hanged for his crime
De Smet, S. D., Oct. 21. 1893- All preparations having been made, at 1:25 o'clock Sheriff Richardson adjusted the black cap and Nathaniel R. Thompson swung into eternity. He remained firm to the last, running lightly up the steps to the gallows and accepting spiritual consolation from the minister present. After twenty-one minutes the physician declared life extinct and the body was cut down. There was not a movement of a muscle after the drop fell. A large crowd of people was in town, but no manifestations of disorder were made. None but the privileged few allowed by law were admitted, until the drop fell. Thompson’s final words were: "Pray for me, I am ready; drop me quick." But fifteen minutes were taken for the trip from the jail and the execution. There was not a hitch in the entire proceedings. Sheriff Richardson was assisted by Sheriff Collins of Clark county. Great praise is heard for such an orderly and prompt execution.

Thompson killed Mrs. John Britton on the morning of July 4, 1892. Mrs. Thompson had secured a divorce and was staying with Mrs. Britton. Thompson wanted her to go home with him and tried to kill her when Mrs. Britton stepped between them and was stabbed to death.
- posted by pioneergirl at 1:55 AM