The Last Public Execution in America

by Perry T. Ryan

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I am indebted to many people for their time and efforts in assisting me in the preparation of this book. While there are too many people to name individually, I wish to thank the following individuals for their various contributions to this book:

The staff of the Owensboro Area Museum, in particular, former Director Don Boarman.

The staff of the Owensboro-Daviess County Public Library, especially Sheila Heflin and Jerry Long.

Jim Baumgarten as well as the publisher and staff of the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer, who graciously permitted me to use information and reproduce important photographs of the hanging, the individuals who were involved in the case, as well as other pertinent items.

James Wood, an attorney in Owensboro, who provided some photographs and other information.

William Wilson, an attorney in Owensboro, provided me with a great deal of information regarding his assistance of Rainey Bethea at his trial. Mr. Wilson was quite cooperative.

Karen C. Harris, for volunteering to proofread.

Daviess County Attorney Robert Kirtley, who graciously permitted me to reproduce several rare photographs taken by his uncle, L. D. "Birdie" Gasser, who in 1936 was a reporter and photographer for the Owensboro Messenger.

I express my appreciation to all of those individuals who submitted to interviews, loaned me photographs, and provided other insights and encouragement during the preparation of this book.