Martha Place: First Woman Executed by Electric Chair

On March 20, 1899, Martha Place became the first woman to be executed by electric chair at Sing Sing Correctional Facility in New York. The execution followed her conviction for the murder of her teenage stepdaughter, Ida Place.

Background

Martha Place was born Martha “Mattie” Garretson in 1849 in Readington Township, New Jersey. In 1893, she married William Place, a widower with a daughter named Ida. The family resided in Brooklyn. Over time, tensions grew between Martha and her stepdaughter.

The Crime

The event leading to Martha’s arrest occurred on February 7, 1898. Neighbors and investigators were alerted to a disturbance at the Place home, resulting in the discovery of Ida Place’s body. She had been brutally attacked and suffered traumatic injuries. Martha was found by authorities in a compromised state, appearing to have attempted to harm herself.

Martha was accused of throwing sulfuric acid in Ida’s face and subsequently asphyxiating her. The motive was suggested to stem from jealousy and resentment towards her stepdaughter.

Trial and Conviction

Martha was brought to trial later in 1898, where she was defended by lawyer William F. Howe. Despite various defenses, including claims of insanity, the jury found her guilty of murder. Martha Place was sentenced to death.

Execution

Governor Theodore Roosevelt refused clemency or a stay of execution. On the day of execution, March 20, 1899, Martha Place was transported to Sing Sing where she was executed via the electric chair. Her execution marked a macabre milestone as she became the first woman to face the electric chair as a means of capital punishment.

Historical Significance

Martha Place’s execution highlighted ongoing debates around capital punishment and its application for women. Her case drew intense public attention, raising questions about mental health, legal representation, and the ethical considerations of executing women.