Opening the Coffin of Britain’s Worst Traitor – What They Found Will Change History

In a shocking turn of events, the remains of William Joyce, infamously known as Lord Haw-Haw, have been exhumed from their grave decades after his execution for treason. Joyce, a notorious Nazi propagandist during World War II, was hanged in 1946 for his betrayal of Britain.

 

 

Joyce’s radio broadcasts aimed to demoralize British citizens, often ridiculed for their absurdity. Despite his attempts to undermine the war effort, many found his antics laughable rather than threatening. However, his actions led to his conviction and execution, marking him as one of Britain’s most infamous traitors.

William Joyce 24 April 1906 Oo Editorial Stock Photo - Stock Image |  Shutterstock Editorial

After his execution, Joyce was buried in Wandsworth Prison, where his remains lay undisturbed for over 30 years. The grave site became a point of contention, with speculation surrounding the treatment of his remains. Reports suggested that quicklime was used to hasten decomposition, but this was later debunked.

Review: Searching for Lord Haw-Haw, by Colin Holmes | THE Books

Recently, his daughter petitioned for the exhumation of his body, leading to a dramatic recovery of his coffin from the prison grounds. The remains were transported back to Ireland, fulfilling Joyce’s final wish to be buried in Galway, where he spent part of his life.

WILLIAM JOYCE AND WIFE AT 2ND ARMY | Imperial War Museums

The coffin was received with a small funeral service, and Joyce was reinterred in a new grave marked by a simple white marble cross. This second burial has reignited debates over his legacy and the controversial nature of his execution.

On this day 80 years ago, notorious Nazi propagandist William Joyce, better  known as "Lord Haw Haw", was captured by the British Army in Flensburg. He  became the last person to be executed for treason in Britain. These days,  Joyce would just be your ...

Many still question whether Joyce deserved the death penalty, given the complexities of his citizenship status. Yet, his actions during the war are indisputable; he actively worked against Britain, aligning himself with Nazi Germany at a critical time.

Grave William Brooke Joyce "Lord Haw-Haw" - Galway - TracesOfWar.com

As Joyce’s story continues to captivate public interest, the exhumation serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of treachery and the lengths to which families will go to honor their loved ones, even those who turned against their own country. The saga of William Joyce remains a chilling chapter in Britain’s wartime history.