The Shadow of the Gallows: The History of Capital Punishment in America

Saturday, April 25, 2026
12:00 – 1:00 pm
New Castle Court House Museum
New Castle County
Program: The Shadow of the Gallows: The History of Capital Punishment in America

The historical, legal, and ethical evolution of capital punishment in the United States is complex. This program examines public executions—particularly in Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic—from the era when the sheriff was the county executioner to the modern era, highlighting key reforms as the nation debated the abolition of the death penalty and sought more humane methods of execution. Throughout, it analyzes the shifting historical, cultural, legal, and ethical factors that influenced the nation’s approach to capital punishment.

Join Speaker Mike Dixon for this talk.

This event is sponsored by Delaware Humanities. If you have any questions please contact the hosting location.

New Castle Court House Museum
211 Delaware Street
New Castle DE 19720
302-323-4453