Rose Butler facts for kids
Rose Butler (born November 1799 – died 1819) was a young woman who was forced to work as a house servant in New York City. In July 1819, she was put to death after being found guilty of setting a fire. At that time, in New York State, only two very serious crimes could lead to such a punishment: setting a major fire or murder. Rose Butler was the last person in New York State to be put to death for setting a fire.
Her story is important because it helps us understand what life was like for enslaved people in New York City, a topic that isn't often talked about. It also shows the worries people had and how ideas about race and social standing were changing back then.
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Rose Butler's Early Life
Rose Butler was born in November 1799, in a place called Mount Pleasant, New York. People described her as smart and said she had received some education. She lived with a man named Colonel Straing in Mount Pleasant. Later, she was sold to different families and moved to New York City to live with Abraham Child. In 1817, she moved to live with William L. Morris.
The Fire Incident and Its Outcome
In 1819, Rose Butler was arrested because she was accused of trying to burn down the home where she worked, while the family was inside. The damage from the fire was small. However, she was found guilty and sentenced to a very serious punishment. The New York Supreme Court, after looking at her case again, decided that what she did was a serious crime.
After being held in Bridewell Prison, she was put to death near where Washington Square Park is today. This spot was about 500 feet (about 152 meters) from a famous tree called the Hangman's Elm. About 10,000 people came to watch.
About Her Story in Media
- Rose Dies Friday (2019) is a short film (8 minutes, 21 seconds long) made by Annette Daniels Taylor. The creator calls it a "cinematic poem," which means it's like a poem told through film.
Historical Records About Rose Butler
The New-York Historical Society has several old documents about Rose Butler. These include a statement she made, other statements, and a sworn written declaration. There are 7 items in total. One of these is a statement from Eliza Duell, a white woman who was in the same room as Rose Butler when she was arrested.
