In the small town of Lawrenceville, Illinois, the name Elizabeth “Betsey” Reed is synonymous with a dark and mysterious chapter in the state’s history. Known as the first and only woman to be hanged in Illinois, her story is a chilling blend of crime, superstition, and tragedy. Reed’s execution remains a significant moment in legal history, reflecting the societal attitudes and fears of the 19th century.
The Crime
In the mid-1800s, Elizabeth Reed, often called Betsey, was accused of murdering her husband, Leonard Reed, by poisoning him with aconite, a toxic plant. The evidence against her was largely circumstantial, but the superstitions of the time painted her as a witch. Betsey was a midwife and healer, roles often mistrusted and misunderstood by her community. This mistrust fueled the allegations of witchcraft and murder.
The Trial
Betsey Reed’s trial became a sensational spectacle. The prosecution’s case was built on testimonies and rumors that depicted her as a malevolent figure with unnatural powers. Her role as a healer was twisted into evidence of witchcraft. The defense faced an uphill battle, trying to counteract deeply ingrained superstitions and the community’s fear. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, Betsey was found guilty of murder.
The Execution
On May 23, 1845, Elizabeth “Betsey” Reed was hanged, becoming the first and only woman to be executed by hanging in Illinois. The gallows were erected on a hill overlooking Lawrenceville, and the execution drew a large crowd of spectators. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of fear, fascination, and solemnity as Betsey was led to the scaffold. Her death marked a grim moment in the town’s history.
The Burning of Lawrenceville High School
Decades after Betsey’s execution, a mysterious fire engulfed the old Lawrenceville High School, leaving the community in shock. Many locals whispered that it was the vengeful spirit of Betsey Reed, exacting revenge on the town that had condemned her. The high school had been built near the site of her execution, adding to the eerie legend. The unexplained origin of the fire and its timing fueled the belief in supernatural retribution.
Her Resting Place
Betsey Reed’s burial in the local cemetery adds another layer to her story. Her headstone is turned away from the others, facing the woods rather than the path. This unusual orientation symbolizes her status as an outcast in death, just as she was in life. It is said to have been done to prevent her spirit from finding peace. Visitors to the cemetery often report feeling an eerie presence near her grave, perpetuating the legend of the Hung Witch of Lawrenceville.
Legacy
The execution of Betsey Reed remains a poignant example of how fear and superstition can influence justice. Her trial and execution highlight the dangers of allowing irrational beliefs to dictate legal outcomes. The subsequent mysterious events, such as the high school fire and the chilling tales surrounding her grave, have only deepened the legend of the Hung Witch of Lawrenceville.
The story of Elizabeth “Betsey” Reed is a haunting chapter in Illinois history. Her tragic fate, combined with the eerie events that followed, serves as a reminder of the perils of superstition in the pursuit of justice. The legend of the Hung Witch of Lawrenceville continues to captivate and caution, ensuring that her story is not forgotten.