The Religious Shoemaker who changed HANGING forever | Life, Death & Grave of William Marwood

 

William Marwood was a Lincolnshire shoemaker, a devoted Methodist preacher... and the man who revolutionised hanging in Victorian Britain. In this episode, we follow through his footsteps in Lincolnshire to uncover the remarkable true story behind one of Britain's most famous nineteenth-century public executioners. From his humble beginnings to the invention of the long-drop method, Marwood's life is filled with contradictions, controversy and unexpected twists. Along the way we'll explore the places he lived, worshipped and worked, discover the science behind the long drop, visit his grave, uncover the truth behind the rumours surrounding his death, and ask whether William Marwood should be remembered as a compassionate reformer... or a man who became just a little too comfortable with his own notoriety. Warning - Topic discusses execution and death by hanging - viewer discretion is advised.