New Exhibition: Hangman - The Pierrepoints & Ruth Ellis

As part of the museum reopening, we are proud to present a compelling new exhibition: Hangman – The Pierrepoints and Ruth Ellis. This exhibition delves into the history of Britain’s most infamous executioners, the Pierrepoint family, and their connection to one of the most well-known capital punishment cases in British history.

For three generations, the Pierrepoints, Henry, Thomas, and Albert, served as Britain’s most prolific executioners, carrying out hundreds of hangings from the early 20th century until the abolition of capital punishment.

At the heart of this exhibition is the story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be executed in the UK in 1955. Convicted of the murder of her abusive lover, David Blakely, her execution by Albert Pierrepoint remains one of the most controversial in British legal history. Her case ignited national debate, contributing to the eventual abolition of capital punishment in the UK.

This exhibition offers an in-depth look at the Pierrepoint family’s role in shaping the country’s judicial past and invites visitors to reflect on the moral and ethical questions surrounding capital punishment.

Join us for this interesting exhibition and discover a pivotal chapter in British history and engage with the complex narratives of justice, morality, and humanity.

This exhibition will be running at the museum from February 2025 to November 2025.