Victorian Justice:
The Murder of
Thomasina Scott
Episode Summary
Trigger warning – This episode touches on the topic of child rape and murder, so listener discretion is advised.
In this episode, host Dawn takes listeners back to 1868 in Dumfriesshire, recounting the tragic case of nine-year-old Thomasina Scott’s murder. The narrative begins with the chilling events leading to Thomasina’s disappearance, intertwined with the attempted murder of Jane Crichton by the same assailant, Robert Smith. Dawn details the investigation that ensued, highlighting the swift capture of Robert Smith and the evidence that led to his arrest, including blood-stained clothing and a noosed bootlace.
Listeners are taken through the courtroom drama as Robert Smith faces trial, where he pleads guilty to multiple charges, including rape and murder. Dawn provides a vivid account of the societal and legal context of the time, shedding light on the public’s reaction to Robert Smith’s crimes and his eventual execution, which marked the last public hanging in Scotland.
The episode also explores historical nuances, such as geographical discrepancies in records and the societal norms of the 19th century, offering a rich tapestry of historical insights. Through a blend of storytelling and historical analysis, Dawn paints a poignant picture of a dark chapter in Scotland’s history, inviting listeners to reflect on the relentless pursuit of justice for victims like Thomasina.
Murder In Dumfriesshire. | Leicester Mail | Saturday 08 February 1868 | British Newspaper Archive
The Murder Near Annan. | Greenock Advertiser | Thursday 23 April 1868 | British Newspaper Archive
Murder and Outrage. | Maidstone Telegraph | Saturday 25 April 1868 | British Newspaper Archive
Glasgow Evening Citizen | Tuesday 12 May 1868 | British Newspaper Archive
Dumfries: The site of Scotland’s last public hanging – BBC News
Mary Timney: the last woman publicly hanged in Scotland – BBC News
Shires of Scotland – Wikipedia
Royal Mail Line. | Greenock Advertiser | Thursday 23 April 1868 | British Newspaper Archive
Leaves from the Journal of Our Life in the Highlands
Leaves from the Journal of Our Life in the Highlands, from 1848 to 1861
John Brown (servant) – Wikipedia
Scottish Murders is a production of Cluarantonn
Hosted by Dawn
Researched and Written by Dawn Young
Edited and Produced by Erin Ferguson – instagram.com/erinfergus0n/
Production Company Name by Granny Robertson
Intro and Outro Music:
ES_Battle of Aonach Mor – Deskant epidemicsound
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