Here is an article proving their conmection to Ripley County, IN.
The Forest Rose newspaper, Versailes, Ripley County, IN
Friday 9 September 1853; Page 3, Column 1
Sentenced:
The trial of Moses and Robert Kelly, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, KY, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty." They will be hanged on the 28th day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
(This edition was on microfilm from the IN Histprical Society - it was the only edition of this newspaper available.)
----------
Published in The New York Times newspaper; 20 January 1853
The Flat-boat Murder
Our readers will recollect that only a short time since a horrible murder was committed on board a flat-boat, about one-hundred miles below Cleveland, near Troy. In the Madison 'Daily Banner', of Tuesday, the 24th inst., we find the following confession of one of the murderers:
"Having learned that Robert Kelly, who is imprisoned in our County jail, on charge of murder, had confessed to the part he took in the awful tragedy, which hurried three human beings into eternity, we made arrangements to obtain a true statement of the confession. In a conversation with two gentlemen, in the jail, young Kelly stated that he was raised in the vicinity of Versailles, in this State, where his parents now reside. He went to Cincinnati, a short time ago, to use his own language, "to make a raise." Soon after he reached Cincinnati, he and his brother Moses shipped on a flat-boat, belonging to Messrs. Gardner and Miller. The boat was laden with potatoes, apples, &c,, and was designed for Southern coasting trade. Three other men shipped on the boat as hands. Thus manned, the boat, with Gardner & Miller on board,
started down the river. When some eighteen miles above Troy, Indiana, the boat was landed in consequence of high winds, and two of the hands went ashore for the purpose of taking a hunt, The evening being calm, the boat was turned into the stream, leaving the two men ashore. Shortly after the boat left the shore, the prisoner states that Moses Kelly, his brother, told him of his intention to murder the proprietors of the boat for their money. This, he states, was the first intimation he had received from his brother of his murderous intentions. His brother had no enmity whatever against either of the deceased, and committed the bloody deed soley for the purpose of obtaining their money.
About 2 o'clock the next morning he was called from his bed by his brother and told that the time had come when the other men upon the boat must die. They were Gardner, Miller and a hand by the name of Frank _____, the prison having forgotten his surname. He went up to the roof of the boat for the purpose, he says, of keeping a look-out, and his brother went below and murdered the three men. He says he heard blows and groans, but refuses to state any of the particulars of the horrible tragedy. On being asked if he saw the men after they dead, he replied that he did, but refused to say anything more upon that point. The bodies of the murdered men were thrown into the river, through the scuttle of the boat, and their spilled blood was wiped from the floor by the two brothers. Upwards of one thousand dollars in money was taken from the murdered men; but the prison refused to state whether or not he shared it with his brother.
The two Kellys left the boat the next morning and went to Evansville, Ind. At that place Moses Kelly took passage on the 'John Simpson' for St. Louis, and the prison returned to the residence of his father. The brother of Gardner, one of the murdered men, on examining the boat, discovered the envelope of a letter addressed to Moses Kelly. This caused suspicion to rest upon him as one of the murderers. Learning that Kelly lived near Versailles, Mr. Gardner made arrangements to find where he was. The wife of Kelly received a letter from him, post marked St. Louis, and Gradner proceeded to procure his arrest. But the former, being aware that the police were on the look-out for him, eluded their search and returned to his home. He remained there about three hours, and then left for parts unknown.
Up to that time suspicion had not rested upon the prison - although he was at his father's house at the time Gardner was at Versailles, endeavoring to lay plans to arrest his brother, no one thought him guilty of murder. But Gardner, subsequently learning that he was absent from his home at the time the murders were committed, induced two gentlemen, who resided at North Bend, Ohio, at which place Gardner & Miller's flatboat stopped to take on some freight, to visit Versailles. On seeing the prisoner, they recognized him as one of the hands on the boat. He was immediately arrested, examined before a justice of the peace, and committed to jail, to await his trial.
Robert Kelly, the prison, is a youth about seventeen years of age. He is spare built, has blue eyes and light hair. His countenance is not good, yet he has none of the villain in his look.
In addition to this the Lawrenceburg 'Register' says that Robert Kelly, when told that in all probability his life must pay the forfeit, stated that he was not concerned with the murder, but only kept watch while his brother committed the deed. He also states that he thinks his brother murdered the two hands that he set ashore some eighteen miles above where the murder was committed, and who have not been heard from since. He states that when Mose returned to the boat he brought some milk and meal along with him, and said he was sick; but after wards told him (Robt Kelly) that that night the deed must be done. He states also, that in the evening they went to bed - he and his brother occupying one bed, and Miller and Gardner the other - leaving the pilot on watch. He says that he and his brother remained awake awaiting the change of watch, which takes place at 12 o'clock, and that when the pilot came down to change watch, they feigned sleep, and after the pilot had called two or three times, Mose got up and went on deck, and he (Robert) waited until the pilot went to sleep. He then got up, went carefully out on deck, and told Mose, who immediately went below and commenced his work of death. Robert states that he heard the blows distinctly, and that that, together with the groans of the dying men, made him sick. After the murder was committed, he went below and assisted his brother in fastening weights to the bodies and throwing them overboard. He states that it was their intention to proceed on down the river with the boat, but finding it impossible to clean the boat of the blood which was scattered around on the boards, &c, they then took the clothes of the murdered men, put them on, and threw their, which were somewhat bloody, overboard. They then took the skiff, and proceeded to Evansville, from which place he (Robert) returned home, and his brother going he knows not where.
Robert is unwilling to be taken to the same place for trial with his brother, as he thinks he will kill him also if he gets the chance, for the confessions he has made in regard to the matter. The trial, we suppose, will be held at the County Seat of Hancock County, Ky., as the murder was committed only some forty or fifty yards from the Kentucky shore."
Robert Kelly passed down the river yesterday on the steamer 'Hindoo', in charge of an officer, in route for Hawesville, Ky., where he is to be tired, together with his brother, Moses Kelly.
----------
Ephraim Kelley's Children - Thieves and Murders
Documentation from Pittsburg State Univ. on this family. It reported that "Wayland's uncles on his mother's side were sneaking cowards. There were three of them...Moses, Robert and Fountain Kelley. All three were thieves and murderers. Fountain Kelley before he was 21 killed a neighbor boy and was sent to the penitentiary. Moses and Robert were hanged at Hawesville, KY Oct 28, 1853 for the wholesale murder of the crew of a flat-boat known as "Eliza" on the Ohio River on the night of Oct. 22, 1852...Andrew Allen Veatch, 'Criminal Records of the Wayland,' 'The Remonstrator' 1.6 (July 1, 1913(: 3. The 'Confession of Moses Kelley' was published in book form by D.L. Adair (i.e. Adams)" Moses was 28 and Robert was 18 when hung, and admitted murders. Micha was reported to have set a house on fire in Ripley County...may have been accidental or deliberate.
---------
Donald and Joyce Kelly have done phenomonal work on this linage, I have come to the table very late in comparison. The following is from their Rootsweb family tree.
DEATH:
Newspaper Accounts from Hawesville, KY:
Hancock Co., KY - Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853; Oct. 25, 1979; Page 13.
Great Concourse of People - Execution of Moses Kelly and Robert Kelly; Hawesville Oct. 28, 1853.
As was expected our town was flooded with strangers and persons from a distance on yesterday; and this morning the streets were thronged at an early hour with men, women and children, all drawn here to witness the execution of the Kelleys.
A few minutes before twelve the prisoners were taken from their wretched cell and carried to the place of execution being proceeded and followed by an immense mass of people numbering several thousand. Arriving at the gallows at four minutes past twelve they alighted from the wagon and walked up the ladder with a deliberate step and seated themselves,w ith the ministers in attendance, upon the scaffold. A few minutes afterward the Rev. J.A. Henderson arose and read a portion of the 14 chapter of the book of John; and then read and sung a song begining with these words "As on the cross the Savior hung", the prisoners joining in the singing. Prayer was then offered by Mr. H. after which he read a text selected by Moses Kelley, from the chapter above mentioned, which reads, "Let not your heart be troubled, &c., John, 1r, chapter 31st 3d verse and made some impressive and solemn remarks upon the same.
The Rev. Mr. sproule then arose, and read from the 25th capter of Matthew the parable of the foolish virgins, and some several other passages of scripture, making very solemn and appropriate remarks at the close.
Moses Kelley then arose and said, "Dear friends, I suppose that you have all come here to witness the awful spectacle which will soon be presented, but do you know know, that you too are also sentenced to die, and some of you may die as soon as I." He said a few more words, and then read from a manuscript such remarks as he thought proper to offer on the occasion, stopping two or three times to make some explanations. He then made some remarks about the opinion of some persons in relation to the position he occupied towards his god, and declared that he was assured that he had obtained, notwithstanding opinions to the contrary, a full and complete pardon of his sins. He then read from the manuscript numerous passages of scripture which he said were sufficient to prove the fallacy of any argument which would debar him from receiving a perfect salvation.
He then charged all to be warned by his awful example.
His last words were solemn, and were spoken in a manner which evidenced that he had every assurance of a safe transport to Heaven. He charged his unfortunate and forlorn condition to his early associates; to-wit: - drinking, gambling, $c., and admonished all persons from indulging in the vices of the world.
The services on the scaffold were then closed by singing and prayer by the Rev. Mr. Taylor, and Moses Kelley. The prayer of Kelley was sensible, solemn, and clearly delivered; in fact he displayed a calm deliberate resignation throughout the whole scene.
Moses then arose and "said he was ready," whereupon he and Robert both stepped up under the beam seemingly composed as any on the ground. The ropes were arranged, the word given, and in an instant, they were suspended between the Heaven and earth. Not a muscle was discovered to move in Robert, and Moses struggled but little. This indeed was a scene unlike any ever before witnessed in this county, and one that will long be remembered by all who witnessed it. Oh how awful to contemplate! The bodies were cut down at half past two.
Executions in the United States, 1608-1987: The Espy File (ICPSR 8451) Vol. 1 Alabama - Kentucky; Prnicipal Investigators M. Watt Espy, Headland, Alabama and John Ortiz Symkla, University of Alabama. First ICPSR Edition Fall 1987; page 415.
"The Forest Rose" Volume 1, Versailles, Ripley, Friday, Sept 09, 1853 Number 27: The trial of Robert and Moses Kelley, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, Ky, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty". They will be hanged on the 28th. day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
NEWSPAPER RECORDS:
Louisville Weekly Courier, Vol. 9, no. 40 (i.e., 45) (Nov. 6, 1852); p. 1, col.1 Crew of Eliza, No. 2 murdered on the Ohio River.
Louisville Weekly Courier, Nov. 5, 1853, p. 2, col. 5.
Moses and Robert Kelley hanged at Hawesville, Kentucky, for the murder of the crew of the Eliza, No. 2.
From Our Special Reported. Execution of the Brothers Kelly at Hawesville, Ky., Oct. 28, 1853.
Hancock Clarion, October 25, 1979; page 13
Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853.
BOOK:
Cotton's Keepsake
Poems on Various Subjects
By Rev. Judge A.J. Cotton, Philom.
To Which is Appended
A Short Autobiographical Sketch
of the Life of the Author,
And a condensed history of the early settlements, incidents, and improvements of the country, from the early settlers themselves, and from observation and experience in it, for the space of forty years last past.
Cincinnati:
Published for the Author,
By Applegate & Co.,
1858
Criminal
Pages 57-58
Execution of the Kelleys, at Hawsburgh, Ky.
Some time ago, no matter when, two brothers by the name of Kelly, citizens of Ripley county, murdered three men for their money, on board a flatboat, descending the Ohio river. In the language of an eminent jurist: "It was a cool, calculating, money-making murder, the weighing out of so many ounces of blood against so many dollars in money." Their trial and confession, was at the time published to the world, in pamphlet form, under the caption of, "The Murder of Gardner and others, etc., to which the reader is respectfully referred for a full and perfect history of this bloody scene. It was, indeed, a most bloody and horrible scene. Three excellent and unsuspecting men, reposing in quiet and peaceful slumbers, to be butchered with axes and clubs, and all for their effects, by men in their confidence and employ, is most horrible and appalling! What a picture of human depravity!!! My Muse thus paraphrases upon the sickening, heart-rending, and fearful tragedy.
The sordid "love of money," the root of all evil,
Has led thousands down to ruin, and down, down to the devil.
Men will lie, and cheat, and steal, or murder their best friend,
To get money to hoard up, or money just to spend.
Get money - at every hazard - get it at any price,
To have money in great plenty, seems so exceeding nice.
So thought two sturdy brothers, by the name of Kelley;
Who murdered their employers, and beat them all to jelly;
Tied weights unto their necks - sank them in the river,
And felt themselves quite safe, now and for ever.
The secret was their own, no one else could know it,
Not a single bloodstain left, to reveal and to show it.
Not so fast vain wretched, men, mind what you are about,
'Tis an old and trude adage that "murder will out."
The very means resorted to, to ward of just suspicion,
Are messengers divinely sent upon the holy mission
Of waking up inquiry, of putting on the track
The officers of justice, who pounce upon your back
When you least expect it, and lock you up in jail,
'Till you shall stand your trial, of which you can not fail.
'Twas so with these two brothers, both caught in their own trap,
They found themselves arrested, and in "an awful snap."
Were thence upon the charge found guilty of the deed,
That both should now be hung the jurymen agreed.
The fatal day arrives, they mount the scaffold high,
With trembling in their limbs, and in their hearts a sigh.
Confess the horrid deed - warn others of their fate,
To shun the paths of sin, for pleasure, gain, or hate.
Why should I longer dwell? enough has now been said, -
They both were hung together, 'till they were dead! dead! dead!!!
A life of sin and shame thus found a fearful end,
Be virtous little boys, I pray you as a friend.
FOR SPECULATION:
Johnson Township
Cemetery Records
Ripley County, Indiana
1984
Ripley County Historial Society
Versailles, Indiana 47042
Page 79
"On the present (1930's) Nora Cauley farm but formerly the Hadley Neill farm and originally the old Jim White farm are two graves with plain limestone markers at foot and head. There are no inscriptions but quite large cedar trees at foot and head. One cedar has grown over the limestone marker. One rumor said that the people who rest here were killed in a neighborhood scrap. Another rumor said that the inmates of the two graves were members of the Kelly family, but no one seems to know for sure whom they are. Recently someone scratched this name 'E.W. Kelly' on one of the stones."
Could this be the site of Moses' and Robert's graves? (This land was owned by Ephriam Kelley, who sold the land to James White on 26 Dec 1853.)
We found the old Nora Cauley farm on our trip to Ripley County, Indiana during August 2000 (see pictures). The man who owns the land now has invited us back anytime to look for the stones.
----------
The Daily Courier newspaper, Madison, IN
Saturday Evening 30 October 1852; Page 3, Column 1
"By Telegraph"
Mysterious and shocking Murder
Louisville, Oct. 28
A letter from Troy, IN, gives the particulars of a shocking murder which had been perpetrated on the trading boat Eliza No. 2, near Thompson's Ferry. The boat it is supposed, belongs to Miller & Gardiner, of Cincinnati.
The boat was found without any person aboard and the bedclothes covered with blood. This aroused the suspicion of the citizens, who commenced dragging the river, and at the time the letter was written, three bodies had been found with their heads split open, and iron weights tied to them. Several trunks were found in the boat which had been broken open and rifled of their contents.
All beyond the above is still wrapped in the most profound mystery.
The Forest Rose newspaper, Versailes, Ripley County, IN
Friday 9 September 1853; Page 3, Column 1
Sentenced:
The trial of Moses and Robert Kelly, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, KY, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty." They will be hanged on the 28th day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
(This edition was on microfilm from the IN Histprical Society - it was the only edition of this newspaper available.)
----------
Published in The New York Times newspaper; 20 January 1853
The Flat-boat Murder
Our readers will recollect that only a short time since a horrible murder was committed on board a flat-boat, about one-hundred miles below Cleveland, near Troy. In the Madison 'Daily Banner', of Tuesday, the 24th inst., we find the following confession of one of the murderers:
"Having learned that Robert Kelly, who is imprisoned in our County jail, on charge of murder, had confessed to the part he took in the awful tragedy, which hurried three human beings into eternity, we made arrangements to obtain a true statement of the confession. In a conversation with two gentlemen, in the jail, young Kelly stated that he was raised in the vicinity of Versailles, in this State, where his parents now reside. He went to Cincinnati, a short time ago, to use his own language, "to make a raise." Soon after he reached Cincinnati, he and his brother Moses shipped on a flat-boat, belonging to Messrs. Gardner and Miller. The boat was laden with potatoes, apples, &c,, and was designed for Southern coasting trade. Three other men shipped on the boat as hands. Thus manned, the boat, with Gardner & Miller on board,
started down the river. When some eighteen miles above Troy, Indiana, the boat was landed in consequence of high winds, and two of the hands went ashore for the purpose of taking a hunt, The evening being calm, the boat was turned into the stream, leaving the two men ashore. Shortly after the boat left the shore, the prisoner states that Moses Kelly, his brother, told him of his intention to murder the proprietors of the boat for their money. This, he states, was the first intimation he had received from his brother of his murderous intentions. His brother had no enmity whatever against either of the deceased, and committed the bloody deed soley for the purpose of obtaining their money.
About 2 o'clock the next morning he was called from his bed by his brother and told that the time had come when the other men upon the boat must die. They were Gardner, Miller and a hand by the name of Frank _____, the prison having forgotten his surname. He went up to the roof of the boat for the purpose, he says, of keeping a look-out, and his brother went below and murdered the three men. He says he heard blows and groans, but refuses to state any of the particulars of the horrible tragedy. On being asked if he saw the men after they dead, he replied that he did, but refused to say anything more upon that point. The bodies of the murdered men were thrown into the river, through the scuttle of the boat, and their spilled blood was wiped from the floor by the two brothers. Upwards of one thousand dollars in money was taken from the murdered men; but the prison refused to state whether or not he shared it with his brother.
The two Kellys left the boat the next morning and went to Evansville, Ind. At that place Moses Kelly took passage on the 'John Simpson' for St. Louis, and the prison returned to the residence of his father. The brother of Gardner, one of the murdered men, on examining the boat, discovered the envelope of a letter addressed to Moses Kelly. This caused suspicion to rest upon him as one of the murderers. Learning that Kelly lived near Versailles, Mr. Gardner made arrangements to find where he was. The wife of Kelly received a letter from him, post marked St. Louis, and Gradner proceeded to procure his arrest. But the former, being aware that the police were on the look-out for him, eluded their search and returned to his home. He remained there about three hours, and then left for parts unknown.
Up to that time suspicion had not rested upon the prison - although he was at his father's house at the time Gardner was at Versailles, endeavoring to lay plans to arrest his brother, no one thought him guilty of murder. But Gardner, subsequently learning that he was absent from his home at the time the murders were committed, induced two gentlemen, who resided at North Bend, Ohio, at which place Gardner & Miller's flatboat stopped to take on some freight, to visit Versailles. On seeing the prisoner, they recognized him as one of the hands on the boat. He was immediately arrested, examined before a justice of the peace, and committed to jail, to await his trial.
Robert Kelly, the prison, is a youth about seventeen years of age. He is spare built, has blue eyes and light hair. His countenance is not good, yet he has none of the villain in his look.
In addition to this the Lawrenceburg 'Register' says that Robert Kelly, when told that in all probability his life must pay the forfeit, stated that he was not concerned with the murder, but only kept watch while his brother committed the deed. He also states that he thinks his brother murdered the two hands that he set ashore some eighteen miles above where the murder was committed, and who have not been heard from since. He states that when Mose returned to the boat he brought some milk and meal along with him, and said he was sick; but after wards told him (Robt Kelly) that that night the deed must be done. He states also, that in the evening they went to bed - he and his brother occupying one bed, and Miller and Gardner the other - leaving the pilot on watch. He says that he and his brother remained awake awaiting the change of watch, which takes place at 12 o'clock, and that when the pilot came down to change watch, they feigned sleep, and after the pilot had called two or three times, Mose got up and went on deck, and he (Robert) waited until the pilot went to sleep. He then got up, went carefully out on deck, and told Mose, who immediately went below and commenced his work of death. Robert states that he heard the blows distinctly, and that that, together with the groans of the dying men, made him sick. After the murder was committed, he went below and assisted his brother in fastening weights to the bodies and throwing them overboard. He states that it was their intention to proceed on down the river with the boat, but finding it impossible to clean the boat of the blood which was scattered around on the boards, &c, they then took the clothes of the murdered men, put them on, and threw their, which were somewhat bloody, overboard. They then took the skiff, and proceeded to Evansville, from which place he (Robert) returned home, and his brother going he knows not where.
Robert is unwilling to be taken to the same place for trial with his brother, as he thinks he will kill him also if he gets the chance, for the confessions he has made in regard to the matter. The trial, we suppose, will be held at the County Seat of Hancock County, Ky., as the murder was committed only some forty or fifty yards from the Kentucky shore."
Robert Kelly passed down the river yesterday on the steamer 'Hindoo', in charge of an officer, in route for Hawesville, Ky., where he is to be tired, together with his brother, Moses Kelly.
----------
Ephraim Kelley's Children - Thieves and Murders
Documentation from Pittsburg State Univ. on this family. It reported that "Wayland's uncles on his mother's side were sneaking cowards. There were three of them...Moses, Robert and Fountain Kelley. All three were thieves and murderers. Fountain Kelley before he was 21 killed a neighbor boy and was sent to the penitentiary. Moses and Robert were hanged at Hawesville, KY Oct 28, 1853 for the wholesale murder of the crew of a flat-boat known as "Eliza" on the Ohio River on the night of Oct. 22, 1852...Andrew Allen Veatch, 'Criminal Records of the Wayland,' 'The Remonstrator' 1.6 (July 1, 1913(: 3. The 'Confession of Moses Kelley' was published in book form by D.L. Adair (i.e. Adams)" Moses was 28 and Robert was 18 when hung, and admitted murders. Micha was reported to have set a house on fire in Ripley County...may have been accidental or deliberate.
---------
Donald and Joyce Kelly have done phenomonal work on this linage, I have come to the table very late in comparison. The following is from their Rootsweb family tree.
DEATH:
Newspaper Accounts from Hawesville, KY:
Hancock Co., KY - Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853; Oct. 25, 1979; Page 13.
Great Concourse of People - Execution of Moses Kelly and Robert Kelly; Hawesville Oct. 28, 1853.
As was expected our town was flooded with strangers and persons from a distance on yesterday; and this morning the streets were thronged at an early hour with men, women and children, all drawn here to witness the execution of the Kelleys.
A few minutes before twelve the prisoners were taken from their wretched cell and carried to the place of execution being proceeded and followed by an immense mass of people numbering several thousand. Arriving at the gallows at four minutes past twelve they alighted from the wagon and walked up the ladder with a deliberate step and seated themselves,w ith the ministers in attendance, upon the scaffold. A few minutes afterward the Rev. J.A. Henderson arose and read a portion of the 14 chapter of the book of John; and then read and sung a song begining with these words "As on the cross the Savior hung", the prisoners joining in the singing. Prayer was then offered by Mr. H. after which he read a text selected by Moses Kelley, from the chapter above mentioned, which reads, "Let not your heart be troubled, &c., John, 1r, chapter 31st 3d verse and made some impressive and solemn remarks upon the same.
The Rev. Mr. sproule then arose, and read from the 25th capter of Matthew the parable of the foolish virgins, and some several other passages of scripture, making very solemn and appropriate remarks at the close.
Moses Kelley then arose and said, "Dear friends, I suppose that you have all come here to witness the awful spectacle which will soon be presented, but do you know know, that you too are also sentenced to die, and some of you may die as soon as I." He said a few more words, and then read from a manuscript such remarks as he thought proper to offer on the occasion, stopping two or three times to make some explanations. He then made some remarks about the opinion of some persons in relation to the position he occupied towards his god, and declared that he was assured that he had obtained, notwithstanding opinions to the contrary, a full and complete pardon of his sins. He then read from the manuscript numerous passages of scripture which he said were sufficient to prove the fallacy of any argument which would debar him from receiving a perfect salvation.
He then charged all to be warned by his awful example.
His last words were solemn, and were spoken in a manner which evidenced that he had every assurance of a safe transport to Heaven. He charged his unfortunate and forlorn condition to his early associates; to-wit: - drinking, gambling, $c., and admonished all persons from indulging in the vices of the world.
The services on the scaffold were then closed by singing and prayer by the Rev. Mr. Taylor, and Moses Kelley. The prayer of Kelley was sensible, solemn, and clearly delivered; in fact he displayed a calm deliberate resignation throughout the whole scene.
Moses then arose and "said he was ready," whereupon he and Robert both stepped up under the beam seemingly composed as any on the ground. The ropes were arranged, the word given, and in an instant, they were suspended between the Heaven and earth. Not a muscle was discovered to move in Robert, and Moses struggled but little. This indeed was a scene unlike any ever before witnessed in this county, and one that will long be remembered by all who witnessed it. Oh how awful to contemplate! The bodies were cut down at half past two.
Executions in the United States, 1608-1987: The Espy File (ICPSR 8451) Vol. 1 Alabama - Kentucky; Prnicipal Investigators M. Watt Espy, Headland, Alabama and John Ortiz Symkla, University of Alabama. First ICPSR Edition Fall 1987; page 415.
"The Forest Rose" Volume 1, Versailles, Ripley, Friday, Sept 09, 1853 Number 27: The trial of Robert and Moses Kelley, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, Ky, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty". They will be hanged on the 28th. day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
NEWSPAPER RECORDS:
Louisville Weekly Courier, Vol. 9, no. 40 (i.e., 45) (Nov. 6, 1852); p. 1, col.1 Crew of Eliza, No. 2 murdered on the Ohio River.
Louisville Weekly Courier, Nov. 5, 1853, p. 2, col. 5.
Moses and Robert Kelley hanged at Hawesville, Kentucky, for the murder of the crew of the Eliza, No. 2.
From Our Special Reported. Execution of the Brothers Kelly at Hawesville, Ky., Oct. 28, 1853.
Hancock Clarion, October 25, 1979; page 13
Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853.
BOOK:
Cotton's Keepsake
Poems on Various Subjects
By Rev. Judge A.J. Cotton, Philom.
To Which is Appended
A Short Autobiographical Sketch
of the Life of the Author,
And a condensed history of the early settlements, incidents, and improvements of the country, from the early settlers themselves, and from observation and experience in it, for the space of forty years last past.
Cincinnati:
Published for the Author,
By Applegate & Co.,
1858
Criminal
Pages 57-58
Execution of the Kelleys, at Hawsburgh, Ky.
Some time ago, no matter when, two brothers by the name of Kelly, citizens of Ripley county, murdered three men for their money, on board a flatboat, descending the Ohio river. In the language of an eminent jurist: "It was a cool, calculating, money-making murder, the weighing out of so many ounces of blood against so many dollars in money." Their trial and confession, was at the time published to the world, in pamphlet form, under the caption of, "The Murder of Gardner and others, etc., to which the reader is respectfully referred for a full and perfect history of this bloody scene. It was, indeed, a most bloody and horrible scene. Three excellent and unsuspecting men, reposing in quiet and peaceful slumbers, to be butchered with axes and clubs, and all for their effects, by men in their confidence and employ, is most horrible and appalling! What a picture of human depravity!!! My Muse thus paraphrases upon the sickening, heart-rending, and fearful tragedy.
The sordid "love of money," the root of all evil,
Has led thousands down to ruin, and down, down to the devil.
Men will lie, and cheat, and steal, or murder their best friend,
To get money to hoard up, or money just to spend.
Get money - at every hazard - get it at any price,
To have money in great plenty, seems so exceeding nice.
So thought two sturdy brothers, by the name of Kelley;
Who murdered their employers, and beat them all to jelly;
Tied weights unto their necks - sank them in the river,
And felt themselves quite safe, now and for ever.
The secret was their own, no one else could know it,
Not a single bloodstain left, to reveal and to show it.
Not so fast vain wretched, men, mind what you are about,
'Tis an old and trude adage that "murder will out."
The very means resorted to, to ward of just suspicion,
Are messengers divinely sent upon the holy mission
Of waking up inquiry, of putting on the track
The officers of justice, who pounce upon your back
When you least expect it, and lock you up in jail,
'Till you shall stand your trial, of which you can not fail.
'Twas so with these two brothers, both caught in their own trap,
They found themselves arrested, and in "an awful snap."
Were thence upon the charge found guilty of the deed,
That both should now be hung the jurymen agreed.
The fatal day arrives, they mount the scaffold high,
With trembling in their limbs, and in their hearts a sigh.
Confess the horrid deed - warn others of their fate,
To shun the paths of sin, for pleasure, gain, or hate.
Why should I longer dwell? enough has now been said, -
They both were hung together, 'till they were dead! dead! dead!!!
A life of sin and shame thus found a fearful end,
Be virtous little boys, I pray you as a friend.
FOR SPECULATION:
Johnson Township
Cemetery Records
Ripley County, Indiana
1984
Ripley County Historial Society
Versailles, Indiana 47042
Page 79
"On the present (1930's) Nora Cauley farm but formerly the Hadley Neill farm and originally the old Jim White farm are two graves with plain limestone markers at foot and head. There are no inscriptions but quite large cedar trees at foot and head. One cedar has grown over the limestone marker. One rumor said that the people who rest here were killed in a neighborhood scrap. Another rumor said that the inmates of the two graves were members of the Kelly family, but no one seems to know for sure whom they are. Recently someone scratched this name 'E.W. Kelly' on one of the stones."
Could this be the site of Moses' and Robert's graves? (This land was owned by Ephriam Kelley, who sold the land to James White on 26 Dec 1853.)
We found the old Nora Cauley farm on our trip to Ripley County, Indiana during August 2000 (see pictures). The man who owns the land now has invited us back anytime to look for the stones.
----------
The Daily Courier newspaper, Madison, IN
Saturday Evening 30 October 1852; Page 3, Column 1
"By Telegraph"
Mysterious and shocking Murder
Louisville, Oct. 28
A letter from Troy, IN, gives the particulars of a shocking murder which had been perpetrated on the trading boat Eliza No. 2, near Thompson's Ferry. The boat it is supposed, belongs to Miller & Gardiner, of Cincinnati.
The boat was found without any person aboard and the bedclothes covered with blood. This aroused the suspicion of the citizens, who commenced dragging the river, and at the time the letter was written, three bodies had been found with their heads split open, and iron weights tied to them. Several trunks were found in the boat which had been broken open and rifled of their contents.
All beyond the above is still wrapped in the most profound mystery.
Here is an article proving their conmection to Ripley County, IN.
The Forest Rose newspaper, Versailes, Ripley County, IN
Friday 9 September 1853; Page 3, Column 1
Sentenced:
The trial of Moses and Robert Kelly, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, KY, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty." They will be hanged on the 28th day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
(This edition was on microfilm from the IN Histprical Society - it was the only edition of this newspaper available.)
----------
Published in The New York Times newspaper; 20 January 1853
The Flat-boat Murder
Our readers will recollect that only a short time since a horrible murder was committed on board a flat-boat, about one-hundred miles below Cleveland, near Troy. In the Madison 'Daily Banner', of Tuesday, the 24th inst., we find the following confession of one of the murderers:
"Having learned that Robert Kelly, who is imprisoned in our County jail, on charge of murder, had confessed to the part he took in the awful tragedy, which hurried three human beings into eternity, we made arrangements to obtain a true statement of the confession. In a conversation with two gentlemen, in the jail, young Kelly stated that he was raised in the vicinity of Versailles, in this State, where his parents now reside. He went to Cincinnati, a short time ago, to use his own language, "to make a raise." Soon after he reached Cincinnati, he and his brother Moses shipped on a flat-boat, belonging to Messrs. Gardner and Miller. The boat was laden with potatoes, apples, &c,, and was designed for Southern coasting trade. Three other men shipped on the boat as hands. Thus manned, the boat, with Gardner & Miller on board,
started down the river. When some eighteen miles above Troy, Indiana, the boat was landed in consequence of high winds, and two of the hands went ashore for the purpose of taking a hunt, The evening being calm, the boat was turned into the stream, leaving the two men ashore. Shortly after the boat left the shore, the prisoner states that Moses Kelly, his brother, told him of his intention to murder the proprietors of the boat for their money. This, he states, was the first intimation he had received from his brother of his murderous intentions. His brother had no enmity whatever against either of the deceased, and committed the bloody deed soley for the purpose of obtaining their money.
About 2 o'clock the next morning he was called from his bed by his brother and told that the time had come when the other men upon the boat must die. They were Gardner, Miller and a hand by the name of Frank _____, the prison having forgotten his surname. He went up to the roof of the boat for the purpose, he says, of keeping a look-out, and his brother went below and murdered the three men. He says he heard blows and groans, but refuses to state any of the particulars of the horrible tragedy. On being asked if he saw the men after they dead, he replied that he did, but refused to say anything more upon that point. The bodies of the murdered men were thrown into the river, through the scuttle of the boat, and their spilled blood was wiped from the floor by the two brothers. Upwards of one thousand dollars in money was taken from the murdered men; but the prison refused to state whether or not he shared it with his brother.
The two Kellys left the boat the next morning and went to Evansville, Ind. At that place Moses Kelly took passage on the 'John Simpson' for St. Louis, and the prison returned to the residence of his father. The brother of Gardner, one of the murdered men, on examining the boat, discovered the envelope of a letter addressed to Moses Kelly. This caused suspicion to rest upon him as one of the murderers. Learning that Kelly lived near Versailles, Mr. Gardner made arrangements to find where he was. The wife of Kelly received a letter from him, post marked St. Louis, and Gradner proceeded to procure his arrest. But the former, being aware that the police were on the look-out for him, eluded their search and returned to his home. He remained there about three hours, and then left for parts unknown.
Up to that time suspicion had not rested upon the prison - although he was at his father's house at the time Gardner was at Versailles, endeavoring to lay plans to arrest his brother, no one thought him guilty of murder. But Gardner, subsequently learning that he was absent from his home at the time the murders were committed, induced two gentlemen, who resided at North Bend, Ohio, at which place Gardner & Miller's flatboat stopped to take on some freight, to visit Versailles. On seeing the prisoner, they recognized him as one of the hands on the boat. He was immediately arrested, examined before a justice of the peace, and committed to jail, to await his trial.
Robert Kelly, the prison, is a youth about seventeen years of age. He is spare built, has blue eyes and light hair. His countenance is not good, yet he has none of the villain in his look.
In addition to this the Lawrenceburg 'Register' says that Robert Kelly, when told that in all probability his life must pay the forfeit, stated that he was not concerned with the murder, but only kept watch while his brother committed the deed. He also states that he thinks his brother murdered the two hands that he set ashore some eighteen miles above where the murder was committed, and who have not been heard from since. He states that when Mose returned to the boat he brought some milk and meal along with him, and said he was sick; but after wards told him (Robt Kelly) that that night the deed must be done. He states also, that in the evening they went to bed - he and his brother occupying one bed, and Miller and Gardner the other - leaving the pilot on watch. He says that he and his brother remained awake awaiting the change of watch, which takes place at 12 o'clock, and that when the pilot came down to change watch, they feigned sleep, and after the pilot had called two or three times, Mose got up and went on deck, and he (Robert) waited until the pilot went to sleep. He then got up, went carefully out on deck, and told Mose, who immediately went below and commenced his work of death. Robert states that he heard the blows distinctly, and that that, together with the groans of the dying men, made him sick. After the murder was committed, he went below and assisted his brother in fastening weights to the bodies and throwing them overboard. He states that it was their intention to proceed on down the river with the boat, but finding it impossible to clean the boat of the blood which was scattered around on the boards, &c, they then took the clothes of the murdered men, put them on, and threw their, which were somewhat bloody, overboard. They then took the skiff, and proceeded to Evansville, from which place he (Robert) returned home, and his brother going he knows not where.
Robert is unwilling to be taken to the same place for trial with his brother, as he thinks he will kill him also if he gets the chance, for the confessions he has made in regard to the matter. The trial, we suppose, will be held at the County Seat of Hancock County, Ky., as the murder was committed only some forty or fifty yards from the Kentucky shore."
Robert Kelly passed down the river yesterday on the steamer 'Hindoo', in charge of an officer, in route for Hawesville, Ky., where he is to be tired, together with his brother, Moses Kelly.
----------
Ephraim Kelley's Children - Thieves and Murders
Documentation from Pittsburg State Univ. on this family. It reported that "Wayland's uncles on his mother's side were sneaking cowards. There were three of them...Moses, Robert and Fountain Kelley. All three were thieves and murderers. Fountain Kelley before he was 21 killed a neighbor boy and was sent to the penitentiary. Moses and Robert were hanged at Hawesville, KY Oct 28, 1853 for the wholesale murder of the crew of a flat-boat known as "Eliza" on the Ohio River on the night of Oct. 22, 1852...Andrew Allen Veatch, 'Criminal Records of the Wayland,' 'The Remonstrator' 1.6 (July 1, 1913(: 3. The 'Confession of Moses Kelley' was published in book form by D.L. Adair (i.e. Adams)" Moses was 28 and Robert was 18 when hung, and admitted murders. Micha was reported to have set a house on fire in Ripley County...may have been accidental or deliberate.
---------
Donald and Joyce Kelly have done phenomonal work on this linage, I have come to the table very late in comparison. The following is from their Rootsweb family tree.
DEATH:
Newspaper Accounts from Hawesville, KY:
Hancock Co., KY - Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853; Oct. 25, 1979; Page 13.
Great Concourse of People - Execution of Moses Kelly and Robert Kelly; Hawesville Oct. 28, 1853.
As was expected our town was flooded with strangers and persons from a distance on yesterday; and this morning the streets were thronged at an early hour with men, women and children, all drawn here to witness the execution of the Kelleys.
A few minutes before twelve the prisoners were taken from their wretched cell and carried to the place of execution being proceeded and followed by an immense mass of people numbering several thousand. Arriving at the gallows at four minutes past twelve they alighted from the wagon and walked up the ladder with a deliberate step and seated themselves,w ith the ministers in attendance, upon the scaffold. A few minutes afterward the Rev. J.A. Henderson arose and read a portion of the 14 chapter of the book of John; and then read and sung a song begining with these words "As on the cross the Savior hung", the prisoners joining in the singing. Prayer was then offered by Mr. H. after which he read a text selected by Moses Kelley, from the chapter above mentioned, which reads, "Let not your heart be troubled, &c., John, 1r, chapter 31st 3d verse and made some impressive and solemn remarks upon the same.
The Rev. Mr. sproule then arose, and read from the 25th capter of Matthew the parable of the foolish virgins, and some several other passages of scripture, making very solemn and appropriate remarks at the close.
Moses Kelley then arose and said, "Dear friends, I suppose that you have all come here to witness the awful spectacle which will soon be presented, but do you know know, that you too are also sentenced to die, and some of you may die as soon as I." He said a few more words, and then read from a manuscript such remarks as he thought proper to offer on the occasion, stopping two or three times to make some explanations. He then made some remarks about the opinion of some persons in relation to the position he occupied towards his god, and declared that he was assured that he had obtained, notwithstanding opinions to the contrary, a full and complete pardon of his sins. He then read from the manuscript numerous passages of scripture which he said were sufficient to prove the fallacy of any argument which would debar him from receiving a perfect salvation.
He then charged all to be warned by his awful example.
His last words were solemn, and were spoken in a manner which evidenced that he had every assurance of a safe transport to Heaven. He charged his unfortunate and forlorn condition to his early associates; to-wit: - drinking, gambling, $c., and admonished all persons from indulging in the vices of the world.
The services on the scaffold were then closed by singing and prayer by the Rev. Mr. Taylor, and Moses Kelley. The prayer of Kelley was sensible, solemn, and clearly delivered; in fact he displayed a calm deliberate resignation throughout the whole scene.
Moses then arose and "said he was ready," whereupon he and Robert both stepped up under the beam seemingly composed as any on the ground. The ropes were arranged, the word given, and in an instant, they were suspended between the Heaven and earth. Not a muscle was discovered to move in Robert, and Moses struggled but little. This indeed was a scene unlike any ever before witnessed in this county, and one that will long be remembered by all who witnessed it. Oh how awful to contemplate! The bodies were cut down at half past two.
Executions in the United States, 1608-1987: The Espy File (ICPSR 8451) Vol. 1 Alabama - Kentucky; Prnicipal Investigators M. Watt Espy, Headland, Alabama and John Ortiz Symkla, University of Alabama. First ICPSR Edition Fall 1987; page 415.
"The Forest Rose" Volume 1, Versailles, Ripley, Friday, Sept 09, 1853 Number 27: The trial of Robert and Moses Kelley, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, Ky, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty". They will be hanged on the 28th. day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
NEWSPAPER RECORDS:
Louisville Weekly Courier, Vol. 9, no. 40 (i.e., 45) (Nov. 6, 1852); p. 1, col.1 Crew of Eliza, No. 2 murdered on the Ohio River.
Louisville Weekly Courier, Nov. 5, 1853, p. 2, col. 5.
Moses and Robert Kelley hanged at Hawesville, Kentucky, for the murder of the crew of the Eliza, No. 2.
From Our Special Reported. Execution of the Brothers Kelly at Hawesville, Ky., Oct. 28, 1853.
Hancock Clarion, October 25, 1979; page 13
Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853.
BOOK:
Cotton's Keepsake
Poems on Various Subjects
By Rev. Judge A.J. Cotton, Philom.
To Which is Appended
A Short Autobiographical Sketch
of the Life of the Author,
And a condensed history of the early settlements, incidents, and improvements of the country, from the early settlers themselves, and from observation and experience in it, for the space of forty years last past.
Cincinnati:
Published for the Author,
By Applegate & Co.,
1858
Criminal
Pages 57-58
Execution of the Kelleys, at Hawsburgh, Ky.
Some time ago, no matter when, two brothers by the name of Kelly, citizens of Ripley county, murdered three men for their money, on board a flatboat, descending the Ohio river. In the language of an eminent jurist: "It was a cool, calculating, money-making murder, the weighing out of so many ounces of blood against so many dollars in money." Their trial and confession, was at the time published to the world, in pamphlet form, under the caption of, "The Murder of Gardner and others, etc., to which the reader is respectfully referred for a full and perfect history of this bloody scene. It was, indeed, a most bloody and horrible scene. Three excellent and unsuspecting men, reposing in quiet and peaceful slumbers, to be butchered with axes and clubs, and all for their effects, by men in their confidence and employ, is most horrible and appalling! What a picture of human depravity!!! My Muse thus paraphrases upon the sickening, heart-rending, and fearful tragedy.
The sordid "love of money," the root of all evil,
Has led thousands down to ruin, and down, down to the devil.
Men will lie, and cheat, and steal, or murder their best friend,
To get money to hoard up, or money just to spend.
Get money - at every hazard - get it at any price,
To have money in great plenty, seems so exceeding nice.
So thought two sturdy brothers, by the name of Kelley;
Who murdered their employers, and beat them all to jelly;
Tied weights unto their necks - sank them in the river,
And felt themselves quite safe, now and for ever.
The secret was their own, no one else could know it,
Not a single bloodstain left, to reveal and to show it.
Not so fast vain wretched, men, mind what you are about,
'Tis an old and trude adage that "murder will out."
The very means resorted to, to ward of just suspicion,
Are messengers divinely sent upon the holy mission
Of waking up inquiry, of putting on the track
The officers of justice, who pounce upon your back
When you least expect it, and lock you up in jail,
'Till you shall stand your trial, of which you can not fail.
'Twas so with these two brothers, both caught in their own trap,
They found themselves arrested, and in "an awful snap."
Were thence upon the charge found guilty of the deed,
That both should now be hung the jurymen agreed.
The fatal day arrives, they mount the scaffold high,
With trembling in their limbs, and in their hearts a sigh.
Confess the horrid deed - warn others of their fate,
To shun the paths of sin, for pleasure, gain, or hate.
Why should I longer dwell? enough has now been said, -
They both were hung together, 'till they were dead! dead! dead!!!
A life of sin and shame thus found a fearful end,
Be virtous little boys, I pray you as a friend.
FOR SPECULATION:
Johnson Township
Cemetery Records
Ripley County, Indiana
1984
Ripley County Historial Society
Versailles, Indiana 47042
Page 79
"On the present (1930's) Nora Cauley farm but formerly the Hadley Neill farm and originally the old Jim White farm are two graves with plain limestone markers at foot and head. There are no inscriptions but quite large cedar trees at foot and head. One cedar has grown over the limestone marker. One rumor said that the people who rest here were killed in a neighborhood scrap. Another rumor said that the inmates of the two graves were members of the Kelly family, but no one seems to know for sure whom they are. Recently someone scratched this name 'E.W. Kelly' on one of the stones."
Could this be the site of Moses' and Robert's graves? (This land was owned by Ephriam Kelley, who sold the land to James White on 26 Dec 1853.)
We found the old Nora Cauley farm on our trip to Ripley County, Indiana during August 2000 (see pictures). The man who owns the land now has invited us back anytime to look for the stones.
----------
The Daily Courier newspaper, Madison, IN
Saturday Evening 30 October 1852; Page 3, Column 1
"By Telegraph"
Mysterious and shocking Murder
Louisville, Oct. 28
A letter from Troy, IN, gives the particulars of a shocking murder which had been perpetrated on the trading boat Eliza No. 2, near Thompson's Ferry. The boat it is supposed, belongs to Miller & Gardiner, of Cincinnati.
The boat was found without any person aboard and the bedclothes covered with blood. This aroused the suspicion of the citizens, who commenced dragging the river, and at the time the letter was written, three bodies had been found with their heads split open, and iron weights tied to them. Several trunks were found in the boat which had been broken open and rifled of their contents.
All beyond the above is still wrapped in the most profound mystery.
The Forest Rose newspaper, Versailes, Ripley County, IN
Friday 9 September 1853; Page 3, Column 1
Sentenced:
The trial of Moses and Robert Kelly, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, KY, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty." They will be hanged on the 28th day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
(This edition was on microfilm from the IN Histprical Society - it was the only edition of this newspaper available.)
----------
Published in The New York Times newspaper; 20 January 1853
The Flat-boat Murder
Our readers will recollect that only a short time since a horrible murder was committed on board a flat-boat, about one-hundred miles below Cleveland, near Troy. In the Madison 'Daily Banner', of Tuesday, the 24th inst., we find the following confession of one of the murderers:
"Having learned that Robert Kelly, who is imprisoned in our County jail, on charge of murder, had confessed to the part he took in the awful tragedy, which hurried three human beings into eternity, we made arrangements to obtain a true statement of the confession. In a conversation with two gentlemen, in the jail, young Kelly stated that he was raised in the vicinity of Versailles, in this State, where his parents now reside. He went to Cincinnati, a short time ago, to use his own language, "to make a raise." Soon after he reached Cincinnati, he and his brother Moses shipped on a flat-boat, belonging to Messrs. Gardner and Miller. The boat was laden with potatoes, apples, &c,, and was designed for Southern coasting trade. Three other men shipped on the boat as hands. Thus manned, the boat, with Gardner & Miller on board,
started down the river. When some eighteen miles above Troy, Indiana, the boat was landed in consequence of high winds, and two of the hands went ashore for the purpose of taking a hunt, The evening being calm, the boat was turned into the stream, leaving the two men ashore. Shortly after the boat left the shore, the prisoner states that Moses Kelly, his brother, told him of his intention to murder the proprietors of the boat for their money. This, he states, was the first intimation he had received from his brother of his murderous intentions. His brother had no enmity whatever against either of the deceased, and committed the bloody deed soley for the purpose of obtaining their money.
About 2 o'clock the next morning he was called from his bed by his brother and told that the time had come when the other men upon the boat must die. They were Gardner, Miller and a hand by the name of Frank _____, the prison having forgotten his surname. He went up to the roof of the boat for the purpose, he says, of keeping a look-out, and his brother went below and murdered the three men. He says he heard blows and groans, but refuses to state any of the particulars of the horrible tragedy. On being asked if he saw the men after they dead, he replied that he did, but refused to say anything more upon that point. The bodies of the murdered men were thrown into the river, through the scuttle of the boat, and their spilled blood was wiped from the floor by the two brothers. Upwards of one thousand dollars in money was taken from the murdered men; but the prison refused to state whether or not he shared it with his brother.
The two Kellys left the boat the next morning and went to Evansville, Ind. At that place Moses Kelly took passage on the 'John Simpson' for St. Louis, and the prison returned to the residence of his father. The brother of Gardner, one of the murdered men, on examining the boat, discovered the envelope of a letter addressed to Moses Kelly. This caused suspicion to rest upon him as one of the murderers. Learning that Kelly lived near Versailles, Mr. Gardner made arrangements to find where he was. The wife of Kelly received a letter from him, post marked St. Louis, and Gradner proceeded to procure his arrest. But the former, being aware that the police were on the look-out for him, eluded their search and returned to his home. He remained there about three hours, and then left for parts unknown.
Up to that time suspicion had not rested upon the prison - although he was at his father's house at the time Gardner was at Versailles, endeavoring to lay plans to arrest his brother, no one thought him guilty of murder. But Gardner, subsequently learning that he was absent from his home at the time the murders were committed, induced two gentlemen, who resided at North Bend, Ohio, at which place Gardner & Miller's flatboat stopped to take on some freight, to visit Versailles. On seeing the prisoner, they recognized him as one of the hands on the boat. He was immediately arrested, examined before a justice of the peace, and committed to jail, to await his trial.
Robert Kelly, the prison, is a youth about seventeen years of age. He is spare built, has blue eyes and light hair. His countenance is not good, yet he has none of the villain in his look.
In addition to this the Lawrenceburg 'Register' says that Robert Kelly, when told that in all probability his life must pay the forfeit, stated that he was not concerned with the murder, but only kept watch while his brother committed the deed. He also states that he thinks his brother murdered the two hands that he set ashore some eighteen miles above where the murder was committed, and who have not been heard from since. He states that when Mose returned to the boat he brought some milk and meal along with him, and said he was sick; but after wards told him (Robt Kelly) that that night the deed must be done. He states also, that in the evening they went to bed - he and his brother occupying one bed, and Miller and Gardner the other - leaving the pilot on watch. He says that he and his brother remained awake awaiting the change of watch, which takes place at 12 o'clock, and that when the pilot came down to change watch, they feigned sleep, and after the pilot had called two or three times, Mose got up and went on deck, and he (Robert) waited until the pilot went to sleep. He then got up, went carefully out on deck, and told Mose, who immediately went below and commenced his work of death. Robert states that he heard the blows distinctly, and that that, together with the groans of the dying men, made him sick. After the murder was committed, he went below and assisted his brother in fastening weights to the bodies and throwing them overboard. He states that it was their intention to proceed on down the river with the boat, but finding it impossible to clean the boat of the blood which was scattered around on the boards, &c, they then took the clothes of the murdered men, put them on, and threw their, which were somewhat bloody, overboard. They then took the skiff, and proceeded to Evansville, from which place he (Robert) returned home, and his brother going he knows not where.
Robert is unwilling to be taken to the same place for trial with his brother, as he thinks he will kill him also if he gets the chance, for the confessions he has made in regard to the matter. The trial, we suppose, will be held at the County Seat of Hancock County, Ky., as the murder was committed only some forty or fifty yards from the Kentucky shore."
Robert Kelly passed down the river yesterday on the steamer 'Hindoo', in charge of an officer, in route for Hawesville, Ky., where he is to be tired, together with his brother, Moses Kelly.
----------
Ephraim Kelley's Children - Thieves and Murders
Documentation from Pittsburg State Univ. on this family. It reported that "Wayland's uncles on his mother's side were sneaking cowards. There were three of them...Moses, Robert and Fountain Kelley. All three were thieves and murderers. Fountain Kelley before he was 21 killed a neighbor boy and was sent to the penitentiary. Moses and Robert were hanged at Hawesville, KY Oct 28, 1853 for the wholesale murder of the crew of a flat-boat known as "Eliza" on the Ohio River on the night of Oct. 22, 1852...Andrew Allen Veatch, 'Criminal Records of the Wayland,' 'The Remonstrator' 1.6 (July 1, 1913(: 3. The 'Confession of Moses Kelley' was published in book form by D.L. Adair (i.e. Adams)" Moses was 28 and Robert was 18 when hung, and admitted murders. Micha was reported to have set a house on fire in Ripley County...may have been accidental or deliberate.
---------
Donald and Joyce Kelly have done phenomonal work on this linage, I have come to the table very late in comparison. The following is from their Rootsweb family tree.
DEATH:
Newspaper Accounts from Hawesville, KY:
Hancock Co., KY - Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853; Oct. 25, 1979; Page 13.
Great Concourse of People - Execution of Moses Kelly and Robert Kelly; Hawesville Oct. 28, 1853.
As was expected our town was flooded with strangers and persons from a distance on yesterday; and this morning the streets were thronged at an early hour with men, women and children, all drawn here to witness the execution of the Kelleys.
A few minutes before twelve the prisoners were taken from their wretched cell and carried to the place of execution being proceeded and followed by an immense mass of people numbering several thousand. Arriving at the gallows at four minutes past twelve they alighted from the wagon and walked up the ladder with a deliberate step and seated themselves,w ith the ministers in attendance, upon the scaffold. A few minutes afterward the Rev. J.A. Henderson arose and read a portion of the 14 chapter of the book of John; and then read and sung a song begining with these words "As on the cross the Savior hung", the prisoners joining in the singing. Prayer was then offered by Mr. H. after which he read a text selected by Moses Kelley, from the chapter above mentioned, which reads, "Let not your heart be troubled, &c., John, 1r, chapter 31st 3d verse and made some impressive and solemn remarks upon the same.
The Rev. Mr. sproule then arose, and read from the 25th capter of Matthew the parable of the foolish virgins, and some several other passages of scripture, making very solemn and appropriate remarks at the close.
Moses Kelley then arose and said, "Dear friends, I suppose that you have all come here to witness the awful spectacle which will soon be presented, but do you know know, that you too are also sentenced to die, and some of you may die as soon as I." He said a few more words, and then read from a manuscript such remarks as he thought proper to offer on the occasion, stopping two or three times to make some explanations. He then made some remarks about the opinion of some persons in relation to the position he occupied towards his god, and declared that he was assured that he had obtained, notwithstanding opinions to the contrary, a full and complete pardon of his sins. He then read from the manuscript numerous passages of scripture which he said were sufficient to prove the fallacy of any argument which would debar him from receiving a perfect salvation.
He then charged all to be warned by his awful example.
His last words were solemn, and were spoken in a manner which evidenced that he had every assurance of a safe transport to Heaven. He charged his unfortunate and forlorn condition to his early associates; to-wit: - drinking, gambling, $c., and admonished all persons from indulging in the vices of the world.
The services on the scaffold were then closed by singing and prayer by the Rev. Mr. Taylor, and Moses Kelley. The prayer of Kelley was sensible, solemn, and clearly delivered; in fact he displayed a calm deliberate resignation throughout the whole scene.
Moses then arose and "said he was ready," whereupon he and Robert both stepped up under the beam seemingly composed as any on the ground. The ropes were arranged, the word given, and in an instant, they were suspended between the Heaven and earth. Not a muscle was discovered to move in Robert, and Moses struggled but little. This indeed was a scene unlike any ever before witnessed in this county, and one that will long be remembered by all who witnessed it. Oh how awful to contemplate! The bodies were cut down at half past two.
Executions in the United States, 1608-1987: The Espy File (ICPSR 8451) Vol. 1 Alabama - Kentucky; Prnicipal Investigators M. Watt Espy, Headland, Alabama and John Ortiz Symkla, University of Alabama. First ICPSR Edition Fall 1987; page 415.
"The Forest Rose" Volume 1, Versailles, Ripley, Friday, Sept 09, 1853 Number 27: The trial of Robert and Moses Kelley, formerly of this place, for the murder of Gardiner came off last week at Hawsville, Ky, and the jury found a verdict of "Guilty". They will be hanged on the 28th. day of October. A report of the trial will be published in the Hawsville paper, which we will publish probably next week.
NEWSPAPER RECORDS:
Louisville Weekly Courier, Vol. 9, no. 40 (i.e., 45) (Nov. 6, 1852); p. 1, col.1 Crew of Eliza, No. 2 murdered on the Ohio River.
Louisville Weekly Courier, Nov. 5, 1853, p. 2, col. 5.
Moses and Robert Kelley hanged at Hawesville, Kentucky, for the murder of the crew of the Eliza, No. 2.
From Our Special Reported. Execution of the Brothers Kelly at Hawesville, Ky., Oct. 28, 1853.
Hancock Clarion, October 25, 1979; page 13
Kelly brothers were hanged here in 1853.
BOOK:
Cotton's Keepsake
Poems on Various Subjects
By Rev. Judge A.J. Cotton, Philom.
To Which is Appended
A Short Autobiographical Sketch
of the Life of the Author,
And a condensed history of the early settlements, incidents, and improvements of the country, from the early settlers themselves, and from observation and experience in it, for the space of forty years last past.
Cincinnati:
Published for the Author,
By Applegate & Co.,
1858
Criminal
Pages 57-58
Execution of the Kelleys, at Hawsburgh, Ky.
Some time ago, no matter when, two brothers by the name of Kelly, citizens of Ripley county, murdered three men for their money, on board a flatboat, descending the Ohio river. In the language of an eminent jurist: "It was a cool, calculating, money-making murder, the weighing out of so many ounces of blood against so many dollars in money." Their trial and confession, was at the time published to the world, in pamphlet form, under the caption of, "The Murder of Gardner and others, etc., to which the reader is respectfully referred for a full and perfect history of this bloody scene. It was, indeed, a most bloody and horrible scene. Three excellent and unsuspecting men, reposing in quiet and peaceful slumbers, to be butchered with axes and clubs, and all for their effects, by men in their confidence and employ, is most horrible and appalling! What a picture of human depravity!!! My Muse thus paraphrases upon the sickening, heart-rending, and fearful tragedy.
The sordid "love of money," the root of all evil,
Has led thousands down to ruin, and down, down to the devil.
Men will lie, and cheat, and steal, or murder their best friend,
To get money to hoard up, or money just to spend.
Get money - at every hazard - get it at any price,
To have money in great plenty, seems so exceeding nice.
So thought two sturdy brothers, by the name of Kelley;
Who murdered their employers, and beat them all to jelly;
Tied weights unto their necks - sank them in the river,
And felt themselves quite safe, now and for ever.
The secret was their own, no one else could know it,
Not a single bloodstain left, to reveal and to show it.
Not so fast vain wretched, men, mind what you are about,
'Tis an old and trude adage that "murder will out."
The very means resorted to, to ward of just suspicion,
Are messengers divinely sent upon the holy mission
Of waking up inquiry, of putting on the track
The officers of justice, who pounce upon your back
When you least expect it, and lock you up in jail,
'Till you shall stand your trial, of which you can not fail.
'Twas so with these two brothers, both caught in their own trap,
They found themselves arrested, and in "an awful snap."
Were thence upon the charge found guilty of the deed,
That both should now be hung the jurymen agreed.
The fatal day arrives, they mount the scaffold high,
With trembling in their limbs, and in their hearts a sigh.
Confess the horrid deed - warn others of their fate,
To shun the paths of sin, for pleasure, gain, or hate.
Why should I longer dwell? enough has now been said, -
They both were hung together, 'till they were dead! dead! dead!!!
A life of sin and shame thus found a fearful end,
Be virtous little boys, I pray you as a friend.
FOR SPECULATION:
Johnson Township
Cemetery Records
Ripley County, Indiana
1984
Ripley County Historial Society
Versailles, Indiana 47042
Page 79
"On the present (1930's) Nora Cauley farm but formerly the Hadley Neill farm and originally the old Jim White farm are two graves with plain limestone markers at foot and head. There are no inscriptions but quite large cedar trees at foot and head. One cedar has grown over the limestone marker. One rumor said that the people who rest here were killed in a neighborhood scrap. Another rumor said that the inmates of the two graves were members of the Kelly family, but no one seems to know for sure whom they are. Recently someone scratched this name 'E.W. Kelly' on one of the stones."
Could this be the site of Moses' and Robert's graves? (This land was owned by Ephriam Kelley, who sold the land to James White on 26 Dec 1853.)
We found the old Nora Cauley farm on our trip to Ripley County, Indiana during August 2000 (see pictures). The man who owns the land now has invited us back anytime to look for the stones.
----------
The Daily Courier newspaper, Madison, IN
Saturday Evening 30 October 1852; Page 3, Column 1
"By Telegraph"
Mysterious and shocking Murder
Louisville, Oct. 28
A letter from Troy, IN, gives the particulars of a shocking murder which had been perpetrated on the trading boat Eliza No. 2, near Thompson's Ferry. The boat it is supposed, belongs to Miller & Gardiner, of Cincinnati.
The boat was found without any person aboard and the bedclothes covered with blood. This aroused the suspicion of the citizens, who commenced dragging the river, and at the time the letter was written, three bodies had been found with their heads split open, and iron weights tied to them. Several trunks were found in the boat which had been broken open and rifled of their contents.
All beyond the above is still wrapped in the most profound mystery.
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