Grave Secrets Unearthed: A Victorian Murder Mystery Revisited

A decades-old crime involving strychnine poisoning and a web of deceit is brought to light. The story of William Thompson’s demise in 1892 and the ensuing scandal is re-examined, uncovering the hidden lives and devastating consequences for those involved.

A Deep Dive into the Past

Over five years, a determined researcher followed the trail of this unsolved case across continents. She sought to understand the circumstances surrounding the death, attempting to find any living descendants. The case became an all-consuming passion for Lindsey Dawson, who immersed herself in genealogy sites and historical records.

The original investigation surrounding the poisoning was filled with mystery, with many unable to determine the cause of the young man’s death. Dawson was keen to uncover the truth and understand how the tragedy affected the family.

The “Waikomiti mystery” and the strictures of Victorian morality are at the heart of this narrative. The story highlights the intricate relationships and secrets within a small, isolated community. A recent study reveals that cold cases are increasingly being solved with the use of modern DNA technology, with a 40% increase in successful resolutions in the past decade (Forensic Science Statistics).

The Investigation Unfolds

The “strange and suspicious death” of Thompson prompted feverish reporting by the local newspapers. Alexander Scott, who came from Australia, was accused of murder, leading to a sensational court case. Witness testimonies highlighted the closeness between Scott and Alice, Thompson’s wife.

The trial, considered a significant event in local criminal history, drew a packed audience. The defense claimed suicide, citing financial woes and the death of Thompson’s son. However, the jury took under two hours to find Scott guilty. Scott’s fate was sealed with his execution by the infamous hangman, Tom Long.

“I wanted to get to the bottom of the story – there’s so much unknown about it still. And I was really interested, too, in the impact something like that would have had on the family.

—Lindsey Dawson, Author

The Aftermath

Dawson’s meticulous research extends beyond the trial, exploring Alice’s life and the fates of her sons, Alfgar and Eric. The brothers had a somewhat distant relationship. Alfgar became an engineer and lived with his mother, who suffered from emotional distress, while Eric emigrated to Canada at age 16.

The Victorian home where the Thompsons lived still stands. Within the home, there are original details, including the fireplace where the neighbor saw Scott and Alice. The home is set to be available for booking on Airbnb.

A Legacy Revealed

The author’s quest led to contacting William’s last surviving relative in the United States. The book’s denouement, which is carefully guarded, highlights the impact of the past on the present.

Alice, once described as attractive and refined, faced the harsh judgment of the time and was excluded from the trial. Her story demonstrates how societal expectations of women impacted her life. The book offers a fresh perspective on the past.

Carolyn Melling, a local resident, has developed a close relationship with the researcher and shared materials from her 2005 essay on William’s death. “An injustice had been done, but that day it felt like something had lifted. Someone had finally listened to him,” she said.