Bio

Hyram Thompson was born in 1870. He grew up in a working-class family in England. His early life was likely shaped by the challenges of the time, including poverty and hard labor. As a young man, Hyram would eventually take on a job as a laborer in Preston.

Hyram married Ellen Thompson, and they had three children together. The family lived in Bamber Bridge, a small area in Lancashire. Their home life was troubled. Hyram was known for his violent temper. He often took out his anger on his wife and children. Ellen struggled with Hyram's abusive behavior. She even sought separation orders multiple times but was persuaded by him to stay.

Hyram's children learned early on to avoid their father's wrath, especially when he had been drinking. The family lived in fear of him. Despite his abusive nature, Hyram continued to work as a laborer, facing the everyday challenges that came with that job.

Murder Story

On April 25, 1922, Hyram Thompson committed a violent act against his wife, Ellen Thompson. After returning home from work in a bad mood, he became angry when Ellen could not prepare his tea because she was caring for a neighbor's child. Ellen struck Hyram in response to his abuse, which led to a severe confrontation.

Hyram overwhelmed her with force, knocking her to the floor. While she lay there, he brutally kicked her. Afterward, still filled with rage, he went to the bathroom, took his cutthroat razor, and returned to Ellen. He then slit her throat.

When their children returned home, they found their mother dead. The younger child she was caring for was crying in its cradle. Hyram attempted to hide by going to a nearby bed and breakfast, but he was quickly apprehended.

On the same day as the murder, Hyram was arrested. Eighteen days later, he faced trial for willful murder. His son testified against him, describing Hyram as a drunken bully who made the family live in fear. The trial was brief, taking less than an hour, and the jury quickly delivered a guilty verdict.

Hyram Thompson was sentenced to death by hanging. He was executed on May 30, 1922, at the age of 52.