The first execution by electrocution was revolting to onlookers. In August 1890, William Kemmler was executed at Auburn State Prison for the murder of his wife, according to Syracuse.com.
Officials in New York used the electric chair for the first time, thinking it a quicker and more humane approach than hanging. In reality, news headlines of the day called it "Scientific Butchery," saying the "Death Chamber Reeks with the Smell of Burning Flesh," per Syracuse.com.
The first shock sent 1,700 volts of electricity through Kemmler's body for 17 seconds, but after a few moments of stillness, Kemmler gasped, prompting the doctors to quickly throw the switch again. They shocked him for nearly four more minutes, during which time several observers fainted or collapsed.
Despite the initial failure, the chair's popularity later surged, becoming the preferred method of execution for 26 states by 1949, per the outlet.