Friday, 4 Jan 1924:
Mrs. Ben Rushing Dies in Cairo

Mrs. Ben Rushing, age 33, of Cairo, died at her home in Cairo Tuesday after an illness of several months.  Mrs. Rushing is survived by her husband and two daughters, Miss Lillian Simmons and Helen Louise Rushing, the latter four years old.  The funeral was held Wednesday at 1:45 p.m. at the Tigert Memorial Church, interment at Beech Grove Cemetery.  Mr. Rushing formerly resided here and is a brother of James and Charles Rushing of our city.
 
Old Grand Chain Resident Dies

W. J. Davidson, of Grand Chain, who has been ill for several months, died at his home at 3:20 p.m. Sunday.  Deceased was quite well known and is survived by three sons and three daughters.  Funeral services were held Tuesday.
 
Former Resident Here Dies

Mrs. Tillie Brophy, a former resident of this place, passed away Dec. 23 at the home of her son in St. Louis.  She is survived by her two sons, Carl and Maurice, both residing in St. Louis.  Funeral was held Dec. 26.
  
Friday, 11 Jan 1924:
Bring Child Here for Burial

Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe Scroggins, of Naperville, Ill., are bereaved parents in the passing away of their little son.  The body was brought here Wednesday and the funeral took place today.  Mrs. James Reed, the grandmother, who was called Saturday to their home, accompanied them.
 
Little Homer Martin, of Karnak, the six-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Martin, passed away on January 1st, after a brief illness.  During his infancy and because of the illness of his mother, the little one cared for by Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Curless, Mrs. Curless being a sister of Mrs. Martin
 
Negress Burns to Death

Mrs. Ebie Scottland, a negress, recluse said to be 107 years of age, burned to death in her hut last Sunday morning.  It was thought that she was bathing her arm which had been broken, in kerosene, and that she threw a saturated cloth she was using in the stove the flames quickly spread to her, igniting her clothing.  The accident occurred about six o’clock in the morning and death came about eight-thirty.  She lived in a one-room shanty and was alone at the time the accident occurred.  She was buried last Monday. (Ullin)

(This may be the same person as Eda Martin, who married David Scotland on 16 May 1869, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  David Scottland married Anna Vaughn on 20 Apr 1866, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Former Citizen Dies in Missouri

Michael N. Moyers, a former resident of this city, passed away in Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sunday, Jan. 6, 1924, after a protracted illness of several weeks.  The body was brought to Grand Chain for interment Tuesday Jan. 8^th.  Rev. Kean, pastor of the M. E. church of this city, conducted the funeral services, which were held in the Congregational church in Grand Chain.

Mr. Moyers was a former resident of Pulaski County, having grown to manhood and engaged in business in Grand Chain for several years.  He removed to Poplar Bluff about 16 years ago.  He is survived by his wife, a son and daughter, of Poplar Bluff, three brothers, W. N. and J. J., of Mound City, and L. A. of Morrison, Iowa, four sister, Mrs. C. A. Buffington, of Morrison, Iowa, Mrs. G. J. Bennett, of Mt. Carroll, Ill., Mrs. Sarah Davis, of McDonald, Kan., and Mrs. N. C. Shafstall, of Sisson, Cal.

(Clifford A. Buffington married Bell Moyers on 24 Dec 1891, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Granville J. Bennett married Mary E. Moyers on 6 Jul 1893, in Carroll Co., Ill.  Willis C. Davis married Sarah Moyers on 24 Jun 1896, in Carroll Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Friday, 18 Jan 1924:
IN THE MIDST OF LIFE WE ARE IN DEATH
Roy Wilson Succumbs After Several Days’ Illness at St. Mary’s

Like an appalling specter, death haunts every pathway of life and dims every vision of joy.  Noiselessly and ceaselessly it treads in man’s footsteps from the cradle to the grave.  None can escape its advance.  Infancy in its purity, youth in its beauty, and manhood in its strength, find no exemption from it.

Roy B. Wilson, passed away at 1:30 Tuesday afternoon at St. Mary’s Infirmary in Cairo, where he had been taken the day previous.  Roy came home ill Saturday, Dec. 29, and on Sunday was considered critically ill, with symptoms of typhoid fever.  Deceased was born and reared in this city and had he lived until the 13^th of next month he would have been 29 years of age. Surviving him are his wife, two daughters, Virginia, age 6, and Eleanor Ann, age 3, and his mother, Mrs. Eleanor Wilson.  Deceased was well and favorably known and had a legion of friends.  In his passing away the distracted mother is left alone having buried a husband and three sons.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church conducted by Rev. Clinton Cromwell, assisted by Rev. Roy Kean, pastor of the Methodist church.  Interment taking place in Beech Grove Cemetery.  G. A. James being the undertaker in charge.
 
 Friday, 25 Jan 1924:
Mrs. H. G. Isenberger, of Olmsted, and Mrs. Lula Wedgewood, of Valley Recluse were called to Reevesville Ill., Thursday, on the account of the death of their uncle, William Day, who passed out of this life into a better world at six o’clock Thursday morning, of pneumonia Jan. 17^th.  Mrs. Isenberger returned Saturday night to her children and Mrs. Wedgewood remained for a few days as Mrs. Day was very sick, but will extend her visit longer by visiting Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Curren.  Her son of New Burnside, Ill., is expected to arrive home this week.

(C. F. Wedgewood married Mrs. Luella Curren on 14 Dec 1901, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Called to Bedside of Brother

Mrs. W. C. Rife, of Villa Ridge, is in Hickman, Ky., called from Miami, Fla., where she had gone to spend the winter by the serious illness of her brother-in-law, Frank Moore.

 
Man Arrested Second Time

P. B. Lawler, of Villa Ridge, a former railroad employee, was arrested Friday at Carbondale on charge of murder in connection with the mysterious death of Sam Brooks in Centralia, an Illinois Central conductor, who was found dead in the caboose of his train, here August 15 last.  Mr. Brooks had been shot in the head.  Lawler Friday was indicted for the alleged murder.
 
Former Resident Deceased

We just learned through friends that Mrs. M. B. Baker, wife of Rev. Baker, passed away in December at Philadelphia.  They resided here several years ago, Rev. Baker being pastor at the Methodist church.
  
Friday, 1 Feb 1924:
Prominent Lawyer Dies

Frank Moore, formerly of Pulaski County, died Thursday at his home in Hickman, Ky., having been an invalid from a paralytic stroke a year ago.  Deceased is a brother-in-law of Dr. and Mrs. Rife of Villa Ridge.  The body will be buried at Hickman.

(W. C. Rife married M. Lilley Royall, daughter of Dr. B. A. Royall and Jane Bankson, on 10 Sep 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Frank Moore married Stella Ethel Royall, daughter of Berry A. Royall and Jenny Bankson on 15 Jun 1898, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
ULLIN SCHOOL BOY STRUCK BY TRAIN
Coming Home from School Lad Standing on Railroad Hit

Hugh Edward Freeze, 6 years old son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Freeze, of Ullin, was struck by an Illinois Central passenger train No. 5 Thursday noon.  The little fellow was on his way home from school and while waiting for the freight train to pass he was struck by the passenger.  He was taken to St. Mary’s hospital in Cairo where he died at 9:30 in the afternoon.
 
Thirty-Four Men Killed By Blast

Thirty-three men are dead and seven others are seriously injured as a result of a gas explosion, which occurred at the “East Mine” of Searies Coal Company in Johnston City, shortly after two o’clock Friday afternoon.  More than four hundred men were in the mine at the time of the explosion occurred in the eleventh and twelfth entries of the main east.  All the men succeeded in making their way to safety, except near fifty who were in the entries where the explosion occurred and forty-two who were in the tenth entry adjoining the eleventh.
 
Salesman Loses Son

__. H. Ames, traveling salesman for Marshal Field & Co., and who is well known here, recently was bereaved in the death of his 13-year-old son at Mt. Vernon.  The lad in coasting was hit by an automobile and so seriously injured that he died.  Mr. Ches. E. Feeney, of St. Mary’s Church, attended the funeral.
  
Friday, 8 Feb 1924:
Mrs. Hester Freeze, of Anna, was in attendance at the funeral of Hugh Edward Freeze last Thursday.
 
James Brown Dies

James Oliver Brown, age 74 years, 4 months and 11 days, died at his home in this city Tuesday.  He had been ill for several months.  He leaves a widow and seven children.  Funeral services were held Friday morning at the home, Rev. A. H. Dace conducting the services.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.  G. A. James in charge.
 
Near Tragedy at Funeral

While parked along the hard road at the Dongola cemetery last Sunday, when Hugh Edward Freeze was being buried, little Louis Frechette, was run over by a car coming from the north.  The car coming around a curve was just passing the funeral procession when the boys, members of Hugh Edward’s Sunday school class, were crossing the road.  Louis had just started across the hard road when he was stuck by a Ford driven by O. B. Murphy of Mounds.  Fortunately he was tripped before the car struck any vital spot, remaining flat on the ground until the entire car passed over him.  The only injuries received were a slight scratch on the right knee and a bruise on the head, neither of which was serious.
 
FUNERAL HELD AT ULLIN THURSDAY
The Body of the Little Boy Who Was Struck by the Train

One of the largest funerals held in Ullin was that of Hugh Edward, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Freeze, last Sunday, the day being fair, the ___ acquaintances of the family, the tragic manner in which his death occurred joined in to make it a day when crowds attend.

Hugh Edward was born July ___, and was run down by a passenger train on the Illinois Central Thursday, Jan. 31, 1924.  He was returning from school to dinner at the ___ and while waiting for the freight train to pass, was struck by the engine of No. 5, ___ into the station from the ____.  The body was picked up by the grandfather, Thomas Hileman, and carried to his store ___ the street.  Dr. Robinson, the physician for the family, who was the railroad physician at ___ once ordered the body taken to St. Mary’s hospital in Cairo, which was down by the crew on ____.  So badly was the body ___, however, that death came to relieve him at 4:30 p.m.  ___ he had regained consciousness.

The body was brought home ___ afternoon prepared for burial and was viewed by hundreds of people before the funeral , as well as a twenty-three car procession at the church ____ afternoon, where the funeral was held.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. C. L. Phifer, of the M. E. Church, where Hugh Edward was a constant attendant in the Sunday school, ___ where the church was ___ and still more on the ___, amidst the beautiful ___ of flowers, bowers of ___ covered the bier and pul___ platform, the last sad rites were conducted and the body laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery at Dongola, beside a brother, who preceded him into the great beyond, seven months earlier on July 5, 1923.

Hugh Edward leaves to mourn his loss, his father, mother, sister, grandfather, Thomas Hileman and other friends and relatives who all miss him.

He is not lost, but gone to wait for those ones left in a beautiful abiding place which he now pulls through ___ and example.

(Markers in I. O. O. F. Cemetery at Dongola read:  Hugh Edward Freize Born July 3, 1917 Died Jan. 31, 1924.  Thomas Bryon Freize Born Nov. 26, 1921 Died July 5, 1923.  Samuel E. Freeze 1899-1928  Edna Freeze his wife 1899- .—Darrel Dexter)
 
Friday, 15 Feb 1924:
Card of Thanks

To our friends, neighbors, Rev. Kean and others who assisted at the funeral service of our beloved wife and sister and especially to class nine of the M. E. church, we wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to the many kind things you have done for us.
John W. Sims
Mr. and Mrs. O. J. Jackson
Mr. and Mrs. Y. G. Gaines and family
Mrs. S. E. Sims and daughters
 
We wish to thank the citizens of Cairo and Mound City for their kind assistance doing the illness and death of our beloved daughter and sister, Mrs. Stella Sims.  We also wish to thank you for the beautiful flowers.  The kind words of the Methodist minister and the Sunday school were very consoling to the family of our dear one.
R. R. Gaines, father
R. T. Gaines and family
J. H. Gaines, brother
R. H. Gaines, brother
Galesburg, Ill.
 
Mrs. Otrich Dies at Sesser

Mrs. C. L. Otrich died at the home of her son, Lowell, in Sesser, Ill., Wednesday, and the body was brought to the home of her son, Mark L. Hughes, near Olmsted, from which place the funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 4 o’clock.  Deceased was the sister of L. D. Stophlet, of this city.  Rev. Burgess and the church choir will conduct the service.

(Charles L. Otrich married Mrs. M. L. Hughes on 1 Apr 1885, in Alexander Co., Ill.  M. L. Hughes married Mrs. Mary E. Amonett on 17 Sep 1878, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  W. M. Amonett married M. E. Stophlett on 22 Jul 1874, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Mark L. Hughes, son of Mark L. Hughes and Mollie E. Stophlet, married Ora A. Anderson on 20 Nov 1900, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Wedgewood Dies

Mrs. Luella Wedgewood, age 50 years, died at her home in Valley Recluse, Wednesday afternoon of pneumonia.  She leaves a husband and a daughter, Mrs. H. G. Isenberger, of Olmsted.  The funeral service will be held this afternoon at the home, Rev. Corzine, conducting the service.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.

(C. F. Wedgewood married Mrs. Luella Curren on 14 Dec 1901, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Boy Drowns, Other Rescued on Ice Flow

One boy was drowned and another escaped death in a thrilling rescue from a cake of floating ice, when the small rowboat in which they were attempting to cross the Mississippi River was crushed by ice Sunday afternoon.

The two boys, William James, 15, and Joe Fisher, 15, of Cairo, had just shoved off for the Missouri shore, when according to James, who was rescued, the boat was caught between two huge cakes of ice and was crushed.  James leaped to one of the ice cakes, while Fisher immediately disappeared.

James had drifted over two miles and had passed the junction of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers when he was sited by Louis Dekemper, who with C. D. Bryant, John Pullim, and J. C. McKee, was returning to Cairo from Wickliffe in Bryant’s motor boat.  Carefully piloting the boat into the floe, which was breaking up as it entered the warmer waters of the Ohio, Bryant succeeded in running alongside the cake of ice, barely 8 feet square, to which James shivering and speechless was clinging.  The boy had drifted for nearly two hours and the cake already was becoming submerged.  Joe Fisher is a son of Fred Fisher, who formerly conducted a shoe repair shop at Mounds.
 
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Simms were called to Herrin on account of the death of Mrs. Simmons’ sister, Mrs. Ella Mae Oller. She died in the Missouri Pacific Hospital in St. Louis, but was brought to Marion, where funeral services were held at the home of her sister, Mrs. Dora Mann, with burial at Marion. (Grand Chain)
 
The four-week-old baby of Mr. and Mrs. John Carter, who died last week, was buried Sunday.  (Grand Chain)
 
Mrs. Eleanor Wilson, who was called here by the illness and death of her son, Rev. C. Wilson, has returned to Cairo where she will spend the remainder of the winter.
 
Death Relieves One Who Was Long Sufferer

Sunday morning at the hour of 12:55 a.m. the ruthless hand of death, reached out and removed form life, Mrs. Stella Sims, age 29 years, 11 months and 11 days at her home in this city.  She had been a sufferer of cancer from which she had been an invalid for several weeks.  Deceased was born at Plumers Landing, Ky., Feb. 28, 1894, and had been a resident of this city for five years.  Surviving her are her husband, to whom she was married two years ago, the 18^th of this month, her father, four brothers James, Thomas and Harry Gaines, of Galesburg and Y. G. Gaines and Mrs. O. J. Jackson of this city.

The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock from the home, Rev. Roy N. Kean, conducting the services.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.

Deceased was a member of class 9 of the Methodist Sunday school and member of the class acted as pallbearers and flower bearers.  The remembrances being many and profuse.
 
ULLIN RESIDENT DIES IN TEXAS
Prominent in the Social and Religious Life of Her Home Town

Mrs. Rebecca Thompson, one of the oldest and most respected citizens of Ullin, passed into eternity at Houston, Texas, Thursday, February 7, after a brief illness of a few days with pneumonia.  She was visiting at the time with her sister in Houston, Melvina Ryan, when the end came and the body was shipped home, arriving there Saturday.

The funeral was held at the home in Ullin Sunday morning and the body was taken this ___ to Tamaroa, where interment occurred that afternoon.  Services were largely attended by friends of the deceased, which numbered by score.  At __ o’clock the Eastern Star from Dongola, of which she was a member, begin their work and at ten thirty the religious service began and was conducted by her pastor, Rev. Phifer, songs, favorites of the deceased, were sung and ___ from far and near came to attend the last sad rites of a friend they held so dear.

Mrs. Thompson was an active, ___sive Christian lady, assisting the leadership when things were at stake for the Kingdom of God.  For years she taught a Sunday school class at the M. E. church, of which she was a member.  A touching ___ of the funeral was the ___ce of many men, men having now families of their own, ___ raised in the Sunday school, ___ the advice and counsel of the beloved lady.  Such tributes of respect are seldom seen and when they appear, they have an influence in the lives and ___ of those who hold dear the noblest in human life.

Mrs. Thompson has remained a widow since the death of her husband, P. W. Thompson, some __ years ago, conducting her life in the same place she lived since coming to Ullin.  The funeral cortege, comprised of a sister, Mrs. Eveline Ryan, and sons-in-law of Houston, Texas, Mr. and Mrs. Robert ____, Rev. C. L. Phifer, L. H. Needham, Clarence Mowery, ___ Sneed, Delbert Mathis, ___ Rutter, accompanied the family to Tamaroa, where they were met by more relatives of that section and friends of the deceased.  Here the body was placed in the cemetery beside her husband and brother, all of whom had preceded her to the great beyond.

(Peter W. H. Thompson married Rebecca E. Evans on 21 Apr 1878, in Perry Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Friday, 22 Feb 1924:
Card of Thanks

God in His infinite wisdom has seen fit to remove from our midst our mother, Mrs. Wedgewood.  We bow in submission and desire to thank the friends and neighbors for their many acts of kindness and words of sympathy.  The Rebekahs for their service at the grave.
Mrs. H. G. Isenberger
C. F. Curren
W. F. Curren
 
We were sorry to hear of the death of Katherine Kesler, who died Saturday.  The infant preceded its mother three days.  (Maple Valley)

(She is identified as Mrs. George Kesler elsewhere in the same issue. Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Katherine Miller Kesler Born Aug. 21, 1907 Died Feb. 16, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Chattie Earnheart, Hazel McIntosh, and Dortha Summers, attended the funeral of Katherine Kesler at Mt. Pisgah Monday.
 
OBITUARY

C. F. Womack, died at his home at 263 Chickasaw Avenue, Blytheville, Ark., Feb. 8^th, at 10:51 p.m.  Short services were held at the residence on the 10th at 7 o’clock p.m., after which the body accompanied by his family and near relatives departed on the 8:46 train for his parents’ home near Karnak, Ill.

School teaching was his chosen profession, having taught since early manhood beginning his career in Southern Illinois as a rural teacher, later holding the principalship of Equality school before moving with his family to Mississippi County, Arkansas, some eighteen years ago, where he followed his profession, teaching many schools in Missouri as well as Arkansas.

It is said of him that his pupils advanced more rapidly under this tutorage than anyone who had preceded him.  He believed in thoroughness in the school room and his scholars were mindful of this and knew they must do their best.

The deceased was principal of Dell School a number of years, where he was employed at the time he was stricken with that dreadful disease diabetes, where he kept up the fight for his life’s work until carried from the school never to return.  He was in Blytheville hospital for some time, where he had the best of nurses and medical attention.  He was dismissed from the hospital and for several days was able to be up and around in his home, but suffered a release which developed into spetcipnuemonia.  All that medical aid and loving hands could do was of no avail and he passed to his reward.

Charles Edward Womack, son of Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Womack, was born in Spring Garden, Ill., Nov. 12, 1872, departed this life at his home in Blytheville, Ark., Feb. 8^th,1924, at 10:51 p.m., aged 51 years, 2 months and 18 days.  Was married to Alice Pickering July 10, 1901, at Dorsey Valley, five miles south of Equality.  To this union was born five children, two having died in infancy.  The three living are Corrine, Bernice and Jessica, aged 19, 16, and 13 years respectfully who are left to mourn his death together with his wife, parents, one brother, James L., of Chicago, five sisters, Carrie Wilson, of Harrisburg, Ill., Annie Douglas and Lelia Douglas, of Karnak, Ill., Maude Alleman, of Carlin, S.D., Bera Shields, of Elwood, S.D., and other relatives and a host of friends.  He was honored by having some of his old time friends from Gallatin and Saline counties attending the last sad rites.  The great interest manifested by the kindness, solicitude and the loving helpfulness of the host of friends attest to the great esteem in which he was held.  He will be sadly missed for many days in the community where he lived.
Deceased professed faith in Christ some years ago, taking an active part in the work of the Christian Church of which he was a member.  Funeral services were held Feb. 12^th at 1:30 p.m. from the Christian church at Grand Chain, conducted by Rev. W. E. Lane, pastor of the M. E. Church at Karnak, and a boyhood friend and schoolmate of the deceased, assisted by Rev. J. W. Cain, pastor of the Christian Church.  The services were very impressively brought to a close by Forest Morehand, Pulaski County organizer of the Ku Klux Klan.  Interment was made in the Masonic Cemetery.
 
The remains of Mrs. C. L. Otrich, of Sesser, Ill., were brought here Saturday evening and buried in the Barber Cemetery.  Mrs. Otrich is the mother of Mr. M. L. Hughes of this place (Olmsted).

(Her marker in Calvin-Barber Cemetery reads:  Mary E. Otrich Hughes Born April 14, 1859 Died Feb. 15, 1924.  M. L. Hughes Born Feb. 11, 1848 Died Dec. 7, 1881.  William E. Hughes  Born Feb. 21, 1881 Died June 28, 1888.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Met Death 11 Years Ago

Eleven years ago last Thursday (14th) Rev. Joseph Buie was found dead at the right-of-way of the Big Four above town.
 
Mrs. Oliver Passes Away

Mrs. Betty Oliver, age 49 years, 5 months and 27 days, died at her home on Pearl Street Wednesday morning at 4:30 after several weeks’ illness of cancer.  She leaves a husband and one daughter, Mrs. Clarence Jobe.  Funeral services were held Thursday morning at 9:30 o’clock, Rev. Pearman, Pentecostal minister of Cairo conducting the burial services.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.
 
Mrs. George Kesler, living east of Ullin, died Friday night following blood poisoning.  Funeral services were held Tuesday at Mt. Pisgah.  

(Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Katherine Miller Kesler Born Aug. 21, 1907 Died Feb. 16, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bundschuh were in Mounds Sunday attending the funeral of Mr. Hudson. (Ullin)
 
Mrs. Wedgwood

The death angel called in our town last Wednesday, Feb. 13^th and summoned from life’s work Mrs. Luella Wedgewood, of Valley Recluse, who had been ill some weeks with influenza and symptoms of pneumonia.  Mrs. Wedgewood was born in Belknap in 1874 and this would make her __ years, 11 months and 4 days old at the time of her death.  She was twice married, her first husband being John Curran, to whom she was married in 1888, and passed away several years ago.  To this union were born five children, two having died, and the surviving ones are Mrs. H. Isenberger, of Olmsted, C. F. Curren, of Mt. Vernon, and W. F. Curran of New Burnside.  In her second marriage she was married to Mr. Wedgewood, who preceded her in death two years ago.

Funeral services were Friday afternoon at (rest illegible)
 
HENRY J. HUDSON

The death knell was sounded and one of the oldest residents answered the call.

Henry J. Hudson, a resident of Pulaski County for over half a century died at his home in Mounds ____ afternoon following a siege of failing health.  Mr. Hudson was a native of ___, but came to Pulaski County from Clinton, Ky., when ___ and was in his 57^th year ____.  For a number of years he ____ farming, also conducting a store at Friendship.  He moved to Mounds in 1901 and established the mercantile business.  Deceased was twice married, his first wife passed away in 1917.  Six sons survive that union, Ira J. Hudson, of this county, Dr. Otis Hudson, of Mounds, Hearty T. Hudson, agent for the Cotton ____ at Cairo, Roy and Omar Hudson of East St. Louis, and ___ Hudson or Bisbee, Ariz.  He is survived also by his second wife.  Funeral services were held ___ afternoon at 2:3_ at the Methodist church in Mounds, ___ Dever officiating.  Interment taking place at Beech Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Hudson was a direct descendant of Capt. Henry T. Hudson, whom the Hudson River was named.  In the family as an heirloom for years was kept the ___l box of Capt. Hudson.

(Henry J. Hudson married Annita Lentz on 4 Oct 1876, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  A marker in New Hope Cemetery near Ullin reads:  Claris L. infant dau. of H. J. & Tabitha Hudson Died June 18, 1891 Aged 14 Yrs., & 4 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)
 
HENRY HILLERICH

Henry Hillerich, well known ___ a siege of illness of ___ months from asthma, ___ at his home in this ____ Monday night.  He was in his 67^th year, being 67 years __ months and 10 days old.  He came here from ___ Ky., where he was ___ had been a citizen of ___ nearly for 22 years.  He ____ alderman in our city and had engaged in business as a florist for several ____.  He leaves in mourning his companion, four sons, ___ Hillerich, of Rockford, W. Va., ____ Hillerich, of this city, R. F. Hillerich, of Mounds, and J. Earl Hillerich of Memphis.  Also six grandchildren, three brothers, ___ sisters.  He was a member of the Congregational church and from this house of worship the funeral services were held at 2:00 o’clock Thursday afternoon, Rev. S. J. Burgess officiating.  The interment taking place in Beech Grove Cemetery.
 
Friday, 29 Feb 1924:
W. M. STRINGER DIES IN HERRIN
Formerly a Well Known Resident of Pulaski County and Vicinity

William Marion Stringer, was born in Livingston County, Ky., Jan. 30, 1845.  Departed this life at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. N. Miller in Herrin, Ill. Feb. 8, 1924, aged 79 years and 8 days.  He was the fifth child of a family of ten children, none of whom survive.

At the age of nine his family moved to Missouri and from there to Illinois during the Civil War.  The family settled in Pulaski County which has been his home until the present time.

In 1868 he was united in marriage to Mary Jane Kelly, of Villa Ridge, and together they established a residence a mile and a half southeast of Pulaski which has been their home since that time, a period of fifty-six years.  To this union five children were born, four of whom survive.  Frank Marion Stringer, Detroit, Mich., Mrs. J. N. Miller, Herrin, Ill., Mrs. C. I. Parker, Pulaski, and Leman H. Stringer, Lilton, Wis.  He is also survived by six grandchildren, Mrs. Ray Higdon, Britt, Iowa, Ralph E. Stringer, Paul W. and Betty Jane Miller, Mary Leeta Parker, Pulaski and Mary Frances Stringer, Milton, Wis, one great-grandchild, Ralph E. Stringer, Jr., Herrin, Ill.  At an early age he confessed Christ and united with the Baptist church and later became a member of the Seventh Day Baptist Church at Villa Ridge.

He, together with James Palmer and Willis Needham, was active in the organization of a C. E. society at the Mt. Pleasant School, which proved to be a source of spiritual and educational uplift to the community.  Since that time he has been an ardent supporter of the Christian Church.  Throughout his life he stood for the principals that make strong character.  He opposed evil in every form.  He was a tireless worker and had the welfare of the community at heart.  Now he passes his torch to their hands.  The pioneer has crossed the river.

(William N. Stringer married Mary Jane Kelly on 28 Sep 1869, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Joseph Newton Miller married Lulu Stringer on 22 Jul 1896, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Colored Man Severely Burned

Henry Terrell, negro, 24 years old, was taken to St. Mary’s Infirmary from Ullin Saturday suffering from severe burns received when he fell into a vat of scalding water at the veneer plant.  The flesh of his left side, both hands and his right leg were cooked.  It was stated that the hospital that he is expected to recover unless complications develop.
 
Former Resident Dies in Washington

John J. Dermody, age 54 years, and vice president of the Order of Railway Telegraphers for 19 years, died at his home in Washington, D.C., Feb. 21st.  Deceased is a son-in-law of Mrs. Margaret Crain, of this city, having married her daughter, Alice.

Mr. Dermody, before becoming vice president of the Order, had been an employee of the Illinois Central railroad, serving as operator at Mounds, Centralia and other towns along the line.  He was successful in getting the telegraphers well organized on the I. C. system, later serving as their general chairman.

The funeral services were held February 22 at the residence and thence to St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, where mass was said at 10 o’clock.  Interment was made in Mt. Olive Cemetery.

Mr. Dermody during the World War was appointed a member of the board of wages and working conditions by Secretary McAdoo at the time the government took over the operation of the railroads.  He served two years in that office and during that time was granted leave of absence by the telegraphers, so that he might serve the workingmen in another capacity—as a member of the board.  He was a resident of Washington for six years.  He was born in Clay City, Ill., Oct. 5th, 1869, was a member of Putworth Citizens’ Association and of Council No. 224 Knight of Columbus.  He is survived by his wife, four children and two brothers.

(John Joseph Dermody, son of James Dermody and Mary Madden, married Alice Margaret Crain, daughter of John Crain and Margaret Vonnida, on 23 May 1900, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Train Master Givens Dies

William R. Givens, formerly trainmaster for the Illinois Central train at Mounds, died in Chicago Thursday.
  
Friday, 7 Mar 1924:
W. H. Crippen and wife spent Friday of last week in Anna attending the funeral of a Mr. Hurst, a cousin to Mrs. Crippen who died suddenly in his office in Jonesboro.  (Ullin)

(His marker in Jonesboro Cemetery reads:  William M. Hurst 1877-1924.—Darrel Dexter)

Owing to a funeral in another part of the state, Rev. H. L. Spencer was unable to fill his regular appointment at the Baptist church in the city (Ullin) Saturday night.

S. Moses Dies Suddenly

S. Moses, who died of heart failure Friday on his farm west of Mounds, was buried at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Mounds, Sunday.  He had been a resident of that section for many years.  He came to the United States from Syria, when he was a young man and after spending six years in this country returned to bring with him his wife and son, George Moses, who survives him and who lives in Mounds.  Funeral services were conducted by Father Finney, of St. Michael’s Church, of Mounds.

(His marker in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery reads:  Samaha Moses 1853-1924 Mother.—Darrel Dexter)
 
______ SPENCER DIES AFTER BRIEF ILLNESS
Citizen and Prominent Political and ___ Life of Cairo

_____ Spencer, age 68 years, ___ High Priest of the ___ Lodge of Illinois, prominent ___ Chapter of Cairo, ___ of the Alexander County National Bank, died Saturday about 3 o’clock at his home on Eleventh Street, Cairo after an illness of but a few days, ___ of kidney and heart ____ general breakdown.

____ Spencer was born at Ullin, Pulaski County, June 9, 1856, ____ thereafter his parents moved to a farm near ____ where he grew to manhood.  Most of his early life was at Bloomington, _____ he stayed with his ____er during the winter ____ attended the public school.  He attended the state normal at Normal, graduating from Grammar school in 1875.  ____ 1878 he taught a ____ school adjoining his ____ January 1878, he came ____ where he has resided ____ and accepted a position ____ Internal Revenue office ___ as assistant postmaster under Postmaster John Wood, ____ of the present mayor, ____ H. Wood.  Tiring of ____ life on March 1, 1894 he ____ a position as assistant ___ the Alexander County Bank of Cairo, this ___ of honor and trust he ___ 1923, when he was ____ to cashier to the bank ____ retirement of James H. ______.

____ Spencer was married ____r 2, 1879, to Miss Abbie _____.  His wife, son, Frank Spencer, Jr., of Mobile, Ala., ____ John F. Welson, of ____ and two grandchildren, Frank Lovering Spencer and _____ Hardwick Spencer of ____ survive him.

Funeral services were held ____ afternoon at 1:30 o’clock at the Church of the Redeemer, conducted by the rector, Fr. L. ___ ton, the Masonic Lodge, ____ Eastern Star.

Interment was made in the Beech Grove Cemetery.  The funeral was a large one people from ____ of the county being _____.

Friday, 14 Mar 1924:
Resolutions of Respect

Whereas our comrade and brother, John Gleason, who died February 27^th, 1924, has answered the final bugle call and stacked arms forever and gone to the land where no strife or discord ever enters.  Therefore

RESOLVED, That in the death of him we have lost one who was ever loyal to his country, was a brave, true and upright citizen, and has gone down to his grave in ripe old age, bearing the respect and love of all who knew him.

RESOLVED, That we bear our united testimony to the worth of our Brother and extend to the bereaved family our most sincere sympathy in this, their great loss, with the earnest prayer that the God of all grace may comfort them with the hope and assurance of floating him in glory, where parting is no more.

RESOLVED, That we drape our charter for thirty days and that a copy of these resolutions be handed to the bereaved family, be spread upon our minutes, and furnished the paper for publication.
James W. Sheffer
E. C. West, Committee

JOHN GLEASON DIES

John Gleason, a resident of Wetaug for 40 years, died at the home of his son, George E. Gleason, in Wetaug, Wednesday a.m., following a siege of failing health since last October.

Mr. Gleason was a native of Ireland, came to this county with his parents at the age of six and was 81 when he passed away.  At the age of 18, he enlisted in the U. S. Navy; after serving about two years he was honorably discharged.  He was brought up in the Catholic faith, was a member of Lodge 343 I. O. O. F. of Dongola, Ill., for 34 years and a member of the G. A. R. Post 553, of Anna, Ill.  During his active business life, he was engaged in the grocery and other business, but for the past several years has been retired.  He was married in the year of 1877 to Miss Helen Jones, who died July 1^st, 1905.  They were the parents of five children, one of whom, John, died in infancy.  The others who survive are Mrs. Maggie Lay, of Kansas City, Mo., George E. and James E., of Wetaug, Harry, of Detroit, Mich.  The funeral was held at the home of his son, George, Friday, February 29, conducted by Rev. F. Millhouse.  Interment was made  in the Anna Cemetery.

(John Gleason married Helen James on 20 Feb 1878, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Their marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  John Gleason Born Sept. 27, 1843 Died Feb. 27, 1924.  Helen E. wife of John Gleason Born Jan. 23, 1857 Died July 1, 1905.—Darrel Dexter)

F. L. Leasor has returned from Paducah, where he was called on account of the death of his mother, Mrs. Minerva Leasor, who passed away Thursday of last week.

Mrs. Parker Buried Here

Mrs. Alex Parker, aged 74 years, who has been making her home with a granddaughter, at Johnston City, died this week and the busy was brought to Beech Grove Thursday for burial.  Deceased leaves a husband, a son, George Parker, and Gladys and Helen Parker, of W____son, Ill.  Albert and ___ of this city are her grandchildren.

(The deceased’s name was Florence Parker.  James A. Parker married Florence Howpe on 1 Jan 1867, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Little Child Dies

Mildred Cathrene, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Tally died at 6 o’clock March 11.  Interment took place in the Beech Grove Cemetery.  Rev. Roy Kean conducted the service.

Woman Dies at Child Birth

Friday evening, March 7th, Gladys Moore, wife of Ronald Moore, passed away at her home on Park Street, following the death of babe born to her at 3 o’clock that afternoon.  Deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Curt Hogue of Metropolis, being nearly 23 years of age.  She had resided in this city for a number of years and besides a husband, her parents she leaves a number of brothers and sisters and many sorrowing friends.  Cecil Albright, of Pine Bluff, Ark., and Claude Albright, of Olmstead, brothers, were in attendance at the funeral, which took place from the home at 2 o’clock Sunday afternoon, Rev. Roy N. Kean conducting the services.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.  G. A. James was in charge.

Friday, 21 Mar 1924:
Mrs. H. G. Isenberger was called to Mt. Vernon Sunday, March 10^th, to attend the funeral of her sister-in-law, Mrs. Nora Curren, wife of Fred Curren, who died at her home Saturday of pneumonia.

Baby Found Buried in Cigar Box

While Officers Walbridge, Wilson and Riding were looking for white mule in an old barn in the north part of the city Monday, they noticed some fresh dirt and digging about they unearthed a cigar box containing a small baby.  Evidently a premature birth.  The woman who had given birth to the babe had removed to Future City.

___ Old Babe Dies

___ old babe of Mr. and Mrs. ___ Britt, who died ___ing was buried Monday ____.  A prayer service ___ the home by Rev. Roy ___.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.

Daughter Passes Away

___elene Kelly, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Kelly, ___ March 17^th, age 1 year, ___ months and 9 days.  The ___ succumb to pneumonia, ____ visited the home and ____ consolation.  The body ____ Ridgley, Tenn., the ___ of Mr. and Mrs. ____ where the interment  ____.  The bereaved parents have the sympathy of the community.,

Mrs. J. A. Parker

Funeral and burial service of ____ Parker, who died ____ of her granddaughter, ___ Bundrer in John___ ____ week, was held at _____ Cemetery, Thursday.  ____ Anderson pastor of ___ church, conducted ____.  The grandsons of ____ Albert and Carlos ____ and Clifford Parker, ____ Lee Lawless were the pallbearers.

____ Parker was formerly Miss ____ Haupe, and was born ____nia, October 6, 1849. She was married to Mr. Parker ____, 1867.  To them were born ___ children, three of whom preceded their mother in death, ____ children, George Parker, ___ F. Lawless, both of ____, La., with their aged ____, she also leaves ____ children.  She joined ____ church at Bloom____ at the age of 14.

____ Reichert Passed Away

Louise Reichert, wife of August Reichert, Sr., died at her home in Grand Chan Sunday ____ at 8 o’clock a.m.

She was 60 years, 11 months and 2 days of age, having ____ three months with ___ disease.  She leaves besides her husband, eleven children, ____ being 20 years of age, two other sisters, ____.  Deceased has resided ___ city for 33 years having ____ her husband from St. _____.

Funeral services were held ____ morning at 10 o’clock ___ Catherine’s Church in Grand Chain, ___ Rev. Charles Feeney ____ Mound City conducting ___.  The bereaved husband, ____ children have the sympathy of the entire community.

(Her marker in St. Catherine Cemetery at Grand Chain reads:  Louise Reichert  1863-1924.—Darrel Dexter)

____ Leidigh Died Friday

____ Maud Leidigh, wife of ____ Leidigh, died Friday at ___ o’clock at her home ____.  She was 52 years and ___ months of age, and is survived by her husband and ____, a sister, Mrs. ___ Edwards of Hazel ____, and a brother Her___ ___ of Chicago.  Deceased was a daughter of Homer W. ____ and had been a resident ___ Ridge for 32 years.  Funeral services were held at the Episcopal Church at that city __day afternoon at 2 ___ interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.

Friday 28 Mar 1924:
Card of Thanks

We wish to thank our friends for the kindness rendered during the illness and death of our father.  To the Masons and all who rendered service at the cemetery.
Edward Shumaker
William Shumaker

Mrs. Reichert Obituary

Mrs. Louisa Reichert, wife of August Reichert, Sr., aged 60 years, 11 months and 2 days departed this life March 16, 1924, at her home near Grand Chain, where she had resided for thirty-three years.

She was born at Freeburg, Ill., April 14, 1863, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Routh.  Was united in marriage to August Reichert  September 6^th, 1881.  To this union were born thirteen children, two of which died in infancy.

The surviving children are Mrs. Angeline Merchant, Mound City, Mrs. Kathyrn Kraatz, of Olmsted, Mrs. Ida Biggs, Clara Reichert, Permelia Reichert, Helen Reichert, John A. Reichert, Fritz J. Reichert, Adam Reichert, August A. Reichert, Jr., Robert E. Reichert, and fourteen grandchildren, all of Grand Chain.  Besides here husband and children she leaves two brothers, Adam and John Roth, of Belleville, two sisters, Mrs. Mary E. Evans, of Freeburg, Ill., Mrs. Anna Maynard, St. Louis.

Other relatives from out of town attending the funeral services were Adam Routh, Mr. and Mrs. John Routh and son Gus, of Belleville; Mrs. Mary Evans and son Fred Rouch, Elmer Reichert, J. K. Reichert and son Richard, Clarence Reichert and wife; Amil Serth, Fred Nold, Charles Becker, all of Freeburg.  Earnest Eberhardt, Granite City, Ill.; Mrs. Nicholas Flach, Belleville; Mrs. Anna Maynard, Mrs. Harry Franklin, Mrs. Richard Repmann, William Becker, all of St. Louis; Reulpph Serth, East St. Louis, Mr. and Mrs. M. J. Mahaffee and daughter, of Cairo; Mr. and Mrs. John Arnold, of Cairo; Mrs. Theo Green of Ridgeway, Ill., Mrs. Frieda Henselut, California.

She was a devoted wife and a dear mother and was loved by all who knew her.  Funeral services were held at St. Catherine’s Church Wednesday, 19^th at 1:30 p.m. Rev. Fr. Feeney of Mound City officiating.  G. A. James of Mound City in charge.

Mrs. Earnest McKinney of Memphis is here being called to the bedside of her father, Jerry O’Sullivan, who is seriously ill.

Mrs. J. F. Hoffman, who is in her 90^th year is quite ill at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. F. Hargan.

Death of William Shumaker

William E. Shumaker, one of the oldest and most progressive farmers of Pulaski County, died Saturday at his home north of Cross Roads.  He was 64 years of age and leaves a widow and a number of children.  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Congregational Church in Villa Ridge.  Rev. Joel Burgess conducting the services.  interment taking place at Beech Grove Cemetery and members of the Pulaski Masonic lodge conducted their burial services.  G. A. James was the undertaker in charge.

Old Colored Lady Dies

Tempy Taylor, an old and well known colored resident, died Tuesday night at her home on East First Street.  She was a widow and had been a resident of our city for over 53 years.  Funeral service were held Thursday at the Main Street Baptist church. Burial in Beech Grove Cemetery.

(The 1880 census of Mound City has:  Armstead Taylor, 35, born in Louisiana, black, laborer; Tempa Taylor, 29, his wife, born in Alabama, black, washwoman; and Malinda Woods, 12, his sister-in-law, born in Illinois.  Tempy’s sister, Malinda Woods, was the daughter of Washington Woods and Martha        Hockens, and married Aurelius Cochran on 11 Mar 1896, in Pulaski Co., Ill..—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Brown Passes Away

Mrs. Martha Brown, age 60 years, passed away, Thursday, March 20^th, at 10 o’clock p.m. after a brief illness of pneumonia.  It was one month and 14 days that her husband preceded her in death.  Deceased is survived by her mother, Mrs. Martha Huff, of Charleston, Mo., and seven children the latter all residing here.  They are three sons, Benjamin, Malfus, and Austin and four daughters, Mrs. Oran Bower, Mrs. Charles Kesee, Mrs. John Kesee, and Miss Ruth Brown.

Funeral services was held Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home.  Rev. A. H. Dace conducting the service.  Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.  G. A. James was the undertaker in charge.

Friday, 4 Apr 1924:
Jerry O’Sullivan Passes Away Friday

Jerry O’Sullivan, age 70 years, passed away at his home in this city at 6 o’clock Friday morning.  He had been ill for several months.  Deceased was born in Lexington, Ky., and came to this city when 9 years of age and has resided here ever since.  In 1883 he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Bray.  This union eight children were born, five of which preceded him in death.  Surviving him are his wife and three children, Mrs. Ernest McKinney, of Memphis, Mrs. Mamie Elder, of Louisville, Ky., and Dan O’Sullivan, of Chicago and several grandchildren.  Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Rev. Charles Feeney conducting the services.  There were many in attendance, as Mr. O’Sullivan and family were well and favorably known.  Interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery near Mounds.  G. A. James was the undertaker in charge.

(Jeremiah O’Sullivan married Sarah J. Bray on 12 Apr 1882, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in St. Mary’s Cemetery at Mounds reads:  Jeremiah O’Sullivan 1853-1924 Father.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. H. L. Settlemoir and daughter, Miss Aline, were called to Carrier Mills last Thursday on account of the death of a friend, Mrs. Helen Rudd, who passed away in a hospital at Harrisburg.

Miss Cleota O’Sullivan who is teaching school at Tamaroa was called here Tuesday by the death of her uncle, Jerry O’Sullivan.  She returned Tuesday.

Mrs. Elias Dies in Denver

Mrs. S. H. Elias, who went to Denver several weeks ago, on account of ill health, passed away Tuesday night.  The body was shipped Thursday and is expected to arrive Saturday morning in Cairo.  Funeral will be held Sunday at the Episcopal Church in Cairo.  Karcher Brothers in charge.  Mr. Elias has the sympathy of the entire community in the sad bereavement.  Deceased won many warm friends during her brief residence here.

William Shumaker Dies in Olmsted

William Shumaker, aged 64 years, a resident of Pulaski County near Olmsted, died Saturday, March 22.

Deceased was a native of Pulaski County and spent his whole life there, except nine years in Kansas.  His parents came from Germany and he was one of fifteen children.  He married his first wife, Mary A. Daniels, in Kansas in 1882 and they had seven children, Ed Shumaker, Mrs. Anna Galliher, Mrs. Ella Parker, Mrs. Etta Full, Dr. W. E. Shumaker, and Miss Blanche Shumaker, Mrs. Winnie Strawbridge.  His wife died in November 1901.  He married the second time in October 1903 to Miss Dora M. Johnson, and five children were born, Ruth, Alfred, Dora, Wilma and Henry.

The deceased was a member of Masonic lodge, Modern Woodmen and Odd Fellows and was consistent Christian from boyhood.  He is survived by his wife, children, a stepdaughter, Mrs. Hazel Strawbridge and six sisters, Mrs. Malinda Meyers, of Olmsted, Mrs. Sarah Basse, of Villa Ridge, Mrs. Bertie Higgins, of St. Louis, Mrs. Mollie Wood, of Owensboro, Ky., and Mrs. Jane Smith, of Alva, Okla.

Friday, 11 Apr 1924:
Card of Thanks

I desire to thank all who assisted during the illness and death of our loved one, Mrs. Jamiley Elias Died in Denver Colo., Tuesday, April 1st, 1924, age 25 years.  For the beautiful floral offerings use of their automobiles, and other expressions of sympathy and grief.
SHAKER H. ELIAS

J. C. Mackey Dies in Marion

Mrs. Ollie Livesay, of this city, and Mr. and Mrs. Met Quarrels and son Bobbie, went to Vienna, Sunday where they attended the burial of J. C. Mackey, who passed away at the home of his daughter in Marion, Friday.  He was 70 years of age and was well known here.  The burial service were held at the Baptist church in Vienna.

Mother Dies in Cairo

Mrs. W. H. Layton, mother of Joseph J. Layton, of this city, died at her home in Cairo Monday afternoon.  She was 77 years of age, and had been ill for some time.  Her husband who has been seriously ill for months, is at death’s door due to infirmities of age.

JUDGE HARRY HOOD DIES, LONG ILLNESS
Former Pulaski County Resident—Large Funeral Was Held

Judge Harry Hood, after weeks of illness died at his home, 33301 Washington Avenue, in Cairo, at 10 o’clock Saturday night.  He had been a sufferer of Bright’s disease and he has been confined to his bed for some time.

Judge Hood was born in August 1880, at New Burnside, Ill., and this would make him 43 years old.  He accompanied his parents to Olmstead, where he lived until he was admitted to the bar in 1901.  He started practice in Mound City and remained there for five years.

In 1906 he was married to Miss Tatum Dougherty, and moved to Oklahoma, where he practiced law for three or four years.  He came to Cairo in 1910 and established himself there in the profession, and later was appointed city attorney.

Judge Hood first came into prominence as a political when he was elected county judge six years ago.  Held the reins of power of the Republican Party and guided it unfalteringly as he saw the way.  Faction at opposition developed, but he dominated and usually carried his point.

He was a member of the Masonic organizations of Cairo, the Kiwanis Club and other organizations.

Surviving Judge Hood are his widow, his mother, Mrs. Victoria Hood, sister, Mrs. J. F. Martin, of Olmsted and brother, Judge Fred Hood, of this city.

The death of Judge Hood while not unexpected, as he was known to be in a critical condition for some time, was a shock to the community and caused grief of his many friends and associates.  His death leaves vacant the office of county judge of Alexander County, which he has held for the past six years.

The funeral was held at 1:30 Wednesday afternoon at the First Methodist Church conducted by Rev. J. M. Adams.  The services were attended by throngs of friends, businessmen and county and city officials.  A splendid eulogy on the life of Judge Hood was given by the pastor, and music was furnished by the church choir.  The floral offerings were of great abundance and beauty, and included many immense wreathes and floral pieces from various organizations.

Immediately after the services the cortege left by automobiles for Mounds where interment was made in Beech Grove Cemetery.  All of the county officers were closed that afternoon for the funeral.

(John L. Martin married Jennie F. Hood on 25 Feb 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Burial of Mrs. Elias Sunday

Mrs. Shaker H. Elias, who died in Denver, April 1^st, was buried Sunday at Beech Grove Cemetery. Funeral services were held at the Church of the Redeemer by Rev. L. A. Crittenton, the rector.  The cortege which proceeded in automobiles was a large one and the floral offerings were profuse.  The entire community sympathize with Mr. Elias in his bereavement.

Mr. Elias received a cablegram Monday from Jerusalem extending condolence from an uncle of the deceased, who is an international lawyer in that city.

Over Sea Veteran Passes Away

William Gray, a former member of Co. K, of Cairo, and war veteran died in San Francisco, Cal., last week and the body arrived in Cairo Wednesday.

A military funeral service was held Thursday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock at St. Patrick, a church at Cairo, conducted by Father William Trombley.  Deceased was a brother of Mrs. Robert Blatter, of Cairo, and Mrs. Albert Mertz, of this city.

___ Graves Dies Suddenly

___ Graves, age 56 years, died suddenly at his home at 4 o’clock ____ morning, and is supposed ____ been caused by apoplexy ____ trouble.  He was a prominent farmer and well known in the entire county.

Surviving Mr. Graves are his ____ seven children, Henry ___ Moline, Ill., Mr. P. J. ____ of Cairo; Francis, Mary ___ Agnes and Nettie Graves, ___d with their parents and ___ sisters, Mrs. C. R. Wakeland, of Maplewood, Mo., Mrs. W. ___rer of Mound City and Mrs. J. W. Bundschuh, of Therr____, and brother W. O. ____ of Mounds.

Funeral which was held ____ morning at St. Mary’s ___ church in this city, conducted by Father Feeney and was ____ attended.  There were ___ 100 automobiles from Cairo and surrounding county carrying ____wing friends to the church ____er to Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge where the burial took place.  The floral offerings ___ great abundance.

(F. E. Graves, 27, native of Alexander Co., Ill., son of Samuel Graves and Mary Littlejohn, married Mary Elizabeth “Lizzie” Kinker, 24, daughter of J. H. Kinker and Catharine Walker, on 25 Jun 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Charles Richard Wakeland married Nettie Graves, daughter of Samuel Horry Graves and Mary Catharine Littlejohn, on 17 Apr 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  John Wesley Bundschuh married Flora Graves on 20 Apr 1897, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  A marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  F. E. Graves 1868-1924 Father.—Darrel Dexter)

Friday, 18 April 1924:
Mr. and Mrs. L. C. Stophlet and her father, Rev. Morris, and Mrs. H. C. Rice, returned home Thursday from Fairfield where the body of Mrs. Stophlet’s mother was interred.

Daniel O’Sullivan has returned to his home in Chicago and Mrs. William Elder returned to Louisville, Ky.  Both were called here by the death of their father, Jerry O’Sullivan.

Mother Dies While at Dinner

Mrs. W. T. Morris, mother of Mrs. L. C. Stophlet of this city was stricken Friday with an attack of heart trouble while seated at the dinner table at her home in Jerseyville, Ill., and died after neighbors summoned by her husband arrived.  Mrs. Morris was 68 years of age and the wife of Rev. W. T. Morris, pastor of the Methodist church.

Mrs. Morris recently fell down a flight of stairs and sustained bruises which it is thought were contributory to her death.

Her daughter, Mrs. Stophlet, was called and had been caring for the deceased had departed for Chicago where she went to visit a son, had left the home only a few hours before death occurred.  The body was taken to Fairfield for burial.

Friday, 25 Apr 1924:
Young Son Dies Monday

Charles Pleasant Hersley, the eight-month-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Roach, of Mounds, died Monday at the home of his grandmother, Mrs. Oliver, in this city, after a brief illness.  The remains were taken to Pulaski Tuesday for burial. G. A. James in charge.

TRUCK DRIVER DIES AT WHEEL OF MACHINE
Accompanied by His Son on a Drive to Dongola Saturday Night.

Clarence Ashby, age 46, a well known salesman of Cairo, dropped dead late Saturday afternoon behind the steering wheel of a truck he was driving north on the concrete road, just south of the interurban crossing.

Apoplexy was the cause of his death, according to the coroner’s jury at the inquest ___ morning.  He was driving a Coca-Cola Co. truck and headed for Dongola with a ____.  Sitting in the front seat with him was his son, Sterling, ___ age 18, and F. White____ had just been conversing with his son and the other ____.  He suddenly slumped forward dead.  While White held the ____ the son grasped the wheel and turned off the ignition the ___sting to a stop.

Friday, 9 May 1924:
Villa Ridge Resident Dies

S. Watkins, a well known farmer, residing near Villa Ridge, passed away at his home Wednesday morning following a stroke of apoplexy.  He leaves besides his wife, two daughters, Mrs. S. S. Thompson and Mrs. L. H. Needham, of Ullin, and four sons, James, George, Will and Roy Watkins.  The latter son made his home with his parents.  Funeral services were held from the home Thursday afternoon with burial at Jonesboro.

(Samuel Watkins married Mary E. E. Williams on 24 Oct 1875, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Jonesboro Cemetery reads:  Samuel Watkins Born Nov. 15, 1852 Died April 30, 1924.  M. Ellen Watkins Born Nov. 16, 1855 Died Oct. 28, 1943.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Aged Ullin Citizen Passes Away

Mrs. Ellen O. F. P. Tingle was born in Joplin, Missouri, Oct. 17, 1850, and died at her home in Ullin, April 30, 1924.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William and Elizabeth Tingle.

She was married to Richard Hickman in 1869 and to them were born two children:  Franklyn Hickman, of Ullin, and Louise, a daughter, who died in infancy.  She left surviving her demise her husband, son Frank, and three grandchildren:  Alberta, Dorothea Belle and Frances Kate Hickman, all of Ullin.  She also leaves one brother, Charles Tingle, of Joplin, Mo., and two sisters, Mesdames Hettie Ellis of Vancouver, Washington, and Rachael Cannon, of Nevada Missouri.

Mrs. Hickman had resided in Ullin for 49 years and both she and her husband were well known here during those years.  She was a Christian lady and was highly respected by all who knew her.

Funeral services were held at the residence Friday afternoon, May 2, conducted by Rev. C. L. Phifer, after which the body was laid to rest in the family lot at the Ullin Cemetery.
 
Mrs. Eura Kennedy, of St. Louis, was the guest of Mrs. Edna Little, Friday.  Mrs. Kennedy came down to attend the funeral of her aunt, Mrs. Mary Atherton, at Shiloh.

(Aaron T. Atherton married Mary H. Conyers on 8 Nov 1885, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Shiloh Cemetery reads:  Mary wife of A. T. Atherton Born Oct. 4, 1859 Died April 27, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Brakeman Acquitted

P. B. Lawler, ex-brakeman for the Illinois Central Railroad, who was arrested last September charged with the murder of I. C. C. Conductor S. L. Brooks, was acquitted in circuit court at Murphysboro late Friday evening.  The trial consumed the whole week.  Brooks was found dead in the caboose of his train when the train arrived at Carbondale last August 15.  Lawler, who lives near Villa Ridge, was suspected of the crime and arrested and was later indicted by a Jackson County grand jury.  It is stated the evidence against Lawler was all circumstantial, there being no eye witnesses to the killing.  It was a hard fought case by both sides.
  
Friday, 16 May 1924:
Mrs. Dora Hogan, who has been here from some time, was called to Lexington, Mo., last week on account of the death of an aunt.
 
Mr. and Mrs. James Black, who were called here by the serious illness and death of the former’s mother, Mrs. Mary Hamilton, will return to their home in Denver tomorrow.
 
R. C. Magill was bereaved in the death of a sister, Mrs. George Caton, of Terre Haute, Ind.  He attended the funeral, which was held the forepart of the week.
  
Friday, 23 May 1924:
Gibson Hughes Stricken

Gibson Hughes, while working with his automobile at his home Wednesday, suffered a paralytic stroke, which effected his entire left side, and for a time was speechless.  He was assisted into his home by his wife and his resting easier today.  He is in his 81^st year and this being a second attack is proving quite severe with him.  Mr. Hughes has an older brother, who resides in Baum, Texas.
 
Attend Funeral of Mother

Mr. and Mrs. William M. Rice motored to Campbell Hill, Ill. ____ on account of the death of ____ Benson, mother of Mrs. Rice, who passed away after several days’ illness at an advanced age.

(W. P. Rice married Minnie Benson on 2 Oct 1898, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 30 May 1924:
CARD OF THANKS

I wish to express my thanks and appreciation to the many friends who so kindly assisted us during the brief illness and death of our loved one. Also for the many words of sympathy and the beautiful floral offerings.  For the kind words spoken by the pastor and to those who extended the use of their cars to get the friends and relatives to the cemetery.
Mrs. Gib Hughes
 
Gibson Hughes Dies Saturday

Gibson Hughes, age 81, who was stricken last week with a paralytic stroke, passed to his reward at 8:30 Saturday morning.  He was rendered speechless by the stroke, but was conscious almost to the last.  He leaves a widow and a brother, who is five years his senior, at Beaumont, Texas.

The funeral services were held at the M. E. church Monday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock conducted by Rev. Roy N. Kean, pastor of the church.  The services were largely attended, the floral offerings were many and beautiful.  After the services the funeral cortege left by automobile for Olmsted where burial was made in the Masonic Cemetery, G. A. James, undertaker in charge.

(Gibson Hughes married Fredonia Walker on 14 May 1879, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Olmsted Masonic Cemetery reads:  Gibson Hughes 1843-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. C. R. Wakeland and daughter, Minnie, of St. Louis, were called here on account of the death of the former’s sister, Mrs. Edward Shearer.
 
Warner Wall, of Chicago, was here Monday, in attendance at the funeral of Gibson Hughes.
 
MRS. EDWARD SHEERER PASSES AWAY
Devoted Mother and Home Maker Will be Greatly Missed by Many

When we step across the bridge of death, it is no foreign land that we enter, but our native home.  We are made to mourn and miss those that familiar forms that pass out constantly from us and the dear home circle and in the light of morning their faded forms were vividly brought back to view.  And yet they are not dead, they are but sleeping.

It is only with deep regret that we chronicle the passing out from life another highly respected woman of this city.  Mrs. Lillie Sheerer, beloved wife of Edward Sheerer, where death occurred Friday morning at 11 o’clock.

Mrs. Edward Sheerer was born Dec. 2, 1869, this making her 54 years and 6 months old at the time of her demise.  She was united in marriage to Edward Sheerer in 1888.  To this union five children was born, namely Samuel, who preceded his mother in death several years ago, Mrs. Earl Giles, of Mounds, Mrs. Oma Watson, Calvin and Miss Mary Ann Sheerer, of this city.  With the husband, the four children and a number of grandchildren survive the deceased.

Only a month ago her brother, Edward Graves, died suddenly and while Mrs. Sheerer had been in ill health, her death was a shock to the community.  Stricken with a paralytic stroke, she never regained consciousness.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Methodist church, Rev. W. P. Anderson, of Cairo, assisted by Rev. Roy N. Kean, conducted the services.

The church was packed and the cortege of automobiles to the cemetery was a large one.

Mrs. Sheerer was a member of Zion White Shrine of Jerusalem No. 58 and the officers of this order conducted burial services at the grave.  Deceased was the first member of the local order to pass away.

Mrs. Lily Sheerer was born December 2, 1869, at Valley Recluse.  At the time of her marriage in 1888, to Edward Sheerer, she came to Mound City where she has since resided.

When about sixteen years old she united with the Christian Church where she held membership at the time of her death.

Mrs. Sheerer was a member of the Eastern Star.  In 1921 she helped organize the White Shrine being one of the charter members of that lodge.

Mrs. Sheerer’s death followed an illness which began in February, but from which she had apparently recovered.  Wednesday night May 21, however, she was stricken suddenly and after lingering until Friday about noon she slipped quietly into the better world.

Mrs. Sheerer’s life was devoted wholly to her family.  Were her children and grandchildren happy, then her cup of joy was full.  No sacrifice was too great for her to make:  no task of love too difficult for her to do.

Two sisters and one brother also survive the deceased.  Mrs. C. R. Wakeland, St. Louis; Mrs. J. W. Bundschuh, Thermal, Cal., and Mr. W. O. Graves, Mounds.

Then there are ten living grandchildren, who will miss their grandmother’s love.  Two, Florence and Madeline, granddaughters, Mrs. Sheerer took the place of a mother, having had the care of them since infancy.  The other grandchildren are Clyde, Edward, Calvin Earl and Maxine Watson; Louis and Earl Giles, Jr.; Dale and Edward Sheerer.

We know not why death must come, but sometime we’ll understand in God’s good time, we’ll understand.

(William E. Sheerer married Lilly D. Graves on 14 Jul 1888, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Friday, 7 Jun 1924:
Mrs. Leidigh Passes Away

He who doeth all things well in his entire portion has deemed it fitting to remove from among us and take beyond the confines of this earth the wife of William H. Leidigh.

Mrs. Elizabeth Leidigh, aged 81 years, 11 months passed away at 9:30 o’clock Thursday night, at the Leidigh home three miles east of Villa Ridge.  She had been in failing health all winter and her death was not unexpected.

Mrs. Leidigh whose maiden name was Elizabeth Hogendobler, was a native of Chester Hill, Lancaster County, Pa., and accompanying her parents removed to near Dayton, Ohio, when a small girl.  The Leidigh family also native Pennsylvanians also removed to Ohio and Mr. Leidigh enlisted in the Union army from Ohio.  At the close of the war, they were married and a few months later, in December 1865, they removed to Villa Ridge, settling upon what is now the Spaulding place.  Later they acquired the present Leidigh homestead and have lived there for 44 years.

Besides her husband, who survives, are a brother, Horace G. Hogendobler, of Villa Ridge, and eight children:  Walter, Minnie, Mrs. Harry Neistrath, Harry, Dee, Fred, of Dongola, Charles who recently removed to Valparaiso, Ind., and Maggie.  With the exception of two, all reside in this county within a few miles of their parents’ home.

There are also thirteen grandchildren and sixteen nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock at the residence.  Rev. Charles H. Armstrong, of Nashville, Tenn., a close friend of the family, officiated.  Interment in Villa Ridge cemetery.

The large attendance of friends and loved ones and the beautiful floral offerings indicated the esteemed in which she was held.  She was much devoted to her family and friends.

(Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Elizabeth M. Leidigh 1842-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Judge Butler Dies in Cairo

Judge William N. Butler, age 67, of Cairo, passed quietly away at his home early Monday morning following an attack of the heart.  With the diligence characteristic of his thirty-seven years of judicial service, he remained on the bench until the docket was cleared the day before the fatal stroke.
Judge Butler will be long remembered for his generous and upright character.  His was a justice tempered with mercy and humanity.

After receiving the degree of bachelor of laws in 1883 from the Albany Law School, four years after completing a course of study at the University of Illinois, Mr. Butler settled in Cairo.  For sixteen years he filled the post of state’s attorney competently and well.  In 1903 he was elected judge of this circuit and has been returned to office regularly every four years by a people appreciative of his merits.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Mary Mattoon Butler, and five children, Comfort Strait, William Glenn, Franklin M., Mary and July Royce.

Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at the Presbyterian church of which he was a member.  Interment followed in the cemetery at Anna the home of his early youth.

(His marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  William N. Butler 1856-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. McBride Dies at St. Mary’s

Mrs. M. J. McBride, age 65 years, and 11 months, of Villa Ridge, died Wednesday noon at St. Mary’s Infirmary in Cairo after a brief illness that was not considered fatal.  Her death comes as a distinct shock to the many friends who had always known her to be in apparently perfect health.

Mrs. McBride, who was Lizzie A. Sharrick before her marriage, was born in Pennsylvania.  At an early age she moved to Pulaski County where her friendly personality and amiable disposition won the love and respect of the countryside.

With her husband, who is a well known horticulturalist, she has worked industriously at the homestead for more than forty years, until it had become a model home and farm.

Besides her husband, she is survived by one son, Orland L. McBride, two brothers, Andrew M. Sharrick and William H. Sharrick, both of Villa Ridge, also a sister, Mrs. Mary A. Helman, of Fort Worth Texas.

Funeral services will be held at 2 o’clock Friday afternoon in Villa Ridge Congregational Church, Rev. Armstrong of near Nashville, Tenn., officiating.  Interment in the Villa Ridge cemetery.

(Martin J. McBride married Lizzie A. Sherrick on 16 Jan 1884, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Lizzie A. McBride 1858-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 13 June 1924:
Rev. Graham of Marion, Ill., preached the funeral of Mr. Gore Tuesday at Center Church.  (Olmsted)
 
CARD OF THANKS

We take this means to thank the friends of our beloved father for their many kindnesses during his illness and for the beautiful floral offerings and generous use of automobiles at the funeral.  These manifestations of a warm sympathy and thoughtfulness are not to be quickly forgotten.
Edward B. Gore
Don Gore
 
Elizabeth Kelly, of Villa Ridge Dies

Miss Elizabeth Kelly, aged 85, formerly of Villa Ridge, died last Saturday morning at St. Mary’s Infirmary in Cairo. Fore more than twenty-five years she had lived with her sister, Mrs. O’Leary, of Villa Ridge.  Last September, however, she took her home in the Cairo hospital on account of her feeble condition.

Funeral services were conducted in St. Joseph’s Church in Cairo Monday morning.  The remains were then taken to Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge and interred.

Pallbearers were:  T. M.  __ley, J. H. Galligan, E. J. Snider, J. E. Luby, J. B. Delaney, and Thomas Campbell, of Mound City,.
 
Uncle Tommy Littleton returned from Hot Springs, Arkansas, last week where he had been in attendance at the funeral of his son, Tom, who died there last week.
 
Lewis Gore, Old Settler, Dies

Lewis Gore, age 76, pioneer farmer, died Sunday at his home five miles west of Olmsted.  He was widely known throughout Pulaski County, having for many years operated a large country store and served as postmaster.

Mr. Gore is survived by two sons, Edward B., of Olmsted, and Don, who lives on his father’s place, and a daughter, Bessie, of Chicago, Ill.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at Center Church.

(Lewis Gore married Hulda Waters on 23 Sep 1873, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Concord Cemetery near Olmsted reads:  Lewis Gore 1848-1924  Hulda Gore 1852-1919.—Darrel Dexter)
 
 Friday, 27 Jun 1924:
Young Moyers Boy Dies at Home

Charles Thomas Moyers, age 7 years, 1 month and 19 days, died from the effects of scarlet fever at 1:45 o’clock last Saturday morning.  He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Moyers and the only child.  Funeral services were conducted from the house Sunday afternoon by Rev. Joel Burgess.  Interment followed in the Thistlewood Cemetery north of Mounds.  Director G. A. James had charge of funeral arrangements.
 
 Friday, 4 Jul 1924:
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Rollins of Bardwell were called to Mounds this week on account of the death of Mr. Rollins’ grandmother, Mrs. Sallie Wilford.  (Mounds)
 
John Bowles Dies

John Spencer Bowles, age 23, succumbed to a life long attack of tuberculosis at 7 o’clock Saturday night at the home of his mother, Mrs. Jane Bowles, about four miles west of Mounds.  Mr. Bowles was an enterprising young farmer and liked by everybody with whom he dealt.  He has been unable to work since last November on account of an injury to his left leg which necessitated amputation.

He is survived by his mother and brothers, Cecil, of Cairo, and Arthur, Ernest, Dudley and Roy, of near Mounds.  A sister, Miss Myrtle, lived with him on the farm.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon from the Baptist church of Mounds, Rev. George Waldron officiating.  Interment in the Thistlewood Cemetery.  G. A. James had charge of the funeral arrangements.
 
Mrs. Sarah Runnals Pioneer, Passes Away

A pioneer was lost at Mounds last Saturday night, when Mrs. Sarah Ann Runnals, age 73, was called into the world beyond.  Valvular heat disease was the cause of the death.

Mrs. Runnals was born in Stalbridge, England, April 24, 1852, and came to this country 42 years ago, setting in Illinois,  She came to Mounds when it was scarcely more than a wilderness.  Her husband, Rev. J. H. Runnals, formerly pastor of the Congregational church, died exactly ten years ago to the day of her death.

She is survived by three sons and two daughters:  W. Runnals, agent of the American Railway Express Co., at Cairo; D. Runnals, agent for the Illinois Central at Carbondale; L. Runnals, of Eagle Rock Calif., Mrs. A. L. Norfleet, of Danville, and Miss Ethel Runnals, who made her home with her mother.

Funeral services were conducted from the Congregational church Monday afternoon by Rev. George B. Waldron.  Interment was made in Beech Grove Cemetery, Director G. A. James in charge.
 
Mrs. Wilford Dies

Mrs. Sallie Wilford, aged 74 years, died Sunday at her home in Mounds, after ailing gradually for some time.  She was an amiable woman with a wealth of respect from all who knew her.

Mrs. Wilford is survived by eight married daughters, all of whom were represent at the funeral Tuesday afternoon:  Mrs. O. C. Walker, Mrs. H. D. Wilkinson, Mrs. Bess Rollins, of Mounds, Mrs. F. M. Ireland, of Gary, Ind., Mrs. Percy Clark of Oklahoma City, Mrs. Sadie Flack, of Savannah, Ga., Mrs. B. L. Poyner, and Mrs. Ina B. Caccaro, of Memphis.

The deceased was laid to her final rest in the Thistlewood Cemetery, services being conducted from the First Methodist Church.  Mrs. M. O. Cole had charge of the funeral.
  
Friday, 11 Jul 1924:
Aged Man Drowns

The body of Mose Dickins, age 60, colored, was found in Cache River Tuesday evening one mile from the old Spencer mill near Pulaski by Dewey Cruze.  At the inquest Tuesday night, Coroner John Steele, of Mound City, returned a verdict of accidental death by drowning.

Dockins was a bachelor who lived with John Mize on the latter’s farm.  He had been missing since July 4, but not thought that he was in the water.
 
Hale Infant Died

___rville Ray Hale, two-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Hale, died at the home of his parents in Mound City last Thursday.  The infant had been suffering from congestion of the stomach.  Interment was made July 4^th in the Shiloh Cemetery.
 
Colored Woman Buried

Eliza Sanders, age 42, colored, died at her home in Mound City on Thursday night.  Funeral (rest missing)
 
Charles Dishinger Dies Early This Morning

Charles E. Dishinger, age 58 years, 8 months, was summoned to the world eternal at 12:25 this morning at his home ___th Main Street, following a five-year fight with tuberculosis.  He has been ex___ ill for the past six ___.

Mr. Dishinger is well known by everybody in the country, ___ lived in Mound city all _____.  His father, John Dishinger, who was born in Germany, settled in this city ___ was no more than a ____.

Mr. Dishinger was employed in the shipyards for thirty-five years ___ starting in as a carpenter apprentice, then taking ____ of the blacksmith shop.  ___t his own home more ____ years ago.

The deceased is survived by ___ second wife, Mrs. Mary Dishinger, and two sons, C. W.  Dishinger, of Jacksonville, Fla., and Henry Dishinger, of Mound City, a brother John, of America, a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Wil____ of Mound City, also five grandchildren, Willie Jr., of ___ville, Fla., Harry Jr.. ____ Frederick Jr., and ___ of Mound City.

Funeral services will be conducted from the home at 2:00 tomorrow by the Knights ____.  Rev. Joel Burgess ___ the last rites and the Congregational church choir will ___ music.  Interment will be in the Beech Grove Cemetery.  Director G. A. James in charge.

(Charles E. Dishinger married Lillie L. Simpson on 8 Jan 1889, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 19 Jul 1924:
James Bruce Guild, a prosperous farmer, living two miles west of Ullin, died July 13, 1924.  He was born in Arbroach, near Edinburgh, Scotland, October 20, 1847.

He came to the United States when nineteen and afterward returned to Scotland, coming back to this country in a short time and settling at Springfield, Ohio.  Here he met and married Miss Kate Sullivan, October 11, 1870, and to this union there were born ten children, three of whom have preceded their father into the next world.  They were:  Grace, Winnsford and James Alexander.  The surviving children are Mrs. Maud Short, of Ullin, William Guild, of Tamms, Mrs. Millie Vaughan, of Sheridan, Wyoming, Jonathan Guild, of Rock Island, Ill., Mrs. Nellie Creswell, of Arvada, Wyoming, Daniel Guild, of Ullin, Ill., and Mrs. Mary Mowery, of Ullin, Ill.

His first wife died January 17, 1912, and was buried at Mt. Pisgah, near Wetaug, where on Tuesday, July 15, he himself was laid to rest.

Funeral services were conducted at the Mt. Pisgah Church on last Tuesday morning by Rev. C.L. Phifer, pastor of the M. E. Church at Ullin.  This church was crowded with friends and relatives, who had come to pay their last respects to a man who had lived so long in their midst.

He was a member of the old Reformed church at Wetaug a number of years ago, but when Pisgah was built, he and his first wife joined there and have since been members.

About two weeks ago Mr. Guild fell from the barn and suffered complications from which he died.  Ever since his injuries he has been telling his children of his profession in Christ.

He was again married May 18, 1915, to Mrs. Sarah Zimmer, of St. Louis, the present wife surviving his demise.

Mr. Guild was one of the most prosperous farmers in this country.  His home is in Alexander County, but his trading places were in Pulaski and he had a wide acquaintance.  He came to the farm where he died when it was gown up in woods, cleared the land and has since lived on the same place.  He was a lover of home and seldom went away from the farm.

(Paul Ernest Mowery married Mary Agnes Guild on 31 Oct 1914, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Irvin Connell and Mr. and Mrs. Roy Connell were called to Mound City last week on account of the death of their stepfather Charles Dishinger.
 
John Dishinger, of America, was called to Mound City last week on account of the serious illness and death of his brother, Charles Dishinger.
 
Mitchell Lad Drowns

John Mitchell, age 8 years, 3 months, son of Ernest Mitchell, who lives on the Meridian Road one mile north of town, drowned at 2 o’clock Wednesday afternoon in Hess’s Bayou.

The young Mitchell had been playing with his brother on the creek bank.  He stepped on a log, lost his balance and fell into the creek, drowning in four and one half feet of water.

Funeral and interment were held in Beech Grove Cemetery yesterday morning. Director G. A. James officiating.
 
James Malley, Mounds Resident Passes Away

James Malley, age 70 and a resident of Mounds for a quarter of a century, died at 3:15 o’clock yesterday afternoon at his home on North Delaware street.  He had been ailing in health for some time.
Mr. Malley is survived by four sons, Patrick, of Centralia, John, of Mounds, Pete, of Goesbeck, Texas, Mike, of Wyoming, and one daughter, Mrs. W. J. Smith, of New Orleans, La.  All except Mike Malley will be present at the funeral.

Mr. Malley has fought the good fight.  He was respected and admired by all who knew him for the genial nature that attached itself to his moral integrity.

It is expected that the funeral services will be held at 9 o’clock tomorrow from St. Raphael’s Church.  Rev. J. T. Sonnen of Mound City officiating.  Karcher Brothers of Cairo will direct the interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery

(His marker in St. Mary’s Cemetery at Mounds reads:  James Thomas Malley Born ___ __, 1855 Died July 17, 1924, Aged 69 Years.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Friday, 25 Jul 1924:
Lee Walker Dies after Three Weeks’ Illness

Lee Walker, age 46 years, and seven months, died at 8:15 o’clock last Thursday evening at his home one and one quarter miles east of Grand Chain, following a brief illness of three weeks and an attack of typhoid fever.

Mr. Walker was a well known and respected farmer.  Before moving to Grand Chain 18 years ago, he made his home in Mound City.  His passing into the great beyond was quiet and peaceful.

Surviving him is his wife and three sons, Albert, Esper and Harry, three brothers, Albert E. Walker of Mound City, Ira Walker, of Toledo, Ohio, and Luther Walker of St. Louis, Mo. and a sister, Mrs. Harry Stout, of Bloomington, Ind.  All were present at the funeral.  James V. Walker, father of the deceased, was unable to attend.

The last services were held Saturday afternoon in the Congregational Church, Rev. L. C. Belknap of Mattoon, Ill., officiating.  Rev. Belknap was a close and admired friends of Mr. Walker when he occupied the Grand Chain parsonage up until three months ago.  Interment was made in the Grand Chain cemetery.

(Lee Walker, 22, born in Dongola, son of James V. Walker and Elizabeth Woodard, married Cyrus A. Steers, daughter of Cyrus Steers and Nancy Cline, on 22 Jul 1900, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Grand Chain Masonic Cemetery reads:  Lee O. Walker Born Dec. 13, 1877 Died July 17, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Wilson Girl Tragedy Kills Seymour Welch

Seymour Welch, age 38, of Olmsted, died at 9:390 o’clock Tuesday morning on the Wilson lawn east of Villa Ridge after an all night chase of the negro murderers.  Mr. Welch had been suffering from heart trouble and was will when he entered in the excitement of the cross country hunt.

Ed B. Gore was with him at the end.  Mr. Welch remarked that he was feeling weak, requiring the assistance of Mr. Gore to stretch out under a tree.  He lay quiet, muttered once that he was feeling better, then in two minutes was gone forever.

He is survived by a wife and six children.  Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon.  Rev. Corzine, pastor of the Southern Methodist Church or Cairo officiating.  Interment followed in Concord Cemetery near Olmsted.

(His marker in Concord Cemetery near Olmsted reads:  Seymore Welch Born Aug. 13, 1884 Died July 22, 1924.  Rosa wife of Seymore Welch Born Aug. 12, 1892.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Villa Ridge Girl Murdered By Unknown Negro Robbers
Sheriff Eludes Mob and Removes Prisoners to Place of Safety
CAPTIVES HAVE ALIBI
Demonstration at Jail All Night Tuesday

Miss Daisy Wilson, beautiful 18-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Wilson, was shot and instantly killed at 10:35 o’clock Monday night when she went to the defense of her father, who was attacked in his store by two unknown negro robbers.

Mr. Wilson operates a grocery store on the old Zimmerman place, two and one half miles east of Villa Ridge.  He had just closed up for the night and a half dozen or more of his neighbors who had been sitting on the front porch, Bob Endicott, Lou Endicott, Elmer Koonce, Earl Hillman, Bill Bour, and Steve Lampley, had departed for their several homes.

Two negroes called to him from the road, asking if he would open up the store to sell them a sack of flour.  He had got out the flour and was cutting some meat when one of the negroes pushed a gun in his face and commanded Mr. Wilson to put up his hands.  The merchant at once grappled with the man and at one time had almost wrested the gun from his grasp.

Hearing the scuffle in the store and not knowing what was detaining her father, Daisy ran from the house to assist him.  She beat the negro and threw a scale weight at him.  The fight carried them out the rear door of the store.  Ten feet form the door, beneath the cherry tree, Daisy fell and in attempting to arise, the small black negro shot point blank and instantly killed her, the bullet passing through her forehead above the left eye.

The other assailant, who is said to be slightly mulatto and three inches taller than his companion, ran into the store to get whatever money he could only to make away with 24 cents.

Mrs. Wilson came from the house with an unloaded shotgun and seeing her daughter fall, dropped the gun and rushed to her side.  Mr. Wilson secured shells and fired a couple of times through the peach orchard, but the night had swallowed the darkies.

Within a half hour the whole countryside was aroused and in arms.  Sheriff I. J. Hudson and special agents Winchester and Cruze of Mounds went to the scene immediately.  Bloodhounds were brought from Mounds and Water Valley, Ky., and put on the trial which led down the Meridian Road, passed Joe Bour’s place, then across fields in the direction of north Mounds.  Here the scent was lost.
A group of the searchers picked up two negroes who came in to south Mounds at 7:20 o’clock Tuesday morning on a freight train.  They gave their names as Ike Moore and Arthur Jones, of Memphis, Tenn.

These were immediately taken to the city jail of Mounds and held for preliminary identification.  Mr. Wilson was summoned and after a long study said that he thought they were the guilty ones.
By this time 600 people had gathered around the city hall and were clamoring for the prisoners.  F. H. Mooreland, organizer for the Ku Klux Klan, asked leave to say a prayer which had a magical effect in silencing the mob and in quieting their emotions.  The crowd was also impressed by a brief firm address from the sheriff.

The captives were guarded and taken to the county jail in Mound City where they remained the rest of the day.  Sheriff Hudson sensed the growing sentiment against the prisoners and at 7:15 o’clock arranged for their removal by Deputies A. J. Riding and James Wilson in Riding’s curtained touring car.  Hudson and Winchester met the car further down the street and the four guards and three prisoners two from Memphis and one Fred Hale of Cairo, proceeded rapidly to an undisclosed place of security.

Deputy Charles Walbridge was left in charge of the jail and its 11 negro occupants.  The spiriting away of the suspects had been accomplished so smoothly that the mob which formed during the night would not believe they were not there.  When several of the leaders, who had been taken in to inspect the jail, returned and told the crowd that the men had gone, they were hooted at and called liars and cowards.

The mob Tuesday night was composed chiefly of drunken ruffians many of whom were young men. The courthouse square and street adjoining were one tangle of automobiles and excited humanity.  Many cars were parked bearing Herrin and Marion nameplates.  The Villa Ridge farmers had nothing to do with the demonstration Tuesday night.

All night the 18 deputies stood patient watch on the jail porch and in the courthouse.  Riot guns were available for use in emergency.  Profanity and hesitancy characterized the mob which insulted the deputies, threw rocks, and fired a shot into Mrs. Hudson’s apartment in the jail house, the bullet going through the living room and burying itself in the kitchen wall.  A shot was also fired into the vault of the county clerk’s office.  The street light was smashed with a rock.

Walbridge telephoned Gov. Small at 1 o’clock who ordered Co. K of Cairo to proceed with all haste to Mound City.  When the infantry arrived everything had quieted.  At 3 o’clock the demonstration had ceased entirely.  The sheriff returned at 5:35 o’clock.

Whether Moore and Jones of Memphis are the criminals is a mooted question.  They have an unshakable alibi in their own story and in the testimony of a brakeman who brought them in from the south Tuesday morning.

What authorities consider to be the best description of the murderers was given by Mrs. Oma Currie and daughter Ruby, negresses, with whom the slayers Monday afternoon tried to arrange a date.  The Currie woman states firmly that the suspects from Memphis are not the ones she conversed with and eluded.
Wilson Funeral

Funeral services for Miss Wilson were held at 2 o’clock Wednesday afternoon from the Wilson home.  Rev. C. R. Dunlap pastor of the Lutheran Church of Cairo paid an eloquent tribute to the character and bravery of the beautiful woman.

When the funeral cortege arrived at Beech Grove Cemetery a great throng had already assembled to attend the simple commitment services at the grave.  The casket was banked with many beautiful floral offerings from friends of the girl.

Mr. and Mrs. Pete Deimund and family of Cape Girardeau, and Charles Diemund of Cairo, brother-in-law of Mr. Wilson also Mrs. Wilson’s brother, Jessie Wilson, of Cobden, were at the funeral.

(F. H. Moreland, who organized the Klan in Pulaski County, was from Cairo.  He was born in March 1852 in Kentucky and was married in 1898 to Mrs. Gertrude Ort, who was born January 1862 in Iowa.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mound City Woman Dies in Cairo

Mrs. Mary Herron, age 25 years, died at 9 o’clock Monday morning at St. Mary’s Infirmary in Cairo.  She was the daughter of G. W. Gibberson, Captain of the Salvation Army, in Oskaloosa, Ia., and the first Salvationist in charge of the Army in Cairo.

Mrs. Herron’s son, Clarence, age four months and three weeks died last Saturday afternoon.  Both bodies left Cairo at 11:10 o’clock Tuesday morning on the Illinois Central for burial in Decatur, Ill.
Director E. A. Burke had charge of the funeral arrangements.
 
The community (Olmsted) was shocked by the sudden death of Seymour Welch which occurred Tuesday morning in the country near Wilson store.  The deceased leaves a wife and four children and a host of friends to mourn his death.  Mr. Welch was converted about one year ago and has lived a good Christian life ever since.
 
Friday, 1 Aug 1924:
CAIRO NEGRO SENTENCED TO HANG FOR SLAYING MISS DAISY WILSON

Youthful Accomplice Given Life Term at Chester After Both Murderers Plead Guilty

HANGING SET FOR OCTOBER 17^th

COURTROOM CROWDED WEDNESDAY NIGHT

             Hess Conners, 22, negro of 218 Twenty-eighth Street, Cairo, was sentenced Wednesday night by Judge D. T. Hartwell to hang for the killing of Miss Daisy Wilson, daughter of J. C. Wilson, who was shot and killed Monday night, July 21, when she came to the defense of her father attacked by negro robbers.

             The execution of Conners will take place Friday, October 17, in the Mound City courtyard.  The state’s statute provides that a man must not be hung within fifteen days after he is sentenced, or before the tenth day of the next term of the Supreme Court.  This is to allow a chance for review where review is necessary.  The Supreme Court of this state convenes October 7. In passing sentence, Judge Hartwell fixed the earliest possible date of execution.

             Fred Hale, of Cairo, 19, colored, accomplice of Conners, was given a life term sentence of hard work at the Southern Illinois State Penitentiary at Chester.  For the remainder of his “entire and natural life,” he is to labor on the rock pile, and on the anniversary of the killing he is to be put in solitary confinement for a day’s reflection.

             The courtroom was thronged Wednesday afternoon when the murderers entered their formal plea of guilty after the judge had explained and repeated to them their legal right to a jury.  They were asked four times if they clearly understood the consequences of their plea, and each time they assented.  The penalties by law were made plain by the judge.

             The trial of Conners and Hale was set for 10 o’clock Wednesday morning after the grand jury had turned in an indictment the day before.  When they first appeared and pleaded guilty, judge Hartwell refused to accept their plea on the ground that they were not fully acquainted with their legal rights.  The court then appointed Carl S. Miller and Judge W. A. Wall, two of the ablest attorneys in their part of the state, to advise with the prisoners for two hours.  Court was adjourned until 1:15 o’clock.

             When the court reconvened in the afternoon, the prisoners were firm in maintaining their plea of guilty, which the judge finally accepted.  Investigation into the evidence was ordered at once, and J. C. Wilson, father of Daisy Wilson, was the first to testify.

             Mr. Wilson gave a straight forward account of how the negroes which he pointed out as Conners  and Hale came into the store in the afternoon of Monday, July 21, Conners buying a package of cigarettes.  They returned later to make arrangements for some groceries, which they were to call for late that evening.

             After everyone had left the store and Mr. Wilson had locked up, a voice from the road hailed him:  “Hey, Can we get them groceries?  We just got to have some groceries tonight.”

             Mr. Wilson got the keys and opened the store reluctantly.  Hale did the talking.  He asked for a sack of flour, and then for a piece of meat.  When the storekeeper had finished cutting the meat, Conners stuck a 38 caliber Smith and Weston in his side and commanded him to “stick ‘em up.”  A scuffle ensued, the fight carrying them out the back door.

             Miss Daisy Wilson had entered the store with her father, and now unhesitatingly came in his assistance.  The fight was carried on through the rear entrance of the store, Conners retaining the gun.  Hale took no part in the fight, but grabbed a cigar box containing 26 pennies and ran.

             Conners testified Wednesday night that he shot “just to be shootin’.”  Miss Daisy was on the ground and as she attempted to rise, the negro fired, the bullet entering her brain and killing her instantly.

             After the killing, Conners joined Hale in the peach orchard across the road.  They went down the Meridian Road, turned off past Joe Bour’s place, then separated, Conners heading south toward Mound City, and Hale going off west in the direction of Mounds.  Hale was captured the morning after the slaying, along with two Memphis negroes.

             Conners was not arrested until late last Friday afternoon in Future City when his suspicious actions brought about his capture by Deputy Sheriff John Whittfield, negro, Alexander County.  A colored boy stumbled on Conners hiding in the weeds and was at once attacked by Conners who thought the boy to be a deputy.  After being knocked down three times by the boy Conners hit the superior pugilist with a brick and fled.  By this time, however, Whitfield was attracted to the scene, gave pursuit and forced Conners to halt.

             James Wilson, deputy sheriff of Pulaski County, went alone into the cell of Conners last Saturday morning and came out with a confession of the whole affair, which implicated Fred hale, Cairo negro, who had been arrested and taken to Murphysboro Tuesday evening, July 2, with Ike Moore and Arthur Jones, Memphis suspects.

             Hale also signed a written confession when he learned that Connors had told everything Hale and Connors were kept apart until time for the trial Wednesday morning.

             Testimony in court Wednesday afternoon by Sheriff I. J. Hudson, Dr. O. T. Hudson, Dallas Winchester, Deputy James Wilson and Chief Deputy Roche of Alexander County corroborated the details of the story of the killing and capture as related above.

             Everyone who had seen the criminals on the afternoon of the shooting recognized in Hale and Connors the guilty pair.  Judge Hartwell took no chances in leaving out part of the evidence, but adjourned court at 4:10 o’clock until 7 o’clock in order to hear the testimony of Mrs. Oma Currie, Villa Ridge, negress, and daughter, Ruby, with whom the defendants tried to date on the afternoon of the shooting.

             Oma Currie had previously in her testimony before the grand jury picked out Connors and Hale from 22 negroes who were lined up in the county jail as the one who had talked to her.

             The courthouse was again packed Wednesday night, fully 800 people crowding into the main assembly and overflowing past the railing into the space reserved for the operations of the court.  A hundred or more cars were parked in the court yard and on the adjacent streets.

             Order was preserved through the entire proceedings by the vigilance and precautions of the sheriff and his 82 deputies.  Seven-six men were made special deputies Wednesday morning and given a bit of blue ribbon as a badge of their authority.  Many of these men were called from their business to ensure the protection of the prisoners.  Cruse and Riding were stationed at the front door to search everyone that entered the building.  Other deputies were posted at the side doors.

             When the culprits were brought into the courtroom Wednesday night, they came in the escort of deputies armed with shotguns.  Sheriff Hudson was taking no chance of a slip-up either on the part of the prisoners or on the part of the audience.

Q          the night was warm and the room filled with quiet and intent faces.  The tension increased when hale arose to take the stand.  A bench in the rear of the room collapsed with spectators too eager, giving forth a sharp sound like the report of a gun.  Hale’s story corroborated the evidence of the other witnesses.

             Conners then desired to take the stand.  He had no defense.  H9si replies were general and intended to be indefinite.  Several times his actions indicated that he was trying to falsify.  He concluded with:  “IU pleads guilty and begs the honor of the court.”

             Before declaring sentence upon the murderers, Judge Hartwell summarized his impressions of the evidence, stating he was glad of one thing, that there could be no doubt of the guilt of the pair before him.  He spoke of the quick and usually sure method of the English law courts.

             Then in severe terms, he denounced the defendants for the way they had attempted to shirk work and get by with robbing a country merchant of his till.  “Two big strong men like you,” he said, “to deliberately shoot down a beautiful young girl who had heroically come to the assistance of her unprotected father.  Would that these whom the law places here to protect you men tonight, could have been at hand to protect that innocent and defenseless child.”

             When Connors was given the death penalty, Hale was seen to sink in his chair.  He was visibly relieved after the judge sentenced him to life imprisonment.  Hale will be taken to Chester possibly tomorrow, as soon as the records are put in shape and the necessary papers made.

             The last hanging in Mound City was that of Eli Bugg, Friday, February 17, 1905.  James R. Weaver was sheriff at that time, and E. P. Easterday circuit clerk.  Mr. Easterday issued the death warrant for Bugg. 

Miss Hazel Reed, of Indianapolis, Ind., arrived home Wednesday morning, being called by the death of her grandmother, Mrs. Virginia Broshears.

J. W. Welker died last Saturday.  This community (Olmsted) lost a good citizen, the church lost a valuable member, and the family a devoted father and grandfather.  We all mourn the loss.
 
The remains of J. W. Welker were taken to Golconda, Ill., Monday for interment there.  Four cars full of people accompanied the remains. 

William (Big Bill) Martin, alleged king of Franklin County bootleggers, was shot and killed by Lloyd Clayton, his brother-in-law, when he attempted to enter Clayton’s home at West Frankfort to force Mrs. Martin, who had left him and was staying with the Claytons to accompany him home.
 
CARD OF THANKS

We wish to thank all who in any way assisted us at the death of our mother and grandmother, Mrs. Virginia Brashears.
Henry Reed and Family
 
Olmstead Resident Passes Away

John W. Welker, aged 82 years, three months, died Saturday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Kittie Caster in Olmsted following a stroke of paralysis a couple of weeks ago.  Mr. Welker is a retired farmer and a resident of Olmstead for the past 18 years.

Funeral services were held at 2:30 o’clock Sunday afternoon.  Rev. Corzine, pastor of the Southern Methodist Church of Cairo officiating.  Director G. A. James bore the remains to Golconda Monday afternoon, where interment was made.
 
Thank You, Cairo

IN AN EDITORIAL Monday, the Cairo Evening Citizen comments upon the speedy and efficient manner in which the slayers of Miss Daisy Wilson were captured and upon the averting the mob violence through the courage and cool-headedness of Sheriff I. J. Hudson, and his dependable deputies.  To quote:

“Pulaski County is to be congratulated.  She escaped mob rue during the excitement of last week.  And in that excitement innocent negroes might have been made the victims of the mob’s wrath.

“But Pulaski County is also to be congratulated because through the efforts of the authorities of both counties the guilty persons have been captured.”

Cairo has been the scene of mobs and lynching parties in the past.  People there know full well the horror and the uncontrollable daemonic impulses that are brought to the top when the judgment of an embittered mob is paralyzed by excitement.  An individual in a mob is swept off of his feet by the rush of events and the popular clamor.  He is made to believe that people are acting in their sovereign capacity to restore justice and to punish a suspected wrongdoer.  But more important in mob psychology is the illusion of security that comes with mass action.  Responsibility is shifted from the participant and the individual mobber merges his con consciousness in the cry of the pack.
The expression from Cairo is genuine.  Pulaski County ahs narrowly escaped a deplorable tragedy.  The two Memphis negroes for whose protection the sheriff had hard run to outwit the mob, are entirely innocent of the crime, as the written confessions of Connors and Hale, Cairo negroes, goes to show.
But the self avowed criminals have been caught and given speedy but not summary justice.  Judge D. T. Hartwell of Marion went to great length Wednesday to make certain the guilt of the defendants All the evidence dovetailed into a complete whole.  The judge did his duty, unpleasant but imperative.
 
The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. James Koonce died Sunday evening at their home.  The cortege was taken to Grand Tower Monday for burial. (Pulaski)
 
Negro Drops Dead on Street

Jasper Davis, age 50, was found lying dead on East First Street at the rear of Settlemoir’s grocery store at 5:20 o’clock Wednesday morning.  He was discovered by William Biggs, while on his way to work at the power plant.

Davis had previously complained of heart trouble and it is thought that this was the cause of his death.  He had started out Tuesday morning to pick blackberries.

The deceased may be remembered as the husband of Pearl, a vegetable monger.

G. A. James, assisted by Jim ___nault, were on the job early.  A dog, faithful friend of Davis’s, would allow no one to touch the body for some time.
 
Nine Mob Leaders Indicted
Trial May Be in This Term of Court

Nine leaders in the mob which attempted to storm the county jail Tuesday night, July 22, in the belief that Ike Moore and Arthur Jones, Memphis negroes first suspected of slaying Miss Daisy Wilson on the night of Monday, July 21, were confined there, were indicted jointly on three counts by the grand jury in its report yesterday to Judge D. T. Hartwell.

Names of the men will not be made public until Sheriff Hudson has had time to serve the bench warrants.  Conviction carries a penalty of one year in jail or $1,000 fine or both.  It is expected they will be tried in the present term of court.

The Memphis suspects whom the sheriff removed to Murphysboro early Tuesday evening, July 22, with Hale, were released Wednesday morning.  July 30, after the guilt of Conners and Hale was established.

Vance Baby Dies

Halfred Dorothy Vance, age one month and 23 days, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Vance, died at midnight Wednesday from intestinal trouble.  Mr. and Mrs. Vance moved here from Kentucky five weeks ago.  The child was buried yesterday afternoon in the Thistlewood Cemetery.
 
Mrs. Sparks Dies

Mrs. Francis Sparks, 35, died at the home of her sister, Mrs. J. R. Henson, at 11:50 o’clock Tuesday morning from pulmonary tuberculosis.  up to the last year or so Mrs. Sparks had made her home in East St. Louis.

Funeral services were conducted from the house at 2:30 o’clock Wednesday afternoon by Rev. W. J. Ward of Jonesboro.  Interment followed in the Thistlewood Cemetery, Director G. A. James in charge.
 
Old Settler Passes Away

Mrs. Virginia Brashears, age 84 years, passed away at the homer of her son-in-law, Henry Reed, north of Mound city, Wednesday evening at 8:00 o’clock.  Mrs. Brashears was born at Grayville, Illinois, in 1840, and had made her home here since 1887, coming here from Metropolis, Illinois, with her husband, William Brashears, who passed away several years ago, and who was well known here.  She was the mother of four children, of whom none are living.  Besides her son-in-law she leaves to mourn their loss, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Burgess.  Interment at Beech Grove Cemetery, G. A. James in charge.
  
Friday, 8 Aug 1924:
Colored Resident Dies

John Belcher, aged 63 years, colored, a resident of Mound City for the past 30 years, died at 2:30 o’clock Sunday morning from apoplexy.  He had been a partial invalid for some time.  Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon, interment in Spencer Heights at Mounds, Director G. A. James, in charge.
 
James Dexter

James Dexter, 73 years old, of Ullin, passed away on August 1, 1924.  He was born in Alexander County, Illinois, April 6, 1851, aged 73 years, 3 months and 28 days at the time of his demise.  Mr. Dexter was married to Miss Malinda Jane Mowery August 11, 1874, and to this union there were born ten children.  One of them passed away in infancy and another, Charles died at the age of one year.  Those surviving the demise of Brother Dexter and his wife, who preceded him June 28, 1920, are:  S. E. Dexter, Sarah Sowers, Cora Miller, Harvey Dexter, Albert Dexter, Frank Dexter, Ben Dexter and Lucy Rider, who were all raised in the church and for whom the father and mother now passed, have prayed and succeeded to all but one seeing them untied with and actively engaged in church work.  Harvey, one of the sons, has been superintendent of the Beech Grove Sunday school for over a dozen years.  Besides the children, Brother Dexter left one sister, Mrs. S. L. Cox.  All the relatives live near Ullin.  Twenty-one grandchildren also survive him and hundreds of friends who held Brother Dexter in the bonds of Christian fellowship.

Brother Dexter was converted early in life and united with the Reformed Lutheran Church at Wetaug, where his wife already had belonged.  When they removed to the country they both united with the Beech Grove M. E. Church from there whey were both buried.

Funeral services were held on Sunday morning, the regular preaching hour, the sermon being preached by Rev. S. Albrecht, a former pastor, assisted by the pastor.  The body was laid to rest immediately after the services in St. John’s Cemetery.
C. L. Phifer, Pastor
 
Marion—Hosea Cagle, owner and proprietor of the Marion Amusement Park, was instantly killed near here when he drove his automobile into a steel cable, hung across a state highway as a barricade.  The cable tore up the front of the car, cut the steering wheel in halves and broke Cagle’s neck.
 
Chester—Stephen Mann, twelve year old son of Walter Mann, was killed when he fell from his bicycle and was struck by a passing automobile driven by Forest Ferguson.
 
Herrin—When Joe M. Cravens and his son, Claude, failed to come home to supper, search was instituted at the slope mine which the father owns and operates six miles southeast of Herrin, and the bodies of the two men were found asphyxiated at the bottom of the slope.
 
Five Mob Leaders Found by Sheriff
Will Be Tried When Circuit Court Resumes August 18^th

Five of the nine men indicted for participation in the mob that attempted to take the jail here, Tuesday night, July 22, in the belief that the suspected slayers of Miss Daisy Wilson were confined there, have been arrested by Sheriff I. J. Hudson.  Officials have not been able to locate the other four men.  It is believed that they have left the state.

The five that will appear before Judge D. T. Hartwell in the present term of circuit court which reconvenes Monday August 18, are:  Mack Morse, and O. W. Bradbury, of Cairo, Oscar Reid, of Mounds, Webb Hill and George Nemier, of Karnak.  They have all been released on $500 bond.
conviction of rioting carries a penalty of $1,000 fine or one year’s imprisonment or both.  The search for the remaining four men has not been given up, but will be pushed vigorously until they are found.
 
Old Timer Must Stay Out of Town

John Mahoney, Villa Ridge farmer, was fined last Saturday by State’s Attorney Loren Boyd $25 and costs and given permission not to come back to Mound City until after the first of the year.

John was lodged in the county jail Wednesday when he became vociferous in attempting to peddle watermelons in the courtroom where a large crowd had assembled to witness the murder trial of Hale and Connors.
 
Mounds Girl Passes Away

Florence Earnest, age 7 years, 8 months, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Earnest, of Mounds, died late Thursday night of last week.  Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the New Hope Church near Ullin, interment following in the New Hope Cemetery.  Director G. A. James had charge of the arrangements.

(Her marker in New Hope Cemetery near Ullin reads:  Florence Earnest Born Nov. 4, 1916 Died July 31, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Caldwell Baby Dies

Richard Caldwell, Jr., 17 months, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Caldwell, formerly of Mound city, died Monday noon at the home of its grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Caldwell.  Interment was made in Thistlewood Tuesday afternoon, Director, G. A. James in charge.
  
Friday, 15 Aug 1924:
Among those from elsewhere who attended the funeral of Squire B. F. Porterfield here last Sunday were U. S. A. Gadbois, of Cairo, a former resident here (Pulaski); H. O. Aldred, of Mounds; John Porterfield, of Vicksburg, a son; Abner Porterfield, of Sidney and their; Houston Beaver and family of America.
 
A little child of Walter Bourland was brought here (Grand Chain) from Karnak Sunday morning and buried in the Masonic Cemetery.
 
CARD OF THANKS

We wish to extend our most sincere thanks to friends who were so kind to us during our bereavement at the death of our beloved husband and father.  Especially do we wish to thank the choir, and those who sent the beautiful flowers.
Mrs. Margaret J. Hileman
Henry Hileman
Sarah Hileman
 
The colored citizens of Edith Chapel, southwest of Pulaski, are to be complimented on pulling together and cleaning up the Solomon Hill and Warford cemeteries.  A little cooperation in a good cause will do wonders.
 
Mrs. Burd Dies

Mrs. Frieda H. Burd, aged 80 years, died at her home in Mounds Wednesday, August 6, after a gradual decline in health for the past two years.  Funeral services were conducted from the house last Thursday by Rev. Dever, pastor of the Methodist church.

Mrs. Burd is survived by two daughters, Mrs. John Sadler, and Mrs. J. T. Knupp, both of Mounds, and a brother, E. G. Burd, who lives out in the country.

Mrs. M. O. Cole had charge of the funeral arrangements.  Interment was made in Liberty Cemetery.

(Joseph Burd married Fredona Codle on 19 May 1870, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in Liberty Cemetery reads:  F. H. wife of Joseph Burd Born July 7, 1844 Died Aug. 6, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Thomas Hileman Passes Away

Thomas B. Hileman, aged 76 years, died last Friday morning at his home two miles from Olmstead, a respected and established member of the community in which he had made his home for the past 52 years.

Mr. Hileman was a veteran of the Civil War. He was married to Miss Margaret Jane Cline January 14, 1872, to which union there were born three children.  He is survived by his wife, one son, Henry S. Hileman and one daughter, Miss Sarah A. Hileman.

Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon at Center Church, Rev. Dr. H. McGill of Anna, pastor of the Mount Moriah Evangelical Lutheran Church officiating.  Interment was made in Concord Cemetery, Director G. A. James in charge.

(Thomas B. Hileman enlisted as a private in Co. A, 81^st Illinois Infantry on 1 Feb 1865, was transferred to Co. A, 58^th Illinois Infantry and mustered out 31 Jan 1866.  Thomas Hileman married Jane Cline on 14 Jan 1872, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Concord Cemetery near Olmsted reads:  Thomas Benton Hileman 1848-1924  Margaret Jane Hileman 1850-1939.—Darrel Dexter)
 
C. O. Boyd Passes Away

Clyde O. Boyd, 39 years old, of Grand Chain, died at 7:20 o’clock Monday morning at his home in Grand Chain, following a lingering illness of several months.  He is survived by his father, William S. Boyd; a brother, Norman Boyd; and a sister, Miss Gertie Moore, all of Grand Chain.  The deceased was born and reared in Grand Chain where his affability won the cordial respect of his many associates.  Funeral services were conducted from the house and interment made in the Grand Chain Cemetery.

(His marker in Grand Chain Masonic Cemetery reads:  C. O. Boyd 1886-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Rev. Phares, Former Rector, Dies in West

Word has been received of the passing of Rev. Edmond Phares in Los Angeles, Calif.,  Rev. Phares will be remembered as pastor of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church here for many years.

The following was clipped from a Los Angeles paper:

Funeral services for Rev. Edmond Phares, 76 years of age, retired Episcopal minister, will be conducted at 10 a.m. today at the St. Matthias Church, Washington Street and South Normandie Avenue.

Mr. Phares died Saturday at a private sanitarium following a nervous breakdown.  He had been unofficially connected with the St. Matthias Church here form some time.

A native of Ohio, he was born in 1848 and was ordained in 1891 and held parishes in Illinois, Ohio, Missouri, and Kentucky, where he retired in 1922.  He then came to California.

He is said to have a brother living in the East.
 
Sheriff Arrests Winters for Mob Participation
LOOKING FOR MORE

Harry Winters, of Urbandale, prominent as a local wrestler, was arrested last Saturday by Sheriff I. J. Hudson on a bench warrant issued by Judge Hartwell for participation in the mob, which gave trouble on the night of Tuesday, July 22, at the county jail in the belief that the negro slayers of Miss Daisy Wilson were confined there.

The sheriff was located all of the mob leaders indicted by the grand jury, but two, Roy Ogden and Floyd Galbraith, who are not to be found anywhere close.  The men, now out on bond, who will be retried in the October term of circuit court are Mack Morse and O. W. Bradbury, of Cairo, Oscar Reid, of Urbandale, Harry Winters, of Mounds, Webb Hill and George Neimier, of Karnak and Robert Staten, of Mound City.
 
Layton Baby Dies

Ray Wilburg, three months old baby of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Layton, died at 9 o’clock Tuesday night in spite of the most persistent efforts to save the young man’s life.  Ray has a twin brother, Robert, who is in perfect health.  Funeral services were held yesterday from the house interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.  G. A. James directed the arrangements.
  
Friday, 29 Aug 1924:
Former Resident of Mounds Dies in St. Louis

Mrs. Sarah L. Hughes, aged 70 years, a former resident of Mounds, died at 8:30 o’clock Saturday night at the home of her brother, John B. Hughes, of St. Louis.

She is survived by one son, John D. Hughes, of St. Louis; three daughters, Mrs. Alice Steger, of Cairo, Mrs. Lizzie Kinslow and Mrs. James Ledbetter of America; one brother, Henry McCullum of St. Louis; two sisters, Mrs. Fannie Bankston, of Mounds, and Mrs. Kate Inmon, of Cairo; nine grandchildren and two great- grandchildren.

The remains were brought to Mounds Sunday and funeral services were held at 3 o’clock Sunday afternoon in the First M. E. Church, Rev. Dever officiating. Interment was made in Beech Grove Cemetery, G. A. James in charge.
 
DuQuoin—Tom Reese shot and killed Louis Gomer, alias “Mexican Louie” at Dowell five miles south of here.  Reese is the son of Ed Reese, who shot and killed “Fatty” Knight here early in the summer.  The Reese men claim Gomer had accused them of belonging to the Ku Klux Klan and had on a previous occasion threatened to shoot both of them.
 
Mrs. Emma Ward Dies in Memphis

Word was received yesterday that Mrs. Emma Ward, formerly Mrs. Dick Aldridge, of this city, passed away at 11 p.m. Wednesday night in the General Hospital at Memphis, Tenn.

The deceased is survived by one son, Ruby Aldridge, two brothers, Ed Harlan, of Calion, Ark., and Tom Harlan, of Memphis; two sisters, Mrs. Will Allen, Mrs. Will Peasley, of Memphis; and a stepmother, Mrs. W. J. Knight of Mounds.

(William Henry Peasley married Martha Elizabeth Harland, 22, born in Mound City, daughter of J. B. Harland and Lucy Coonrod, on 10 Mar 1901, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Friday, 26 Sep 1924:
John Rhine, of Charleston, Mo., who died suddenly at his home Friday morning, was 85 years of age, and had been in poor health for some time.  The funeral was held Saturday at the Methodist church in that city, and interment in the cemetery nearby.

Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Armstrong and son Ray, of Carterville, and Mr. and Mrs. James Rouse of Memphis, attended the funeral.
  
Friday, 3 Oct 1924:
Chester—George W. O’Malley of St. Louis, serving a life sentence for murder, was shot and killed, and John Weger, another long term convict, was dangerously wounded, when guards of the state penitentiary here frustrated a delivery of six inmates.
 
This community (Ullin) was very much stirred over the announcement of the death of Dr. Fields, in Cairo Sunday.  The doctor, though colored, was much sought for in consultation cases throughout this section.
 
Rev. C. L. Phifer was returned to Ullin by the annual conference of the Methodist church held at Carbondale last week. Mr. Phifer has served this work for the past two years and three months, having served the part of the first year following the death of Rev. W. W. Kemper.  The Ullin work now consists only of Ullin and Beech Grove, the Concord work having been placed on the Villa Ridge appointment. 

Mrs. Lorena Brooks, age 89, a former resident of this city, passed away at the infirmary in Cairo Sunday evening, Sept. 21, after several weeks’ illness.  She was well known here, being the mother of Mrs. Edgar Miller ___red Culp of this city and ___ L. Crain, of Villa Ridge.  The funeral was held Tuesday at noon and burial near Anna that being the old home.

(John Brooks married Louvana P. Hale on 12 Oct 1854, in Union Co., Ill.  Marshall Culp married Sarah J. Brooks on 25 Apr 1872, in Union Co., Ill.  Edgar S. Miller married Girtrude Culp on 8 Jul 1897, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  A marker in Brooks Cemetery in Union County reads:  John M. Brooks  Died Oct. 30, 1905 Aged 72 Yrs., 9 Mos., & 24 Ds.  Lorana P. wife of John M. Brooks.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Former Villa Ridge Man Dies in Alabama

W. P. Minnich died at his home in Fair Hope, Ala., last Saturday morning, age about 75 years, a well known citizen of Villa Ridge, but removed to Fair Hope about 15 years ago and has since that time made his home there.  Besides Mrs. Minnich he leaves several brothers and sisters to mourn his death.  Funeral services and burial took place at Villa Ridge Tuesday afternoon at 3 o’clock Rev. S. J. Burgess conducting the services.

(William P. Minnich married Emma G. Brown on 5 Dec 1881, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  William P. Minnich 1851-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 10 Oct 1924:
OBITUARY
John Milford

John Milford, of Pulaski, Illinois, passed away at St. Mary’s Infirmary, Cairo, Saturday, October 4^th, after an operation and illness of two weeks.  He had passed the 70^th milestone on his earthly pilgrimage and was prepared for his master’s call to come up higher.

He professed faith in his Savior at 18 years of age and united with the Baptist church at Pulaski and remained a consistent Christian to the end.

Mr. Milford was born in Texas and came to Illinois with his parents at the age of 5 years.  He grew up in this county wand was married to Miss Elizabeth Biggerstaff.  To this union were born eight children. Two of these and the mother preceded him to the better land.

He leaves to mourn his departure four sons, Thomas, William, Edward and Oscar.  Three daughters, Mrs. William King, Mrs. A. D. Anglin and Mrs. Pansy Davis, by second marriage.  Nineteen grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.  The funeral services were held Sunday afternoon Oct. 5^th and were conducted by Rev. W. J. Ward of Jonesboro and Rev. H. E. Vick of Pulaski.

A large crowd attended the cortege was taken to the New Liberty Cemetery and there laid to rest.

(John Milton Milford married Mary E. Biggerstaff on 14 Mar 1869, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Adolphus Anglin married Mary Bell Milford on 28 Apr 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
LULA CLARA NELMS

Lula Clara Nelms (Henson) was born December 3, 1904.  Departed this life October 3, 1924, at her home in Cairo, Ill.  Age 19 years and 10 months.

On December 21, 1919 she was married to Walter C. Henson; to this union were born two children, one daughter and one son.  She, a beloved and loving wife, a faithful and devoted mother, leaves her husband and two children.  Also her mother, three brothers and two sisters.

It is not only an hour of unanticipated sorrow to the immediate relatives, but all who knew her, join them in their grief over the going of an associate and friend.

While Lula never affiliated with any church, she was a regular attendant, and several days before her death she knew that the “hour of her departure” was soon to come.  Therefore, we are persuaded to believe that she has gone to live in the presence of “That God which ever lives and loves” and there await the coming of friends now on earth.
Today the grave is bright for me

For them the light of life increased
Who stay to share the morning feast

Who rest tonight beside the seas.
 
Woman Dies in Cairo

Mrs. Lula Clara Henson, age ___ and wife of Walter Henson died at her home in Cairo Friday following an illness of seven days. Besides her husband, she leaves two children, Vivian and ____ Floyd.

Her body was taken to the home of her mother-in-law, Mrs. ___ Henson and funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at ___ o’clock, conducted by Rev. ___ pastor of the Baptist church.  Many beautiful flowers ___ the marks of sympathy from relatives and friends.  Automobiles ____ the cortege to ____ where the ____.
 
CONNERS TO HANG NEXT FRIDAY AT COURTHOUSE IN THIS CITY

Will Pay Penalty for Killing Villa Ridge Girl Last July—No Effort to Stop Hanging—Doomed Man Calmly Awaits Fatal Day

Hess Conners, of Cairo, who pleaded guilty before Judge D. T. Hartwell to the killing of Miss Daisy Wilson, 18-year-old daughter of J. C. Wilson, of Villa Ridge last July 21, will hang next Friday, October 17, on the court house lawn here unless a last moment plea is recognized.  No effort has been made by either the negro or his relatives to stop the hanging, and it is thought that the negro will walk to his doom as unconcernedly as he has taken his sentence and solitary confinement in the county jail.

Conners was caught Friday July 25^th, following four nights and three days of dodging a frenzied thousand citizens of Pulaski County and officials of both Pulaski and Alexander counties as well as officials in the neighboring counties.  He was picked up in Future City north of Cairo by colored Deputy Sheriff John Whitfield, of Alexander County.  He was taken to the county jail in Cairo and held there until he had confessed and arrangements had been made for his trial.  His confession was given to colored Deputy James Wilson of Pulaski County after an interview I which Wilson told him that his had confessed and said that Conners had done the shooting.

When Conners was arraigned before Judge Hartwell Wednesday, July 30, he immediately pleaded guilty, but the judge refused to accept the plea, upon the grounds that the negro did not fully understand his legal rights.  Court was adjourned until the afternoon.  The court investigated the evidence thoroughly and after explaining the ruling of the state that no man can be hanged until the Supreme Court has had a session, sentenced Conners to hang on October 17, and Fred Hale, Conners’ accomplice, to the state penitentiary for life, with solitary confinement on July 21^st of each year of his nature life.  Conners did not move or show any emotion whatever when the judge pronounced his sentence.  He has taken everything with the same stoical indifference since that time.

The negroes were captured, tried and convicted within nine days after the crime was committed.

Sheriff I. J. Hudson says the exact time of the execution has not been set and will not make any statements regarding the arrangements for the hanging.  He states that “anything may happen within a week.”  The hanging will be a private affair with only the deputies of the court in attendance, together with a jury to pronounce death. 

The following is a quotation from the command given by the circuit court for the execution.  This sets forth the possible hours and place for the execution.

“Now, therefore, we do command you, that you don, on Friday the 17^th day of October A. D. 1924, between the hours of nine o’clock in the forenoon and four o’clock in the afternoon of said day, take the body of him, the said Hess Conners, who is now confined in the common jail of Pulaski County, and within the walls of said jail, or an enclosure adjacent and connected with said jail, and that you do then and there, hang him, the said Hess Conners, by the neck until he is dead.”

(The article includes a two column photograph of Hess Conners in the county jail.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Fanny Busam Dies Thursday

Mrs. Fannie Busam, age 73 years, died at her home in this city at 1 o’clock Thursday morning.  She suffered a dislocated hip which she sustained at her home about six week ago and was unable to survive the injury.  She leaves a daughter, Minnie, who resided with here, and three daughters, who live in St. Louis.  The body was prepared for burial by Director G. A. James.

Funeral services were held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Keller at 10 o’clock Friday morning. Interment in the Beech Grove Cemetery followed.

(George Busam married Frances Rivington on 7 July 1871, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Christian Keller married Lizzie Revington on 28 Oct 1867, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 17 Oct 1924:
Mrs. George Victor attended the funeral of a relation in Mound City Friday.  (Grand Chain)
 
The body of Joe Goins, Jr. was brought here for burial Tuesday afternoon from Olmsted.  (Grand Chain)
 
We were sorry to here of the death of the infant baby of Dr. and Mrs. C. A. Parker of Dongola.  The mother is now in St. Louis in a hospital.  (Wetaug)
 
Funeral services for Joe Goins who was shot Saturday night and died Sunday morning were held Tuesday afternoon at the home of his father, Joe Goins, Sr.  Rev. Corzine of ___ performed the last sad rites.  Interment was made in the Grand Chain cemetery. 

CARD OF THANKS

We wish to thank the friends and all who so kindly rendered assistance and aid during the bereavement of our beloved mother and sister, Mrs. Fanny Busam.  Also to those who tendered their automobiles.
Daughters
 
Alex Parker, who divides his time between Cairo and Johnston City, since the death of his wife is here for a few days visiting relatives and friends.  He is in his 81^st year and is unusually hale and hearty for one of that age.
 
Olmstead Boy Is Killed By Negro
No Clue as to Whereabouts of Negro Found
Arrest Manager of Picnic for Investigation

Joe Goins, Jr., 20, son of Joe Goins, Sr., of Olmsted, was fatally wounded Saturday night about 10:30 by a negro named Willie Carter at a negro picnic near Olmstead on the farm of John Tapley.
The boy was shot three times, one bullet striking him in the neck, another in the arm and the third one in the hip.  He was removed following the shooting to the home of his father on the road leading to Caledonia on the Ohio River.  He died Sunday morning at 8:15.

No report of the shooting was made to Sheriff Hudson until 9:30 Sunday morning.  The negro had escaped and no clue as to his whereabouts has yet been found.  Immediately upon hearing of the affair, the sheriff hurried to the scene of the shooting and began investigation.

Reports to the effect that a crap game was in progress at the time were emphatically denied by John Tapley, manager of the picnic.  Some claim that Tapley left the barbecue stand upon the arrival of Goins and went to the crap game to get Carter who it is said was to act as bouncer.  Tapley asserts that he called Carter to get a team and take the remnants of the picnic home.

Tapley was arrested Monday night for investigation and is being held in the county jail here.
Goins it is understood went to the barbecue stand in company with four other boys, Elmer Huecker, John Holhubner, Herman Hise and Edward Huecker to get a sandwich.  Goins and Elmer Huecker went to the stand while the other boys stayed in the car. While the boys were waiting for the meat, Carter walked up and addressed them uncivilly then without waiting for a reply he opened fire on Goins.  Huecker beat the negro to the car and the boys proceed to town for help.  By time aid was to be had the negro had escaped.

The boy was then removed to his home and retained consciousness until death came Sunday morning at 8:15.  Dr. Oscar Carraker was summoned immediately, but the boy was past help from the physicians.

No word of the shooting had been sent to Sheriff Hudson until after the boy had died.  Investigation began immediately upon the arrival of the sheriff and was not concluded until nearly noon.  Descriptions of the negro were sent to all of the places the negro is likely to visit.  Carter it is understood has been making his home with Frank Tapley in Cairo for some time.  He is a son-in-law of John Tapley.

During the investigation letters were found in a trunk belonging to Carter from his mother in Mississippi stating that she was ill and requested him to come home immediately.  Charles Carter, brother of Willie Carter, was hauled into police headquarters Wednesday morning in Cairo to ____ed concerning the ___ of his brother.  He ____ knowledge of his ___ destination, although ___ heard of the shooting and ___ his brother was charged with the crime.

Funeral services for the dead boy were held at the home of the father at 1:30 Tuesday afternoon by Rev. Corzine of Cairo, who is pastor of the Southern Methodist Church of Olmstead.  Interment was made in the Grand Chain cemetery.  The largest procession in years was lined up behind the hearse of undertaker George Hartwell of Mounds.

(John Tapley, 25, married Rachel Baker, 17, on 19 Mar 1889, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Fanny Busam’s Funeral Held Friday

The funeral of Mrs. Fannie Busam, who died at her home here Thursday was held Friday morning at 10 o’clock at the home of her sister, Mrs. Chris Keller.  Rev. Kean, pastor of the Methodist church conducted the services.  Interment was made at Beech Grove Cemetery.  The deceased was 72 years of age and is survived by four daughters, Misses Minnie, of Mound City, Dolly, Rose and Ida, of St. Louis.
 
Prominent Resident Dies in Grand Chain

W. A. Gaunt, a highly respected citizen of Grand Chain, died Wednesday after an illness of several weeks.  He was 68 years of age and was a pioneer resident of that place.  He is survived by a widow and daughter and a larger number of friends mourn his death.  He was the present mayor of Grand Chain.  A life-long Christian and a man whose worth to his friends and the community will leave a great void.

The funeral will be held this Friday at 2:30 o’clock with interment at the Masonic cemetery.  Rev. W. T. Anderson, pastor of the First Christian Church, Cairo, will conduct services.

(His marker in Grand Chain Masonic Cemetery reads:  W. A. Gaunt 1856-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Condemned Negro Is Reprieved—Jan. 16
Last Moment Plea Is Considered by Governor Small
Preparations All Made for the Execution

A reprieve until January 16^th was granted Hess Conners, Cairo negro, who was sentenced to hang today by Governor Small Wednesday.  The plea of Attorneys that Conners has been mentally unbalanced since childhood was the fact leading to the reprieve.  An inquiry will be made in the circuit court here to test the mentality of the negro.

Attorney D. B. Reid of Cairo is understood to have been the leading attorney in the intercession for Conners.  Cairo negroes are understood to have been instrumental in interesting the attorney in the case.

The negro was sentenced to hang by Judge D. T. Hartwell in the circuit court here last July to the killing of Miss Daisy Wilson, who was fighting Conners and Fred Hale, his companion after an unsuccessful attempt to rob the Wilson store.

Preparations for the execution had already been made.  The enclosure which was to hide the hanging from curious eyes had almost been completed and the scaffold was in place when the news came Thursday to Sheriff I. J. Hudson the reprieve had been granted.  The sheriff has not yet decided whether or not he will take the enclosure and scaffold in place or tear them down and rebuild at a later date.  The scaffold was borrowed from the sheriff of Murphysboro.
  
Friday, 24 Oct 1924:
Mrs. O. J. Jackson and her brother, Y. G. Gaines received a message Saturday advising them of the death of their brother Thomas Gaines at Galesburg.  They left immediately to attend the funeral.
 
Pulaski Negroes in Shooting Spree Saturday Night

Clarence Eubanks, 55, was shot and instantly killed Saturday night at a barbecue picnic by Raymond Meeks, 20, at the home in Boar Creek bottoms three miles west of Pulaski.  Meeks, it is claimed, owed Eubanks a dollar, which the latter intended to collect.  During collection proceedings, Eubanks produced a revolver and attempted ___ target practice in the direction of Meeks, who was disappearing behind a barn. Eubanks fired three shots at the other negro and followed him to the house for the remaining __ shots.  Meeks produced his ___ery from his armory and took two shots at Eubanks, one making a flesh wound in the leg and the other striking him near his heart, killing him almost instantly.

Meeks was exonerated by testimony at the coroner’s inquest which was held Sunday morning by Coroner O. T. Hudson of Mounds upon entering a plea of self defense.

Sheriff I. J. Hudson and Deputy James Wilson looked for the negro all day Monday, but were unsuccessful in their undertaking.  They returned to the house of the negro Tuesday morning very early and found him.  He is now in the county jail awaiting action of the grand jury.  The arrest was made at the request of the Masonic Lodge, Eubanks being a member of good standing.  Investigation will be ___ed in the October term of circuit court which will convene the 27^th.
  
Friday, 31 Oct 1924:
C. M. Christian, John Manis, W. C. Brown and Charles Wilkerson were in Mound City Sunday and inspected the scaffold upon which Hess Conners was to have been hanged.  While in town some of the members of the crowd became acquainted with the “mule” in that city.
 
Judge and Mrs. E. A. Ebbert returned home from Effingham Saturday where they had been to the funeral of a relative.  Since coming home Mrs. Ebbert has been confined to bed.  (Ullin)
 
Sheriff Tears Down Conners Scaffold

The grim scaffold which has been a part of the courthouse scenery for the past couple of weeks has been torn down and stored away until January 16^th, when it will be taken from its place of rest and send Hess Conners to his master.

The stockade which enclosed the scaffold will be allowed to remain intact until the wind blows the rest of it down.  The north side of it was blown down Thursday.

The scaffold was borrowed from Sheriff E. C. White of Jackson County through the efforts of Sheriff Hudson.
 
Mrs. Rosa Stern Dies Thursday at 80 Years

Mrs. Rosa Stern passed away quietly at her home at 1 o’clock Thursday morning at the age of eighty years. Mrs. Stern was Mound City’s oldest resident, having lived here sixty-five years.  Mrs. Stern was born in Lissa, Germany, January 7^th, 1843.  She was the wife of William Stern, also deceased.  She is survived by two of her eight children, Mrs. Lucy Robbins and Miss Lena Stern both of whom have made their home with the mother for several years, also two grandchildren, Misses Dorothy and Winifred Schuler.

Funeral services will be held at the home of the deceased at 3 o’clock Sunday afternoon.

(William Stern married Rosa Wright on 12 May 1867, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Edward Ira Schuler married Emma Stern on 20 Feb 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Oscar Durning Succumbs to Appendicitis

Oscar Durning, 45, lifelong resident of Mound City, succumbed Thursday morning to an attack of appendicitis.  He died in the ambulance of the Sister’s Hospital of Cairo while en route from Mound City to Cairo for an operation.

Mr. Durning was an established citizen in Mound City.  He was a son of James Durning, deceased, and was born and reared in this city.  He has been employed at the Sears-Roebuck Company plant in the drainage district prior to his death.

Mr. Durning was a member of the K. of P. lodge in this city.  The lodge will be in charge of the funeral arrangements for which have not yet been made.

The deceased is survived by his wife, Gladys; two sons, James and Floyd; one daughter, Louise; and one sister, Mrs. J. D. Quarrels of Chicago.  Mr. Durning’s mother is also living.

Mr. Durning had been ill only a short time, having taken down Sunday afternoon immediately after a motor trip to Marion.

(James M. Durning married Lula Michem on 27 Dec 1877, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 7 Nov 1924:
OBITUARY

Oscar Durning, the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Durning, was born September 22, 1879, in Mound City, Illinois, where he resided until his death, which came Thursday morning, October 30, 1924.  Age 45 years, 1 month and eight days.

On April 22, 1906 he was married to Miss Gladys Bush.  To this union were born three children, two sons and one daughter.

He is survived by his wife, Gladys, two sons, James and Floyd, and one daughter, Louis; his mother, and one sister, Mrs. Quarrels of Chicago.

While he spent a comparative short life on earth, he will be missed by all who knew him, as a man with a kind word and a generous deed for all.

He attended church regular an often spoke of the joy received from attending the worship of his Maker.  He was not a member of any church, but just before his death, he expressed hopes of obtaining mercy.

Mr. Durning is not dead, only his sins and misery have died, even if the death angel had an ugly faced, wore a tattered coat, and knocked rudely a the door, it was only a messenger from a distant land, bringing good news of his Savior.  The Bridegroom of his soul and of the inheritance purchased by his blood and reserves fro him in heaven.

CARD OF THANKS

We wish to thank the many kind friends whose sympathy and help came to us in our bereavement.  To Rev. Dunlap for his comforting words, and beautiful tribute to our dear mother and grandmother, to the choir for their sweet music, to those who sent flowers and those who gave their presence.
Lucy Stern Robbins
Lena Stern
Dorothy Schuler
Winifred Schuler
 
CARD OF THANKS

We wish to thank all our friends and neighbors and members of the K. P. Lodge who assisted and were so kind to us in our bereavement and for the beautiful flowers that were sent.
Gladys Durning and children
Lue Durning
Grace Quarels
 
Prominent Ullin Citizen Dies

__Jane Ebbert was born in ___man County, Indiana, __y 18, 1845.  She came to Pulaski County Illinois, with her ___ at the age of eight years and lived in this state ever since.  She has lived in and near ____ the past sixteen years.  She was married to Judge Ed. Ebbert October 30, 1878; her husband surviving her.  To this union were born two children:  ___ and Ethel N. Huddle___ both of whom survive her.  There are also her grandchildren and numerous other relatives and a host of friends.

Mrs. Ebbert died on Friday, October 31, 1924, after an illness of more than two weeks.  She  ___ together with her husband ____ Effingham, Illinois, ____ brother of Mrs. Evert. ___ buried on Thursday, ___ 23.  When she returned home in Ullin she immediately took to her bed and never ____. 

She was aged at the ___er demise 79 years, 8 months and three days.

Funeral services was conducted at the resident in Ullin Sunday afternoon, November 2, ___ C. L. Phifer, pastor of the Methodist church and the body ___ early Monday morning ___ Effingham where interment was made.
 
Miss Grace Quarrels and son Albert who were called here on account of the death of the former’s brother, Oscar Durning, returned home in Chicago Monday night.
 
Landmark Passes Away

Joseph Marder, who would ___ seventy years of age ___ passed away at his home in Ullin on Thursday night, November 6^th.  Mr. Marder has ___ health for the past ___ having been forced to ___ at his work as head foreman of the box factory.  Oc____ he has been forced to ___ his condition was not considered serious until about ____ ago, when he began ___ rapidly.  Thursday night ___ away, all his children ___ arrived before his demise.

Mr. Marder was one of the ___ citizens of Ullin.  He was widely known as “Uncle ___” and was very fond of every ___ the smallest of children.

___ member of the ___ church and died and ___ in that faith.  At ___ Saturday the M. W. A. ___ their ritualistic services ____ was also the leading ___ the Knights Pythias  ___ and was Keeper of the Sacred Seals at the time of his death.

____ came to this ____ Germany when he ___ing man in 1879.  ____ Ullin and worked ___ Box Company.  ___ and industrious ___ He was married to ___ ___ch January 13, ___ resided in Ullin ____.  To this union ___ children:  Anna, Mrs. Frank Ogg, of ___ ___ph Marder, Jr.,  ___lle Mo.  One ___ his wife’s former ___ Frieda Heim, also ____ __emise.  Besides ____ grandchildren:  Mar___, Phillis Heim, of ____ Edwin Heim of ___ survive; besides ___ relatives and friends. 

____ was held Saturday ___ November 8, interment ___ in the Ullin Cemetery and a great concourse of relatives and friends were present at the last rites to testify to the friendship they had for the departed husband and father.  (Ullin)

(Joseph Marder married Regina Zach on 13 Jan 1884, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Ullin Cemetery reads:  Joseph Marder Born April 12, 1855 Died Nov. 6, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Pulaski Colored Boy Fatally Shot by Playmate

James Johnson, Jr., 7-year-old colored boy, was fatally wounded Tuesday when a shotgun in the hands of Ollie Shafter, 14, his playmate, went off.  He died soon after the accident.  The coroner’s jury disagreed and Shafter was arrested by Sheriff Hudson at the request of the dead boy’s father, Jim Johnson.  According to Shafter he was cleaning the gun preparatory to a rabbit hunt.  Shafter is being held in the county jail however he may be released later.

Another murder was rumored the same day.  Hunt Johnson, negro of Mound City, was supposed to have followed his wife to the cotton field of B. J. Hargan, near America and killed her. 

Immediately upon hearing of the episode Sheriff Hudson dispatched Deputies Riding and Wilson to the scene of the supposed shooting.  Upon the arrival at the Hargan farm they were informed that nothing had been heard or seen of their Johnson or his wife.  They reported to Sheriff Hudson and were told to go to Villa ridge and check up the woman’s relations there.  They again reported and were sent to Hodges Park.  Nothing had been seen or heard of the supposed murder or of the supposed participants.  On their return the deputies inquired at several cotton fields and finally found the woman picking cotton on one of the farms between Mound City and Villa Ridge.
 
Mrs. Pearson Dies in East St. Louis

Mrs. Russell Pearson, aged 27, passed away in East St. Louis Thursday morning after an illness of several weeks.  She had been in a hospital in Springfield receiving treatment and had been removed to East St. Louis.  The remains were brought to Mound City to the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Sullivan Saturday and on Sunday morning the remains were taken to Wickliffe, where services were held and interment took place.  Deceased was bereaved of a ten month-old son Sunday previous to her demise and the body was also interred in the North Ballard Cemetery.  Besides the husband, she leaves a daughter, Lavernia Goforth, and a son, Aaron Pearson, and four stepchildren, also her parents and a large number of friends.
 
Murder Suspect Caught in Blodgett, Missouri

A negro named Will Carter and fitting the description somewhat of the Will Carter who shot and killed Joe Goins, Jr., October 11, was caught at Blodgett, Mo., and taken to Benton, the county seat of Scott County.  The sheriff at Benton held the negro until Sheriff Hudson called and brought the negro to Mound City for identification.

Identification could not be made by Olmstead citizens Monday so the negro was released Tuesday and sent back to Blodgett by Sheriff Hudson.
 
Escaped Negro Murderer Caught Near Sandusky

Raymond Meeks, who escaped Thursday night with three other prisoners, was caught Saturday near Sandusky by Sheriffs I. J. Hudson of Pulaski County and Leslie Roche of Alexander County ands several deputies.

Sheriff Hudson followed a tip to the cabin of one of Meeks’s nephews in Alexander County and found the negro in bed with a big gun at his side.  He told the sheriff that he had intended to give battle, but when he saw the officers he decided that it would be useless.

Meeks had been lying low for the past few days awaiting money from the sale of his cotton to make his get away.  He also informed the sheriff that if he had not been taken Saturday he never would have been caught.

The negro was indicted by the grand jury in its last session for the murder of Clarence Eubanks, near Pulaski, October 18^th, over a dollar debt.
 

Friday, 21 Nov 1924:
Card of Thanks

We wish to express our deep appreciation and thank our friends for their many kindnesses extended us after the death of our beloved daughter, wife and mother, Minnie Fray Jaccard.  They have done much to lessen our sorrow.
Mrs. Delia Fray
Mr. W. T. Jaccard and family

 
Prominent Pulaski County Resident Dies Wednesday

Mrs. W. T. Jaccard was found dead at 7 a.m. Wednesday morning at her home on First Street here. She had stayed up until slightly after nine o’clock Tuesday evening, listening in on a radio program and was presumably in excellent health until her death, which was caused by heart trouble.  Mrs. Jaccard was a member of the Congregational Church of this city and a prominent member of Rebecca Lodge.  The deceased leaves one daughter, Miss Mildred Jaccard, of this city; a son, Nile, of Chicago, who is married and has 2 children; her mother, Mrs. Delia Fray, of this city; and her husband, W. T. Jaccard, a prominent businessman of Mound City.

Mrs. Jaccard was born January 14^th, 1868, in Pulaski County and has lived here all her life.  Her death is a severe blow to all who knew her because of her unparalleled sweet disposition.  As far as can be learned, she never had an enemy in her life.

The son, Nile, arrived from his home in Chicago Thursday morning.

Upon finding the body in bed the family called Dr. J. F. Harrigan, who answered immediately and stated that she had been dead fully half an hour.

Funeral services were held at _ a.m. today in the Congregational church of this city.  Interment was made in Beech Grove Cemetery.  The service will be conducted by Rev. S. J. Burgess pastor of the Congregational Church.

(Henry H. Fray married Delia Kirk on 15 Feb 1869, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
  

Mrs. Henry Rife Passes Away

Mrs. Clara Rife, wife of Henry Rife, age 56 years, passed away at her home in Pulaski Monday.  She had been ill for some time.  Deceased leaves a husband, a son at home, a daughter, who resides in Tamms, and another son in New Mexico, besides a large circle of neighbors and friends.  The funeral was conducted Wednesday at the Baptist church in Pulaski and the building was not large enough to seat the large gathering of mourners.  The eulogy on the deceased by the pastor was most impressive and at the grave Mrs. Elmer Boyd was worthy matron and Mrs. E. P. Easterday as chaplain conducted services for the Eastern Star and there were a large number of these in attendance.

(Samuel H. Rife married Clara A. Lackey, 28, born in Pulaski, daughter of Thompson M. Lackey and Jennie Parker, on 18 Oct 1896, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in Rose Hill Cemetery at Pulaski reads:  Clara Lackey Rife 1866-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
John Brown and family attended the funeral of Mrs. Brown’s father, Rev. W. R. Hammonds, New Burnsides Sunday.  Rev. Hammonds was a veteran minister of the M. E. church and passed away at the Holden hospital in Carbondale early Saturday morning.  He has made his home in Elco for the past number of years and has reared an excellent family, one of the boys himself being a minister, Rev. George Hammonds, of Ashley, Illinois.  Rev. Hammonds was 78 years of age at the time of his demise.
 
Mesdames Elmer Boyd, E. P. Easterday, Lloyd Settlemoir, and A. F. Koontz went to Pulaski Wednesday where they attended the funeral of Mrs. Henry Rife, a sister Eastern Star.
 
Deputy Wilson Will Bring Murderer Back from Ohio

Deputy Sheriff James Wilson is on a trip to Toledo, Ohio where he was sent by Sheriff Hudson to bring back Tom Alexander, who killed a negro in Mounds five years ago.  Wilson has been on track of the murderer since the crime.  Alexander had dodged the officers until his apprehension in Toledo by.  Deputy Wilson will return with his prisoner Saturday.
  
Friday, 12 Dec 1924:
Henry J. Aldrich, Sr., Passes Away at Biloxi, Mississippi

Henry J. Aldrich, one of the oldest residents of Villa Ridge, passed away Tuesday at Biloxi, Miss., at the age of 84.  Funeral services were held at the home of Thomas Aldrich, of Villa Ridge, Thursday afternoon under Rev. S. J. Burgess.  The funeral director in charge was G. A. James of Mound City.  Interment was made in Villa Ridge cemetery.

(His marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ride reads:  Henry J. Aldrich 1840-1924.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Ullin Man Dies at Work

John Gardner, 47, of Ullin, died Tuesday while bringing in a load on his wagon from the Bud Anderson farm on which he has been located for several years.

Mr. Gardner leaves a wife and family of children.  He was well known in and around Ullin having lived there for several years.

(His marker in Ullin Cemetery reads:  John A. Gardner 1878-1924  Zoe B Gardner  his wife 1880-1957.—Darrel Dexter)
 
___ Bour Passes Away

___ Bour passed away ____ __ear Mounds Saturday after an illness of a ___ weeks.  She was 63 years of age and leaves a husband to mourn her demise.  The funeral services were held Tuesday evening at the Methodist church in ___ with Rev. S. J. Burgess ___ ___ Dever in charge.  Interment was made in Beech Grove Cemetery.
  
Friday, 19 Dec 1924:
______ Zoe _____ there___; Lou_____ where he resided ____ demise.

___ing his death ___ ___ to transact some ____ while talking to a ___ remarked that a severe ___ stricken him in the ____ the head.  The neighbor ___ him to lie down, which ___, when consciousness left him never returning.  He was stricken about ten o’clock a.m. and death came about three in the afternoon.

Besides his immediate family he leaves to mourn his departure a half brother, Harry Bishop, of Decovan, Ky., a grandmother, Mrs. Bishop, and many friends who will miss him in his daily routine duties of life.  He was a member of the board of education and an active member of the Pulaski County Farm Bureau.  Few men in Pulaski County excel in the manly qualities of John Gardner.  He was a hard working farmer, honest to the minutest detail and a man of high Christian character, who measures life by service and gain by friendships.

Funeral services were conducted from the Baptist church at Ullin Wednesday afternoon December 10, interment being in the Ullin Cemetery.  ___ services were conducted ____iman of Anna, ____ Christian Church ____ of which church _____.
 
Mound City Girl Passes Away Saturday Morning

Bessie M. Troutwine, daughter of E. M. Troutwine, died at the home of her father, north of this city Saturday morning at 7:30 after an illness of several weeks.  Funerals services were held at the home of the girl’s father Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Jesse Parrish of the Church of God at Cairo.  The remains were laid to rest in Beech Grove Cemetery.
 
Mounds Woman Dies Tuesday

Mrs. Alfred Schweiger of Mounds, Illinois, died at her home at 2:20 Tuesday afternoon after a brief illness.  She is survived by her husband and two children, one of two years old and a two week old infant.  Also a mother, Mrs. Joe Littz, of Union Street, Cairo, survives her.  The funeral was held Wednesday.
 
Infant Son Dies Tuesday

Homer Beverly, the five-week old son of Mr. and Mrs. Homer Beams, of this city, died at the home of its parents at 4:30 Tuesday afternoon after a rising in the head of the infant had burst.  Funeral services were held at the Catholic church here Thursday afternoon at 2:30.  Interment was made in St. Mary’s Cemetery at Mounds.

MOUND CITY CLAIMS OLDEST CITIZEN OF STATE

In Aunt Becky Johnston, of this city, according to the best authority possible in the form of emancipation papers and stories drawn from old resident of Mound City, lies the claim of Mound City to the oldest in the state.  Aunt Becky is 108 years and four months old according to data from the above sources.

The aged colored woman was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in August 1816.  her maiden name was Rebecca Hawkins, but according to custom at that time in states where slavery existed, she took the name of her master, which was Runicker.  While the property of the Runickers at Baltimore, Aunt Becky married a negro preacher, also a slave.

On the 19^th day of October, 1861, Aunt Becky received her emancipation papers from the clerk of the Superior Court of Maryland.  The papers were signed by George F. Langston.  According to Aunt Becky’s own story she was freed by her mistress for having been such a contented and industrious worker.

The family of Baltimore took the newly freed woman into their home and cared fro her until her preacher husband was freed by President Lincoln’s proclamation in 1863.  Mr. Johnson was freed the pair made their way to Illinois and settled in Pulaski County.  They lived in Grand Chain for several years.  When James Weaver was elected sheriff of the county, he brought Aunt Becky and her husband to Mound City to see the prisoner  in jail, but could not bear the employ of Sheriff Weaver so left and began keeping house for Mrs. Thomas Higgins.

While she was employed at Mrs. Higgins’, the husband died and left Aunt Becky dependent upon hr own resources.  She tried to other husbands late in life, but neither proved very successful.  For the past several years she has been left practically upon the charity of the people.  The first Pulaski County husband was named Aldridge, the other King.  She has no children.

The condition of the aged woman is now critical indeed.  She is practically deaf.  Her speech is impaired, and she is paralyzed from her knees down.  Mrs. Thomas Higgins has taken upon herself the burden of seeing that the old lady is cared for, and that a doctor is provided for her.  Mrs. Higgins states that when the end comes the old lady will be buried at Grand Chain.

Aunt Becky was employed in the house of Mrs. Higgins when Harry and W. J. Perks were boys.  They too are highly interested in the old lady as she once was the source of many a pocket full of cookies for them.

The aged woman is known here as Aunt Becky Johnston, however her real name is Rebecca King.  No pension or compensation of any sort has been awarded her at any time during her life.

(Published with the front-page article is a photograph of “Aunt Becky.”  Thomas Aldridge married Mrs. Rebecca Johnson on 16 Feb 1888, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Squire D. King married Mrs. Beckie Aldridge on 24 Dec 1890, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
  
Friday, 26 Dec 1924:
CARD OF THANKS

We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who sympathetically rendered assistance in the bereavement of our father.  For the floral tokens and the kind words spoken.
Mrs. Kate Sneed
Frank Finley
Ira Finley
James Finley
 
Word has been received by relatives that G. W. McCowan of Portageville, Mo., had died suddenly at his home in that city Christmas Day at 11 o’clock a.m.  Mr. and Mrs. McCowan of this city left immediately for the home of the deceased.  The Messers McCowan are brothers.
 
Aged Villa Ridge Resident Dies

Fred Stadler, aged 80 years, for the past 45 years a resident of Villa Ridge, Ill. died at his home on a farm southeast of Villa Ridge Monday night at 10:00.  He is survived by his wife, a daughter and one son.  Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at one o’clock conducted by Rev. Schaffer.  Interment wads made in Beech Grove Cemetery.
 
Aged Resident Passes Away After Week of Illness

Dewitt Finley, 88, of this city, passed away Friday evening at 7:30 at the home of his son, James Finley, after an illness of about a week.  The aged man’s death was caused by a hardening of the arteries.  Funeral services were held at the home of James Finley Monday afternoon at 1:30 with Rev. Roy N. Kean in charge.  Interment was made in Beech Grove Cemetery at Mounds.

Mr. Finley had been a resident of Mound City for the past sixty five years.  He came here from Paducah, Ky., where he was born.  Mr. Finley served in a Kentucky regiment during the Civil War.  He is survived by three sons, James, of this city, Frank, of St. Louis, and Ira, of Pittsburg, Pa., also a daughter, Mrs. Kate Sneed of McAllister, Oklahoma.  All three sons were present at the funeral.  The daughter was unable to attend.

(Joseph H. Sneed married Kate Finley on 17 Feb 1896, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Mounds Independent

Mounds Independent, Thursday, 11 Dec 1924:
Mr. Gardner brought a load of corn to town and while weighing it was struck down by apoplexy which proved fatal.  He only lived a few hours.  He was buried at the Ullin Cemetery, Wednesday evening.

             (His marker in Ullin Cemetery reads:  John A. Gardner 1878-1924  Zoe B. Gardner, his wife, 1880-1957.—Darrel Dexter)

Dead Man Found in Car

The body of a man was found by special watchman W. G. Bard in a car of lumber arriving in the Mounds Yards on train number 152 at 10:10 p.m. Dec. 8^th, 1924.

At the inquest held by Coroner Hudson it developed that the man was Eddie Johnson, white and aged about 27 years.

The coroner’s jury rendered a verdict that death was due to gun shot fired by parties unknown.  He had been struck in the right breast by a large caliber bullet the same ranging downward and not going entirely through the body.

It has been ascertained that Johnson’s father resides in Covington, Tenn.  The young man left home on Dec. 8^th, ostensibly to visit his uncles, Will and Davie Miller, in Jackson, Tenn.

The body was turned over the undertakers Cole and Hartwell.

Prominent Farmer Dies Suddenly

Mr. John Gardner, of Ullin, who several years ago came from the North and purchased the Ben Anderson farm just south of Ullin, was suddenly stricken by apoplexy while in Ullin on business Tuesday, Dec. 9^th, and never regained consciousness.  Death followed in a few hours.

A CARD OF THANKS

Mr. Frank Bour, his daughter and sons desire to express their sincere thanks to their friends and neighbors for their many acts of kindness during the sickness and after the death of their beloved wife and mother.

Mounds Independent, Thursday, 18 Dec 1924:
Mrs. Effie Wise returned Friday from Balcom where she was called by the death of her brother.

Mrs. J. B. Fox recently received a message saying that her brother, Mr. Sullivan, of Washington, D.C., had died suddenly at that place.

WELL KNOWN OLD MAN DIES

Peter Johnson, familiarly known as “Dago Pete,” died Saturday, Dec. 13^th, at the Pulaski County Home for the Poor.  His health had been failing for some time, but he had been in the county home only a few days when death came.

Death of Young Mother

Verna Comers, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Comers, was born near Metropolis, Ill., Aug. 11^th, 1905, and died at her home in Mounds, Ill., Dec. 16, 1924.

Only July 10, 1922, she was married to Alfred Swigger.  She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, two small sons, aged respectively 15 months and 2 weeks, her father, a sister, and a brother.  Her mother died Feb. 17, 1907.

The funeral services were held at her home on Oak Street, Dec. 17, at 2:30 p.m.  The Rev. J. S. Dever officiated.  She was laid to rest in Beech Grove Cemetery.

CARD OF THANKS

We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to those who so kindly befriended us in the death of our beloved father.  Also for the beautiful floral offerings and use of cars.
Phillip Vonnida
Charles Vonnida
John Vonnida
Seth Vonnida
G. O. Vonnida
Daughter

OLD VETERAN PASSES AWAY

John Vonnida, son of Mr. Conrad and Marguerite Vonnida, was born in St. Louis, Mo., March 12, 1846, and died at his home in Mounds, Ill., Dec. 15, 1924, at the age of 78 years, 9 months and 5 days.  He moved with his parents to southern Illinois in 1858 and was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Littell Feb. 25, 1872, at Villa Ridge, Ill., with Rev. Sullivan officiating.  To this union ten children were born, nine of whom are surviving, namely:  John Vonnida, of Cairo; Mrs. Charles Minton, Seth, Charles and Ethel Vonnida, of Mounds; G. O. Vonnida, Mrs. Samuel Atherton and Mrs. R. J. Johnson, of Villa Ridge; and Phillip Vonnida, of Centralia.

He was a Civil War veteran, having enlisted at the age of 17.  He served as a Union soldier from Sept. 17, 1864, until he was honorably discharged at the close of the conflict in 1865.

He was converted and united with the Shiloh Baptist Church, Pulaski Co., Ill., some forty years ago and for many years has served in the capacity of a deacon of that body, in which position he was wrought nobly and well.

Beside the above named loved ones, he leaves to mourn their loss, two sisters, Mrs. Margaret Crain, of Mound City, and Mrs. Emma Stewart, of Cairo, fourteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral services were held in the Shiloh Baptist Church Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. Rev. H. C. Crosslin officiated.  The services at the grave were in charge of the Masons.  Interment was in Shiloh Cemetery.

(John Vannida, of Villa Ridge, enlisted as a private in Co. I, 144^th Illinois Infantry and was mustered out on 14 Jul 1865.  John Vonnida married Sarah J. Littell on 25 Feb 1872, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Charles Minton married Kate Vanida on 19 Nov 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  R. J. Johnson married Sallie Vonida on 3 Nov 1901, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in New Shiloh Cemetery reads:  John Vonnida Born March 11, 1846 Died Dec. 15, 1924.—Darrel Dexter)

Mounds Independent, Thursday, 25 Dec 1924:
The funeral of Mr. J. W. Finley was held Monday afternoon at the home of his son, Mr. James Finley, of this city, where he resided.  Mr. Finley was the oldest man in this town at the time of his death, being 88 years of age.  Rev. Roy N. Kean preached the funeral sermon.

(T. W. Finley, 28, son of James W. Finley and D. E. Braden, married Lillie M. Wright on 2 Dec 1896, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mr. and Mrs. Loren Stophlet have returned from Mt. Vernon where they attended the funeral of Mrs. Stophlet’s sister-in-law.

Mrs. Barnett Passes to the Great Beyond

Mary J. Scruggs was born May the eighteenth, 1857, near Knoxville, Tenn., and died at her home in Valley Recluse, Dec. the eighteenth, 1924.  She was married to D. F. Barnett, on August the twenty-eighth, 1881.

Six sons were born to this union, namely:  Isaac Betram, William Henry, Berry Royall, George Edgar, Charles R., and John Wallace.  Four of these boys preceded their mother to the great Beyond.

She leaves to mourn her death her husband, D. F. Barnett, two sons, Henry and John, five grandchildren, two brothers, James A. Scruggs and George M. Scruggs, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Villa Ridge and was a devoted Christian.
A short service was held at the home Saturday, Dec. the twentieth, after which she was taken to the M. E. church in Villa Ridge where the funeral services were held.  The Rev. T. A. Schaffer officiated.  She was buried in beautiful Beech Grove Cemetery.