Thursday, 7 Jan 1897:
NECROLOGY.

            The old Reaper has been busy during the year, and among those cut down by his relentless hand have been several persons of considerable prominence in the community. As we consult our files we not the following deaths of persons well known in the community:

January 28.  Hon. W. H. Boyer
Feb. 9.  Mrs. Leah Hartman
Feb. 27. Daniel Fitzgerald
March 1. William P. Fitzgerald.
March 22. Thomas F. Strode.
May 14. Col. S. S. Taylor.
May 14. Patrick Fitzgerald.
May 24. William H. Lampert.
May 25. Mrs. P. W. Barclay.
May 26. Wood Rittenhouse.
May 26. Charles Gilhofer.
May 26. Richard L. Thurman.
July 19. S. T. Lee.
July 26. Isaac N. Coffee.
Aug. 14. Mrs. T. W. Gannon.
Oct. 1. Mrs. Minnie F. Frazer.
Oct. 21.  Jennie Winter.
Oct. 25. Richard Walsh.
Oct. 25. Harry Cunningham.
Dec. 7. Richard Preston.
Dec. 26. Mrs. Purcell.

Two of these persons died by their own hands. One was killed as he walked the streets.

Of course there have been many other deaths. Some by violent hands, one by the deadly electric current as he worked among the wires, some by railway accident.

Our death rate however has been very low as compared with the large cities, or with the country at large.

Death of A. J. Carle.

A. J. Carle, the well known livery stable man, died at four o'clock yesterday morning from the effects of an abscess on his neck. He was in his seventy-fourth year and had been a resident of Cairo since 1858, having at one time been on the police force, and also serving as county constable. He leaves a wife and stepdaughter and one son, Frank.

Many of our people (Villa Ridge) were surprised to hear of the death of M. F. Perks, at Sandusky. Mr. Perks was formerly a citizen of our town. He was interred at Villa Ridge, Tuesday, Jan. 5th.

(Mory F. Perks married Mrs Clara O. Perks on 27 Dec 1891, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Fillmore Perks married Clara O. Spence on 5 Nov 1879, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Fred Carter, the youngest son of Judge H. G. Carter, committed suicide in the city of Chicago on Sunday, Jan. 3, by talking stricknia poison.

Mrs. Dolan, mother of James Dolan, of this city, died at her home in this city last Saturday, after a long siege of illness.

Frank Jones, charged with the murder of his wife, plead guilty to the indictment was sentenced to life imprisonment in the penitentiary by Judge Robarts.

Mrs. L. J. Rittenhouse came down from Chicago this week to attend the funeral of her little grandson.

Richard, the little son of Mrs. and Mrs. W. A. Rittenhouse, died last Saturday morning after a brief illness. The little one was only seven months and a half old, but in its brief life had grown into the hearts of its parents so that its sudden death was a very severe blow for them to bear. Funeral services, conducted by Rev. C. T. Phillips, were held at the Rittenhouse home, on St. Mary's Place West, Monday afternoon and the remains were taken to Villa Ridge and laid at rest in the family lot, near the last earthly resting place of its grandfather, Wood Rittenhouse.

(Wood A. Rittenhouse married Ella Lewis on 31 Dec 1894, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

 

Thursday, 14 Jan 1897:
Another Homicide in Mississippi County.

A dispatch from Charleston Mo., to the papers yesterday says: Prosecuting Attorney George S. Elliott, while attempting to arrest Jim Albright, was shot and probably fatally wounded at Bertrand this afternoon. A warrant had been issued for Albright's arrest for complicity in the murder of Isaac Large, in October 1896, an account of which was published in the Globe Democrat at the time. Joe Albright, the murderer, is in jail, and will be tried for the crime at the next term of the circuit court. The arrest of Jim Albright was attempted by Elliott and ex-city Marshal Elkins at the home of Dan Mattingly, resulting in the serious wounding of Elliott. Albright is still at large.

We learn that Albright shot through the door at Elliott, the ball passing through his arm. Albright then threw open the door and shot again, fatally wounding Elliott. He then made his escape and a posse was organized and is hot after him and will lynch him if they catch him.

We learn at noon today that the sheriff’s posse captured Albright yesterday afternoon and lodged him in jail, at Charleston. Mr. Elliott died from his wounds at one o'clock this morning.

Lived in Illinois Many Years.

Alderman W. H. Morgan died at Mount Vernon, aged 60 years. He was born in Kentucky, but spent many years in Jackson and Randolph counties.

Dr. Robinson, of Ullin, was summoned to Williamsport, Ind., last week as a witness in a suit for damages brought by Mrs. C. N. Cheek against the Illinois Central railroad.

Mrs. Maria F. Mitchell, wife of J. H. Mitchell, of Anna, died of consumption at her home in Anna last week, at the age of 46. Many of our readers in the north part of the county are well acquainted with J. H. Mitchell. About ten years ago he was engaged for a while getting our material for fruit boxes in the vicinity of Elco, where he made many friends.

The death of David McCoy of the Promised Land region, in this county, escaped our notice last week. He was sick with pneumonia and died on Sunday the 3d instant. He was very much better the day before his death, but suddenly took a turn for the worse. Deceased was a good citizen and a substantial farmer.

We learn that M. F. Perks, formerly of Villa Ridge, died at Olive Branch last week, Monday, Jan. 4, at the residence of his brother-in-law, J. W. Brown. His age was 40 years. Burial at Villa Ridge, Wednesday, Jan. 6. He leaves a widow and two children.

Died.—At his home four miles north of Dongola, on Sunday morning, January 10, pf pneumonia, Thomas G. Dale, aged 66 years and 10 months. The deceased was one of the oldest residents in this part of the county, having moved here in 1852 from Tennessee.  He has lived in this immediate vicinity for over 35 years. Highly respected, honored and loved by all who knew him, kindhearted, charitable, and always ready to do anything that would further advance his neighbors’ interest. A wife, several grown children and four brothers survive him and mourn their great loss. The remains were tenderly placed at rest in the Lyerle Cemetery near Big Creek Church.

(Thomas Dale married Sarah R. Davis on 7 Mar 1858, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Leyerle Cemetery near Dongola reads:  Thomas G. Dale Born Mar. 30, 1831 Died Jan. 10, 1897.—Darrel Dexter) 

CARD OF THANKS.

We wish through the medium of The Citizen to thank the many friends who so kindly assisted us with their untiring efforts during the sad hours of the sickness and earth of our beloved husband and father. Mrs. T. G. Dale and family.

 

Thursday, 21 Jan 1897:
WAS 100 YEARS OLD.

Distinguished Passenger on the Packet R. C. Gunter Yesterday.

            The Cairo and Caruthersville packet, R. C. Gunter, had a distinguished passenger on her trip up yesterday.  It was an old lady in her 107^th year.  Her name was Mrs. Mary Ann Rollins.  She got on the boat at Bass Landing, Tenn., and left it at New Madrid, en route to Malden, Mo.  In spire of her extreme age, she was as lively as a cricket and did not look a day older than seventy.  She had a head of snow-white hair, but her face was entirely devoid of wrinkles, and her bight blue eyes needed no glasses to assist their sight.  Mrs. Rollins states she was born in Spartanburg, S.C., on June 1, 1790.  Her maiden name was Mary Ann Salisbury.  She was married twice, her first husband living only a year.  Her second husband was William Rollins, and during a married life of thirty years they had twelve children, six girls and six boys.  They are all dead now.  In fact, the last relatives she had on earth died while she was at Bass Landing this week—her little great-grandchild.  Mrs. Rollins’ memory seemed still very clear.  She stated that she had been a member of the Methodist Church for seventy-five years.  To a query as to what she thought was the most beautiful think in the world, she replied religion, and sin the ugliest.  She had chewed tobacco all her life, and is still addicted to its use.  Then officers of the boat showed her every attention, Clerk C. Lee Howe assisting her up the steep bank at New Madrid.  When she left the Gunter, Capt. Cortez J. Howe made up a purse for her and told her she could always ride on his boat free of charge.

A NEWSPAPER MURDER.

Or, If You See It in the Morning Papers, It Is Occasionally Unreliable.

            The morning papers yesterday murdered in cold blood a poor colored man and had the murderer, another colored man, fleeing from the site, which should it over take him would speedily end his existence. They had the victim a sturdy, faithful servant, pay the price of his life for the property of his employers, the M. & O. Railroad Company.  The harrowing tale told was that Bob Calk, a car wiper at the M. & O. roundhouse, was shot with a double-barrel shotgun by Will Johnson while peacefully going from his home to his work, that Calk had caught Johnson’s brother previously staling coal from the railroad and had caused his arrest, and that Johnson, to get revenge, lay in wait for him with the aforesaid gun, intending to kill him, and after shooting him once in the neck and then in the side, he lit out and would “hardly ever dare to venture back here again of his own accord;” that Calk could not live long.

The facts are that Johnson was apprised of the fact that Calk intended to visit his home on an unlawful errand during his absence and so waited for his coming, he followed him into the house and shot him in the cheek with a 38-caliber pistol.  That is all.

Little Colored Girl Burned to Death.

            Hattie Jackson, a little three-year-old colored girl living on upper Commercial Avenue, was fatally burned Monday and died the next day. Her mother left her at home with two other children, a boy of seven and a baby of ten months. The boy sat before the fire, which was in an open stove, holding the baby and the little girl amused herself by lighting paper and letting it burn. In this way her clothes caught fire and she rushed into the street screaming for help. A man passing saw her and throwing off his mackintosh, wrapped it around her smothering out the flames. She was seriously burned about the face, neck, breast and arms, the skin peeling off as the clothing was removed. She lingered for twelve or fourteen hours and then died.

E. N. Kirkpatrick who left here (Wetaug) sick last Monday, died at his home in Alto Pass last Tuesday.

Miss Olive Goodman, who resided with her uncle here (Wetaug), Mr. L. Probst, for a year and who returned to her home in Anna a few weeks ago, died Sunday of lung disease. She was a very estimable young lady and her many friends are much grieved over her untimely death. She was aged 18 years and was a consistent member of the Lutheran church. The remains were interred in St. John's Cemetery near Mill Creek.

Mr. and Mrs. John Goodman lost their little boy, four months old, last Saturday evening. Interment in the Mount Zion Cemetery, three miles east of Dongola.

Henry Felker, residing seven miles east of Dongola, died on the 17th at 9 o'clock a.m.

J. M. C. Durham, who was reported dead, is alive and has sold his farm to Mr. John Sammons, of Cairo. Mr. Durham is now talking of moving to Missouri.

Died, January 14, William Lippard. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn the loss of a husband and father. (Thebes)

Mr. T. B. Reese received word Sunday of the death of his brother, G. A. Reese, at Mt. Vernon, Ind., he had not seen him in five years.

The funeral of Mrs. Rebecca Gholson, mother of Messrs. W. E. and John C. Gholson, of this city, occurred at Lovelaceville, Ky., last Friday, and Gholson's store here was closed on that day. The deceased was seventy-two years of age.

The Albright boys, the Mississippi County desperadoes who each have killed their man, were hustled off to St. Louis Friday by the sheriff. Mutterings of a mob forming to storm the jail at Charleston had reached the sheriff's ears.

Thursday, 28 Jan 1897:

A Victim of the Cold.

            George Palmer, a colored section hand for the Mobile & Ohio Railroad at Beech Ridge, died from exposure to the colds Tuesday morning.

Mrs. Eastman, wife of H. T. Eastman, of Anna died last week in the 69th years of her age. Her husband and seven children survive her. Two of her daughters reside at Sandusky in this county. They are the wives of Con Manley and a Mr. Davis. Mr. H. T. Eastman has been famous for his fine dairy for many years. He has supplied the Halliday in this city with milk for a great many years. He is now advanced in age and the loss of his life companion will prove irreparable. He will have the sincere sympathy of a host of friends.

            (Con Manley married Kittie M. Eastman on 26 Oct 1892, in Alexander Co., Ill.  John R. Davis married Nora Eastman on 16 Aug 1885, in Union Co., Ill.  Levi N. Davis married Fannie Eastman on 4 Mar 1875, in Union Co., Ill.  A marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  Horace T. Eastman Oct. 27, 1819-Oct. 26, 1906.  Hannah L. Eastman, his wife, Feb. 26, 1828-Jan. 19, 1897.  Married Jan. 13, 1849.—Darrel Dexter)

An Old Cairo Burying Ground.

[Wickliffe Yeoman.]

            Work grading on Tennessee Street has been somewhat retarded by the graders running into a batch of graves about the intersection of that street and Second. The ground all about this corner is filled with graves, it being the place where many years ago a great number of persons were brought from Missouri and Cairo and buried, besides a large number of men who died on the works while the railroads were being built through this section. Some of them are victims of an epidemic of cholera, which carried off many of the railroad hands about twenty or more years ago. Health Officer Rogers was applied to for advice as to removing these remains, and he received advice from the state board. The opinion of the latter was that no danger could ensue from the removal and they will be taken up and buried in the bluff back of the J. A. Rich place north of town about two miles.

The wife of Elbert Randal died on congestion of the lungs Saturday.

Mrs. C. C. Ballance, wife of a prominent farmer on Hudgeons Creek, dropped dead in her chair Sunday afternoon. She had just eaten a hearty meal and was laughing and talking when her head dropped to one side and she was dead almost instantly. (Alto Pass)

            (Columbus Calvin Balance  married Mrs. Eretta Penrod on 3 Oct 1867, in Union Co., Ill.  He married Mrs. Emma Penrod Tweedy on 10 Oct 1897, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 4 Feb 1897:
Arthur Clutts is dangerously ill with typhoid malarial fever. He is the son of Levi Clutts, living south of town (Elco) on what is known as the Putnam place.

(Levi Clutts married Elvira Hunsaker on 23 Mar 1854, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

A colored man who had resided with F. G. Ulen for a number of years died suddenly of heart disease a few nights ago. He was said to be eighty-five years of age.

(A small cemetery located in the southeast quarter of section 10, Township 14 south, range 1 west, in Pulaski Co., Ill., on the Ulen farm is thought to be where he is buried.  In 1984 only two foundations for markers were found.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Feb. 1, at her home in Wetaug, of consumption, Mrs. Eleanor Price, wife of Thomas Price, aged 58 years. She had been in poor health for several years. She leaves her husband, one son and two daughters, Mrs. George Williams and Mrs. Eli Gray, of Ullin. She was formerly the wife of Captain Rigsby, well known in this county. He died about twenty years ago. She was an intelligent and, when her health would permit, a pleasant and entertaining woman, and had many friends. The remains were interred at New Hope.

(Thomas Price married E. Rigby on 25 Feb 1868, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in New Hope Cemetery reads:  Ellen Price 1846-1897.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Thursday, January 28, of heart disease, complicated with other diseases, Elizabeth Davis, wife of J. T. Davis, aged 55 years. She had been sick five months and just before she died was thought to be getting well. She was an industrious woman, a good wife and mother. She leaves a husband and five children, two of whom are married. The remains were interred at Mt. Zion Cemetery.

(Her marker in Mt. Zion Cemetery near Dongola reads:  Elisabeth L. wife of J. T. Davis Born Feb. 14, 1844 Died Jan. 29, 1897 Aged 52 Yrs., 11 Mos., & 15 Ds.  O mother dear, a short farewell, That we may meet again above And rove where angels love to tred, as trees of life beed truths of love.—Darrel Dexter)

Death claims another victim. The old lady Smithy, aged 84 years, passed away Monday evening. She leaves several grown children among whom are L. F. Turner, Henry Smithy, and two others. (Sandusky)

Death of Gen. A. J. Smith.

            Gen. A. J. Smith died in St. Louis last week and was buried Monday afternoon. He was a graduate of West Point and took an active part in two wars—the Mexican and Civil wars. He was buried with military honors. Early in 1865 his command passed Cairo going from Missouri, we believe, up the Ohio and Cumberland rivers to Nashville. Some of his solders landed and while here were quite disorderly. They made a raid upon E. A. Buder's jewelry store at the corner of Eighth Street and Washington Avenue where H. C. Schuh's drug store now is. They broke in a window and helped themselves to a large number of watches and other valuables.

Another Old Resident Gone.

Felix Malinski, another old resident of Cairo, died suddenly Monday forenoon at his home, No. 213 Sixth Street.

Deceased was seventy-two years old. He was born in Russia in 1824 and came to Cairo forty years ago. During these years he was conducted a shoe shop on Sixth Street, where he lived and died. Deceased was a member of Alexander Lodge, I. O. O. F., and of the Arab Fire Company. He left a widow and ten grown children, six sons and four daughters.

 

Thursday, 11 Feb 1897:
CAPT. C. H. CALL DEAD.
Former Resident Passed Away at Soldiers Home at Quincy.

Capt. Charles H. Call died at the Soldiers Home at Quincy, Ill., on Saturday, Jan. 30, of Bright's disease. He was buried in the Home cemetery with military honors.

Capt. Call was well known in Cairo and in this end of the state. He served three or four years in the Union Army. He was Captain of Co. B, 29th Regt. Ills. Vols., and was honorably discharged May 15th, 1865. Lee had surrendered and the fighting was practically over. His first wife was a daughter of Mr. Young D. Garner, of Thebes, in this county. After her death he married again. He lived at Ullin many years, where he was engaged in getting logs for Bell's sawmill. Afterwards he came to Cairo and served several years on our police force. His last wife died there. After he resigned his position as a policeman he again engaged in the timber business for some of our lumber establishments. But his health failed and he finally went to the Soldiers' Home at Quincy to spend his last days. He was an honorable man and a good citizen. His death will cause a pang of regret in many friendly hearts. He has been finally mustered out and entered into his last long rest.

Died, Wednesday, Feb. 3rd, at the home of his son, Daniel Richie, David Richie, aged eighty-five years. Mr. Richie was born in Rowan Co., North Carolina, and came to this county about sixty years ago and entered his present homestead from the government. He was a lifelong Republican and cast his first ballot for William Henry Harrison in 1840. He had always been a strictly temperate man in all is habits, a law abiding citizen, and practiced true Christianity in all his dealings with his fellow man, and as the grave closes over his remains no man can say aught against him. He leaves a son, Daniel Richie, and a daughter, Mrs. Mary Kesler, both of whom have reared families and are among our best citizens. The remains were laid to rest in the cemetery at Mt. Pisgah. The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Metzler, of the Lutheran church, of which the deceased had been a worthy member.

(His marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  David L. Richey Died Feb. 3, 1897 Aged 86 Yrs., 2 Mos., & 3 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Edie had the misfortune to lose their twin babies last Friday. They both died suddenly.
 
The will of Mrs. Jessie Davis, whose mysterious death we chronicled some days ago, was probated in the county court yesterday. She leaves $800 in personal property and several houses and lots all to Thomas Sanders, who was living with her when she died.

 

Thursday, 18 Feb 1897:
Hiram Whirlow, who lived three miles southeast of Ullin, died Monday night.

(Hiram R. Whirlow married Caroline A. Billingsly on 14 Oct 1880, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The late Mrs. Thomas Price devised her land in this county (Pulaski County) to her daughters, Mrs. George Williams and Mrs. Eli Gray, of Ullin.  M. L. Winstead was named in the will as executor.  The other heirs will probably contest.
 
Frances Dunning, wife of James Dunning, died last Friday morning at 9 o'clock. She leaves husband and two small children to mourn after her.  Her mother Mrs. J. L. Durham, of Marion, came down Saturday to attend the funeral, which was held Sunday at Hulen Cemetery.  (Sandusky)

CRABTREE ON TRIAL.

Coffee Crabtree Case in the Alexander Circuit Court.

Jury Hearing the Facts in Regard to the Killing of Dr. Isaac N. Coffee on July 26 Last.

            The case of the People vs. Green P. Crabtree, for manslaughter, came up for trial in the Alexander County Circuit Court Tuesday morning, before Judge Joseph P. Robarts.

            Judge F. M. Youngblood, of Carbondale, was present to assist State’s Attorney William  N. Butler.  In attendance also were Col. William Coffee, of Blandville, and Judge Z. Q. Bugg, of Wickliffe, Ky.

            The counsel for Mr. Crabtree were Messrs. Lansden and Leek, Davis S. Lansden, Judge William H. Green and Senator Reed Green, while Attorney John McNeemer, of Little Rock, stepbrother of defendant, was in consultation with them.

            A special venire of one hundred had been issued and brought in a large number of people from the county, as it was not thought for a moment that a good jury be secured in Cairo.  The work of securing the jury was pushed rapidly and by noon Tuesday, eight were secured, while the remaining four were obtained by 5:30 p.m.  The following is the panel.

            Eli Chism, Goose Island; James Lovell, East Cape; Charles Middleton, Elco; Milton Butcher, Thebes, Monroe McCrite, Sandusky; Louis H. Vick, Elco; W. F. Sims, Elco; Henry Jordan, Elco; Charles Twinam, Sandusky; Benjamin Lifer, Sandusky; Charles Hulen, Sandusky; R. W. McCrite, Elco.

            Tuesday evening State’s Attorney Butler made the opening statement while Hon. Reed Green made the statement for the defense Wednesday morning.  The prosecution then presented their witnesses, calling Dr. Clark, Dr. Gordon, McWade, Cox, Sandstrum, Richard Fitzgerald and Murdock whose statements were substantially as given before the coroner’s jury and fully reported in The Citizen at that time.

            The prosecutor then presented George W. Moore, who, as deputy sheriff, had Crabtree in charge for sixteen days after the homicide.  He stated that Crabtree made a statement to him on the night of July 27^th as follows:  Crabtree worked for Coffee from 1889 to 1893, when he resigned and went to Chicago.  Learned there that Coffee was going to move his drug store.  Wrote back and secured old stand and went to St. Louis and bought stock.  Coffee tried to persuade him not to go into drug business.  Coffee told him he would pay all expenses he had incurred.  On the night of the killing, he heard the remark Coffee made, jumped up, jerked out his dagger and started toward Coffee, and when he got near Coffee, he stabbed him twice.  When he did this he found that the scabbard would not come off when he struck him and he stepped back and jerked it out and then stuck the knife into him.  Every time Coffee would strike at him with his right hand he would dodge him and stick the knife into him, and when Coffee struck at him with his left hand, he would stick the knife in him.

            Prosecution then rested its case and defense presented their witnesses.  They showed by a large number of witnesses that Coffee felt very bitterly toward Crabtree; that he had on very many occasions applied to him a vile epithet and had made threatening remarks about defendant; that Coffee was a powerful man in splendid physical condition and Crabtree was no match for him; that Crabtree had always borne a good reputation as a quiet, peaceable man.

            The forenoon, the defendant, Green P. Crabtree was put on the stand.  He stated he left Coffee’s employ in April ’93 and went to Chicago.  Wanted to buy drug store and tried to get Bross’ drug store here, but it cost too much; before he went to Chicago, Coffee told him of his intention of moving and he, Crabtree, advised him not to.  Found nothing desirable in Chicago and got a letter from Dr. Rendleman here telling him of Coffee’s removal.  Came back and opened store in Coffee’s old stand in August, 1893.  Was warned by different parties how Coffee felt toward him and avoided him.  Did not pass his store, but crossed the street to avoid an encounter.  Told how on the night in question he went riding with a young lady.  Had dirk in pocket.  Never carried it for Dr. Coffee.  Had no thought of Dr. Coffee at any time when he got the dirk or had it lying on his desk.  After coming in from drive, he closed up is day’s business and went out in front to smoke and cool off.  Saw Coffee and Gordon approaching.  Defendant spoke to Gordon pleasantly and Gordon replied; when Coffee and Gordon had got past, former turned, looking at store and said:  “The ___ __ _ _____ is open yet.”  Defendant said he did not allow anyone to call him that name and arose to his feet, starting toward his store.  Coffee turned and rushed at him, striking him; struck him in eye; defendant tried to ward off blows with his hands; thinks he drew the knife after they had got off the sidewalk; tried to protect himself by slashing at Coffee; then fell to the ground; thinks he was knocked down by blow; Coffee was on top of him, choking him with left hand; defendant then thought he must protect his life and he stabbed Coffee twice; did not remember when he cut him in the back.

            This was the principal part of his testimony, except he denied point blank having any conversation with Moore or anyone else about the difficulty, as his lawyers warned him not to.  Cross-examination did not change his testimony any.

            At eleven o’clock this forenoon the defense closed its evidence and the arguments were begun.

Death of Capt. Howe

            Capt. J. W. Howe died at his home on Sixth Street shortly after midnight last Thursday night.  He had been in poor health for a longtime.  Deceased for many years was a conductor on the Iron Mountain road and was well known in railroad circles.  He was 63 years old.  Funeral services were held at the family residence Saturday afternoon, conducted by Revs. Phillips and Hoster.

Thursday, 25 Feb 1897:
Crabtree Acquitted.

The Crabtree case went to the jury at ten o'clock last Thursday night, and at 1:30 a.m. Friday morning they returned a verdict of "not guilty."  They were a unit for acquittal from the start, but took time to thoroughly review the case before returning their verdict.  A number of Mr. Crabtree's friends remained around the courthouse until the decision was announced.  Judge Robarts had gone home and retired for the night, but he was sent for and brought to the courthouse, where he received the verdict.  Quite a demonstration followed the reading of the verdict and Mr. Crabtree was picked up and carried around the courtroom by one of his colored friends who could not control his happiness over the outcome of the trial.
 
Drank Chloroform and Died.

Fayette Stockton, an inspector for the Southeastern Weighting and Inspection Bureau at this point, drank three ounces of chloroform Saturday morning with suicidal intent and died at 9:15 o'clock that night.  Deceased had been drinking heavily for several days.  He was about thirty-five years of age and had been in Cairo three years.  Two of his brothers live in St. Louis, one of them being agent for the Trades Dispatch Company.  Deceased was a nephew of Commander C. H. Stockton, of the U.S. Gunboat Yorktown and also a nephew of Oscar Pepper, the well-known Kentucky distiller.
 
Death of Robert Crawford.

Robert Crawford, son of Judge Crawford, of Jonesboro, died at St. Mary's Infirmary, in this city, at 2:45 a.m. yesterday.  Deceased was in his thirty-third year.  He had been under treatment at the hospital for nearly eight months, his illness and death being due to paralysis.  The remains were taken to Jonesboro last evening.

(His marker in Jonesboro Cemetery reads:  Robert N. Crawford 1864-1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
DEATH OF AN OLD CITIZEN.
Henry C. Loflin Passed Away Last Sunday Afternoon.

Henry C. Loflin died at about 1:45 p.m. last Sunday afternoon.  Deceased had been ill for a long time and for several weeks prior to his death had been confined to his home nearly all the time, being able only to occasionally ride out.  His affliction seemed to be a complication of kidney, heart and lung troubles.  As late as Wednesday of last week he went out for a drive, but he was taken worse after it and although he rallied, it soon became apparent he could not last long.

Mr. Loflin was born in Havre de Grace, Hartford County, Maryland, on March 31, 1832.  He came to Cairo on October 11, 1854, but returned East and was married to Mrs. Mary A. Slocum in New York on Oct. 11, 1857.  He came to Cairo to reside permanently on May 3rd of the following year.  In the early days of his residence here he found employment at the carpenter’s trade, but in 1870 he bought the newsstand in the old post office at the corner of Sixth and Commercial.  He has followed this business ever since, and for the past fifteen years has occupied his present location, where he also keeps a bookstore.

Mr. Loflin accumulated some property.  He owned several houses in different parts of the city, including his handsome new residence at the corner of Sixteenth and Washington.  He also carried life insurance to the amount of $11,000.  He leaves a widow, two daughters, Misses Nellie and Maud Loflin, a son, William Loflin, who resides in Texas, and a stepdaughter, Mrs. W. F. McKee.

Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church, of which Mr. Loflin was a member, Tuesday afternoon conducted by the pastor, Rev. Phillips.  The Alexander Lodge I. O. O. F. with which he was so actively connected for so many years, and the Daughters of Rebekah, attended in a body and officiated at the cemetery.  The remains were taken to Villa Ridge cemetery by special train.

Mr. Loflin was known by nearly every resident of Cairo.  He was a quiet, unassuming man, an active worker and a valuable citizen of the community.  His familiar figure will be greatly missed upon the streets of Cairo, where he was daily seen for so many years.

During the last days of his life he professed religion and joined the Presbyterian church.  He was conscious to the last and his end was peaceful and happy.

(Walter F. McKee married Mary L. Slocum on 24 Sep 1872, in Alexander Co., Ill.  A marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Henry C. Loflin Born Mar. 31, 1832 Died Feb. 21, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The trial of Green P. Crabtree last week for killing Dr. Isaac N. Coffee revived in the minds of all Cairoites the incidents of the terrible tragedy which occurred last July.  It was a deplorable affair viewed from any standpoint.  We regret counsel for defense thought it necessary to bring out so much testimony, which tended to smirch the character of the deceased.  There is an old Latin expression:  Nil de Mortuis nisi bonum (Concerning the dead naught should be said save that which is good.)  Dr. Coffee was one of the first citizens of Cairo.  A thorough gentleman, he was a true friend and an open enemy.  There was nothing of the coward or the sneak in his makeup.  He was frank, too outspoken for his own good.  He had his faults and they led to his untimely end, but let us forget them and remember only his true, noble qualities.  He was president of the Illinois State Board of Pharmacy to which position he was appointed by Gov. Fifer.  He stood very high among the pharmacists of the state.  Among all the young men of Western Kentucky, none stood higher than Isaac N. Coffee.  His father, Col. William M. Coffee, has been one of the prominent men of Western Kentucky for the past forty years.  He was a member of the Kentucky legislature for three successive terms and was a colonel in the Confederate Army during the war.  The widow of Isaac N. Coffee is a daughter of Hon. Z. W. Bugg, of Wickliffe.  She is left with two young children.  We hope that the friends of Green P. Crabtree will remember the sorrow and desolation which have been brought to the home of Mrs. Coffee and will find time to say a word of sympathy to her.
 

Thursday, 4 Mar 1897:
KIRBY KEPT HIS WORD.
Took His Life to Keep from Going to the Penitentiary.

Elijah Kirby hung himself in the county jail about one o'clock Monday morning.  He took his life to escape another term in the penitentiary.

Kirby was tried for rape last week in the circuit court and was found guilty and sentenced to a term in the Chester Penitentiary.  The terrible crime was committed upon the person of his little daughter, Hazel.
Some years ago Kirby killed his brother-in-law and was sent up for life.  Gov. Altgeld commuted his term to eighteen years, and by good behavior got out after a confinement of ten years and a half.  He came here to live and got into this other trouble.  Kirby claimed his wife and daughter conspired to get rid of him, so led him to commit this last crime.

He stated all along he would not go to the penitentiary and so Sheriff Miller kept him with the other prisoners, fearing he would end his life if he left along.  With one prisoner sleeping within four feet of him and others near, Kirby took the rope, which supported his hammock, and tying it to the roof of the cell, bent down until the weight of his body tightened the rope and with his feet on the ground slowly choked to death.  When the prisoners saw him they set up a cry and the jailer came but he was dead.
Kirby had been told he would be taken to Chester Monday.  He was 56 years old.

(A notice in the same issue gives his name as Elisha Kirby.  Elisha Kirby married Mrs. Mary Cody on 2 Mar 1865, in Union Co., Ill.  Elisha Kirby married Rachel Jenkins on 13 May 1869, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
As the relatives of Elisha Kirby made no answer to the announcement that he had committed suicide, the body was interred at the cemetery on the county farm at the expense of the county.
 
Jacob Verble was called to the bedside of his sick daughter, Mrs. George Earnhart, last Sunday in Johnson County.
 

Thursday, 11 Mar 1897:
Judge Baker's Brother Dead.

Hon. Henry S. Baker, a brother of Judge David J. Baker, died at his home in Alton last Friday.  He was a lawyer by profession, and had served in the legislature and as judge of the Alton city court.  He was in his seventy-third year.
 
A negro tenement house situated near the corner of Douglas and Cedar streets was blown over and caught fire from a stove.  The inmates made a hurried exit through windows and doors and about half a dozen were injured by the falling timbers or the burning flames.  A little three-month-old colored girl of Caesar Pettis was caught by timbers and could not be rescued.  Her father went after her, but nearly strangled by smoke, and unable to extricate her, he was forced to escape himself.  The body was afterward found and it is believed the child was killed by something falling and not by the flames.

(Caesar Pettis married Martha Ryals on 21 Jan 1895, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
WRECK AT EAST CAIRO.
Illinois Central Passenger Runs into a Freight.—Fireman Killed.

The New Orleans and St. Louis vestibuled train No. 24, on the Illinois Central ran into a freight train at East Cairo early yesterday morning, wrecking the passenger engine No. 949 and several freight cars, knocking down the station house and killing the fireman on the passenger train, Walter Rogers.
The freight had just passed over the bridge and was taking a siding when the wreck occurred.  The passenger train is due her at 1:50 a.m.  Engineer Thomas Tate says he was given the "board" and so went ahead.  The operator states this is not so.  The passenger engine struck the freight a short distance back from the engine. It overturned and the engineer jumped and was uninjured.  Rogers, the colored fireman, was caught between the engine and the tender and fatally injured.  He was brought over to Cairo, but died before he reached here.  His home was at Jackson, Tenn.  The operator was injured in the fall of the station house.  Four or five freight cars were wrecked and the mail car on the passenger train was uninjured.  The track was torn up and traffic was delayed several hours.  Train No. 4, usually runs ahead of No. 24, but was late and came close behind. It and No. 24 were brought over on the Mobile & Ohio.
 
Judge Levi Davis, one of the oldest lawyers in the state died at Alton last week, a t the age of eighty-nine.  He had been auditor of public accounts twice the first time when the state capital was at Vandalia.  He was a veteran in the Black Hawk War and was contemporary with Lincoln and Douglas before the state bar,
 
Central Must Pay Cosby $5,000.

The appellate court of Mount Vernon handed down several opinions last week, which are of local interest.

The case of Illinois central vs. Cosby, administrator; appeal from Alexander, was affirmed.  This is a suit brought to recover $5,000 damages for the death of Robert F. Craiglow.  The suit was won in the circuit court and the railroad company appealed.  W. N. Butler represented the appellee.
 

Thursday, 18 Mar 1897:
Sol Leonard, an aged colored man, was drowned in the sipe water at his home near Seventeenth and Washington Monday afternoon.  He was subject to epileptic fits and it is supposed he had one when he fell into the water.  His wife found him lying in the water and quite dead.
 
Accidentally Killed While Hunting.

Edward and James McCarthy, living near the south end of the Cache Bridge, were hunting in the drainage district Tuesday when the latter was accidentally shot in the right temple and instantly killed.  They had rested their guns on a stump, and Edward picked his gun up when it went off, and James fell to the ground.  The little fellow was only ten years old.  He attended school in Cairo last year, walking to and from his house, a distance of four miles.
 
Mr. J. C. Lentz received a telegram last Tuesday stating that his daughter, Mrs. Frank Meisenheimer, of Ava, Ill., had shot herself through the heart and died instantly.  We have not been able to learn the particulars and do not know whether the shooting was done accidentally or not.  (Dongola.)

(Frank W. Misenheimer married Malinda E. Lentz on 14 Sep 1886, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery reads:  Mina Meisenheimer 1866-1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 25 Mar 1897:
Bryan McNiff, an old resident of Cairo, died Monday night at St. Mary's Infirmary.  For many years he has conducted a second hand clothing establishment, formerly on Ohio Levee, but later at the corner of Fourth and Commercial.  He was 66 years old.

(His name was Bernard McNiff.  He married Fannie L. Frost on1 Nov 1863, in Alexander Co., Ill.  His marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Bernard McNiff Born Ruthdranan, Ireland in November 1838 Died Mar. 22, 1897, Aged 58 Years.—Darrel Dexter)
 
A Former Cairoite Becomes a Centenarian.

Jarius C. Mears, who became a centenarian yesterday, celebrated the event last night at the residence of Col. Daniel Munn at LaGrange, says the Chicago Record.  Notwithstanding his age, Mr. Mears retains all his faculties, and only the last few months has he shown much physical weakness.  Reading constantly, he keeps himself informed on current topics and is still interested in political affairs, having voted at the last presidential election.  Jarius C. Mears was born in Newton Falls, Vt., March 22, 1797.  He came to Chicago in 1835; then moved to Rockford.  He was made postmaster at Hillsboro by President Lincoln.  For many years he was postmaster at La Grange.
 
George W. Martin died at his home three miles northeast of Dongola last Thursday morning, March 18.  He was about forty years old.  Mr. Martin had been in rather poor health for some time.  He leaves a wife and two small children and a host of friends to mourn his loss.  The remains were interred in the West Eden Cemetery Friday.
 
The remains of Mrs. Mina Meisenheimer who committed suicide by shooting herself at her home in Ava, Ill., Tuesday, March 16, were brought here and interred in the Odd Fellows Cemetery last Thursday.  She was thirty years of age.  She leaves a husband, Mr. F. W. Meisenheimer and a little son, Grover, 10 years old.  The bereaved relatives have the sympathy of the entire community.
 
Joseph Jones committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor last Sunday night at the Henry Felker farm, about six miles east of Dongola.  The coroner was notified and an inquest was held, a verdict being rendered in accordance with the above.  Mr. Jones was a well-to-do farmer living on the Belknap road in Johnson County.  He leaves a wife and one daughter.  He was about forty years of age and was said to be mentally unbalanced at times.  This fact is supposed to be the cause of the suicide.  The remains were interred in the West Eden Cemetery Tuesday.
 
Edward Worthington was the last among the list of the dead.  We have lost a great many people here (Sandusky) this season.

(Edward Worthington married Eulalie Martin on 2 Apr 1887, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 1 Apr 1897:
The trial of William Johnson for murder is in progress today.
 
Father Mears Dead.

The Citizen only last week published an account of the 100th birthday anniversary of Father Mears, the father of Col. D. W. Munn, who once lived in Cairo.  The papers yesterday announced his death the following being from the Chicago Times-Herald:

"After a life extending eight days beyond a century, Jarius C. Mears died yesterday morning at the home of his son-in-law, Daniel Munn, in Lagrange.  From the time he attended his 100th birthday he had not been well an hour.  He suffered from cancer of the lip in addition to natural feebleness.  The deceased was born at New Falls, Vt., March 22, 1797.  He was a lad of 15 at the time of the Battle of Champlain and witnessed the event.  He spent the great part of his life in Illinois.  He was appointed postmaster at Hillsboro by President Lincoln and for many years was the postmaster at Lagrange.  In 1822 he married Amelia Cook, who was born in his native town.  By her he had three children, two of whom, Emma and Persus, reached maturity.  The former married Captain B. M. Munn, the latter Colonel Daniel Munn.  The centenarian generally had good health and enjoyed the possession of his faculties until within a short time of his death.  He voted at the November election.  Funeral services will be held this morning at 11 o'clock form the residence of Colonel Munn in Lagrange."
 
Thomas Patterson, a young man of good family and excellent reputation, committed suicide by shooting himself through the head last week at Stringtown.  He was aged twenty-four years and disappointment in love caused the tragedy.  (Wetaug)
 
John M. Manning, a farmer residing one mile west of Balcom, was struck and knocked off the track and instantly killed by a southbound freight last Saturday, between Balcom and Anna.  Mr. Manning was walking down the railroad from Anna to Balcom and met a north bound train and stepped over on the other track to get out of the way of the train, and it sis supposed the noise of the northbound train drowned the noise of the southbound train so that he did not notice it until it struck him.  Mr. Manning was a well-to-do farmer and was about 47 years old.  He leaves a daughter one sister and four brothers to mourn his loss.  The remains were interred in the Anna Cemetery Sunday, March 28.

(John M. Manning married Mary Westover on 20 Dec 1874, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  John M. Manning Born May 4, 1850 Died March 27, 1897.  Father.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 8 Apr 1897:
Death of E. J. Cotter.

E. J. Cotter, of the firm Cotter Brothers & Co., wholesale produce dealers, died last Friday night, of consumption.  He was formerly connected with the New York Store, but four years ago started in business with his brothers on Ohio Levee. For two years he has sought only to restore his health, spending much of the time in San Antonio, Texas, He was thirty-seven years of age and spent all his life in Cairo.  He leaves a widow and one child.

(His marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Edward J. Cotter Born Aug. 28, 1860 Died April 2, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Death Robs the Gallows.

Joe Albright, one of the Mississippi County, Mo., desperadoes, who killed Isaac Large at Bertrand last October, died in the jail at St. Louis Saturday afternoon.  He was only 18 years old.  their case comes up this week at Charleston.  After the killing of Large, Joe Albright was arrested, but his brother, Jim, remained at large.  State's Attorney George Elliott attempted to arrest him and was killed.  This incensed the people so deeply that when Jim was caught, both brothers were hurried to St. Louis for fear of mob violence.
 
James T. Moreland, under indictment for killing Lynn Minton, editor of the Anna Talk, was acquitted by the jury in the circuit court at Jonesboro.  The jury was out four hours.  Minton was struck over the head on Dec. 13, 1895, and died on January 11, 1896.
 

Thursday, 15 Apr 1897:
Two Distressing Accidents.

A little three-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Woodruff, living on lower Washington was drowned in the sipe water Monday evening about six o'clock.  He fell into the water in the back yard when no one was around, and when he was afterwards missed, the place was dragged and the body recovered.

Tuesday forenoon, the little child of Louis Wilmot, living on Sycamore Street, was also drowned in a similar manner.  He was about three years old.

(Lewis Wilmot, Jr., married Minnie Dick on 9 Dec 188, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The body of engineer Joseph Forester who was drowned in the Grand Tower bridge disaster on March 22, was recovered last week.  It is supposed it was held down by the engine and floated to the surface, where it was raised last Thursday. The body of Fireman Anderson was also recovered this week.
 
Mrs. Sarah A. Bourland, a widow lady living two miles west of town, died Friday, of consumption.  She was aged 56 years.  She was an old resident here and a very estimable woman.

(Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Sarah A. Bourland Born Mar. 19, 1840 Died April 9, 1897 Aged 57 Yrs. & 20 Ds.  Our Mother.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Walter Whitlock is reported very low with some disease of the spine.  (Willard)
 
We learn that Mrs. I. N. Coffee has lost her reason.  Her terrible affliction was more than her mind could endure.  Her many friends here will hope to see her restored.
 

 

Thursday, 29 Apr 1897:
Lindsey Jones Now Free.
Reversed by the Supreme Court, State’s Attorney Butler Will Nolle His case.

Lindsey Jones has bidden farewell to Chester.  Sheriff Sidney B. Miller brought him down from the penitentiary last Friday night and his brother signed his recognizance, so he is now at liberty.  The Illinois Supreme Court recently reversed and remanded the case for a new trial, on the ground that the evidence was not sufficient to convict him. State's Attorney Butler will not prosecute the case further.  He will enter a nolle.

It will be remembered that Lindsey Jones was sentenced to a term of fourteen years in the penitentiary as an accessory in the murder of John Goskie, on June 24, 1895.  His father, French Jones, committed the crime and received a life sentence, but it was short in his case, as he died within a year after his incarceration.  Lindsey served about a year and a half.
 
Joseph Roneker.

Joseph Roneker, the baker, died last Thursday evening, of congestion of the liver, after a brief illness. He was about sixty years of age and had lived in Cairo a great many years.
 
MORTUARY.
Col. George W. M'Keaig.

Col. George W. McKeaig died at his home, No. 410 Washington Avenue, last Friday afternoon.  He had been sinking rapidly for several days, and his end was not unexpected.  Heart trouble complicated with other affections, growing out of the wounds he received during the war, caused his death.  Funeral services were held at the family residence Sunday afternoon, conducted buy Rev. C. T. Phillips, and the remains were taken to Beech Grove Cemetery for interment, followed by the Warren Stewart Post. G. A. R.

Col. George McKeaig was born May 20, 1824, in Jefferson County, Kentucky.  He was educated at Hanover, Ind., and studied law at Harvard and Bloomington, Ill.  He served in the Mexican War as a member of Company E, Capt. Godfrey Pope, First Kentucky Volunteers, Col. Ormsby.  He settled at Shawneetown and commenced the practice of law and was appointed postmaster, holding the position eight years.  Following that he held the position of Surveyor of Customs when the Civil War broke out.  In October, 1862, he was mustered into the United States service as colonel of the 120th Illinois, and served three year, at one time commanding the brigade.  At Ripley, Tenn., while in the act of giving a command with his sword arm extended, a shot struck his arm, and glancing entered his breast, and he suffered from these wounds the remainder of his life.  The command he was in was very active and he participated in many battles and skirmishes.  On Thanksgiving Day, 1866, he removed to Cairo and resumed the practice of law in the firm of Olney, McKeaig & Lansden.  This continued but a brief time, when Col. McKeaig was appointed postmaster by President Grant, and held the office during both his terms, that of Hayes and half of Garfield and Arthur's, or about fourteen years in all.  Since his retirement from this position, he has lived quietly and has had no active employment.  On May 19, 1852, he was married to Miss Loru A. Posey, by Rev. Spillman.  He leaves a widow and two married daughters, Mrs. L. E. Mueller and Mrs. E. E. Cox. 

(George W. McKeaig married Loru Ann Posey on 19 Oct 1852, in Gallatin Co., Ill.  Joseph Edward Mueller married Loru Elizabeth McKeaig on 1 Feb 1880, in Alexander Co., Ill.  E. Ellis Cox married Mamie B. McKeaig on 8 Sep 1890, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Death has made heavy inroads upon men of local fame in this section during the past week. Since our last issue, four men known in public life in Southern Illinois have been stricken down.  Here in Cairo, Col. George W. McKeaig, formerly postmaster for a number of years, was taken away.  At Jonesboro, T. F. Bouton, editor of the Jonesboro Gazette, was stricken with paralysis and died last Friday night.  He was 65 years of age and had conducted his paper ever since the war.  Another prominent Democrat who died last week, also from a stroke of paralysis, was Hon. T. T. Robinson, of Pomona.  He was the Democratic candidate for Congress from this district about ten years ago. The fourth of this quartette was Judge E. D. Trover, of Mound City, who died Sunday morning.  He was 70 years of age.  He made his home in Cairo at the close of the war.

            (A marker in Joneboro Cemetery reads:  Thomas F. Bouton 1831-1897.  Thomas Theodore Robinson married Mary Ann Gregory on 2 Oct 1859, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 6 May 1897:
John Sackberger.

Mr. John Sackberger died at his home in this city Monday morning after suffering for a few weeks with rheumatism. He died from rheumatism of the heart.  He was 67 years of age and had lived in Cairo since 1858.  He leaves a widow and four grown children.  For many years he kept a hotel on the Ohio Levee just above Eighth Street.  For several years past he has kept a railroad boarding house at East Cairo.  A few months ago he moved back to this city and lived on Twentieth Street, where he died.  He was a man of kind disposition, friendly to everybody.  He was a good citizen and all old citizens of Cairo will feel a pang of regret as they learn of his death.
 
George W. Hendricks.

Mr. George W. Hendricks, another old citizen of Cairo, died at the home of his married daughter in St. Louis at the hour of 12:30 Sunday morning, May 2^nd.  He was born in Springfield, Ohio, Nov. 1^st, 1825, and was consequently in his 72nd year.  Mr. Hendricks came to Cairo in 1862 and has lived here almost continuously since that time until within the past year or two.  His wife died in 1862.  He has spent some time with his daughter in St. Louis of late.  He was a carpenter and builder by trade and was an excellent mechanic. He has been a cripple for the past two or three years and had given up work.  Our city Attorney W. E. Hendricks is his son.  He was a good citizen and highly respected by all who knew him.  The remains were buried at Villa ridge Tuesday afternoon.
 
Mrs. Susan Wells Davis.

Mrs. Susan Wells Davis died at Mount Vernon in her eighty-ninth year.  She was born in Alabama, but had lived in Mount Vernon nearly seventy years.

(Clinton S. Davis married Susannah Wells on 4 Jul 1841, in Jefferson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Frank Spiller, of Stringtown, died of pneumonia last week.
 

Thursday, 13 May 1897:
A distressing accident occurred Saturday evening to the little ten-month-old baby boy of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hewitt, living on Douglas Street.  Their little girl, aged about eight, was carrying her little brother, when she slipped from her arms and fell to the floor, striking on his head.  His skull was fractured and he died instantly.

(Charles W. Hewitt married Nellie Mecham on 25 Jul 1881, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Five Years Over a Century.

Phoeba Stratton, colored aged 105, the mother of three children, the youngest of whom is 78, died in Murphysboro a few days ago.
 

Thursday, 20 May 1897:
Death of John Tyler.

John Tyler, janitor of the Lincoln School building, and one of the oldest colored citizens of Cairo, died suddenly last Sunday morning.  He had been on duty all the previous week at the schoolhouse and while he was not very well, nobody knew that he was seriously ill.  Hence his death was a great surprise.  He was however quite ill all day Saturday and called a physician, but no one thought him so near the end.  He leaves a widow and three children, one of them grown.  Mr. Tyler was born a slave in the State of Maryland, near Baltimore, sixty years ago.  When 15 years of age, he was sold and taken to Mississippi, where he lived until the outbreaks of the rebellion.

He enlisted in the navy and served until the close of the war, when he came to Cairo.  He has always been prominent among our colored citizens.  He was on our police force for several years.  He owned a comfortable little homestead and was a good citizen. The funeral occurred Tuesday afternoon at the A. M. E. church and was largely attended.  The Knights of Tabor, of which Mr. Tyler was a member, conducted the funeral and remains were buried at Villa Ridge.

(John Tyler married Margaret  Merywether on 4 Oct 1868, in Alexander Co., Ill.  His marker in Cairo City Cemetery reads:  John Tyler Born Mar. 6, 1837 Died May 16, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
A Jefferson County Pioneer.

Joseph C. Baldridge, aged 86, one of the pioneers of Jefferson County, died at his home in Grand Prairie, where he had lived since 1819.

(Joseph Baldridge married Polly M. West on 5 Apr 1838, in Jefferson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 27 May 1897:

KILLED AN OFFICER.

Negro Gambler Resisted Arrest by Constable Detrich.

But Was Himself Riddled with Bullets and Instantly Killed.—Over Twenty-five Shots Exchanged.—Constable Detrich Exonerated by Coroner's Jury.—Affair Occurred at Wetaug.

            WETAUG, Ill., May 26.—Friday morning Mr. Burnett, timekeeper for the St. Clair Construction Co., the quarry south of town, undertook to drive away some negro gamblers and crap shooters who always congregate around there every pay day to get the money that the working men have.  They refused to go and one of them drew a pistol of Mr. Burnett.  He then sent to Ullin for Constable Dug Detrich who came up and deputized Mr. Burnett.  Mr. Moore and a colored man to assist him in making the arrest.  They followed the negroes to Wetaug and found them lying in the shade of a tree near the depot. Detrich ordered them to throw up their hands, telling them that they were under arrest.  One of the number was known as "Bricky Bill," a desperado from Cairo, jerked out a Colts six shooter and opened fire on the constable.  One of the shots penetrated his bowels and he fell to his knees and emptied his pistol into the negro.  The deputies also opened fire.  The negroes on seeing their leader fall immediately took to their heels and during the excitement all escaped.  When the smoke cleared away the negro who first did the shooting was lying on the ground with two bullets through his heart and his brains oozing out from another fearful wound in the head.  He was also shot in several other places.  It is thought that some of the negroes who ran were also shot.  Over twenty-five shots were fired in the melee.  Constable Detrich was taken to the Cairo hospital and very little hopes are entertained of his recovery.  He is considered a brave and efficient officer.  The coroner’s jury exonerated him from blame.

            Constable Detrich died Tuesday at the hospital in Cairo and the remains were sent to his home at Ullin Wednesday for interment.  He leaves a wife and several children in, it is said, destitute circumstances.

            (A marker in Ullin Cemetery reads:  S. T. Diedrick 1860-1897.  Belle Diedrick 1868-1939.  Edward Diedrick 1889-1891.  Harry Diedrick 1887-1962.—Darrel Dexter) 

MRS. M'KEAIG FATALLY BURNED.

An Overturned Lamp Ignited Her Clothing and Caused Her Death Tuesday Morning.

            A most distressing accident occurred Monday evening, which resulted in the death, in a horrible manner, of Mrs. George W. McKeaig.  She was sitting at her home on lower Washington Avenue reading to her grandchildren, when one of the children accidentally pushed against the table and the lamp was overturned.  It broke and the oil flew in every direction.  Mr. McKeaig's clothing was instantly ablaze and the little children were in imminent danger, as one of them, Mrs. Cox's daughter, Winifred, had her clothing saturated with the oil, which fortunately failed to ignite. Mrs. Mueller rushed to their assistance, and succeeded after a hard fight, in subduing the flames but not until the former was quite severely burned about the hands and arms in the effort to save her mother.  A general fire alarm had been turned in during his time, but the crowd who rushed out to see where the fire was were not aware that Mrs. McKeaig's injuries were at all serious, and were shocked when they learned the terrible new the following morning.

            Physicians were hastily summoned for Mrs. McKeaig and Drs. Rendleman and Grinstead responded.  They found her very severely burned about the abdomen.  Everything was done to relieve her sufferings and to overcome, if possible, the shock to her nervous system, but she only lasted through the night and died about eight o'clock Tuesday morning.

            Mrs. McKeaig was in her 63rd year.  Her maiden name was Miss Loru A. Posey.  She was married to Col. McKeaig on May 19, 1852.  Her husband died only a month go.  She leaves two daughters, Mrs. Mueller and Mrs. Ellis E. Cox, and three grandchildren.

            Mrs. McKeiag was one of the oldest residents members of the Presbyterian church here, having joined by letter from Shawneetown Church on March 31st, 1866.  Hers was a lovely Christian character, and the awful manner of her death gave the whole town a decided shock.

            Funeral services were held this afternoon at the family residence, conducted by Rev. C. T. Phillips, and the remains were taken to Beech Grove Cemetery.

            (George W. McKeaig married Loru Ann Posey on 19 Oct 1852, in Gallatin Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Governor Tanner Pardons Scruggs.

            A dispatch from Springfield last Friday says:  Gov. Tanner has pardoned James Scruggs, who was serving a twenty year sentence in the Chester penitentiary on conviction as an accessory to the murder of William H. Napier, in Pulaski County in April 1893.  It was charged that he loaded the gun with which the murder was committed. Strong evidence is now presented that he had nothing to do with the loading of the gun.  His reputation, the governor finds, was good before his conviction, and his conduct in prison has been exemplary.

On Sunday afternoon, a fisherman found an infant babe (colored) lying on the riverbank dead.  As a result, Ed. Vaughn (colored) and a Mrs. Gardner (colored) have been placed in the county jail, charged with the murder of the child.  This is the second occurrence of this kind in Mound City.

Jennie Parks, the girl who came to Cairo last October dressed as a boy, having beaten her way from her home in Indiana, committed suicide at Poplar Bluff last Saturday night.  While in Cairo she was given employment by several ladies who interested themselves in her, but after a time, she drifted away and fell from grace.  Her death was the result of remorse at the life she was living.

Fell and Broke His Neck.

            Frank Heldmann, aged 12, son of Henry Heldmann, a farmer near Summerfield, St. Clair County, fell and broke his neck in attempting to get out of the way of a team of runaway horses.

Thursday, 3 Jun 1897:

The old lady Butler died in Pulaski at her daughter's, Mrs. W. A. Lewis, last Friday evening.  Funeral services were conducted Sunday at Villa Ridge, Rev. Flint officiating.  Mrs. Butler was quite old, in her 82^nd year.  She leaves three sons and three daughters and a number of grandchildren to mourn her loss. Interment at Villa Ridge.

            (A marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Peninah Butler Born Dec 1814 Died May 1897.  Mother.—Darrel Dexter)

Richard Palmer died May 28.  He was one of the oldest farmers in Alexander County.  He was born in Tennessee and came to this county with his parents about 1829 and has lived in Alexander County ever since.  His age is about 80 years, 2 months, and 9 days.  Everybody that new Uncle Dick as he was generally called liked the old gentleman. (Elco)

            (Richard Palmer married Irena Vaughn on 7 Aug 1841, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Grear, of Jonesboro, mother of Mr. Harry Grear, of Bross's drug store, died last Friday evening.  She received a stroke of paralysis last week Tuesday, which made her totally blind.  She was eighty years of age and she and her husband celebrated their golden wedding anniversary only a few weeks ago.

            (John Grear married Cindonia Meadows on 13 Apr 1847, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in Jonesboro Cemetery reads:  Andona wife of John Grear Born Dec. 26, 1828 Died May 28, 1897.

Thursday, 10 Jun 1897:

Green P. Garner, an old resident of this county (Pulaski), but who has been living in Chicago for several years, died Sunday, aged 81 years.  He was a brother of Mrs. James of this town (Wetaug).

The citizens of Saline County have formed an association to perpetuate the memory of John Rector, one of the earliest settlers in that section.  While engaged in making the original survey of the land in that part of Illinois, on May 25, 1805, he was killed by the Indians. Week before last, the ninety-second anniversary of his death, a party of Harrisburg and Eldorado people located his grave.  From old manuscripts on file with the county records the location of his grave was ascertained, and a survey was made to mark the exact spot.  The association will search for further records of the Rector family and compile them and also mark the grave with an appropriate monument.

We noticed in the Globe an account of the death of Gen. Green P. Garner, of Chicago, formerly a citizen of our village (Villa Ridge).

A SUNDAY TRAGEDY.

Negro Murderer Shoots an Officer to Escape Arrest, but Is Killed.

            A double tragedy created great excitement in the lower end of town Sunday morning.  Richard Caldwell, a Memphis negro, entered the house at No. 213 Fifth Street, and going up to a negro woman named Mary Jenkins, who was sitting in a chair, placed a pistol against her breast and fired, killing her instantly.  He then made his escape and hid under a lumber pile near the Mississippi levee, where he was found by Deputy Sheriff George W. Moore.  Moore commanded the negro to come out and he did so, at the same time firing twice at the officer.  The fire was promptly returned, and the negro ran a few steps and dropped dead.  One of the shots fired by the negro struck Moore in the left wrist and passing clear through, entered his coat and finally found a lodging place in the handkerchief in his pocket, over this left breast.  Had the shot not struck his wrist, it would undoubtedly have killed him.

            What prompted Caldwell's terrible deed is unknown.  The coroner’s jury promptly exonerated Moore from all blame as he acted only in self-defense.

Mrs. Will Gould died at her home in Toulon, Ill. last Thursday morning of consumption.  She had been gradually failing for a long time, and visits to Colorado and other points made no permanent improvement in her condition.  Her husband is widely known for his connection with his father in the nursery business of George Gould & Son at Villa Ridge.

Thursday, 17 Jun 1897:

Michael Galvin, an old citizen of Cairo, died last Saturday.  He was seventy-five years old and he resided here about forty years.  Dropsy was the cause of his death.

            (Michael Galvin married Mary Glewney on 1 Aug 1863, in Alexander Co., Ill.  His marker in Calvary Cemetery near Villa Ridge reads:  Michael Galvin Died 1897  Father.—Darrel Dexter)

A sad accident occurred Tuesday evening on the government light house tender Joseph Henry.  While at the bank just above Columbus, the second engineer, Win E. Barnes, while working upon the wheel, fell overboard and was drowned.  His body was not recovered.  He was only 21 years of age and his home was in Memphis.

Mrs. Theresa Arnold, wife of Charles Arnold, and one of the old citizens of Mound City, died Saturday and was buried at New Grand Chain on Monday.  Funeral services were held Monday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, conducted by Rev. William Van Delft.

            (This may be Therese Reichert, who married Charles Arnold on 5 Feb 1867, in St. Clair Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 24 Jun 1897:

M. E. Davis died of appendicitis at St. Louis after an operation had been performed.  The remains were brought here (Dongola) and interred in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery Sunday.  Mr. Davis was very popular and well-liked by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance.  He was employed as salesman for H. J. Neibauer at the time he was taken ill.  He was sick for about two weeks.  He leaves a wife and three children to mourn his loss.  Mr. Davis was comparatively a young man being in his 37th years.  The bereaved family has the heartfelt sympathy of the public generally in their sad loss.

            (Eli Michael Davis married Octavia Dillow on 2 Dec 1884, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in I. O. O. F. Cemetery reads:  Michael E. Davis Born Sept. 8, 1860 Died June 19, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)

Many of our young people will be pained to hear of the untimely death of Mr. Ollie McCool, of Pine Bluff, Ark.  Ollie was a former residence of this place (Villa Ridge) and often visited here after moving to Pine Bluff.  He was in San Antonio at the time of his death, where he had gone for his health.  His father, James McCool, died about a month ago.  Ollie is a nephew of Mrs. A. D. Butler, of this place.

Miss Ruth B. Bridges, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Bridges, of Carbondale, died at the home of her sister, Mrs. Malone, at Sikeston, Mo., last week Tuesday. She was 17 years of age.

            (John S. Bridges married Mary Julia Brush on 30 Aug 1866, in Jackson Co., Ill.  Elias J. Malone married Mary E. Bridges on 30 Jun 1890, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 1 Jul 1897:
Death of Frank Schoembs, Sr.

Frank Schoembs, Sr., died at his home, No. 526 Fifteenth Street, about nine o'clock last Sunday morning.  He had been in poor health for some time, rheumatism of the heart being followed by dropsy.  He rallied, however, and was out on the street a week before he died, but was taken worse and for several days his life hung in the balance.

Mr. Schoembs was born in Germany on Sept. 20, 1830.  He came to this county when a young man, and was married in 1856 at Henderson, Ky.  His widow survives him and six children, all of whom are married:  Mrs. Lena Raymond and Mrs. John Glenney, of St. Louis, Mrs. James Johnson, Mrs. John Cronan and George and Frank E. Schoembs.

Soon after he married Mr. Schoembs removed to Golconda, Ill., where he conducted a flourishing furniture business for a number of years.  Through misplaced confidence, he lost this business and he came to Cairo in 1873, since which time he has worked at his trade as a cabinetmaker.  When still a young man he patented the old style bed fastening, which was in universal use for many years.  He was not allowed to reap the benefit of his patent, however but was induced to sell it for a small consideration.  His inventive turn of mind showed itself later, when he worked upon the problem of perpetual motion.  While at Memphis a few years ago, he constructed a machine, which ran for three days and nights without stopping.  Mr. Schoembs was an honest, straightforward man and a good citizen.

Funeral services were held at the family residence Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Hursh, of the Lutheran Church, and the remains were interred at Villa Ridge.

(His marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Frank Schoembs Born Sept. 20, 1829 Died June 27, 1897.  Father.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Death of Prof. Baldwin's Grandfather.

A press dispatch from Naperville, Ill., last Friday says:  "Nathaniel Crampton, one of the earliest pioneers of Illinois, died here this morning after a prolonged illness.  Mr. Crampton was born in Guilford, Conn., in March 1814.  He came to Illinois with his father in 1836, locating at Naperville, where he resided until his death.  Mr. Crampton, although never an office seeker, has held numerous local political positions.  He was the grandfather of Evelyn B. Baldwin, the meteorologist of the Peary expedition to the North Pole and at present weather forecaster at Cairo, Ill."

Prof. Baldwin secured a six months furlough in order that he might spend the last days with his grandfather.  The old gentleman received a stroke of paralysis in the spring, which hastened his death.  He had been as a father to Mr. Baldwin.
 
The little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. S. Taylor, of St. Louis, died last Friday from the effects of some poison she had accidentally gotten possession of.  Mrs. Taylor was formerly Miss Daisy Ellis, and is a sister of Messrs. E. E. and C. M. Ellis.

(Luther S. Taylor married Daisy M. Ellis on 15 Apr 1891, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Monday, June 21, Mrs. Dillow, daughter of James Bracken.  (Thebes)
 
There was a shooting affray at Pulaski one day this week.  We are not in possession of the particulars, but it is understood that as many as 26 shots were exchanged, and that as a result at least one man is fatally injured.
 
Rev. John S. Whittenberg, a well-known citizen and M. E. minister, died very suddenly at his home, one and one-half miles north of Tunnel Hill on last Saturday, about noon, of heart failure.  He was buried by Masonic and I. O. O. F. rites on Sunday at 4 p.m. at Salem Cemetery near his home.  Deceased was the father of our county school superintendent Miss Sarah J. Whittenberg, and had served one or two terms as school commissioner of this county.

 

 
Thursday, 8 Jul 1897:
Murdered for Cycling with Another Woman.

The bicycle was the innocent cause of a murder Sunday morning.  It was a most deliberate and cold-blooded crime.  Mary King and Henry Clarke, both colored lived together on Seventeenth Street.  Henry went out bicycle riding with another woman and Mary was jealous and threatened to kill him.  She carried out her threat.  Going to the residence of Mr. George Parsons, where she was employed, she stole a pistol and returning she found Clarke asleep and taking aim at his head, she fired, the ball entering the left side and shattering the skull.  He lived until Monday night.  The woman admitted her guilt at the coroner' inquest, telling the whole story.  She is now in the county jail.
 
Victims of the Heat.

A Mobile & Ohio fireman named James Christie succumbed to the heat yesterday afternoon.  He came in off the road on the two o'clock passenger train from St. Louis and being overheated lay down in the shade at oil mill to cool off.  He died about four o'clock.  Deceased was unmarried and his home was in Murphysboro.  He was a Pythian and that organization is looking after his remains.

John Randolph, a colored man employed by Falconer, the undertaker, died from sunstroke about 1:30 o'clock this afternoon.  He was cleaning a hearse when he dropped dead.
 
DEATH OF MRS. PARSONS.
After a Long Illness She Expires at 4:10 This Morning.

Mrs. George Parsons died at 4:10 o'clock this morning.  While her death had been anticipated for some time, nevertheless, it came with a shock to her friends.  For two days she seemed brighter and some better and up to within an hours of her death, she seemed to be in usual condition.

For two years and a half she has been an invalid.  A severe attack of the grippe developed into consumption and since that time the battle has been to prolong her life.  Everything that could be thought of was applied to restore her health.  Since January 1st, 1896, she has had the constant attention of Dr. W. P. Malone and he was most faithful to his charge.  The winter of 1895-6, Mrs. Parsons spent at San Antonio, Texas, and the following winter she was taken to Italy.  But she did not improve on the shore of the Mediterranean; in fact, she had so severe a cold there that it was not thought she would ever return home alive, and Mr. Parsons went on to see her.  But she rallied and was brought to this country again, and spent the remainder of the winter at Pine Hurst, North Carolina.  Here it was realized both by herself and friends that her end was not far off, and her father and mother, Rev. and Mrs. J. A. Scarritt, joined her, and have been almost constantly with her since.  In March she was brought home.  Since then her strength has gradually failed.  She was able to go out for a drive or to sit out upon their lawn, but for a number of days even this was too great a tax upon her feeble strength.

Ada Virginia Scarritt was born at Edwardsville April 3, 1859.  She was the only daughter of Rev. and Mrs. J. A. Scarritt, and as her father was a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church, she was reared in the various parsonages in the conference of which her father was a member, but most of her youthful days were spent at Brighton, Ill.  Her education was completed at Monticello Seminary, Godfrey, Ill., where she graduated as a member of the class of 1879.  It was while she was living here with her parents, when her father was pastor of the M. E. church here, that she was married to Mr. George Parsons, on December 13, 1882.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. C. Nash, then presiding elder, but now of Jerseyville, and he will conduct the funeral service.  One child came to bless their home, a daughter, Blanche, who is now nine years of age.

Mrs. Parsons united with the Methodist church here in 1881 and has been a member ever since.  While her health permitted she was very active in church work, and used her rare musical talent freely for the benefit of her church, serving as organist for a long time.  In Cairo's social and literary circles she held a leading place and her circle of friends was very large.  In her domestic relations she had that faculty of not only fulfilling her duty as a daughter and a wife, but being a companion as well to her parents and husband.

Funeral services will be conducted at the house tomorrow (Friday) at one o'clock, by Rev. Nash, assisted by local pastors, and the remains will be taken to Chicago tomorrow night for interment.
 
Mr. G. H. Baker died at his home in Cobden Monday evening, June 28th, aged 85 years.  He had lived in Cobden forty years and was universally loved and respected.
 
Andrew Jaeger, a member of the Illinois State Bureau of Labor Statistics died Tuesday afternoon at his home in Carlton of consumption.  He was appointed a few months ago by Gov. Tanner, but had been unable to serve in consequence of ill health.
 
Dr. Joseph W. Renfro, one of the leading physicians of Harrisburg, Ill., died on June 25th, of paralysis of the brain.  Deceased was 53 years old and was a native of Johnson County.  He served in the Union Army during the war and then studied medicine, and for a time, was located at Thebes, in this county, where he married, in 1870, Miss Esther McElheney, who is his second wife.

(Joseph W. Renfro married Amanda J. Wood on 17 Aug 1862, in Massac Co., Ill.  He married Esther McElheney on 3 Aug 1870, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Judge C. L. Randle, of Hickman, Ky. died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in that city Monday morning.  He was about 60 years of age.  He was prominent as a lawyer and had been a circuit judge.
 
Prof. Pink Posey died on the 2nd of Bright's disease.  His funeral was conducted by Rev. E. Burtley at Cache Chapel on Saturday.  He was a member of the United Brethren Church at that place. Pink leaves a young widow and one child and host of friends to mourn his death.  (Friendship)
 
A. M. Lingle, Mrs. Lingle, Mrs. Bettie Posey, widow of the late Pink Posey, Mr. Robert Shafer and a host of friends met at the residence of H. J. and Mrs. Hudson of Friendship, to enjoy the Fourth of July.  Ice cream, lemonade and other luxuries of the present season to suit the hot weather were served.
 
Died, Friday, July the 2nd, of Bright's disease at his home five miles south of Wetaug, Pink Posey, aged about twenty-four years.  He was a young man of excellent promise and had many friends throughout the county.  He had been a music teacher for several years and before his death was working hard to qualify himself as a teacher in the public schools and was teaching a select school at Friendship when he was stricken down.  He leaves a young wife and an infant daughter.  The remains were interred Saturday at Cache Chapel Cemetery.

(Pink Posey married Susie E. Lingle on 12 May 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Cache Chapel Cemetery near Ullin reads:  Pink E. Posey Born Mar. 28, 1874 Died July 2, 1897.  Meet me in heaven.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Not Much of a Mover.

Garrett Baker, aged 85, one of the pioneers of Union County, locating there in 1857, died at Camden.  He had resided in one place for 40 years.

(He was from Cobden, instead of Camden.  A marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  S. M. wife of G. H. Baker daughter of M. Mitchell died Oct. 21, 1878, Aged 59 Years.  Garrett H. Baker, 69, married Mrs. Eliza Fulton Thing, 46, on 21 May 1881, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

 

 
Thursday, 15 Jul 1897:
TRAGEDY AT A COUNTRY DANCE.
Bob Irvin, of Thebes, and a Man Named Curtis Killed.

A double tragedy occurred at Price's Landing, Mo., twelve miles above Cairo last Thursday night, in which Bob Irvin and a man named Curtis were shot and instantly killed.

Irvin was running an engine for a threshing machine there.  Thursday night they gathered at Curtis' house for a dance.  As is usual at such gatherings, whiskey was too freely indulged and two of the guests became quarrelsome.  Curtis told Herbert Irvin, a nephew of Bob, to separate them.  This he proceeded to do, but evidently not to the satisfaction of Curtis for the latter drew his pistol and threatened Herb.  Herb offered to go outside and fight it out with Curtis and they both started when Bob Irvin said to Curtis:  "I'll bet five dollars you'll get whipped."  This angered Curtis and he drew his pistol and fired four shots, all of which struck Bob, mortally wounding him, and he died in three quarters of an hour.  A shot was then fired at Curtis, killing him instantly.  One witness claims Bob fired this shot just as he fell, but as no pistol was found on him, it is generally supposed it was fired by some other person.

Bob Irvin was a single man about 35 years of age, and lived at Thebes.  He was a brother of Mrs. Brown, wife of Jailer Alf. Brown and has frequently visited in this city.
 
Edward L. Baker, United States consul at Buenos Aires, and a brother of Judge David J. Baker, of Cairo, died at his South American station last Thursday from the effects of injuries received in a railroad accident on June 20th.  He was born in 1827 at Kaskaskia and was a member of the first class to graduate from Shurtleff College, Upper Alton, in 1847.  From Shurtlef he attended Harvard law school and took his degree and then returned to Alton and entered upon the practice of law, but soon abandoned that and became the editor of the Alton Telegraph.  In 1854 he went to Springfield as editor of the Journal, retaining his position there until 1874, when Gen. Grant sent him to Buenos Aires, where he has been since.  He expected to resign this summer and remove to Chicago to connect himself with one of the papers there.  Mr. Baker's family consists of his wife, his daughter, Miss Julia Baker, Willis D. Baker, a son, consul at Rosario, Argentine Republic, and another son, Edward Lewis Baker, who was for a number of years vice consul at Buenos Aires, but is now at Lincoln, Mo.
 
At Marion the jury in the case of Stephen Gill for the murder of Henry Rader, returned a verdict of guilty and fixed his term in the penitentiary for life.  His attorneys did not make the usual motion for a new trial, and the judge immediately passed sentence upon him and he was taken at once to Chester.  There is great dissatisfaction at the verdict and Gill's extreme youth alone saved his neck.
 
On July 7, Robert A. Martin departed this life, aged 54 years.  He had been a citizen of Belknap for about twenty years, having come here in 1876 and from then on taking an active part in the politics of the village and nation, filling several important positions for the town at various times, until about 8 or 10 years ago, when he was first taken with the affliction that ended so sadly in his untimely death.  Mr. Martin was a liberal and eloquent supporter of all church affairs, being a member of the M. E. church.  He suffered greatly for the last two years, but cheerfully gave up at last with the deep faith that all would "end well" for him "Across the River."  He leaves a wife, kin and a host of friends to mourn for him.  His wife is the youngest sister of French Axley, Cairo, and of the late Leander and Perry Axley.  He was appointed postmaster at Belknap under the Harrison Administration and held the office for some time, but his health failed so rapidly that he was compelled to resign long before the expiration of this term.  He was a man of the highest integrity, a gentleman without fear and without reproach.  Comrade Martin enlisted early in the war in Co. G, 11th Ills. Inft., and served until wounded at Donelson in '62 and coming home with the loss of one arm, a fitting tribute to patriotism.  The "Vets" are fast passing away, and we that know them now soon shall know them no more.

(Robert A. Martin married Laura Axley on 17 Nov 1872, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Ellen Sheehan died at her home on Holbrook Avenue last Friday night of complication of diseases, after a long illness.  She was about 62 years of age and was an old resident of Cairo, having located here with her husband, John Sheehan, in October 1858.  She leaves two children besides her husband, Mrs. M. J. Howley and M. J. Sheehan.  Funeral services were held in St. Joseph's Church Monday forenoon and the remains were interred at Villa Ridge.

(Michael Joseph Howley married Mary Ann Sheehan on 16 Jun 1872, in Alexander Co., Ill.  A marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Mrs. Ellen Sheehan Died July 9, 1897, Aged 62 Years.—Darrel Dexter)

 

 
Thursday, 22 Jul 1897:
The trial of Jim Albright for the murder of Prosecuting Attorney Elliott at Charleston, Mo., has been continued until the October term.
 
HOMICIDE AT VIENNA.
Samuel Wallace Shot and Killed by Buck Johnson.
Alleged Criminal Intimacy with Johnson's Daughter the Cause.—Coroner’s Jury Met in Secret Session, and Return Seated Verdict.—Johnson at Large.—Great Excitement Results from the Tragedy.

VIENNA, Ill., July 21.—Not since the killing of Eli Ballowe, about three years ago, has our city been thrown into such a state of excitement as it was last Friday night about 10 o'clock.  There is in East Vienna a house just south of the depot known as the section house, but circumstances point very strongly to it as a place of immorality.  It was at this place on the night of the 16th instant, Samuel Wallace, not yet 21 years of age, and Buck Johnson, our street inspector, met in company with other.  Liquor and women, it seems were the attractions that drew the crowd.  Wallace and Johnson had been pronounced enemies for a long time.  Johnson claiming that Wallace and his daughter, "Code" Johnson, were criminally intimate, and to make a long story short, the place and its surroundings seemed very favorable to them to make a final settlement of their differences.  A quarrel ensued, advances were made, three or four shots were discharged, Wallace fell, Johnson ran away; one bullet entered Wallace's cheek glancing slightly and entering the spinal column just below the neck.  A second bullet entered his left breast just above the heart severing the main artery, and poor young Wallace lay a corpse.  It is said that either of the shots would have proved fatal.  Immediately after the shooting, Johnson fled, and up to this writing is still at large.  A coroner's jury was impaneled Saturday morning, adjourned in the evening till 9 a.m. Monday.  They were again all day in session Monday, returning a sealed verdict late in the evening.  This was a sad affair indeed, and has excited the sympathy of the entire populace.  Both families are well connected.  Young Wallace was just entering manhood with a life buoyant with hope; and although given in a great degree to the ways of the world he had the wholesome counsel of a Christian mother and the advice of a fond father, but alas, he is dead!  May He who said, "I will have mercy upon whom I will have mercy," have mercy upon his soul.

Johnson, too, has many friend, was considered a good citizen, provided well for his family, but it is said he led an immoral life to some extent.  His daughter, Code, about whom the difficulty arose had strayed from the paths of virtue and was the mother of two children born out of wedlock.  Her father took the first child to raise, but she became so notorious that he drove her with her second child from his home, and she continued to revel in the haunts of wickedness. Although her father had abandoned her it seems that she still occupied considerable of his thoughts and he had warned Wallace against having any intimacy with her.  Upon the night of the fatal occurrence above narrated the girl was present, it seems, in company with Wallace and the dreadful difficulty ensued.  It is impossible to get a correct report of the killing.  The coroner’s jury met with closed doors with only the witnesses, some five or six allowed to be present, and they will not divulge anything outside.

Samuel Wallace's remains were followed to the cemetery last Sunday morning by a very large concourse of sorrowing friends and relatives.  Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Marlow of the Christian church, assisted by Rev. Ford, of the M. E. church.

Buck Johnson Surrenders.

A dispatch from Vienna to The Citizen says that Buck Johnson went into Vienna yesterday afternoon and gave himself up.  The preliminary trial occurred today.
 
W. W. McNeeley, an old soldier and respected citizen, died at Stout's Hotel in this city (Vienna) last Monday evening at five e o'clock.  He had been infirm for a long time and finally a severe spell set in and he rapidly gave away under it.
 
An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Rhymer died Friday of brain affection.  (Wetaug)

(Wesley J. Rhymer married Elvira M. Groner on 30 Aug 1894, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, July 19th, 1897, of blood poison, Mrs. Catherine Fisher, wife of Hal Fisher, age about 52 years.  Interment in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery.

(William H. Fisher married Catharine Cook on 7 Jun 1869, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Catharine wife of W. H. Fisher Died July 19, 1897 Aged 50 Yrs., 6 Ms., & 20 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)

 

 
Thursday, 29 Jul 1897:
An Interesting Relic.
[Murphysboro Independent]

Way back about 1852, John Queen, of Jackson County, died and his estate was administered by George Vancil, now deceased.  Among the personal effects of deceased was a two-dollar bank note on the Bank of Cairo at Kaskaskia, Illinois.  The note was of no value and was filed in the county clerk's office, where it has remained till Tuesday, when County Clerk Osburn turned it over to John W. Queen, of Makanda, son of the former owner.  The bill is perfectly legible in every detail, is printed on tough paper, used for bank bills now.  The engraving and printing is as perfect as that of the present.  The note is No. 8406 dated May 1,1840, signed by D. W. Baker, president, and F. Jones, cashier.  It was made payable to J. Hall or bearer.  On the reverse side of the bill is the county clerk's file mark, which reads:  "Filed May 3, 1852.  J. A. Logan, county clerk."  Mr. Queen was much pleased at receiving the note and says he would not part with it.
 
The lightning accompanying the storm of last Sunday evening was destructive to both life and property throughout the county.  A young man by the name of Simon Hester, aged 19 or twenty years, hired a horse from the livery stable of Dwyer & McCall, of this place (Vienna) Sunday morning and rode out to his uncle, James Rikard, residing west of town, and while returning in the evening the storm overtook him when about three miles from town and he stopped under a tree, dismounted, took off the saddle and sat down on a log, it appears, for the storm to cease.  Monday evening some parties in passing were attracted to the place by the signs of disfiguration of the tree by lightning and great must have been their surprise and consternation when the behold the young man lying in a kind of "crumped" posture and the horse close beside him, both dead.  Hester's left arm was badly fractured and his face and breast was burned by the current.  The circumstances showed unmistakenable evidence that lightning struck the tree and the young man and horse were instantly killed.
 
Died, at her home in Texas City, Ill., Friday, July 23rd, 1897,. at 5 o'clock p.m., Mrs. Helen B. Bain, aged 41 years, 2 months, and 29 days.  Her remains were brought to Vienna Saturday and funeral services were held from the residence of Mrs. Winnie Bain, Sunday, July 25th, conducted by Rev. J H. Ford, of the M. E. church, followed by interment at Casey Springs Cemetery.  Deceased was the wife of James P. Bain and the mother of five children, 2 girls and 3 boys, all of whom survive.  She was also the only sister of our fellow townsmen, Fred and John Burnett.  She had been residing with her family at Texas City for the last 19 years, Mr. Bain being a prosperous merchant of that place.  She was a most estimable lady and in her death her husband has sustained an irreparable loss, the little ones have lost a kind and affectionate mother and the community a most lovable type of true womanhood.  A large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends followed her remains to their last resting place and among these form abroad were Senator Walter Warder and family, of Cairo, and Judge O. A. Harker, and family of Carbondale.

(James P. Bain married Hellen Burnett on 24 Dec 1879, in Johnson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Buck Johnson gave himself up to the authorities last Wednesday and was admitted to bail Thursday afternoon in the sum of $7,000 to wait action of the courts for the killing of Samuel Wallace on the night of the 16th inst.  His bondsmen are:  Dud Scott, and son Will, T. B. Powell, Dan McCall, and Fedk Johnson.
 
Mrs. J. C. Wallace, an old lady at Stringtown, who had been sick for several moths, died last Thursday.  She was a sister of John Brown, of Mill Creek, and had other relatives at Anna.
 
George Haines, a colored boy living near Olmstead, this county, accidentally shot and instantly killed himself while playing with a revolver last Sunday.

 

 
Thursday, 5 Aug 1897:
MORTUARY.

Mrs. Pritchett, wife of J. H. Pritchett, of the American Express office, died last Friday morning after a short illness.  She left thee children.  Her remains were taken to Decatur for interment.

Mrs. Turner, wife of Mr. J. S. Turner, who recently moved with his family from Cairo to Chicago, died at the latter place last Saturday.

Dr. John Wright McKinney, father of Mrs. T. C. Clendenen, died at his home in Camargo, Ill., last Saturday morning.  Prof. and Mrs. Clendenen were present at his bedside during his last illness.  The doctor was 72 years old.

(Taylor C. Clendenen married Mary R. McKinney on 2 Sep 1879, in Douglas Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The many friends of Ed Sawyer were pained to hear the sad news of his death.  Ed had lived in our burg (Villa Ridge) for a number of years, but last spring it was discovered that he was suffering from a cancer in the mouth.  His sister came from Ohio and Ed accompanied her home and steadily grew worse until death ended his sufferings.  He was a prominent member of the K. P. lodge here and a nephew of Mrs. E. M. Titus.  The family and friends have the sympathy of the community in their bereavement.
 
Drowned While Bathing.

R. R. Barnett, a lawyer of McLeansboro, and James Cloyd, a farmer, went bathing in a pond a mile north of town.  Cloyd was drowned.

 

 
Thursday, 12 Aug 1897:
THIRTEEN LIVES LOST
COLLAPSE OF A FLUE ON THE TOWBOAT FRITZ.
Sends Clouds of Scalding Steam All Over the Vessel—Negro Laborers Huddled in Deck Room, Directly in Line of Explosion.—Ten Fall or Jump Overboard and Are Lost.—Accident Unavoidable.

Another distressing river accident occurred Monday evening, in which eleven negroes and one white man lost their lives.

Capt. B. B. Bradley's towboat Fritz had been down at O'Brien's fourteen miles down the Mississippi after a barge of lumber for the Interior Hardware Lumber Company.  They took down an empty barge and a gang of twenty-one negroes for the lumber company.  The men had loaded the barge and the boat, started upon her return to Cairo about seven o'clock Monday evening.  Soon after leaving the landing, a rainstorm came up, and the colored men sought shelter in the deck room of the Fritz.  It was here they were when the explosion occurred.  One of the lower flues of the starboard boiler collapsed, sending scalding water and steam and fire directly back on the men.  The explosion came without warning and the men rushed out in their efforts to escape the scalding steam and ten of them jumped or fell overboard and were lost.  Five others were burned, more or less severely, and were taken out and placed upon the barge.  The Ora Lee was passing at the time, coming up from Memphis, and she went to the ____ of the Fritz and towed her up to Cairo, arriving here about 10 o'clock p.m.  Four of the injured men were taken to the Marine hospital.  They were Robert Green, Thomas Baliss, Nathan Ethridge, and M. H. Anderson.  The first three named were terribly burned and Green and Ballas only lived until five o'clock Tuesday morning.  Ethridge survived until twelve o'clock Tuesday night.  Anderson was only slightly burned and was discharged from the hospital after receiving treatment.  Another colored man, Will Barrett, was buried, but went to his home instead of the hospital.

Those who are missing and are supposed to have drowned if they were not scalded to death are Sam Porterfield, John Wright, Levi Knight, Nash Reese, Charlie Byrd, Tom Stewart, Tom Thomas, Henry Samuels, a man named Satterfield and Eugene Hunt.  All were colored men and probably all lived in Cairo, except Hunt.  He was a white man and was the only one of the boat's crew that was lost.  He was employed as a deck hand and his home was in Tennessee.

The accident is not an uncommon one on the river and was entirely unavoidable.  None deplores it more than Capt. B. B. Bradley.  In all his long experiences as a river man, he has never before had a fatal accident on any of his boats.  No one blames Capt. Bradley in the least, nor can any fault be found with any of the crew of the Fritz.  The men really had no occasion to be on the Fritz.  They were supposed to remain on the barge.  They did their cooking there and had they gone down in the hold of the barge to seek shelter, it is possible no lives would have been lost.  It is presumed that Hunt, the only one of the crew lost, was run over and knocked into the river by the others.  He was not working in the line of the explosion.

The Fritz is not seriously damaged.  Most of the injury is confined to her boilers and can easily be repaired.
 

Death of Major Raum.

Major John M. Raum died at his home in Golconda Wednesday, Aug. 4, at the age of 63 years.  He was a brother of Gen. Green B. Raum.  He had been an invalid for five years, gradually growing weaker and weaker and his death was not unexpected.  He entered the U. S. service as Capt. of Co. A, 120th Regt. Ills. Vols. and was afterwards promoted to the rank of major.  He served until the end of the war and was mustered out in 1865.  He was well known in Southern Illinois.
 
Died, at her home in this city (Vienna) at 10 o'clock a.m. Monday, August 9, 1897, of consumption, Miss Flora Whittenberg, daughter of Mrs. Isabella Whittenberg, aged 24 years, 1 month and 24 days.  Funeral services were held at Salem Church, 3 miles north of Tunnel Hill, at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 10, 1897, conducted by Rev. J. H. Ford, assisted by Rev. C. B. Whiteside, followed by interment at the Salem Cemetery.  Deceased was a sister of our county school superintendent, Miss Sarah J. Whittenberg, and a daughter of Rev. Whittenberg, a well known minister of Southern Illinois, whose death The Citizen chronicled some weeks ago.  She was also a cousin of the cashier of our First National Bank, D. W. Whittenberg.  Her sickness was of a long duration, but amid all her suffering she possessed a great fortitude and manifested a peaceful resignation to the Divine Will.  She was so young to die, but the loveliest rose soon will fade in this life; howbeit, she plained in the "sweet field of Eden where the tree of life is blooming."  To the many who mourn the writer will say, cease your sorrows, she has "only gone down into the fields to gather lilies."
 
Col. A. D. Witherspoon, father of Mrs. E. W. Halliday, died at Louisville, Ky., last Saturday at the advanced age of 88 years.  Mrs. Halliday was summoned from Wisconsin to his bedside.  Maj. Halliday and his son Sam and daughter Miss Emma went from here to attend the funeral.
 

Thursday, 19 Aug 1897:
Mr. John Lauder, the aged father of Hon. Hugh Lauder, mayor of Carbondale, was stricken with paralysis last week and died last Friday. He was 84 years of age.
 
We learn from our exchanges that Mrs. Smith, wife of Capt. Isaac Smith, died recently in Mississippi County, Mo.  Capt. Smith lived some years in Cairo and his family was well known here.
 
The remains of Mrs. Rhoda Connell, who died last week, were interred at Carbondale.  Mrs. Connell was the mother of a large family of children, so many of whom are engaged in the printing business.
 
ONE KILLED FIVE INJURED.
Terrible Result of a Saw Mill Explosion Opposite Mound City.

A terrible accident occurred at the sawmill located on the bank of the Ohio River in Kentucky opposite Mound City last Saturday morning, resulting in the death of Isaac Hawkins and the severe injury of Mr. C. J. Hunt.  The boiler exploded and the engineer, Isaac Hawkins, was instantly killed.  His head was severed from his body and was not found.  The body badly mangled was thrown 100 yards.  Nick Horn had his eyes badly burned and his arm injured.  S. M. Fout was slightly burned.  J. W. Blankenship had his head bruised, his face burned and injured internally.  Trove Harris had his head cut and face scalded.  Dunk McIntosh was badly burned and his right arm dislocated.  Dr. J. F. Hargan was called and did all that was possible to alleviate the sufferings of the scalded and wounded men.  The damage to the mill was about $2,000.  The explosion was caused by too high steam pressure and the turning of cold water into the boiler.  It is said that Engineer Hawkins held the safety valve down with a spade to increase the pressure when the boiler gave way.
 
Miss Lizzie J. Ford, of Murphysboro, committed suicide Tuesday morning by shooting herself through the left breast.  Unrequited love was the cause of the tragedy.
 

Thursday, 26 Aug 1897:
FEARFUL EXPLOSION
Of a Boiler in W. R. Halliday's Brick Yard.
Instantly Kills Three Men, Fatally Injures Another and Brings Ruin and Suffering.—Accident Happens Early Monday Morning—Coroner Neither Finds Cause nor Attaches Blame.

Cairo had another distressing accident this week.  Shortly after seven o'clock Monday morning, a boiler in the brick yard of W. R. Halliday exploded instantly killing three men and injuring six or eight others, one of them fatally.

The dead are Riley Bradley, the engineer; Gideon Ricks and Henry Scheeler, a young boy of 17.  The injured are Dennis Bland, who was severely and probably fatally scalded; Ed McCurdy, who has a broken ankle; Proctor McCurdy, cut in head and otherwise injured; Jesse Woodfork, arm broken, and Jim Keys, scalded.  Others were slightly hurt.

The explosion made a loud report and shook the city like an earthquake.  It was so violent the concussion was felt across the river at Bird's Point.  In the immediate vicinity was a scene of ruin and desolation.  Each of the men killed was hurled in a different direction and their bodies mutilated almost beyond recognition by the tremendous force of the explosion.  Huge fragments of the boiler were found in all directions.  The head of the boiler was hurled in one solid piece fully two hundred yards and landed in a sand pile against the Mississippi levee.  The buildings in the brickyard were utterly demolished and the place strewn with fragments of brick and timbers.  It was this rain of debris, together with clouds of scalding steam and mud that injured so many.  The three men who were killed were standing near the boiler when the explosion came.  Steam had just been raised and they were waiting for others to come before starting to work.

Just what caused the boiler to let go will never be known.  At the coroner’s inquest the fact was not established that it was unsound, nor was it known that the engineer was ever anything but a very careful man.  The jury found no cause for the accident and attached no blame to anyone.

All the killed an injured were colored, except Henry Scheeler.  Bland was delivering ice for Winter Bros. and reached the brickyard just in time to get caught in the explosion.

(Gideon Ricks married Florence Rodgers on 24 Oct 1894, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Edward McCurdy married Mattie Clay on 1 Aug 1892, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Dennis Bland, the colored man who was severely scalded in Monday's explosion, died at 4:10 this morning.
 
Tribute of Respect.
Mr. Pleasant Society of Christian Endeavor:

Whereas, in the providence of an all wise Father, death has again visited our number and removed from this society our friend and co-laborer, Mrs. Anna McClellan Underwood, who has been one of our members since the organization of our society.

Therefore, resolved , that while we as a society bows in humble submission to God's will, we desire to render to the bereaved husband, brothers and sister our heartfelt sympathy and pray that out Heavenly Father may sustain them in this their great affliction.

Resolved, That this token of our esteem be inscribed in the records of our society,  and that it be sent for publication in the Cairo Citizen and Pulaski Enterprise and that a copy of each be sent to Lynn Underwood, and W. M. McClellan.
Respectfully submitted,
W. M. Stringer
M. J. Stringer, Committee

(Lynn Underwood married Mary Anna L. McClelland on 18 Mar 1897, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The colored man, Riley Bradley, who was killed by the boiler explosion at Halliday's brickyard in Cairo on the 23rd, inst., formerly lived in Vienna.
 
A negro named "Blue Bill" was shot and probably fatally wounded in Ullin Monday morning by another negro whose name we did not learn.  The wounded man was sent to Mound City.  He was shot in four or five places.  His assailant was lodged in the Mound City jail.
 
A man named Thomas Hicks, who had been working for Henry Mowery on his farm and sleeping in a packing shed was found dead there Monday morning.  He had been sick for several days, though not thought to be dangerous and had refused to take any medicine.  He probably died of malarial fever.  The coroner came up Monday evening and held and inquest over the remains.  The verdict was that he came to his death by causes unknown.  He was a stranger here and nothing is known of his antecedent.  He was 40 years of age.  (Wetaug)
 
The remains of Edward L. Baker, United State consul at Buenos Aires, who died from injuries received in a railway accident last June, were interred at Springfield, Ill., this morning.  Deceased was a brother of Judge D. J. Baker.
 
Mrs. Hodges, the widow of the late Judge A. C. Hodges, died at Unity Tuesday, at an advanced age.  She was an aunt of Col. John Hodges.

(Alexander C. Hodges married Mary Thompson on 9 Apr 1866, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
 
Thursday, 2 Sep 1897:
Died, on Saturday morning, Aug. 28, 1897, Arthur Leo, son of Mr. and Mrs. George A. Meisenheimer, age 2 months and 2 days.  The family has the sympathy of the entire community in this sad bereavement.  Interment in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery Sunday morning.

(George Meisenheimer married Nora Wright on 4 Jul 1896, in Alexander Co., Ill.  A marker in I. O. O. F. Cemetery in Dongola reads:  Arthur Leo son of George A. & Nora Meisenheimer Born Feb. 26, 1897 Died Aug. 28, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, on Thursday, Aug, 26, 1897, at his home of heart trouble, James Allen, age about 50 years.  He was favorably and extensively known in this community.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss.  We join with the public generally in a heartfelt sympathy with the bereaved family.  His remains were laid away in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery on the following Friday at 2 o'clock p.m.  A large concourse of people were in attendance.

(James Allen married Nancy M. Verble on 5 Sep 1867, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in I. O. O. F. Cemetery in Dongola reads:  James Allen Born Feb. 24, 1840 Died Aug. 26, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 9 Sep 1897:
The dead body of a man was found lying beside a Big Four track in the lower end of town Monday night.  Cuts about his head showed how he came to his death, but whether by violence or accident is unknown.  The body could not be identified.
 
Another Veteran Gone.

Jacob Stelle, a veteran of the Eight-seventh Illinois Infantry, died recently at McLeansboro.  Mr. Stelle was 77 years of age.
 
Eli Wilson, a brother of Mrs. Dr. J. I. Hale, of Anna, died in Paducah last week and the remains were interred here (Wetaug) Friday.

(James I. Hale married Mary Josephine Wilson on 17 Oct 1865, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Dr. Vincent Hale, of Anna, attended the funeral of his Uncle Eli Wilson, Friday, at this place (Wetaug).
 
Nelson Gettings, a well-respected old soldier, died at his home south of town (Vienna)  last week and was buried at West Eden.
 
Died, Tuesday, Sept. 7, 1897, Benjamin Gettings, aged about 35 years.  Deceased was a son of Nelson Gettings, who preceded him last week, and the most remarkable feature in the death of these two people was they were taken suddenly sick on the same day and about the same hour just one week apart, and died on the same day and same hour.  The symptoms of the two cases were about the same.  This is a remarkable coincidence, when it is known that death was the result of natural cause.
 
Ida Roth, wife of George Roth, and daughter of S. P. Bradshaw, died Tuesday evening of consumption.  She had been in failing health for a long time.  Burial services were held this forenoon.
 
Another man was knocked off the track and killed at Balcom last Friday night.  This is about the third or fourth man that has been killed there by the trains in the past year.
 
George Wise attempted to cut the throat of his wife, Ella Wise, yesterday morning.  He assaulted her with a pocketknife and she escaped by jumping out of a second story window into the street.  He then stabbed himself in the heart and died.

(George Wise married Ella Pride on 4 Sep 1893, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Judge J. M. Brown, of Charleston, Mo., died last Friday afternoon after an extended illness.  Deceased was 63 years of age and had spent over forty years in Charleston.  He held many public offices including county judge, probate judge, etc.

 
Thursday, 16 Sep 1897:
"Mountain Nell" Dead.

Cairo people will recall "Mountain Nell" who was here with her husband in the shooting gallery business.  A dispatch from Clay City, Ill., under date of 4th inst., says:  "Mrs. Nellie Reno, the snake charmer with Clark Bros. circus, who was bitten by one of her pet rattlers, died this morning in great agony, after two days of horrible suffering.  Her husband was arrested for compelling her to handle the snakes, but was released upon a dying statement from the woman, which probably saved his neck, as lynching was talked of.
 
Death of J. H. Mitchell of Anna.

John H. Mitchell, a prominent citizen of Anna, and once a resident of Cairo and Alexander County, died very suddenly on the morning of the 4th inst.  Deceased was a native New Yorker, where he was born in 1841.  He removed to Wisconsin and enlisted in the 37th regiment of Wisconsin Volunteers serving throughout the war.  At the close of the rebellion, he spent four years in Cairo, working for James Bell.  He then went to Cobden, establishing himself in the box business.  In 1883 he went to Minnesota and bought a stock farm, but returned again, two years later, and has lived around Anna since.  He was married twice, his second wife dying in January last.  He leaves one son, Walter, by his first wife.  He left considerable property and at his death was director in the First National Bank of Anna.
 
TRAGEDY AT UNITY.
Charles Samone Fatally Stabbed by Ernest Hartman.

Friday afternoon a tragedy occurred at Unity, in this county, in which Charles Samone was fatally stabbed by Ernest Hartman.

During the afternoon a trial was in process before Squire Sichling.  Samone and Hartman were among the spectators.  Samone made a suggestion to the person who was conducting the examination of a witness, and Hartman accused him of putting in.  Hot words followed and after court adjourned the quarrel was resumed.  Samone walked up to Hartman and told him he would slap his face if he put his lip any more.  Hartman told him with an oath to slap.  Samone placed his hand on Hartman's shoulder, when the latter thrust a knife in Samone's side.  He made three stabs under this left arm.  Samone threw his assailant down and took the knife away from him.  He then commenced to weaken and died in twenty minutes.  Sheriff Miller went out to Unity and arrested Hartman and he is now in the county jail.  The knife he used had a keen blade and one of the witnesses stated he took it out in the justice’s court and carried it in his hand.  Hartman is only about eighteen years of age, and is a stepson of A. H. Rendleman, now staying at the Soldier's Home at Quincy.  His reputation around Unity has been bad.

Samone was a Swede.  He rented James M. Craig's farm just above Unity and was a good farmer and an orderly man.

The coroner's jury found the killing to be wholly unjustifiable and held Hartman without bail.

(Andrew H. Rendleman married Mrs. Susannah Hartman on 31 Oct 1885.  George W. Hartman married Susannah Smith on 11 Sep 1873, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Saturday night, Fred Davis, the only son of Jerry T. Davis, aged about fourteen years.  His death was due to the effects of a congestive chill.  (Wetaug)
 
Died, Sunday from hemorrhage of the kidneys, caused by a congestive chill, the youngest daughter of Mrs. William McMullen.  She was aged about 12 years.  The funeral services were held at the Reformed Church in Wetaug and were conducted by the Rev. E. H. Kitch, of Dongola.

(William McMullen married Belle Crite on 27 Nov 1894, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, at the residence of P. T. Chapman, in Vienna, on Friday, Sept. 10, 1897, at 10 a.m. Miss Annie L. Dwyer, aged 32 years.  Funeral services were held at the residence Sunday morning, Sept. 12, at 8 o'clock, conducted by Rev. J. H. Ford, followed by interment at the Masonic Cemetery.  A large concourse of sorrowing friends followed her remains to their last resting place.  She was greatly beloved by all who knew her.
 
The little four-year-old boy of Eugene Colter died very suddenly Monday afternoon of congestive chill.  (Mound City)
 
A. C. Burnam, one of the most prominent capitalist of Central Illinois, died at his home in Champaign Monday from the effects of the hear.  He was a millionaire and a public-spirited man, having founded a public library there and established a hospital as a memorial to his wife.
 
George Cloudy, a negro who killed another negro named Bill Martin, on an Illinois Central train near DuQuoin last Thursday morning, was arrested in Cairo and returned to DuQuoin.  Both these men belonged to the crew of the Hill City.  They were discharged here and were en route to St. Louis when a crap game was started with the above result.
 

Thursday, 23 Sep 1897:
George R. Daley, a prominent attorney of Chicago, died suddenly from a severe hemorrhage last Tuesday.  He married Miss Laura Walbridge, formerly of Cairo, who graduated from our high school in 1883.  Several of her classmate still reside here.  His widow and two children survive him.  Mr. Daley was seized with a hemorrhage while stated at a desk in his office.  He sent for a physician who came but could afford no relief and Mr. Daley died in his office.

(George R. Daley married Laura L. Walbridge on 15 Oct 1891, in Cook Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Drowned in the Ohio.

Monday afternoon Alfonso Kellogg employed on the little towboat W. T. Harwell, lying at the head of the Illinois Central incline, fell into the river and was drowned.  He was working on the wheel at the time.  All efforts to save him proved unavailing.  His body was recovered shortly after the accident.  Deceased was a cousin of Capt. Diodate Morgan, owner of the boat.
 
Clarence, the little son of Sidney Jordan, died on Saturday, the 10th, inst., of malarial fever.  Funeral services were conducted on Sunday from the Lutheran church by Rev. Weaver after which the remains were interred at the Bankston Cemetery above town (Mill Creek.)

(Sidney Jordan married Virginia Reed on 23 Dec 1888, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
In Memoriam.
Resolutions of respect for our beloved and faithful brother, Edward D. Sawyer.

Whereas the white-winged messenger Death has invaded our lodge room and called from our midst a faithful brother, a constant attendant, an elect guardian, a strict adherent to duty, the group at the hearthstone has been rudely shaken in the realization that a vacant station is in our midst, severed here to be united yonder on that golden strand, far, far away from the sorrows of earth, safely housed in that home awaiting our coming, awaiting loved ones, awaiting the formation of the triangle, Fraternity, Charity and Benevolence, uniting true Pythians never to be broken.

Resolved, that in the death of our brother, our lodge has sustained a loss never to be replaced society a faithful member.  while our hearts have been made to mourn, our motto remains unchanged and shines forth in full radiance by being represented by one so true, noble and kind.

Resolved, that we spread upon our records these resolution as a tribute of respect in token of the fraternal love of our departed brother and that the jewels and charter be draped in mourning for the space of sixty days.  Be it further resolved that a copy of these resolutions be furnished the Cairo Citizen for publication.  Be it further resolved that a copy of these resolutions be furnished his father and mother and brothers and sisters to whom we extend our deepest sympathy and fraternal love.
Joseph Gamble,
William H. Brelsford,
George E. Titus, Committee
Villa Ridge, Ill.
 
Died, Mrs. Sarah Tucker, aged 45, at Creal Springs.
 
Died, Talton Green, an old negro, reputed to be 110, at the city hospital in Alton.  The old man did not know the date of his birth, but remembered things that happened down in his Virginia home more than a hundred years ago.
 
A. J. Beatty, a brakeman on the Illinois Central, was shot and instantly killed by a negro whom he ordered off the train just above Carbondale Tuesday morning.  The murderer escaped.
 

Thursday, 30 Sep 1897:
William Keehne, an old _____ Cairo, died at his home at 260 _____ Commercial Avenue Tuesday evening ____ morbus.  Deceased was 51 _____ had been a grain inspector _____ for thirty years.  _____ of the Knight of Pythias ___ the Anchor Fire Company ___
 
A party came down from Norris City, Ill., Saturday and had the body of the man exhumed who died here (Vienna) last week and was reported to have had yellow fever, for the purpose of identifying him, if, per chance, he answered the description and bore the marks of the person they were looking for.  But his remains did not, and his name will no doubt remain on the list of "unknown," called to the eternal habitations, but he didn't die with yellow fever, whether experts say he did or did not.
 
Died, at her home in Dongola, Monday, Sept. 27, 1897, Mrs. James Penry, age about 75 years.  A large number of friends followed the remains to their last resting place on earth, in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Tuesday, Sept. 28th.
 
Capt. F. Y. Hedley, editor of the Bunker Hill Gazette, who shot and killed Mayor John R. Richards, of that place, on June 14, has been indicted by the grand jury.
 
By an explosion at the Williamson County coal mine Friday morning, four Italians were killed and a dozen or more were injured.  The coroner’s jury held the superintendent of the mine, Caleb Davis, responsible and ordered him committed to jail to await the action of the grand jury.  He was released on a bond for $1,000
 
A little 11-year-old girl named Agnes Mayr, living a few miles south of Jonesboro, died from hydrophobia on Sunday, the 19th.  She was bitten on her left arm by a pet dog, a brown spaniel.  The next day the dog showed signs of madness and was killed.  This happened four weeks before the death of the little girl.
 

Thursday, 7 Oct 1897:
It is with deep regret that we are called upon the chronicle the death, on Friday last, of one of our most estimable citizens, Mr. Walter Kelly, after a lingering illness with typhoid fever.  Mr. Kelly was a man who was universally liked.  An honest, industrious, upright citizen, and his presence from among us will be greatly missed.  The bereaved family have the sympathy of the entire community (Mill Creek) in this sad loss.
 
Died, Oct. 5th, 1897, Miss Josie Rendleman, aged 36 years.  Funeral services will be held at the Congregational church Thursday, Oct., 7th, 1897, at 11 o'clock a.m.  Interment in Cobden Cemetery.  Blind and almost helpless from partial paralysis and minor ailments she suffered constantly the last six years of her life, yet through all, her naturally bright, cheerful disposition seldom gave away, although at time the realization of her helpless condition was more than she could bear.  She leaves a bereaved mother, sisters and brothers and many other relatives to mourn her loss.

(Her marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  Josie Rendleman 1861-1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Circuit court convenes in this city (Mound City) on the 25th inst., with Judge P. Robarts presiding.  The docket is a large one, especially the criminal side, there being thirty prisoners in jail, eight are charged with murder.
 
The many friends of Judge Caleb Hoffner heard with regret that he was dangerously ill nearly last week and that his demise was expected.  He passed away quietly at 2 o'clock Thursday morning.  Caleb Hoffner was born in Rowan County, North Carolina, May 11, 1814, and died Thursday, Sept. 30, 1897, aged 83 years, 4 months and 19 days.  He came to this state about sixty years ago and settled near the present town of Wetaug where he has lived ever since.  His homestead is one of the finest in the county.  He was identified nearly all his life with the public interest of Pulaski County and held many offices of trust, all of which he discharged honestly, faithfully and efficiently.  He was twice elected associate justice of the county, was also county commissioner for a number of years, and was township treasurer of his township for over a quarter of a century.  He also was administrator of some twenty estates, many of them of large amounts, during his lifetime.  These were all settled to the satisfaction of all concerned such was the public confidence in his ability and integrity.  Judge Hoffner had no enemies and among all his acquaintances there was no man who say aught against his personal or private character.  Such men are few and we are sorry to lose them for our community.  The funeral services were held at the Reformed church in Wetaug, Rev. Mr. Kitch, of Dongola, conducting the obsequies.  His sermon was an eloquent tribute to the memory of the deceased.  A large number of friends were present.  He leaves six grandchildren, all of his own have preceded him.

(His marker in German Reformed Cemetery at Wetaug reads:  Caleb Hoffner Born May 11, 1814 Died Sept. 30, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Our town (Dongola) was shocked on last Tuesday about noon when the news reached here that Mr. Calvin Karraker, youngest son of Rev. Jacob Karraker, had been killed by a barn shed falling on him.  Mr. Karraker was putting new sills under the shed when it gave way and fell upon him, crushing him under it.  He was taken out of the ruins as soon as possible, but only lived about an hour after the accident.  He was a prosperous farmer residing three and a half miles northeast of Dongola, on the old homestead place of his father, and was a good neighbor and was well liked by all how knew him.  He will be greatly missed in the community.

(His marker in Hinkle Cemetery reads:  Jacob Calvin Karraker Born May 17, 1860 Died Oct 5, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Jennie Schutter, wife of the late William H. Schutter, died early yesterday morning after a long illness.  She was 54 years of age, and was the mother of eight children, seven of whom are living, viz:  Mrs. Robinson, deceased; Mrs. W. F. Korsmeyer, Misses Olive, Lillie and Flora, and William, Charles, and Harvey.  Mrs. Korsemeyer came on from Colorado Springs, the rest all live here.  Funeral services will be held tomorrow.

(Harvey Robinson married Frances J. Schutter on 16 Feb 1881, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 14 Oct 1897:
The Batson Personal Damage Case.
[Carbondale Herald]

The important case of Batson vs. the Illinois Central railroad company was tried for the second time before our circuit court last week. No case of similar character has ever excited more local interest, and no case has ever been more stubbornly fought. A brief summary of the events leading up to the suit may be of interest.

Irvin C. Batson, at the time police magistrate of this city, was run over and instantly killed by a freight train at the Main Street crossing of the Illinois Central Railroad June 4, 1895. His son, H. H. Batson, was appointed administrator of the estate. As such administrator he entered suit against the company for $5,000 damages. Mr. A. S. Caldwell, of this city, and Judge R. J. McElvain, of Murphysboro represented the plaintiff, while Judge Green, of Cairo, and Judges Youngblood and Barr, of this city, appeared for the railroad company. The case was strongly and ably contested on both sides. The jury rendered a verdict awarding damages in the sum of $3,500. The case was carried to the appellate court at its August term, 1896, where it was reversed and remanded. The second trial ended Saturday of last week, the jury again finding for the plaintiff, but placing the damages at $5,000, the limit of the law.

The case is not yet ended, as a second appeal to the higher court was prayed and allowed, and the probability is that the verdict of the jury will stand.

Miss Mahala Baldwin died Sunday with typo malarial fever. (Mill Creek)

An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Barker died Monday.

Mahalah, second daughter of William Baldwin, a farmer who resides west of town (Wetaug), died Sunday. Previously she had been a strong, healthy young woman.

Jacob Taprich, of Ullin, was shot in the face Monday during a drunken row by a Dago employed at the quarry between here (Wetaug) and Ullin. The ball entered to the right of the nose and lodged near the base of the brain. He was probably fatally hurt. Willis Parks also had his "jumper" cut from the neck to the waist and a wound three inches long and a half-inch deep in his back. His back will get well, but the garment is a total wreck.

Last Friday night an altercation took place between Will Scott and Sam Reese, near Samoth, in the edge of Massac County, which resulted din the death of Scott. The unfortunate affair occurred at Scott's house. An empty jug that had only recently contained whisky, which was freely indulged in by the two men, fully explains all. The two men had been close friends (reports say they were a little related) and simply confused from drink each imagined he had been injured by the other. They finally decided to put up their pistols and settle matters by a fair, square knock down. Accordingly, Reese put his pistol down, or handed it to Mrs. Scott (the only witness present) and started out. Scott followed and commenced shooting at him, whereupon Reese turned with a knife and plunged it into Scott's heart and went on home and went to bed, unconscious of what he had done. When Scott was stabbed he turned toward his wife, threw the empty jug he held in one hand at her, and fell dead at her feet.  It is reported that Mrs. Scott’s statement is about the same as given above.  Reese was arrested the next and placed in jail at Metropolis and your correspondent has failed to learn any further particulars.

Burned to Death Near Olive Branch

Frank Leifer, a young man engaged in clearing his father’s land near Olive Branch, was burned to death one day last week.  A large tree in some way fell upon him and pinned him down or perhaps stunned him and the fire from the burning brush consumed his body.  Only his charred bones were found to tell of this fearful accident.  He was about 18 years of age.

Died, at her home in this city on Saturday, October 9^th, at 2:30 a.m., Effie Jane Mackey, wife of W. E. Mackey, aged 22 years and 21 days.  Funeral services were held at the Rose Cemetery near Wartrace, Sunday, Oct. 10^th, 1897, at 10:30 o’clock a.m. conducted by Rev. J. H. Ford, followed by interment.  This is a sad bereavement.  Two young people just started out in married life full of hope and energy.  The sorrowing young husband and other relatives have the sympathy of a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

            (William E. Mackey married Effie J. Rose on 10 Jun 1897, in Johnson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Charles Harris, for more than forty years a resident of Mount Vernon, suddenly of heart disease, at the age of 75.

Thursday, 21 Oct 1897:
AN OLD RESIDENT GONE
Henry Hinsdale Candee Succumbs to Disease
End Came Early Saturday Morning—For Six Years He Battled with Consumption, Visiting Every Health Resort that Promised Any Benefit.—Sketch of His Life.

The end came for Mr. H. H. Candee at 4:45 o’clock Saturday morning.  Surrounded by his family, he quietly passed into the great beyond where he will no longer battle with disease.  His end was not unexpected either to his family or to his friends, although they continued to hope that he might gain enough strength to depart for Arizona for the winter, and so plans were arranged for taking him there on the first of November should he survive until that time.

Mr. Candee’s struggle against disease—consumption—was a long one.  Early in 1892 he was compelled to retire from active business and devote his time entirely to his health.  He visited every health resort that promised relief, and no doubt prolonged his life considerably.  He was able to gain enough in the winter, almost, to carry him through the summer.  But this summer was especially trying on him, and, worn out, he was finally compelled to give up.

Henry Hinsdale Candee was the oldest resident of Cairo.  That is, he had lived here for a longer time than any other person now here.  A native of Harwinton, Litchfield County, Connecticut, where he was born on Dec. 6, 1833, he came west with his parents when only three years old, settling at Kaskaskia, until 1844, when they removed to this city.  The early death of his father compelled him to leave school and his education unfinished, and go to work to help support his mother and sisters.  In 1858 he became associated with Messrs. Safford and Morris in the insurance business which continues until this day, although the name has been changed successively from Safford, Morris & Candee to H. H. Candee and finally H. H. Candee & Son, and will be continued under the same policy that made it a success by Mr. Candee’s son, Harry S. Candee.  During the war Mr. Candee served in the U. S. Navy as assistant paymaster.

Until his broken health called a halt to his activity, Mr. Candee held a great many positions of trust in Cairo.  Besides directing his extensive insurance business, he was at one time president of as many as nine different companies.  He retained his position as president of the Enterprise Savings Bank and director in the City National Bank, to the last, but gave all the others up.  His genial manner and his excellent business judgment, made his successful in the management of affairs, and so his services were in constant demand and cheerfully obtained.  But his business did not occupy him to the exclusion of everything else.  He was a faithful churchman.  He was one of the founders so the Church of the Redeemer, and was warden for twenty-five years at his death.

While he did not belong to any secret orders, Mr. Candee was connected with a number of societies, among them to local G. A. R., the Sons of the Revolution, the Naval Veterans Association of Illinois, and the Missouri Department of Society of Colonial Wars.

The funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at three o’clock at the Church of the Redeemer. The church was crowded when the cortege arrived from the family residence.  The pallbearers were:  Capt. W. P. Halliday, Judge David J. Baker, Hon. John M. Lansden, J. S. Aisthorpe, M. J. Howley, C. Pink, R. H. Cunningham, J. H. Jones, C. W. Henderson, R. P. Robbins, W. H. Oakley, and P. W. Barclay.  The floral offerings were very profuse, filling three very large baskets besides the floral emblems.  The funeral ceremony was conducted by Rev. F. A. DeRosset, assisted by Rev. D. W. Dresser, D.D., rector of Emanuel’s Church, at Champaign and president of the standing committee of the diocese; and Rev. Mr. Phares, rector of St. Peter’s at Mound City.  The hymns were all of Mr. Candee’s own selection and were all spirited, martial songs.  Mrs. Candee’s desire seemed to be to avoid sad and mournful and to have more the glad, joyful hosannahs, such as welcome the soul upon its entrance into paradise.

At the conclusion of the service, the remains were taken to the Illinois Central depot and put aboard the evening train.  A special car attached to the train conveyed the family and relatives to Chicago where the remains were interred.  Those who went on this sad mission were Mrs. H. H. Candee; son, Harry S. Candee, and daughter, Miss Katie, Mrs. Anna E. Safford, Hon. and Mrs. W. B. Gilbert, and Hon. M. F. Gilbert.  At Harvey the car was switched upon the Grand Trunk Railroad and taken to Mt. Greenwood Cemetery.  The final obsequies were held at ten o’clock Monday morning.  Nearly all the old Cairo people in Chicago were at the cemetery and kind hands had lined the grave with flowers and autumn leaves.  Rev. Arthur Williams, rector of Christ’s Church at Woodlawn officiated as the body was laid to its last earthly resting place.  The weather was perfect.  The family and friends returned home yesterday forenoon.

Mr. Candee’s estate is estimated to be worth about $30,000 of which $15,000 is life insurance.  Besides his homestead and the building he occupied on the Ohio Levee, he owned considerable property over town.  Two years ago he had a life insurance policy for $15,000 mature.  Mrs. Candee is named executrix by the will.  The will was filed last night.  The legatees are Mrs. Isabella L. Candee, the widow; Henry S. Candee, the son; Katie D. Candee, adopted daughter; Anna E. Safford, sister; Mrs. Anna P. Gilbert, of Springfield, Mass., aunt; Miss Emma Riley, cousin; and the Church of the Redeemer.

(Henry H. Candee married Belle S. Laning on 22 Feb 1868, in Cook Co., Ill.  Alford B. Safford married Anna E. Candee on 7 Apr 1863, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

The little girl of Mr. J. L. Bowers died this morning of malarial fever. It will be remembered she was in a runaway accident last month and was tossed out of the wagon by her mother and into the outstretched arms of the father. While unharmed by the accident, the little one has been ill ever since and was brought to Cairo a week ago and has been under treatment of Dr. Stevenson. The burial will bed tomorrow at the Willard Cemetery.

(John L. Bowers married Mollie T. White on 22 Feb 1887, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, James T. Wallace, of Cobden, a veteran of the Eight-first Illinois Regiment, aged 65.

The trial of Editor Hedley for the killing of Mayor Richards at Bunker Hill will commence tomorrow.

Many of the neighbors were sorry to hear of the death of Mrs. Ritcher last week. Mr. R. has been a sufferer from dropsy for some time. (Villa Ridge)

Died, at his home in Dongola, Monday, Oct. 18th, 1897, at 8:30 o'clock p.m., of consumption, Mr. Sandy A. Eddleman, aged 33 years, 1 month and 9 days. Mr. Eddleman's death was rather unexpected as he was able to be up most of the time. He was down in town Saturday and seemed to be as well Monday as usual. he ate his supper Monday evening at the table and was teaching his little girl her lesson after supper, and while doing this he was seized with a severe spell of coughing and a hemorrhage of the lungs and only lived a short time. The funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at the Congregational church at 2 o'clock p.m., interment in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery. The family and relatives have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community in this dark hour of grief.

(His marker in I. O. O. F. Cemetery in Dongola reads:  Sandy A. Eddleman Died Oct. 18, 1897, Aged 34 Yrs., 1 Mo., & 9 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)

Joseph Wilson lost one of his children last week. It was buried at the Dexter graveyard.  (Elco)

Jim Albright, the Mississippi County desperado, who killed Prosecuting Attorney Elliott, has been sentenced to be hanged.

Thursday, 28 Oct 1897:
Death of Judge Z. W. Bugg

We learn that Judge Z. W. Bugg died at his home in Wickliffe, Ky., last Monday. He was one of the ablest lawyers in Western Kentucky. He was in Cairo quite often and was well known here. Mrs. Coffee, widow of the late I. N. Coffee, was his daughter. Some two or three years ago Judge Bugg was attacked by a vicious hog, was thrown down and severely hurt. He was well advanced in years and never fully recovered from the effects of the injuries received at that time. He leaves a family of grown children.

Circuit Court.

Mary King, murder, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 16 years in Joliet.  The case of John Crise for murder was continued.

Mrs. Lloyd Wilmore, of near Murphysboro, was thrown from a wagon during a runaway and instantly killed.

(Lord Willmore married Frances Elizabeth Foster on 24 Dec 1879, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Samuel Jackson, a wealthy citizen of Vienna, aged 67. He was director in the first National Bank of Vienna and had been in the general merchandise business for over forty years.

Died, at his residence in Vienna, Illinois, on Saturday, Oct. 23, 1897, at 9:35 o'clock, a.m., Samuel Jackson, aged 66 years, 10 months and 19 days. Funeral services were held at the family residence on West Main Street, Monday, October 25, at 10:30 o’clock a.m., conducted by Rev. J. H. Ford, followed by interment in the Masonic Cemetery. Mr. Jackson was an old and esteemed resident of this place, having settled here in 1859. Soon after coming to Vienna he entered into the mercantile business, and Sept. 23, 1860, he married Miss Frances P. Bain, eldest daughter of Mrs. Winnie Bain, of this city, who survives him. He leaves eight children, six sons and two daughters, viz: Samuel A., of San Diego, Cal.; A. G., Mt. Carroll, Ill.; John B., Jonesboro, Ill.; Mrs. Cora Simpson, Miss Winfred May, Harry M., Walter H. and William G. Jackson of Vienna. All the characteristics of a gentleman shone forth in Mr. Jackson's everyday life. He was one of our most esteemed citizens, and his whole life's record was marked by uprightness, sociability, devotion to his family and a kindly feeling for his fellow man. While Mr. Jackson did not accumulate largely of this world's wealth, it is believed he left his heirs a sufficient competency to make it easy for them through life. Deceased was well up in Masonry and the funeral services were under the auspices of Vienna Lodge No. 150, A. F. & A. M. of which he was a member. A large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends accompanied his remains to the cemetery.

(W. C. Simpson married Cora Jackson on 3 Oct 1889, in Johnson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

 

Thursday, 4 Nov 1897:
Death of Senator Hill.

Hon. George W. Hill, of Murphysboro, died last Friday evening, of paralysis of the heart. Three weeks ago it will be remembered he fell from a train at East St. Louis and broke his leg. The broken limb healed and the doctor removed the splints Friday so he could sit up. He had scarcely left his bed when he suddenly expired.

Deceased was fifty years old. He was senior partner of the law firm of Hill & Martin and in 1884 was elected a state senator. He was a Mason and a Templar, holding membership in the Cairo Commandery.

Augustus F. Marquard, an old citizen of Cairo, died last Sunday morning of malarial fever. The burial occurred Tuesday at Beech Grove Cemetery. Mr. Marquard was 75 years old, and lived here half his life. He left a widow and six grown children.

Mrs. John Stump died Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock, after a short illness. She leaves three children and many friends to mourn her loss. Funeral takes place Wednesday. (Thebes)

Died, at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James W. Damron, in Vienna, Illinois, on Sunday, October 31, at 2 o'clock a.m., Mary Elizabeth Damron, aged 24 years and 15 days. Funeral services were held at the M. E. church Monday, November 1st, 1897, at 1:30 o'clock p.m., conducted by Rev. J. H. Ford. Interment at the Masonic Cemetery. Only a few days since this young lady was, with others from this place, in attendance at the Nashville Exposition. She returned sick the week previous to her death, and this is another very sad ordeal for her parents, this being four grown children they have buried within five years. Miss Damron was well thought of by all who knew her, was quite prominent in society and her early demise will be greatly lamented by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

(James W. Damron married Sidney N. Rose on 24 Dec 1865, in Johnson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mr. D. J. Dillow left Wednesday for Roswell, N.M., to attend his wife who is very low with consumption. She had gone down there hoping that the invigorating atmosphere would prove beneficial to her failing health, but from recent reports it seems that her hopes are not being realized. We regret very much to have Mr. Dillow abandon his school as he was giving us almost universal satisfaction and his pupils all unite in expressing regret at his departure. Mr. Albert Lingle will act as substitute temporarily at least, and we would be glad to see him give such satisfaction as would induce the directors to employ him to finish the school.

(Daniel Jerome Dillow married Mollie Harmes on 31 Jan 1882, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 11 Nov 1897:
BUCK JOHNSON ACQUITTED.
Grand Jury Finds No Indictment Against Him for Killing Dode Wallace.

VIENNA, Ill., Nov. 10.—The grand jury today acquitted W. T. (Buck) Johnson, for the murder of Samuel (Dode) Wallace, on the night of the 16th of July last. The jury reported to Judge Vickers and the Judge and Johnson called and discharged him from his bond.

Mrs. Dr. Damron was called to Stonefort by telegram, whither she went last Monday morning, on account of the death of her little granddaughter, aged about two years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Pankey, of that place.

Henry Weilking, one of out best citizens and farmers, died Monday. His funeral took place Tuesday at Thebes Cemetery and was largely attended. his family have the sympathy of the whole community.

Dongola is getting to be a noted place for railroad accidents. On the night of Nov. 2nd, one of our prominent citizens, Mr. J. D. Bridges, was run over and instantly killed by a train.

A. B. Cass, a pioneer of Sangamon County, died Monday. The Springfield Journal notes with some degree of pride that when the first issue of the Weekly Journal made its appearance in 1831, Mr. Cass came in and subscribed and he has been a constant reader and friend of the paper ever since, a record unparalleled in the history of this state.

John Goodall, postmaster at Marion and one of the oldest citizens at that place, died Tuesday. He was 73 years old.

An infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Atchison died Monday evening and was buried at St. John's Cemetery on the following day. (Mill Creek)

(Charles W. Atchison married Almida Malone on 5 Aug 1888, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Uncle Stephen Cater, an old landmark of Gallatin County, aged 83, at his home in Ridgway.

Self-Slain.

Chris Warneke, aged 40, at Viston, Clinton County, by shooting. He leaves a widow and two children.

 

Thursday, 18 Nov 1897:
MORTUARY.

Frank Handcamp, died Saturday afternoon at his home, 1505 Poplar Street, he was a fish vender, and at one time ran an Illinois Central switch engine.

W. F. Dollar died Sunday morning at his home on Ninth Street, of typhoid fever. He formerly kept a store on Washington Avenue, above Eleventh Street, and then removed to Mound City, where he made an excellent start in the grocery business. He was 38 years old and leaves a wife and three stepchildren. Deceased was a member of Alexander Lodge, I. O. O. F.

J. E. Pluckett died Monday morning at his home, No. 400 Commercial Avenue. He was 78 years of age.

Thomas S. Ridgway, of Shawneetown, died yesterday morning of heart disease. He was 71 years of age and was one of the most prominent men in Southern Illinois. He was elected state treasurer on the Republican ticket in 1874.

Died, at her home in Simpson Township, Saturday, Nov. 13, 1897, at 2 o'clock a.m., Mrs. Rose Mount, wife of T. B. Mount, and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, of Tunnel Hill. It makes a person feel sad to chronicle the death of one so young and full of hope. This young lady had only been married about three weeks. She had been employed to teach the primary department of the Belknap School and was taken while in the discharge of her duties as such.

(Thomas W. Mount married Rose Smith on 24 Oct 1897, in Johnson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

A report has been going the rounds of the press that a house collapsed in the vicinity of Vienna, killing Bud Dooley, a Mr. Parks and several children. That was a bigger dose than went into the whale’s belly. The roof of a house out in the "Neck" settlement did fall in on Mr. Dooley and Mr. Parks, fracturing the former's leg severely and slightly injuring the latter. No one else was hurt.

A letter from Mr. D. J. Dillow at Roswell, N.M., states that his wife is not improving and it is very doubtful if he will be able to complete our school.

An infant son of Mr. Sig Short is critically ill at this writing with dropsy. (Mill Creek)

(Walter Sigmund Short married Martha E. Brown on 17 Jan 1892, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Carl Arnold, the uptown butcher, died last Saturday of injuries received in an affray at Mounds some days previous. The coroner's jury held Eli Bugg, a colored man, on a charge of murder. (Mound City)

Mrs. J. H. Stump, who is claimed to have the yellow fever, is at this writing no better and her recovery is considered very doubtful. (Thebes)

Jeff Sowell's seven-year-old boy accidentally shot and fatally wounded a young son of Thomas Duncan, near Marion.

Self-Slain.

Walter King, aged 25, son of William King, a prominent farmer and large landowner in Massac and Pope counties, by shooting in the head.

Mr. David Knight, who has so long lived in our midst, passed to the Saint’s eternal rest on Thursday, November 11th, in the 67th year of his age. Of those especially near and dear to him he left a widow, children and grandchildren to mourn the loss of a kind husband, father and grandfather. The funeral took place last Friday when the remains were laid to rest in the Duck Pond Cemetery. (East Cape Girardeau)

 

Thursday, 25 Nov 1897:
Patrick Quin died last Friday evening at 212 Nineteenth Street. he was 52 years old. The burial took place at Villa Ridge Sunday.

(Patrick Quinn married Mary Mahoney on 15 Jul 1876, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Patrick Quinn Died Nov. 19, 1897, Aged 52 Years.—Darrel Dexter)

Harry Dugan, the little two-year-old son of John A. Dugan, died Monday of jaundice. The remains were buried at Elco Tuesday.

William Burht, an Illinois Central switchman, met a horrible death early yesterday morning. He was knocked from the top of a car by the overhanging shed just north of the stone depot and fell unconscious across the track. The next car that was "kicked" in upon that track ran over him and ground him to pieces. He leaves a wife and three children.

George Siefke died at his home, 323 Ninth Street, early Monday morning, of peritonitis. Deceased was a plumber and was superintending the work Thomas W. Gannon was doing at the Anna hospital. He was a young man in the prime of life, sober and industrious. Funeral services were held at St. Patrick's Church Tuesday and the remains were interred at Villa Ridge.

(His marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  George Siefke 1869-1897. Son.—Darrel Dexter)

Joseph Bates, an old citizen of Ava, killed by a freight train.

Mrs. Margaret Althea Goskie, who will be remembered for her connection with the Jones-Goskie murder case applied in person yesterday for a marriage license for herself and Mrs. George Cloar, of Benton, Mo. They are to be married at the home of Mrs. Goskie's mother near Santa Fe Sunday.

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Walker's ten-month child is very sick and little hopes are entertained for its recovery. (Vienna)

 

Jury Acquitted Calvin Rains.

The jury in the case of Calvin Rains charted with the murder of J. B. Coulter, returned a verdict of acquittal at four o'clock yesterday (Thursday) evening, this trial having consumed the entire session up to date.  The counsel for the State were M. C. Crawford and Karaker & Lingle, while W. A. Spann, P. E. Hileman, and Messrs. Dodd & Pickerell, represented the defense, with a jury as named:  John Alexander, J. B. Burris, John W. Speck, Mattheis Duschel, J. M. Randall, J. Steel, C. F. Benson, James Isom, A. J. Manning, Eli Osman, C. F. Schluter, and G. P. Watkins.—Anna Republican.
 
Passed Away Seated in Her Chair.

LEWISTON, Ill., November 23.—Mrs. Margaret Gilman Davidson, wife of W. T. Davidson, editor of the Fulton Democrat, was found dead at noon today.  She had probably been dead some hours, as she was sitting in her chair, quite cold and rigid when found.  Mrs. Davidson was apparently in good health when Mr. Davidson went to the office this morning, and when he went home for his noonday meal he found her dead.  She had evidently been reading the Bible, as it was found open by her side.  Deceased was a daughter of Rev. B. Y. George, the well-known Presbyterian minister of Elmwood, Ill.  Mrs. Davidson was a gifted writer of both prose and poetry, some of her charming verses appearing from time to time in the Century Magazine, the Youth's Companion and other periodicals.

The above dispatch in yesterday's Globe-Democrat was a great shock to friends of Mr. George's family in Cairo.  Maggie George, as she was known when her father was pastor of the Presbyterian church here, was liked by everyone who knew her.  We understand she leaves one little child.
 

Thursday, 2 Dec 1897:
LETTER FROM REV. B. Y. GEORGE
Former Cairo Pastor writes of the Death of His Daughter, Mrs. Margaret G. Davidson.

The Citizen last week published the news of the death of Mrs. Margaret G. Davidson, of Lewistown, Ill., daughter of Rev. B. Y. George, now of Elmwood, Ill., but who was for many years pastor of the Presbyterian church of Cairo.  Mr. George wrote to the editor of this paper more fully concerning this sad occurrence saying, "let this letter be considered as coming from my wife and myself not only to you, but also to the many in Cairo who loved us and our dear little daughter and also giving permission that it be published. It is as follows:

LEWISTWON, Ill., Nov. 24.—Our beloved Margaret died yesterday, evidently of heart disease, from which our Cairo friends will remember she suffered since she was eight years old.  We had a delightful visit from her in our Elmwood home a week ago, and all of us thought she looked remarkably well.  She came to leave with us for a week her little boy, 18 months old, that he might cheer our loneliness while our daughter Anne would be visiting in Havana and Lewistown.  Friday she had a faint feeling, which amounted almost to a swoon, but said very little about it.  This was the only intimation of impending danger and it was so slight that it made hardly any impression even upon her.  Monday night she sat up late reading with her husband the story, "A Domestic Crisis," in the Pratt Portraits.  With all her usual brightness and spirit she discussed with him the characters.  Next morning he went to his work as editor of the Fulton Democrat at eight o'clock leaving her seemingly well.  At 12:20 he returned to find her dead.  It so happened, that all the other members of the family were temporarily out of town, so that she was alone in the house.  After clearing away the breakfast dishes, she went to her bedroom, took her beloved Bible and sat down to read.  She was found sitting like one who had grown weary and fallen asleep, letting the little Bible slip from her hand to lie at her feet.  It was thus she would have chosen to die without a lingering sickness, without pain, in the midst of her morning devotions, with the swords of holy scriptures in her mind, and the benediction of her Heavenly Father written upon her placid features.

Margaret was born Nov. 25, 1869, was married to William T. Davidson, April 3, 1895, died Nov. 23, 1897.  her only child, named for her grandfather, William Gilman, was born May 1, 1896.
With love to all of you in Cairo, upon whom may God's blessing ever be, I am
Your friend and brother,
Benjamin Y. George
 
Guy, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Stokes, is seriously ill with pneumonia at this writing; also Mr. Reuben Fozard.  (Mill Creek)
 
Mrs. Hiram Taylor, of Stringtown, died Sunday night, Nov. 1, from a relapse of pneumonia fever.  She was a very industrious and worthy woman.  (Wetaug)
 
Mrs. Betsy Peeler, one of the oldest residents of this community (Wetaug) died Tuesday, Nov. 23rd, of pneumonia fever.  She was the widow of Jacob Peeler who died about fifteen years ago.  She was born in Tennessee, May 13, 1824, and was aged 73 years, 6 months and ten days.  She owned a valuable homestead near Wetaug on which she had resided for many years.  She had been a member of the Baptist church from childhood and was a woman of strong religious convictions and had many virtues to commend her to her neighbors by whom she was much loved.  She had one son living, Thomas J. Peeler, ex-treasurer of Pulaski County, and a brother, Joel Lackey, an aged and prominent farmer of Pulaski, Ill.  The remains were laid away for their eternal rest in the beautiful cemetery near Mt. Pisgah Church.  The obsequies were conducted by Rev. Nathan Karraker, of Dongola, assisted by Revs. E. H. Kitch and Sullivan of the same place, Sunday at 2 o'clock p.m.  An immense throng of people were present.  The remains were embalmed and interred in a beautiful metallic case by a Cairo firm of undertakers.

(Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Elizabeth wife of Jacob Peeler Born May 13, 1824 Died Nov. 23, 1897, Aged 73 Yrs., 6 Ms., & 10 Ds.  I am ready to go.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Walker's little girl baby, aged 10 months and 25 days, died last Sunday morning after a lingering illness.  Its parents took its remains to Metropolis Monday and interment was made in the cemetery at that place.
 
Mrs. Williams is at the bedside of her sick daughter, Mrs. Mollie Kimmel, at Murphysboro, who is very low with consumption.  (Dongola)
 
Died, Elisha Myers, an old resident of Carmi.
 
Patrick Quinn, who has resided in this vicinity (Villa Ridge) for many years and was engaged in farming and fruit growing, died in Cairo last Saturday and was interred in the Catholic cemetery at Villa Ridge last Sunday.
 
E. N. Kennedy, son of David Kennedy, died at his father's residence in Mound City, Ill., Sunday, the 21^st, and was buried Monday at Liberty Cemetery near Pulaski.  Deceased came to his death by wounds received from a pistol shot discharged by Calvin C. Vaughn.  There is a warrant out for Vaughn charging murder, but Vaughn is still at large.  The affray grew out of the divorce suit between Vaughn and his wife, which was tired in the circuit court here a short time ago.  Vaughn claimed that Kennedy had been too intimate with his wife.

(His marker in Liberty Cemetery in Pulaski County reads:  Edward N., son of David & Mary Kennedy Born Nov. 21, 1872, Died Nov. 21, 1897.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Eli Bugg, the colored man who was in jail here (Mound City) charged with the murder of Carl Arnold, was taken to Cairo by Deputy Sheriff Wilson and lodged in jail there for safety.  Threats of mob violence caused the sheriff to take the precaution.
 
Died, at the family residence in Mound City, Illinois, on Tuesday, November 30th, at 4 o'clock a.m., Louie, beloved wife of Judge W. A. Wall, age 31 years.  Deceased was born in Caledonia, Pulaski County, Illinois, and was the daughter of Capt. Louis Kaltenbach, a veteran of the Federal Army.  Her father died when she was but 11 years of age; her mother, who still survives her, being now in her 69th year, married B. A. Chapman, a merchant tailor, who soon after removed to Cairo and engaged in business there.  It was in Cairo that Mrs. Wall obtained her education, or principally so, and although from the Loretto Academy, whose medal she won as a graduate, she has always been a devout Protestant, being a member from early girlhood of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  At the age of 16 she began life as a teacher, and while the youngest in the county at the time, soon came to the front as one of the ablest and most progressive teachers of Southern Illinois.  She taught several terms in Cairo and also in Mayfield, Ky.  It was while she taught in Cairo that she met Judge Wall and after an acquaintance of two years they were married.  They resided in Mound City from the time of their marriage until her death.  She has been a patient and resigned sufferer for many years, finally yielding to the fell destroyer.  No person ever died who dreaded death less.  She died as she lived, a patient, trusting, confiding, lovely Christian death that caused all to say, "If I could die like that I would not mind to go."  She leaves behind her beloved husband, a sweet little boy about five years of age, and her aged mother all of whom have the sympathy of their host of friends.  Deceased was laid to rest in Villa Ridge Cemetery, Wednesday, Dec. 1st.

(B. H. Chapman married Mrs. Margaret Kaltenback on 11 Apr 1881, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 9 Dec 1897:
Thought It Wasn't Loaded.

Another fatal accident occurred Tuesday morning in which a pistol that was thought to be unloaded, figured.  Charlie Bell, a colored man, took a pistol to Black's second hand store to sell.  Mrs. Black took it, and when told it wasn't loaded, snapped the trigger.  The pistol was discharged and the bullet entered the breast of Mrs. Black's little girl, Mattie, aged seven years.  The little girl died in a few minutes from the wound.
 
DID NOT GET HER MAN.
Althea Goskie Procured the License, But Failed to Marry George Cloar.

In The Citizen of Nov. 25 appeared the following item:

Mrs. Margaret Althea Goskie, who will be remembered for her connection with the Jones-Goskie murder case, applied in person yesterday for a marriage license of herself and Mr. George Cloar, of Benton, Mo.  They are to be married at the home of Mrs. Goskie's mother near Santa Fe, Sunday.

For some reason the wedding did not come off as intended.  The license was returned to County Clerk record unused in Tuesday morning's mail and bore the postmark of Benton, Mo.  No cause was given for the change of heart, not a word of explanation accompanying the document.
 
The Chicago papers announced the death last week of George Daly, son of Mrs. Laura Walbridge Daly.  This is a double affliction for Mrs. Daly as her husband died quite recently.  Mrs. Daly spent her girlhood days in Cairo and was a graduate of our schools.
 
Turner Hearn, of Cobden, while out hunting near there Saturday, climbed a fence and attempted to pull his gun through the fence, with the muzzle pointing toward him, when it went off and the contents of both barrels entered his side, killing him instantly.  Hearn formerly resided in Cairo, where he was employed by Roth & White.

(Turner W. Hearn married Mary Rendleman on 6 Apr 1892, in Union Co., Ill..—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, A. F. Nietman, of Murphysboro, suddenly, after eating breakfast.
 
Died, Mrs. William H. Hanna, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Randolph Smith, in Flora.  She was the widow of William H. Hanna, for many years a prominent member of the bar in Clay County.

(Randolph Smith married Xemenia L. Hanna on 1 Oct 1873, in Clay Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The Carterville Tribune tells of a man who "accidentally suicided."  The act was probably premeditated on the spur of the moment.
 
James Miller, of East Vienna, is still a very sick man, and very little hopes are entertained by those in attendance at his bedside of his recovery.
 
Mrs. Ruth Kennedy, aged 82 years, died last Sunday night at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Pearce, in Mound City.  Mrs. Kennedy has long been a resident of our vicinity (Villa Ridge) and is well and favorably known.  She was a true Christian woman and highly respected.  She leaves six children and a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren to mourn her loss.  Mrs. K was interred at Liberty last Monday, Rev. Brannum of the M. E. church, conducting the services.

(Her marker in Liberty Cemetery reads:  Ruth wife of B. B. Kennedy Born Nov. 14, 1815 Died Dec. 15, 1898.—Darrel Dexter)
 
C. Jessen has a curiosity in the shape of a watch, which was sent him recently by his brother in Denmark.  The watch was made in London about seventy-five years ago and has quite an antiquated appearance.  It belonged to Mr. Jessen's father, who died recently.
 

Thursday, 16 Dec 1897:
DEATH OF MAJ. JEWETT WILCOX.
Hotel Man of National Reputation Stricken with Heart Disease.

Major Jewett Wilcox, known by hotel men the country over, died of heart disease at 10 o'clock Saturday night at the Chicago Beach Hotel.  Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox and their son, William J. Wilcox, were together in a room at the hotel.  Maj. Wilcox had risen from his seat and was measuring out a dose of medicine when he dropped the vial, threw out his arms and fell to the floor lifeless.

Major Wilcox was born in Madison Conn., Aug. 3, 1830, and soon after his advent into the world his parents removed to Middlebury, Vt., where the old homestead is located.  He came to Chicago in 1876 and became manager of the old Tremont House.  He next took charge of the Gardner House, now the Leland and after a few years in this position he was offered the control of Hotel Lafayette at Lake Minnetonka, Minn.  Later he became the landlord of Hotel Greylock at Williamstown, Mass.  During the last several years he has been superintendent of the eating-house system of the Illinois Central Railroad and manager of Hotel Riverview at Kankakee, Ill., of he was part owner, the railroad having a half interest.

Major Wilcox came west in 1854, and was employed on the Mississippi and Missouri rivers as captain of freight and  passenger boats.  He gained an experience on the rivers that proved of value to him during the war of the rebellion, for not long after its outbreak, he was put in command of a dispatch boat and as its  aster met and braved many perils.  After an honorable discharge in 1864, he purchased the old St. Charles Hotel in Cairo, now the Halliday House, coming from there to the Tremont House in this city.  His widow Sara Elizabeth Wilcox, a daughter, Maude Josephine, and the son, William J. Wilcox, survive him.  A brother, William A. Wilcox, is agent for the United States fish commission, and a sister, Emma N. Wilcox, lives at the old home in Vermont.

The funeral will be held tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock at the Chicago Beach Hotel, Rev. Dr. Hale of the Kenwood Evangelical Church officiating.  the remains will be accompanied to Vermont by the widow and son and daughter.

We clip the above from the Chicago Times-Herald of Monday.  Mr. Wilcox resided in Cairo most of the time from 1866 to 1876.  Our old citizens all knew him well and all have a very kind remembrance of him.
 
Frank G. Schuh.

Mr. Frank G. Schuh, of Charleston, Mo., whose death occurred last Thursday morning, was buried Friday afternoon.  He was ill a long time and only recently sought relief in San Antonio, Texas, where it was hoped the climate would benefit him.  The deceased was a brother of Harry W., Paul H., Herman C., and Otto Schuh, and a nephew of Paul G. Schuh of this city.
 
Death of Rev. DeRosset's Father.

Dr. Armand J. DeRosset, the aged father of Rev. D. A. Derosset, rector of Episcopal church of Cairo, died at his home in Wilmington, N.C., last Thursday night, after a lingering illness.  The deceased was past ninety years of age, and was one of the leading citizens of Wilmington throughout his long and active life.

He left 74 living descendants, five children, 40 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.  All of his children were present at his death.  Dr. DeRosset was born in the house in which he died.  He came from French Huguenot stock; his great-grandfather and the founder of the family in America came over from Europe in 1733.

Dr. DeRosset graduated from the University of North Carolina at the age of 16 and later studied medicine, but disliked the practice of the profession and followed mercantile pursuits.  In all of his dealings he was scrupulously honest.  As a citizen he was public spirited and was one of the founders of the price exchange, a director of the Wilmington Gaslight Company, a director of the Wilmington & Weldon railroad and was senior warden of St. James' Church.
 
It is with regret that we are called upon the report the death on Monday last of Mrs. Scott Davis from puerperal fever.  She had been ill since Tuesday of last week and after five days of agony and suffering passed away at dawn on Monday the 13th inst., leaving a family of six small children, the youngest of which is only about ten days old.  Funeral services were conducted from the residence at eleven o'clock Tuesday by Rev. Welty of Elco, after which the remains were interred in the cemetery north of town.  The heart broken father and husband has the sympathy of the entire community (Mill Creek) in this sad bereavement.

(A marker in Bankston Cemetery near Mill Creek reads:  Scott Davis & Wife.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, at his home south of town (Alto Pass) Monday morning, T. Q. Province, aged 44 years.  Mr. Province had been sick sometime with typhoid fever and dropsy and a few days before his death pneumonia developed thus destroying all chance of recovery.  He was buried at Toledo Tuesday.

(Thomas Q. Province married Samantha Aldridge on 21 Jun 1879, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter) 
 
Died, Barrett Green, aged 70, in Jefferson County.  He was born in Jefferson County in 1827 and had resided for the past 40 years on the farm (ten miles southwest of Mount Vernon) where he died.  He served in the Black Hawk War.
 
Died, Judge James H. Moreland, former chairman of the Randolph County board of commissioners.  He was a Union soldier, serving in the Thirtieth Illinois Infantry.
 
Sudden Death.

Theodore Sloat, near Sailor Springs, Clay County, received the summons while chopping wood; heart disease.
A 16-year-old son of George Braun, a farmer near Red Bud, shot and instantly killed himself while out hunting.
 

Thursday, 23 Dec 1897:
Mr. Thompson Bird, of Bird's Point, Mo., was stricken with paralysis last Saturday and since then he has been quite low and but little hopes are entertained of his ultimate recovery.  He may recover sufficient to sit up again, but on the other hand he may not be able to survive but a few days.  Mr. Bird is one of the earliest settlers here.  He is over seventy years of age.  His father, William Bird, came to this point of land Cairo now occupies in 1818, the first white man to locate at the mouth of the Ohio.
 
Died, Col. Stephen Thatcher Strattan, of Mount Vernon, aged 79, one of the best-known businessmen of Southern Illinois.
 
Died, Eli Ulery, an extensive landowner and stock raiser in Marion County.
 
Died, William Carroll Russell, at his home in Ava.  Mr. Russell was, until a few months ago, a member of the banking and mercantile firm of Husband & Russell, and was active in business affairs in Ava for 22 years.
 
Died, Dec. 16, Aunt Betty Minton, at the home of her son, S. P. Bradshaw,  She was born in Stoddard County, Mo., March 19, 1821, and was therefore nearly 77 years old at her death.  She moved to this county in 1856 and has remained here since.  She was kind-hearted and a good neighbor san was respected by everyone that knew her.  (Willard)
 
The funeral of Henry Lackey took place from the Baptist church Tuesday.  The services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Hunsacker, of Anna.  (Pulaski)
 
MORTUARY.
J. S. Hawkins.

Death claimed another old resident last Friday. J. S. Hawkins, after a lingering illness of several days passed into the great beyond.  On the Sunday before he was stricken with paralysis affecting his left side, and this carried him off.  Up to that time, although he had suffered for years from acute neuralgia, he was a very active man in spite of his advanced age.  His figure was always a familiar one on the street, where his gray hair and rapid movements presented a striking contrast.  The Argus publishes an extended notice of his life from which we glean the following:

John Stephen Hawkins was born near Newport, Ky., June 20th, 1818.  When about nine years of age he went to Cincinnati, where he grew to manhood, and married Miss Mary Cutter, November 4th, 1839.  Mr. Hawkins was a plasterer and cistern builder by trade.  He did well in Cincinnati and accumulated considerable money.  In 1858, he went to Mound City and invested in real estate, during the Emporium Company's boom.  This speculation proved a failure and he lost heavily in the deal.

He moved to this city in 1864, and followed his trade, and was quite successful.  For a number of years Mr. Hawkins was interested in a brickyard in this city. Until two or three years ago, he worked exclusively at the trade he had learned in his younger days.

The widow and eleven of fourteen children survive the deceased.  They are:  Mrs. James M. Baker, of Curry, Pulaski County, Ill.; Mrs. W. H. Simpson, of Chicago; Mrs. Ambrose Lind, of St. Louis; Mrs. Willis Hunsacker, of Anna, Ill.; Mrs. C. C. Marshall and Mrs. A. S. Lemen, of this city; William K. Hawkins, of St. Louis; Charles J. Hawkins, of Whiting, Mo.; Wallis E. Hawkins, of Memphis, Tenn.; and Misses Mary A. and Grace D. Hawkins of this city.  There are grandchildren and great-grandchildren also.

The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at the family residence, No. 810 Twenty-second street, with Rev. J. A. Scarritt officiating, and the remains were laid at rest in Villa Ridge Cemetery.

(James M. Baker married Sarah E. Hawkins on 26 Mar 1876, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  John Willis Hunsaker married Carrie Cutter Hawkins on 9 Nov 1882, in Union Co., Ill.  Charles C. Marshall married Harriet E. Hawkins on 16 Sep 1874, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Another Victim of the Shelby-Jenkins Trial.

The Shelby-Jenkins feud in Ballard County, Ky., broke out again last week, and George Jenkins was added to the long list of slain since the trouble started, over ten years ago.  Mort and Alf Shelby were out looking for their horse on Gas Creek, four miles below Ogden's Landing when they met Jenkins and the Walton brothers in a wagon.  Jenkins shot twice at the Shelbys on sight, with a shotgun.  They dodged behind trees and Alf Shelby, who was armed with a Winchester, shot Jenkins, killing him instantly.  As he fell he was in the act of drawing a Colt's revolver to shoot again.  There is great excitement in the neighborhood over this fresh outbreak.  The origin of the feud dates back when Evan and Mort Shelby were arrested on the charge of murdering old Mrs. Moore.  Evan Shelby was taken out of the Wickliffe jail and lynched.  Mort was acquitted.  He had many enemies who sought his life, but he always went armed.  Jenkins lived on a farm adjoining Shelby and was his bitter enemy.  The Taylors lived nearby and sided with the Jenkinses.  Frequent outbreaks occurred and some months ago the Shelbys met the Taylors and a regular pitched battle followed.  Rouse Taylor was shot and beaten almost to death and Mort Shelby was wounded in several places.  Arrests were made on both sides and the case is set for trial next month.  All the parties involved are said to be peaceable in their dealings with the world at large, but they cherish this one deep, bitter hatred and fan it into fury whenever the occasion presents.
 

Thursday, 30 Dec 1897:
Shelby Acted in Self Defense.

Young Alf Shelby, the man who killed George Jenkins near Ogden Landing on Tuesday of last week, came into town last Tuesday and surrendered himself to County Judge Tharp and asked that he be given an examining trial.  Attorney Bailey being present and no one having preferred any charge against Shelby and after examining the evidence given at the coroner's inquest, the county attorney refused to prefer any charge against him.  It seems from all the circumstances in this case that Shelby's act was in self-defense.—Wickliffe Yeoman.
 
Alfred Childers died at his home in Sandusky, Monday evening of malaria.  He leaves a widow and three young children.  His wife is a niece of Sheriff Miller.  Mr. Childers was about 35 years of age.  He was one of this county's substantial farmers, a man whom everyone respected.  He had served at times as road commissioner and school trustee.  Funeral services were held yesterday,
 
Marcus Nassauer who shot at his sweetheart, Katie Dosenbach, at Clayton, a suburb of St. Louis, and then committed suicide Monday was a brother of Mrs. Lazarus, wife of L. Lazarus, senior member of the wholesale liquor firm of Lazarus & Cohn.  the young man was employed by the firm for two years here and only left three months ago.  The young lady will recover.
 
Thompson Bird, mention of whose serious illness was made in these columns last week, died at his home in Bird's Point on Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 22. He lacked four days of being 69 years old.  He was one of the foremost men of Mississippi County, where he had large landed interests.  Deceased was a son of John Bird, who with his brother, Thompson Bird, made the first settlement on the point of land occupied by Cairo in 1818.
 
Died, Wenclaus Schuster, aged 82, for 50 years a resident of Carlyle.

(Wenzel Schuster married Margaretha Ackerman on 17 Apr 1866, in Clinton Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Dec. 24, of typhoid fever Nathan Karraker, age 70 years, 11 months and 12 days.  He was married to Sarah J. Knight May 25th, 1854.  Mr. Karraker was born and reared and died in Union County.  His wife was born in Moulty County, Ind., March 31st, 1834.  To them were born eleven children, seven boys and four girls.  Mr. Karraker has been a member of the Friendship Baptist church for about 30 years.  The remains were interred in the Hinkle Cemetery, Dec. 26th.

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