September 24, 1830

A public hanging happened in Detroit.

More than one thousand spectators gathered to watch as Stephen G. Simmons was hanged for murdering his wife. Bleachers had been built and a military band played. In 1846, Michigan became the first state to abolish capital punishment.

Thank you Michigan History Magazine for this glimpse into our past.  See more at www.michiganhistorymagazine.com.