Last words from Last Words of the Executed by Robert K. Elder

I have something to say, but not at this time.

grover cleveland redding, convicted of murder, Illinois. Executed June 24, 1921

Redding had claimed that he was the prince of Abyssinia and was just trying to bring the people of his race back to their homeland. During a riot started by Redding and his followers, two were shot to death. Redding had built up a following with his antigovernment and religiously motivated teachings.

I give you my word. I intend to die like a man, looking my executioners right in the eye.

After the initial volley of bullets failed to kill him:
Oh my God! Oh my God! They have missed!

wallace wilkerson, convicted of murder, Utah. Executed May 16, 1879

Wilkerson, age forty-five, refused the traditional blindfold and restraints during his execution for killing a man over a disputed card game. A cigar remained in his hand during his final moments. Unfortunately for Wilkerson, the bullets missed his vital organs, and he struggled for breath for fifteen to twenty-seven minutes, depending on the account, before dying. A reporter from the Ogden Junction newspaper criticized the execution, writing: “The French guillotine never fails.”

In his cell: Yes, sir. I wish to make the following statements prior to my death...

van roosevelt solomon, convicted of murder, Georgia. Executed February 20, 1985

A former Baptist assistant pastor, Solomon sat in the electric chair for the murder of Roger Tackett. Outside the prison, fifty opponents and eight proponents of the death penalty stood in the rain. One held a sign reading “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”