Collection of documents related to the execution of highwayman James Eddy, for robbery. Dated 1827. Bodmin, Cornwall, England. A small archive, containing a letter concerning the arrival of the hangman, a receipt from William Lee (the hangman) for work done, expense summary for the execution, and an account for repairs to the gallows and coffin. James Eddy was indicted for assaulting Jane Cock and stealing from her. She testified that he knelt with both knees upon her breast and then suffocated her (these and other details from an old newspaper account.) As reported in the Globe, April 24, 1827, James Eddy was hung in 1827 for Highway Robbery. He was hung in front of a “vast concourse of people” and showed “uncommon fortitude” and even “shook hands with several persons he recognized amongst the crowd.” On the gallows he gave a lengthy speech concerning his guilt, concluding, “My earthly judge thought me guilty but he could not see my breast. But I forgive him and I hope in a few minutes to be in the presence of the Judge of all, who knows I am innocent – God Bless you all.” Each document has a caption tipped to it, identifying what the document is. Varying in size, the largest 8" x 6.5".

Varying in condition, mostly Good, refer to photos, as-is.