Matthew Williams
Matthew Williams had worked for years for D.J. Elliott, a Salisbury businessman, and a biography says the Elliott family was close to him. In December 1931 he was held by police at Peninsula General Hospital in Salisbury, Maryland. A mob took him from the hospital to the courthouse lawn and hanged him from a tree. The Midland Journal, citing the State's Attorney, reported that his body was then burned, while accounts differ on how many people took part, and no one was charged in his death. Walter Black, whose family recalls these events, and local historian James Yamakawa have worked to keep his story in public view.
Cause of death, as reported: Taken from custody and lynched. A mob took Matthew Williams from his hospital cot, hanged him from a tree and burned his body, according to the Midland Journal and local newspapers of the time.
Reported by: Midland Journal (reporters); Maryland State Archives and local newspapers of the time (reporters).