Dillinger death mask on display in Springfield this weekend

September 23, 2013 (SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) (WLS) -- Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation museum officials announced extended visitor hours this weekend only to catch a rare glimpse of one of four John Dillinger death masks in existence.

Dillinger was noted by historians as the most notorious criminal in U.S. history, standing out among more violent criminals such as Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, and Bonnie and Clyde. Dillinger pulled off numerous robberies and murders across four states between 1933-'34. Wanted by dozens of police, sheriffs and the FBI, Dillinger met his fate at the hands of law enforcement in a hail of gunfire outside a crowded Chicago theatre.

Four plaster death masks were cast from Dillinger's face shortly after his death. One of which is on display at the National Museum of Crime and Punishment in Washington, D.C. The Dillinger death mask is part of the Gangs of Illinois display at the ISPHF Museum.

The ISPHF Museum will be open for this rare viewing opportunity from Thursday, to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in conjunction with the Route 66 Mother Road Festival.

Get more Illinois News »

illinois news

• Comment Now
• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•