This week in 1894

Just before the shots rang out:
“[I do not want to] die like an Indian.”

— Enoch Davis, convicted of murder, firing squad, Utah.
Executed September 14, 1894

No minister was present at the execution of Davis for the crime of murdering his wife. He refused any spiritual counsel, saying he did not believe in any religion. During his final moments, Davis asked the sharpshooters to come out from behind the tent that shielded them, as he preferred to face his executioners. The riflemen did not comply with his wishes.