Contributed by Maine Historic Preservation Commission
Description
Infamous "Smutty Nose Island murderer" Louis Wagner escaped prison after his trial, only to be recaptured in New Hampshire. The sensational murder and escape attempt were of great interest throughout New England. Emerging photographic technology made it possible to preserve the moment and profit from the case’s popularity. Produced and sold as cartes de visite and stereographs, the images offered ways for the public to engage with true crime.
In 1872, Louis Wagner (1844–1875) killed Anethe and Karen Christensen during a failed home invasion on Smuttynose Island in the Isles of Schoals. Convicted, Wagner was hanged at Maine State Prison on June 25, 1875 in a dual execution with John Gordon.
About This Item
- Title: Louis Wagner returning to prision after escape, 1873
- Creation Date: 1873
- Subject Date: 1873
-
Locations:
- York County, ME
- Rockingham County, NH
- Media: Stereograph
- Local Code: MHPC.S.10424
- Object Type: Image
Cross Reference Searches
Standardized Subject Headings
- Crime--Maine--York County
- Crime--New Hampshire--Rockingham County
- Murder--Maine--York County
- Murder--New Hampshire--Rockingham County
People
Other Keywords
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historic Preservation Commission55 Capitol Street, 65 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0065
(207) 287-2132
Website
Use of this Item is not restricted by copyright and/or related rights, but the holding organization is contractually obligated to limit use. For more information, please contact the contributing organization. However, watermarked Maine Memory Network images may be used for educational purposes.
Please post your comment below to share with others. If you'd like to privately share a comment or correction with MMN staff, please send us a message with this link.
