AGENCY: Governor (2021- : Cox)

SERIES: 6642
TITLE: Joseph Hillstrom case records
DATES: 1915-1916.
ARRANGEMENT: Alphabetical by document type.

DESCRIPTION: As chief executive officer of the state, Governor Spry had the authority to commute the sentences of those convicted of crimes. The murder conviction and execution of Joseph Hillstrom (Joe Hill) became one of the most controversial criminal cases in Utah history; it generated national and international interest.

These records were collected by the Governor's office during the time of the controversy. They include a copy of the funeral oration for Joe Hill presented by Judge O.N._Hilton; investigation and protection reports from private detectives who were trying to establish if there was a plot to harm Governor Spry, or to harm Salt Lake City; newspaper articles about the case; and essays on radicalism.

RETENTION

DISPOSITION

RETENTION AND DISPOSITION AUTHORIZATION

These records are in Archives' permanent custody.

FORMAT MANAGEMENT

Paper: Retain in State Records Center until microfilmed and then transfer to State Archives with authority to weed.

Microfilm master: Retain in State Archives permanently with authority to weed.

Microfilm duplicate: Retain in State Archives permanently with authority to weed.

APPRAISAL

Historical

This series provides excellent insights into one of the most notorious murder cases in the history of Utah.

PRIMARY DESIGNATION

Public

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