Group Photo of Hartranft and his Staff

[John E.]

On a side note, Gardner took photos of the Commission and prosecution team on June 6 in his studio.

Back to the Hartranft photo: My initial thoughts about the group photo was that it was taken AFTER the executions and on the same day. After spotting the mourning crape, I then questioned July 7 being the date at all. Add in Gardner having a pass to be there on the 5th and there you have it.

If Gardner didn't have knowledge of the execution being two days later, why was he there on the 5th ? No sketches or photos were allowed in the courtroom and besides, the trial was already over. We do know that Gardner had a special relationship with the government but was it strong enough that he had foreknowledge of the executions? I'm not convinced.

I'll keep digging for references as to when the verdicts were approved and the execution orders reaching Hancock's desk.