Without Sanctuary
Lynching Photography in America
The lynching of Will James.
Lynching scene. Commercial Avenue jammed with spectators below the electrically lit Hustler's Arch. November 11, 1909, Cairo, Illinois. Gelatin silver print. Real photo postcard. 5 1/2 x 3 1/2"
Etched in negative: “leBlock.” Addressed to “Mrs. Jake Petter, 2057 Broad St, Paducah Ky.”
This image was taken moments after the rope broke and Will James’ body fell onto the unpaved street. Under magnification a small group of suited men peer down as if into a well.
