Alexander Wadsworth Longfellow’s scrapbook includes many idyllic coastal Maine scenes. This sketch of a farmhouse and barn in Harpswell includes the notation “Thorn Tragedy Harpswell” and “Murder Will Out.” In 1843, Thomas Thorn (born 1819) murdered Elisha Wilson (1806-1843) because Wilson married Thorn’s former sweetheart, Lois Alexander. Although sentenced to death, no governor signed Thorn’s death warrant. He was eventually pardoned and released in 1872.

Although Longfellow was not yet alive when the crime took place, his sketch reflects the murder’s lasting legacy.