Sunday, November 30, 2014

November 30, 1885: Henry Mason

We learn of a lynching that occurred on this date through the pages of the Staunton Spectator (Staunton, Virginia) dated December 2, 1885:

A NEGRO MURDERER LYNCHED.

About 2 o'clock last Monday morning a party of disguised men broke open the jail of Campbell Court-house and took out and hanged the negro Henry Mason, who murdered J. R. Hammersley, a young farmer of that county. He had previously confessed his guilt. At the inquest, Callahan, the jailer, stated that he recognized two of the lynchers, whose names he gave the Commonwealth's Attorney.

At least two other newspapers reported that the members of the mob were "painted all colors." It was also reported that he was hanged and then shot.  Thank you for joining me and as always, I hope I leave you with something to ponder. 

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