Executed
Franklin Smith
Franklin Smith was hanged on August 30, 1867, after legal appeals delayed the execution date first set. He wrote in German and spoke of gratitude for the kindness shown to him by the jailer, Mr. Biddle, and by his counsel. On the day, the procession from the jail was held up when the vehicle carrying him was involved in an accident. A clergyman prayed with him at the foot of the gallows, and before a large crowd he addressed the people from the scaffold, asking forgiveness from God and urging those watching to repent.
Cause of death, as reported: Executed by the state
Reported by: news reports.