The First Execution by Electric Chair: August 6, 1890

On August 6, 1890, a pivotal moment in the history of capital punishment occurred at Auburn Prison in New York: the first execution by electric chair. This event marked a significant shift in the methods used for carrying out the death penalty, reflecting broader societal changes in attitudes towards technology and humane methods of execution.

Background

The development of the electric chair was part of a broader movement in the late 19th century to find more humane methods of execution than hanging, which was often seen as brutal and prone to error. The electric chair was invented by Harold P. Brown and Arthur Kennelly, under the supervision of Thomas Edison, who was engaged in the “War of Currents” with George Westinghouse. Edison promoted the use of alternating current (AC) for executions to demonstrate its dangers, as opposed to his own direct current (DC).

The Execution of William Kemmler

The first person to be executed by electric chair was William Kemmler, a convicted murderer. Kemmler had been found guilty of killing his common-law wife, Tillie Ziegler, with a hatchet. His case became the test for this new method of execution.

The Execution Process

• Preparation: On the morning of August 6, 1890, Kemmler was led to the electric chair. The execution was witnessed by journalists, doctors, and officials, all gathered to observe this new technology in action.
• Initial Attempt: The first jolt of electricity, lasting 17 seconds, was insufficient to cause death. Kemmler was still alive, prompting a second application of current.
• Final Outcome: The second jolt, lasting about two minutes, successfully ended Kemmler’s life. However, the process was gruesome and led to public outcry over the method’s supposed humanity.

Aftermath and Significance

The execution of William Kemmler by electric chair was controversial. Critics argued that the method was inhumane, citing the botched nature of the execution. Despite this, the electric chair became a widely adopted method of execution in the United States throughout the 20th century.

Broader Implications

• Technological Influence: The use of the electric chair highlighted the growing influence of technology in everyday life and its potential to transform societal practices, even in areas as grave as capital punishment.
• Ethical Debates: The execution sparked debates about the ethics of capital punishment and the quest for more humane methods, discussions that continue to this day.

In conclusion, the first execution by electric chair on August 6, 1890, was a landmark event that not only changed the landscape of capital punishment but also reflected the complex interplay between technology, ethics, and society.