ELIZABETH REED

4/23/25

In September 1844 in Crawford County, Elizabeth Reed was arrested and confined to jail for murdering her husband.  Soon after, a change of venue was filed because Betsey did not think she could get a fair trial in Crawford County; therefore, the trial was moved to Lawrence County.

The documentary record about the first woman hanged in Illinois will be presented by Clay County States Attorney Phil Givens tomorrow night at 6:00 pm, at the Flora High School Auditorium.  The auditorium is situated on the south side of the high school.  The most convenient parking and entrances are located on the south and west sides of the building.  There will be signage both outside and, on the doors, to guide you.  Doors will open at 5:30 pm.

Court records from Crawford and Lawrence County, biographies and accounts of judges, attorneys, and jurors, along with newspaper articles, will be used as sources for Givens' interpretation of Illinois legal history. 

Author, Rick Kelsheimer, will also tell the story about the main character in his book, The Hanging of Betsey Reed.  General Admission, $5.00; CCGS Members and Veterans free.