The Cozy Corner

After further investigation…..

The First Electrocution
    • The Conviction: Kemmler was a vegetable vendor convicted of murdering his common-law wife, Matilda Ziegler, with a hatchet.
    • The Promise: Promoted as a "humane" and scientific alternative to hanging, the electric chair was designed to end life instantly.
    • The First Shock: Officials delivered a 1,000-volt charge for 17 seconds, which rendered Kemmler unconscious but failed to stop his heart and breathing.
    • The Second Shock: Realizing he was still alive, doctors ordered the current turned back on while the generator recharged. The second round delivered over 2,000 volts for roughly two minutes, burning his flesh and filling the room with the smell of smoke and burnt hair.
Always good to learn something new!
 
Back
Top