Oliver Watkins

Oliver Watkins was hanged by the State of Connecticut on August 2, 1831, in Brooklyn, Windham County, according to the Connecticut State Library and Connecticut History. An article cited by i95 ROCK says he maintained his innocence to the end. The same article describes his hanging as the state's last fully public execution, with thousands of people reportedly gathering to watch and staying afterward to celebrate.

Cause of death, as reported: Executed by the state. Per the account, he maintained his innocence to the end, as reported by Connecticut History, cited by i95 ROCK.

Reported by: Connecticut State Library; Connecticut History, as cited by i95 ROCK (reporters).

News reports (2)

• Capital Punishment: Executions in Connecticut Connecticut State Library, Executions in Connecticut 1639-2005
• Oliver Watkins Was Hanged In Windham County In 1831, Closing The Era Of Public Executions In Connecticut i95 ROCK, September 28, 2026