truly is the story of the United States, so what we provide is an opportunity to better understand American history through the lens of the nation’s first federal law enforcement agency. During the past 235-plus years, the role of the marshals has evolved alongside the nation, improving and changing to better reflect the ideals of the Constitution.

How do you plan to attract visitors to the museum?

In 2025 and beyond we are working closely with our travel and tourism partners across the region to show that the Marshals Museum is far more than what folks expect. Rather than a traditional museum focusing heavily on the Old West, we’re introducing folks to our state-of-the-art facility, which features an immersive and interactive exhibit experience. We tell an engaging and authentic story covering 235 years of history, all in one place.

Can you describe the most likely visitor to the museum?

Since opening we have hosted visitors from all 50 states, all U.S. territories and more than a dozen foreign countries. Though we definitely skew heavily toward history and museum aficionados, our most frequent reaction or compliment is a variation of ‘This was so much more than I expected!’ We love blowing people away.

You took over a project that seemed, at times, hopeless. What was the most important quality you brought to the job to make the museum a reality?

I get this question a lot. There were many people who made tremendous contributions during the previous 15 years, so we weren’t starting from scratch. But I’d say that pragmatism and commitment to authentic leadership are critical. Big dreams and visions of success are wonderful, but core principles can get lost along the way. Get back to basics: Why are we here? What does success really look like now? When you ground yourself in the core mission, it is easier to separate the wheat from the chaff.

What is the greatest challenge to making the museum a continuing success?

As with any small business, I think money, time and some good luck make all the difference. Our product is amazing; we just need to reach folks where they are and show them this amazing hidden gem here in Fort Smith. That’s where our emphasis this year on marketing and promotion will make all the difference.