Harper, Lexington Weekly Leader, December 29, 1892

Bowling Green, Ky., Dec. 28– Bob Harper has paid the penalty for the assault upon Miss Anderson, and the people feel that the terrible crime has been avenged.

When court opened this morning the witnesses for the Commonwealth were examined and Hon. J.C. Sims had just announced that the Commonwealth would rest. Judge Delaney had retired to the witness room to consult his witness, when a mob entered the court room armed with guns.

It was just 11:40 o’clock a.m. The prisoner ran to The Leader correspondent who was standing near at hand and dropped at his feet pleading for protection. The mob leaders grabbed the poor wretch and dragged him from the court room. 

It was announced that the hanging would take place at the fair grounds, which is just one mile from the court house. The march continued up State street and out Twelfth to the grounds.

Just inside the gate there is a large beech tree, and under this was placed a wagon. Harper’s feet and hands were securely tied, and the noose placed around his neck. He was then lifted to the wagon seat and allowed to make a statement. 

He stoutly protested his innocence, and died game. His coolness was remarkable. The wagon was pulled from under him at 11:58 o’clock and he was pronounced to be dead fifty minutes later.

A placard was then placed upon the body which read: “This body must hang till tomorrow at noon, December 29. By order of the Committee.” 

Not a shot was fired, and the crowd dispersed quietly. There was no boisterous conduct, the mob being composed of sober and orderly men.

Along the streets leading to the fair grounds the ladies rushed to the windows and much excitement was created in the homes.

Just before the hanging, while preparations were being made, Harper dictated this statement to several newspaper men, which was written out by the Louisville Post correspondent and to which he added his signature.

“I have done all I can do in this world to prove my innocence. I am innocent, and I will die with that on my lips I believe I am saved. Have never done anybody any harm. Ask my folks to bury me in the cemetery.”

ROBERT HARPER

From the courthouse to the scene of the hanging your correspondent tried to pursuance him to confess if guilty, but he stoutly protested his innocence.

A committee of citizens went to the Anderson residence this morning and was told by Miss Anderson’s father and family that they believed Harper guilty. This determined the angry crowd to take the law into their own hands.