AGENCY: Governor (2021- : Cox)

SERIES: 6645
TITLE: Joseph Hillstrom petitions
DATES: 1914-1916.
ARRANGEMENT: Alphabetical by state.

DESCRIPTION: As chief executive officer of the state, Governor Spry had the authority to commute the sentences of those convicted of crimes. The 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. Petitions were sent to Governor Spry's office protesting the planned execution and/or conviction of Hill for the gunshot murders of grocer J.S._Morrison and his son Arling.

Although the petitions defending Hill varied somewhat, the following views were typical:__he was innocent; he had an unfair trial; he had jurors who were selected unfairly; he received inadequate counsel; he lacked a motive for the crime; and he was convicted on circumstantial evidence.

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

PRIMARY DESIGNATION

Public

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