Frank T. Johns Landmark
Frank T. Johns Landmark
A double tragedy occurred in the Deschutes River beside Drake Park on May 21, 1928.
Frank T. Johns, a candidate for United States President, was on the campaign trail in Bend delivering
a speech when he heard cries for help. Jack Rhodes, a local ten-year-old had lost his balance while
baiting a fishing hook and fallen into the swift current. Johns removed his jacket and dived into the
water and swam against the current to reach the boy, who had already slipped underwater.
Johns was able to pull the boy to the surface, but couldn't get out of the current.
Witnesses say both surface four or five times before disappearing completely.
Submitted by @kmswann