Remembering the “Waco Horror” and Its Lasting Legacy 110 Years Later

More than 100 years of history are being remembered today in Waco. According to KWTX, the tragic story of Jesse Washington, an innocent Black teenager who was lynched and burned to death at Waco City Hall, is once again being brought to public attention. This horrific act became known as the “Waco Horror.”

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Facing Our History: Why the Story of Jesse Washington Matters More Than Ever

Washington was tried for the murder of a white woman named Lucy Fryer. An all-white jury convicted him after only a few minutes of deliberation. Shortly afterward, a mob seized the teenager and carried out one of the most horrifying acts of racial violence in Texas history. It is estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 people witnessed the brutal killing, with many standing by in silence as the horrific scene unfolded.

The Brutal Mob Violence That Defined an Era in Texas

In 2025, a book titled The Waco Horror helped bring renewed public acknowledgment to this dark chapter in American history. In 2026, both McLennan County and the city of Waco passed resolutions condemning past mob violence, although neither resolution mentioned Jesse Washington by name.

Never Forget What Happened. Never Let Anyone Erase The Past

It is important to remember painful moments in history like this. History should never be erased or ignored. It must be acknowledged honestly and confronted directly so future generations understand the consequences of hatred, racism, and mob violence. Remembering these tragedies helps ensure they are never repeated.