Preparing for the Firing Squad As Joe Hill neared his final date with a Utah firing squad, reporters streamed into Salt Lake City from throughout the nation. Given a choice in the method of execution, Hill had selected the option of being shot to death over the hangman's noose, saying, "I've been shot before, and I guess I can stand it again." After studying the layout of the Utah State Prison in the Sugarhouse section of the city, an artist for the Cleveland Press offered a depiction of how the execution would be carried out. While a small group of official witnesses and spectators was to be accommodated, Hill's request to invite friends was denied based on their membership in the Industrial Workers of the World. (Courtesy: Library of Congress)                 About the Program || Joe Hill Home || PBS Home