Join Allison Williams in her intriguing new podcast, exploring the first U.S. murder trial and its profound impact on America’s justice system.
Key Takeaways
- Allison Williams' new podcast, "Erased: The Murder of Elma Sands," revisits the historic first murder trial in the United States, offering a modern take on a historical event.
- The podcast, shedding light on the 1800 murder of 22-year-old Elma Sands, is enriched by the insights of Allison Flom, its creator, and Williams' advocacy for criminal justice reform.
- The series not only narrates a chilling crime but also delves into the early workings of the American justice system and its lasting implications.
The Birth of a Historical Crime Podcast
Actress and advocate Allison Williams recently sat down with CBS News, revealing intriguing details about her latest project, a podcast that delves into the depths of U.S. legal history. Titled “Erased: The Murder of Elma Sands,” this six-episode series offers a fresh perspective on America’s first recorded murder trial.
A Modern Take on an 18th-Century Mystery
Williams shared her enthusiasm for bringing this historical event to life through modern storytelling techniques. The podcast revisits the chilling case of 22-year-old Elma Sands, tragically found in a Manhattan well in 1800, and the subsequent trial of her lover, Levi Weeks, represented by famous figures Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton.
From a Clothing Store Basement to a Podcast
Allison Flom, the creator and narrator of the podcast, first discovered the story while working as a tour guide in New York. She recalled the eerie sensation of standing in a SoHo luxury store, built over the site of Sands’ murder, surrounded by unaware shoppers. Her desire to bring this forgotten story to the public led to the creation of “Erased: The Murder of Elma Sands.”
Connecting Past and Present
Flom emphasized how the 18th-century trial mirrored today’s justice system, with themes of power, money, and societal neglect still prevalent. Williams, a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform, reflected on how the podcast illuminates flaws in the American legal system, both historically and presently.
The Legacy of a Historical Trial
Williams remarked on the significance of this trial as a ‘test drive’ for the U.S. Constitution. The outcomes of such cases set precedents and laid foundations for future legal proceedings, revealing early systemic issues that have evolved over centuries.
Allison Williams’ foray into podcasting not only revisits a pivotal moment in American history but also sparks vital conversations about justice, power, and societal memory. As we reflect on the past, “Erased: The Murder of Elma Sands” challenges us to consider the future of our legal system and our role in shaping it.
