Frederick Bailey Deeming

Frederick Bailey Deeming (30 July 1853 – 23 May 1892) was an English-born Australian murderer. He gained infamy for the murder of his first wife and four children in England, and later the murder of his second wife in Melbourne, Australia. Deeming's crimes and subsequent trial were widely reported in the international press, making him one of the most notorious criminals of his time.

Early Life

Frederick Bailey Deeming was born in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, England. Little is known about his early life, but it is documented that he had a troubled relationship with his family and was often described as a problematic child. Deeming left England for Australia in his early twenties, seeking new opportunities.

Crimes

Deeming's criminal activities began with petty theft and fraud. He was known for his ability to charm and deceive, traits that he would later use to commit more serious crimes. In 1891, Deeming murdered his first wife, Mary Jane Deeming, and their four children in Rainhill, near Liverpool, England. He buried their bodies under the floor of their home and fled to Australia.

In Australia, Deeming assumed the alias of Albert Williams and quickly remarried. However, his second wife, Emily Mather, would also become a victim of his murderous tendencies. In December 1891, Emily's body was found buried under the hearthstone of their home in Windsor, Melbourne. She had been killed shortly after their marriage.

Capture and Trial

Deeming's crimes were eventually discovered, leading to his arrest in Southern Cross, Western Australia, in March 1892. He was extradited to Victoria, where he stood trial for the murder of Emily Mather. Despite his attempts to feign insanity, Deeming was found guilty and sentenced to death.

Execution

Frederick Bailey Deeming was hanged on 23 May 1892 at the Melbourne Gaol. His execution marked the end of one of the most sensational criminal cases in Australian history.

Legacy

Deeming's crimes have been the subject of much speculation and sensationalism. At one point, he was even suspected of being Jack the Ripper, though this theory has been widely discredited. His case remains a fascinating, albeit gruesome, chapter in the annals of criminal history.

See Also

• History of Australia
• Criminal law in Australia
• Jack the Ripper