Thursday, 5 Jan 1899:
JAMES L. SACKETT DEAD.
Old Resident of Elco Stricken with Paralysis Last Sunday.

James L. Sackett died at his home at Elco Sunday afternoon at 4 o'clock as the result of a stroke of paralysis.

Saturday evening he went out to feed his stock and when he did not return to the house, after a considerable lapse of time, his wife went out in search of him and found him lying helpless upon the ground and the hogs rooting him around.  He was carried to the house, but medical assistance could not bring him around, and he died as above stated.  So far as we can learn, he had never had a stroke of paralysis before.

James L. Sackett was the youngest of ten children.  He was born December 30, 1834, in Connecticut.  His grandfather was a soldier in the War of the Revolution.  He removed to Illinois with his parents in 1840, settled in Madison County, and in 1860 he came to Alexander County, settling first on Sandy Creek but removing to Elco three years later.  He served in the War of the Rebellion for a short time, but was discharged on account of disability on May 29, 1865.  In 1858 he married at Belleville, to Miss Eliza Anson, and they had ten children of whom six are living—Mrs. Paul Loeschner, Miss Minnie Sackett, of Chicago; Richard Sackett, telegraph operator at Elco; Louis Sackett, who is telegraph operator in Kansas, and Misses Clara and Mattie Sackett, who live at home.  Mr. Sackett was a staunch Republican and a familiar figure in all county conventions.  At his death he was school trustee, a position which he held for fifteen or twenty years.

He was one of the best citizens of the county and his untimely death is not only a great shock to his friends, but a heavy loss to the community.

(James L. Sackett married Eliza J. Anson on 24 Mar 1858, in St. Clair Co., Ill.  Paul Loeschner married Rosa S. Sackett on 7 Feb 1886, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The little nine-year-old son of William E. Meehan died Tuesday of spinal meningitis.
 
Mrs. Provo, widow of the late Mark Provo, of Elco, died Tuesday after a severe illness.
 
Frank Lane, an employee of the Chicago Mill and Lumber Company, fell in front of a saw Tuesday afternoon and was so badly cut up that he died at 3 o'clock a.m. yesterday.
 
William Ketchmann, living near Henry Dunning's at Diswood, died last Friday of typhoid pneumonia.  The deceased left a widow and five or six children.  He owned a good farm there.
 
Thomas Sewell died of heart disease Monday afternoon at the home of Henry McCabe.  He was a former resident of Marietta, Ga., where he has relatives living.  He came to Cairo some weeks ago in search of work, but illness overtook him.  Mr. McCabe was an acquaintance of his and took care of him.
 
Died, D. H. Vancil, a commission merchant of Cobden, aged 48.

(D. H. Vancil married Nancy J. Corgan on 5 Jul 1874, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  D. H. Vancil 1851-1899  Let not your heart be troubled.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The grim reaper has not been idle and many happy homes have been ruthlessly invaded and loved ones snatched away.

On January 17^th the genial and universally beloved Harris Schulze was taken from his family and loved ones.  Mrs. Mary B. Yost passed away the same day, leaving her husband sorely bereft.  February 2^nd, Mrs. Bristol, after a long illness, was taken from those she loved.  March 19^th, Carter Chapman died.  March 31^st, William Dezonia closed his eyes on earthly scenes.  May 23^rd Mrs. R. H. Cunningham was taken.  August 4^th W. D. Taylor died.  October 14^th Mrs. Caroline Gossman was taken.  October 18^th Mrs. Augusta Harris passed away.  December 1^st W. A. Redman, after a brief illness, was called from this life to another beyond the grave.

In the country outside the city the old reaper has also been busy.  On March 26^th, H. F. Putnam, of Elco was taken.  May 24^th, D. D. C. Hargis passed away. George W. Sammons, of Thebes, was called August 28^th.  John A. Sickling, of Hodges Park, passed away September 16^th.  Mrs. Clark James, of East Cape Girardeau, on September 23^rd.  These are a very few of the great host that have been called away.  The records of our city clerk's office reported from December 1^st, 1897, to December 1^st, 1898, was 238.  The record for December 1898, has not yet been put in tabular form.
 
A little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Barker died Saturday of brain fever.  Interment at Pea Ridge Cemetery.

(Samuel Barker married Jessie Green on 18 Apr 1888, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mr. John Adams died at his home in Thebes, Ill., January 2, 1899, of pneumonia and heart trouble.  He was born in this county November 20, 1860, and was married to Miss Adelia Miller on September 24, 1881, whose union lasted about two years when separated by death.  One child, a son, was born unto them.  November 3, 1890, he was married to Miss Stella Richards.  To them four children were born, three sons and one daughter, one of which has preceded the father to the heavenly world.  He leaves a wife, four sons, two brothers, and two sisters, with a host of friends to mourn his loss.  The obsequies which took place at his home, were largely attended, Rev. P. A. Smith, officiating. 

(John Adams married Adelia Miller on 24 Sep 1882, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Minnie Pinninger, formerly of this city (Mound City), died at Madison, Ill., Monday and was interred in the Beech Grove Cemetery, at Beechwood, Wednesday.
 
Mrs. Mollie Flowers died last Thursday of pneumonia.  She left a husband and four small children.  She was a most excellent woman.  Funeral services were held Saturday.  (Willard)
 

Thursday, 12 Jan 1899:
Death of an Old Pioneer.

Richard A. Edmundson was born in Gibson County, Tennessee.  In 1848 his parents moved to Alexander County near East Cape Girardeau and there he has lived since that time, except for a brief period when he lived in Cape Girardeau, Mo.  He married and reared a family at East Cape Girardeau and there his wife died.  Then he moved over to Cape Girardeau, Mo., where, after a while he again married.  Then he moved back to his old home in Alexander County.  He owned a large amount of fine bottomland near East Cape Girardeau.  He carried on a store there for a great many years.  He was a justice of the peace, elected and re-elected term after term for many years.  He was almost constantly a school officer while he lived at East Cape Girardeau and was postmaster for many years.

But he has gone, leaving a widow and three children, Mrs. Clark James and Grant and Allen Edmundson, to mourn his loss.  His opportunities for education in early life were very limited.  But he was a man of sound judgment and good sense.  He was well balanced and always made his influence felt in the community where he lived.  He had one weakness which his friends knew and always regretted.  If Richard A. Edmundson had been well educated in his youth, he would have been a strong man, a prominent man in any community.  He was true to his friends and was one of the kindest hearted men in the county, always ready to help the poor.  If he made a mistake he was always ready to correct it.

Mr. Edmundson was a member of the canvassing board at the county seat election in 1860, when the courthouse was removed to Cairo.

He was seventy years old at his death.

(Richardson A. Edmundson married Louisa Jackson on 11 May 1856, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Richard A. Edmundson married Milla Ann Kendall on 29 May 1864, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Margaret Wilmot, wife of Louis Wilmot, Sr., died at her home at the Half-Way House on the Mound City Road, Monday evening.  Funeral services were held Tuesday morning and the remains were interred at Beech Grove Cemetery.
 
Mrs. Carolina Ashley Sargent, aunt of Rev. F. A. DeRosset, died at the rectory of the Church of the Redeemer Sunday night, of pneumonia.  She had been ill less than a week.  Deceased was 40 years of age.  She was a widow of the late Nathan Nicholas Sargent, of Boston, Mass., and leaves one daughter living in North Carolina.  She had been visiting here for ten months and was preparing to return east when death overtook her.  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon in the Church of the Redeemer and the remains were shipped East for burial.

MORTUARY
Mrs. Sarah Stickney.

Mrs. Sarah Stickney the aged mother of Mrs. J. B. Reed, died at four o'clock last Sunday evening.  She had been confined to her room for several weeks and towards the closing days of her life she was afflicted with dropsy and her suffering was very severe.  She was in her ninetieth year.

Mrs. Stickney was born in Jackson, Maine, on November 27, 1809.  Later her parents removed to Massachusetts, and there, she was married to Benjamin Stickney.  He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and his widow drew a pension on account of this service.  Her husband died in 1854, and she also outlived all her children, nine in number, except one daughter, Mrs. Reed.  In 1857, Mrs. Stickney came to St. Louis to make her home with Mr. and Mrs. Reed and removed to Cairo with them where he has lived since.  Mrs. Stickney joined the Baptist church at Lowell, Mass., over forty years ago, and was one of the founders of the Cairo Baptist Church in 1880.  In fact, she was the last of its constituent members, who has remained continuously a member since its organization.

Funeral services were held at the residence on Twentieth Street at four o’clock Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Dr. Gee of the Cairo Baptist Church, assisted by Rev. Dr. Knox, of the Presbyterian Church.  Music was furnished by the Presbyterian choir.  Monday night the remains were taken to St. Louis and were interred at Belfontaine Cemetery Tuesday.  Mr. Reed and sons, Joseph and Frank, and daughter, Miss Nellie, accompanied them.

Mrs. Stickney was so devout a Christian that she believed her transition from the world to the next should not be marked by any signs of sorrow or mourning, hence at her own request, a bunch of beautiful pink roses attached to the door of the home that death had visited instead of the usual crepe.
 
Mr. Web Dille died last Friday afternoon from an attack of pneumonia.  Mr. Dille lived near Centre and was a brother of J. S. and J. W. Dille, of this place.  The funeral was held last Sunday at Liberty under the auspices of the I. O. O. F.
 
Died, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Hileman, Wednesday of last week, Mrs. Charlotte Phillips, aged 74 years.  The funeral services were conducted at the home of Mr. Hileman on Thursday afternoon and the remains were taken to Springfield on Friday for interment.
 
Mr. Richard Edmundson, one of the old settlers of East Cape, died Friday.
 
A little child of Al Rodgers died Sunday and was buried at the Cache Chapel Cemetery on Monday.
 
W. A. Hughes died of pneumonia Saturday and was buried at New Hope on Sunday.  Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Ball, of Cache Chapel.  He had just signed up a voucher for his pension and it said $400.00 back bounty, but died before his money came.
 
Mr. Richard A. Edmundson, who has so long lived in our midst, was called from this life to another beyond the grave on Friday, January 6th, in the 70th year of his age.  Of those especially near and dear to him he left a wife, children and grandchildren to mourn the loss of a kind husband, father and grandfather.  The funeral took place Saturday morning last when the remains were laid to rest in Lorimier Cemetery at Cape Girardeau, Mo.  The family has the full sympathy of the entire community in their sad affliction.

 

Mr. C. A. Marchildon is in town today.  He brings the news of the death of Charles Waterman, Mrs. Thomas Douglas, and a child of Ab Douglas, at Santa Fe. 
 
The wife of John Cline, living east of Elco, was reported very low with pneumonia early this week.
 
W. R. McRaven, of Sandusky, lost one of his children, a daughter, last week.  She was buried Sunday.
 
Mrs. Provo, whose death at Elco we announced last week, was 72 years old.  She was born in Alabama and came to Elco when quite young.  She outlived her husband, Mark Provo, several years, and now leaves four children surviving her.  They are James Provo, who lives at Elco; C. P. Provo, who was in Arkansas when last heard from; Mrs. Donia Cruse, of Arizona, and Mrs. Sarah Lilley, of Hodges Park.  Mrs. Provo was a member of the Baptist church.  She was buried in the Provo Cemetery last Thursday, Rev. I. N. Wetty officiating.

            (Jasper A. Cruse married Dona C. Cruse on 22 Dec 1887, in Alexander Co., Ill.  William Lilley married Sarah M. Provo, daughter of Mark Provo and Matilda Commons, on 8 Jun 1883, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 19 Jan 1899:
Want Pardon for Harvey Ramage.

The friends of Harvey Ramage are trying to secure a pardon for him.  They will go before the State Board of Pardons at its April session in Springfield and apply for a pardon or commutation of sentence.  Whitnell & Gillespie, of Vienna, are his attorneys.

Ramage was sentenced to life imprisonment in the Chester penitentiary for the murder of Officer Henry Dunker in 1892.  Dunker attempted to arrest Ramage when he was shot down and killed.
 
MORTUARY.

Henry Eichoff, the cabinetmaker, died last Thursday night of pneumonia developed from the grippe.  He leaves a widow and several children.  Deceased was 57 years of age.  Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon with Rev. J. G. M. Hursch officiating, and the remains were taken to Beech Grove Cemetery, under escort of the Masonic fraternity.

(Henry Eichoff married Katie Foehr on 19 Mar 1871, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Helena Lehning, wife of Philip Lehning, died Saturday morning of paralysis from which she had been a long sufferer.  The deceased was 59 years old.  Funeral services were held Tuesday conducted by Rev. Father Eschmann, and the remains were taken to Villa Ridge for interment.  Mrs. Lehning left a husband and three children, Philip W., and Miss Helena who live here, and John P. Lehning, of San Diego, Cal., who arrived to attend the funeral.

(Philip Lehning married Hellena Kessler on 10 Aug 1863, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Helena Lehning 1839-1899.  Mother.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Edwin Snider, an aged and highly respected citizen of America, died Wednesday morning.
 
Edward Earley, a very old colored man of considerable prominence, died at America Wednesday morning.
 
Grandma Casper of this city (Mound City) died Monday.  The funeral was held on Tuesday conducted by Rev. McCammon, of the Grace M. E. Church.
 
W. A. Lyerly, of America, died Wednesday morning, aged 75 years.  He was one among the oldest citizens in the county (Pulaski County), a good man and was well liked by all who knew him.

(His marker in Lyerly Cemetery at America reads:  William A. Lyerly Born Nov. 17, 1823 Died Jan. 17, 1899 Aged 67 Yrs., 1 Mo., & 11 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Ernest Knoenagel, who died in this city (Mound City) on Thursday of last week, was 72 years old, and had conducted a bakery where he died, corner Main and Merritt streets, for 34 years.  He was a good, inoffensive, industrious old man; a prominent member of the Knights of Honor, and of the Methodist church.
 
George Williams died Friday morning and was buried Saturday.  (Dog Tooth Bend)
 
Mr. Thomas Durham, who was having quite a siege with pneumonia, died Monday night.  He leaves a wife and several children with relatives and many friends to mourn his loss.
 
Henry Braddy, a nephew of Eli Sowers, died in Christian County last week.
 
G. C. Jamison, a prominent minister of the M. E. church, died at his residence three miles east of Ullin, Monday of pneumonia fever.
 
Mrs. John Cline, who resided west of Ullin three miles, died last Monday of pneumonia and was buried at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery on Wednesday.  She was a sister to Mrs. Eli Sowers.  She was about forty years of age and leaves a husband and several children.

(John Kline married Amanda Braddy on 30 Mar 1882, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Eli Sowers married Malinda Braddy on 27 Mar 1873, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Rev. G. C. Jamison died at his home near Ullin on Monday, January 16^th, with pneumonia.  Rev. Jamison was one of the oldest Methodist preachers in the county.  He came from Elco some ten years ago and has lived a quiet life ever since.  In his death the church loses a faithful minister and the community a good citizen.  Funeral services were held at the church Tuesday afternoon.  (Friendship)
 
Died, at his home near Willard, little Harold, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Willis, aged 3 years and 12 days.
 
Died, Dr. J. T. Newton, one of the most prominent physicians of Clinton County, of pneumonia, at the age of 47 years.
 
Died, George Hill, aged 86, near Mount Vernon.  He voted for Andrew Jackson and joined the M. E. church in early life.
 

Thursday, 26 Jan 1899:
Death of Mrs. Houghawout.

Mrs. Maggie Houghawout, wife of Mr. P. B. Houghawout and daughter of Mrs. John McEwen, died at her home, No. 634 Fifteenth Street, at 6:30 o'clock this morning.

Several weeks ago she was taken with the grippe.  Before she had regained her strength, her little boy baby came, and about a week ago the grippe returned, and since then she has hovered between life and death.  She made a strong fight for life, assisted by the best medical skill, and several times she rallied and it was believed she would pull through.

Mrs. Houghawout was born in Chicago and came to Cairo with her parents during the war, and has lived here ever since.  She was married twice.  Her first husband, Walter Comings, died a number of years ago.  They had one child, Mamie, who is now eleven years old.  Four years ago she married Mr. Houghawout, who is now left with the little motherless babe to mourn her loss.  Her other relatives are her mother, sister, Miss Etta McEwen, and brother, W. H. McEwen.

Funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the family residence conducted by Rev. F. A. DeRosset, rector of the Church of the Redeemer, of which Mrs. Houghawout was a member.  Interment will be at Beech Grove Cemetery.

(Walter L. Comings married Margaret A. McEwen on 20 May 1885, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Miss Polly Hill, of Norris City, aged 80.
 
Died, James R. Roberts, aged 61; Mrs. Mary R. Hall, aged 79; and Mrs. Ames Clark, aged 90, all of Centralia.
 
Two Marion County pioneers have passed away:  Mrs. Mary Partridge, aged 90, at her home west of Salem; and Winston Wooten, of Omega Township, aged 81.
 
MORTUARY.

Mrs. Ellen L. Winans died at her home near Villa Ridge last Thursday night, after a severe illness with grippe, and bronchitis.  The deceased was the widow of the late David H. Winans, and had lived in Cairo for about fifteen years when her husband was in the marble business here, removing to Villa Ridge about 1880, where she has lived upon their farm ever since.  Her husband died several years ago.  Mrs. Winans married her husband at Carlyle, Ill., in December 1853, her maiden name having been Ellen L. Norton.  They had seven children, all of whom, we believe, are yet living.  Those at Villa Ridge are Mrs. C. J. Howe and David and Scott Winans.  Funeral services were held Sunday.

(David H. Winans married Ellen L. Norton on 20 Dec 1853, in Clinton Co., Ill.  Cortez J. Howe married Alice H. Winans on 8 Jul 1875, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Ethel Smith Nesbitt, wife of J. P. Nesbitt, the Mound City clothing merchant, died last Thursday night.  The deceased was the daughter of Mrs. Hester M. Smith, county superintendent of Pulaski County, and a wide acquaintance, not only in Pulaski County but in Southern Illinois.  She had been married only a few years and their family consisted of two small children.  The funeral was held Saturday.

(John Porter Nesbit married Ethel Hope Smith on 26 Feb 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
A little child of Mr. and Mrs. S. S. Manus died Saturday of membranous croup.  (Wetaug)
 
Died, Friday, January 20, 1899, Alice, wife of Joseph Miller, of pneumonia fever.  She was about forty years old and was born and reared near town (Wetaug).  She was the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. B. Sowers, who are old, respected residents of this community.  She leaves a husband and a large family of children.  Interment was made at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery Sunday at 11 o'clock, the Rev. M. S. Metzler conducting the services.

(Joseph Miller married Alice Sowers on 4 May1876, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  A marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery reads:  Mary A. Miller Born Nov. 18, 1858 Died Jan. 15, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)
 
William Bonham, who has been sick with pneumonia, died Friday and was buried Saturday at the Baumgardt Cemetery.  (Dog Tooth Bend)
 
Ed Sheets, son of Samuel Sheets, of Pulaski, died at Piggott, Ark.  His remains will be brought to this county this week for interment.  (Mound City)

(Samuel Sheets married Mrs. Elizabeth Thurtell on 4 Feb 1879, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. M. A. Connor, aged 78 years, mother of Mrs. G. J. Rhine, died Wednesday evening.  Her death was quite a surprise to the family, as she had been ailing but little. (Mound City)
 
Mrs. Ethel Smith Nesbitt, wife of J. Porter Nesbitt, and daughter of Mrs. Hester M. Smith, county superintendent of schools, died in this city (Mound City) Thursday, January 19, at the age of 23 years, 3 months and 5 days.  Funeral was largely attended.  The service was conducted by Rev. G. E. McCammon.  Deceased leaves a mother, husband and two small children to mourn her departure.
 
The announcement of Edwin Snyder's death in last week's issue of The Citizen was somewhat premature, as his death did not occur until Friday morning.  His home was near America, and he had lived in this county (Pulaski County) about fifteen years, having removed from Pennsylvania to this state, though he was born in New York.  At the time of his death he was a few months past 75 years old.  Our distinguished townsman, Maj. Fitzpatrick, superintendent of the National Cemetery, near this city, was a son-in-law of Mr. Snyder.  He was spoken of very highly as a most excellent citizen.  Rev. I. A. J. Parker, a Christian minister of Vienna, conducted the funeral services.
 
We are sorry to state that Mrs. J. G. Barnard, of Sandusky, died Tuesday.
 
Mrs. Lon Tadlock died last week and was buried at the Mt. Zion Cemetery near Thebes.
 
Mr. D. M. Culp, who went to Minnesota for his health, died Monday, January 16th.  (Thebes)
 
Our people were shocked to hear of the death of Mrs. Porter Nesbitt, of Mound City.  The relatives have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community (Villa Ridge) in their sad bereavement.
 
Mrs. Bertha Lee, a daughter of A. B. Robinson, died at her home in British Columbia, January 17.  Mr. Lee and child accompanied the remains to this place (Villa Ridge).  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Brannum at the home of A. B. Robinson Tuesday and the interment took place in the Villa Ridge Cemetery.  Mrs. Lee was a former resident in the vicinity and had a host of friends who were shocked to hear of her untimely death.

(Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Susan Bertie wife of R. W. Lee Died at Grandfork, B.C., Jan. 16, 1899, Aged 27 Yrs., 10 Mos., & 27 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)
 
It is with deep regret that we record the death of Mrs. E. L. Winans.  The sad event occurred at her home last Thursday evening, January 19, 1899.  She died from an attack of la grippe and bronchial trouble.  She bore her great suffering with Christian patience and was conscious to the last.  Mrs. Winans was a consistent member of the Congregational church and was always found at the post of duty.  She was woman of broad intelligence and marked ability and worked with untiring zeal in any cause in which she became interested.  Her many friends will always remember her acts of kindness when there was sickness and distress, for she was ever ready and willing to lend a healing hand.  The funeral was held last Sunday at 11 a.m. at the Congregational church, Rev. Van Auken conducting the services.  Messrs. Will Winans, of New York City, and John Winans, of Kansas City, also Mrs. S. A. Long, of Litchfield, Ill., (a sister of the deceased) were in attendance at the funeral.  All of her children were present except Mr. Scott Winans, who was too sick to attend.  The remains were interred in the Villa Ridge Cemetery.
 

Thursday, 2 Feb 1899:
The death of Mrs. J. G. Barnard at Sandusky last week is greatly to be deplored.  After an illness of about ten days she died of pneumonia.  She leaves her husband and four young children, the eldest being 15 years of age.  Col. Barnard is himself paralyzed and in a very bad condition.  He needs kind and competent care.
 
The funeral of Mrs. Houghawort was held last Saturday afternoon.  After services at the home conducted by Rev. F. A. DeRosset, assisted by Rev. J. T. M. Knox, the remains were taken to Beech Grove Cemetery.  Mrs. Everett, of Kansas, and Mrs. Post and husband, of Murphysboro, sister of Mr. Houghawout, came to attend the funeral.  The death of Mrs. Houghawout breaks up another happy home.  At the expressed wish of Mrs. Houghawout, her little boy babe, only a few days old, will be cared for by Mrs. Post, of Murphysboro, and her daughter, Mamie Comings, will be reared by Miss Etta McEwen, the little girl's aunt.
 
Capt. John E. Detrich died at the residence of his son, Don E. Detrich, in Chester, Tuesday, January 31.  He was well known in the old Twentieth Congressional District some years ago and at one time sought the Republican nomination for Congress.  His home was in Sparta.  He was captain of Company I, Twenty-second Illinois Infantry during the Civil War.  He was a good man and highly respected.
 
DR. J. W. BURNETT DEAD.
Prominent Citizen of Alto Pass Expired Last Evening.

ALTO PASS, ILL., Feb. 2.—Dr. J. W. Burnett, aged 55, a prominent physician and druggist of this place, died suddenly at 5 o'clock last evening of dropsy of the heart.  His wife was with him at his death, but the other members of the family were absent, not expecting his death to come so soon.  Deceased was well known throughout Southern Illinois, especially at Vienna and Metropolis.  He resided at the latter place ten years previous to his removal to Alto.  He leaves a widow and three children.  His son is assistant principal of the Dongola schools.  The funeral will be held at the family residence tomorrow.
 
An infant of R. C. Thornton died Monday with measles.  (Friendship)
 
Grandma Howard is very poorly; little hopes are entertained for her recovery.  ( Mound City)
 
After a lingering illness of internal cancer, of several months, Mrs. Elizabeth P. Tibbs, of this city (Mound City), departed this life Thursday evening at the ripe old age of 77 years, 4 months and 18 days.  Funeral services were held by Rev. G. E. McCammon at Grace M. E. Church, Saturday, at 1 o'clock p.m.  Funeral cortege left at 2:15 for Beech Grove Cemetery for interment.  The funeral was largely attended.  The good lady had suffered intensely for at least nine months and her passing away was not unlooked for.  She was one of the oldest resident of this county, having come here from Philadelphia, where she was raised, in the year 1835.  She is the mother of John L. and Andrew J. Dougherty, of this city, and Mrs. J. D. Babcock, of Colorado, all of whom survive her.  She was a prominent member of Grace M. E. Church, of this city and an honored member of this community; dearly beloved by all who knew her.

(Jasper D. Babcock married Lizzie C. Tibbs on 10 Nov 1866, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
MORTUARY.

The death of Mrs. Nelly May Haynes, wife of John A. Haynes, last Friday morning, threw sadness over the entire community.  She had only been sick for a short time from the grip, which developed into pneumonia, but her health had always been delicate, and her friends were fearful all along that she could not pull through.  She was conscious to the last and died surrounded by all her relatives except her father, who was himself too ill to be at her bedside, and her brother, Walter, who did not arrive until after her death.

Mrs. Haynes was 37 years of age.  She was the daughter of John Antrim, and was born here, living here most of her life.  In 1881 she was married to Mr. Haynes, and they had one child, Anna Lake, a young lady now in her teens.  Mrs. Haynes was a very devoted wife and their home was an unusually happy one.  She was a devout Christian and was a member of the Presbyterian Church.  Besides the relatives already named, she leaves her father, two sisters, Mrs. Addie Kent and Miss Viola Antrim, and three brothers, John, Seymour, and Walter.

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon.  Services were held at the Presbyterian church, conducted by the pastor, Dr. Knox, assisted by Rev. J. A. Scarritt.  The church was crowded with friends of the deceased and the service was very impressive.  The beautiful floral pieces covered the platform where they were arranged before the the arrival of the casket.  After the service, the remains were taken to Beech Grove Cemetery for interment.

One thing that made her sudden death especially sad was that they had just begun the erection of a new home on Twenty-eighth street.  For a long time they had been thinking and planning for this home and it was to be built according to suggestions made by the one who was never  to see it completed.  In looking forward to the enjoyment they should have in their new home, they did not know how altered would be their circumstances when that home was ready for occupancy, or that the light of the home would have gone out before they could see a fulfillment of their desires.

(John A. Haynes married Nellie Antrim on 8 Nov 1881, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Frederick A. Kent married Addie T. Antrim on 25 Oct 1892, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Milas Brooks, of Carbondale, due to pneumonia, and unexpected.
 
Died, Mrs. Lettie Woddell, aged 55, at Harrisburg, of pneumonia.
 
Died, James Baugh, aged 83, quite wealthy, of Centralia.
 
Died, N. C. Alexander, one of Wayne County’s oldest and most highly respected citizens.
 

Thursday, 9 Feb 1899:
Another Victim of the Grippe.

John E. Thomas, special agent for Illinois for the Liverpool and London and Globe Insurance Company, died at St. Mary’s Infirmary last Friday morning.  He came here on January 27 and was taken with the grippe the following day.  He improved until Wednesday of last week when he became very much worse and was taken to the infirmary and died at 5 o'clock Friday morning.  His father, John V. Thomas, who is assistant secretary of the company at Chicago, was wired of his son's illness, but did not arrive until five hours after his death.  The deceased was unmarried and lived at Dixon, Ill., where the remains were taken.  The local board of underwriters accompanied them to the train.
 
John Guild, who has been in the state of Ohio since last spring, came home last week to attend the funeral of his brother, James.
 
The sad intelligence was received last Tuesday by Mr. and Mrs. James Guild that their eldest son, James, who was working near Cape Girardeau, had died suddenly of a congestive chill and in the evening his body arrived by express.  Mr. Guild had heard that he was sick and had gone to the Cape only to find that he was already dead and shipped home for burial.  James Guild was aged 25 years and was an industrious and highly respected young man of more than average intelligence and everybody who knew him was his friend.  He was a worthy member of the I. O. O. F. and A. F. & A. M. fraternities, members of which accompanied the remains home and gave willing assistance in the last sad rites that can be accorded a worthy brother.  The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. M. S. Metzler, of Dongola, at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church and the body in the presence of numerous friends and fraternal brothers, was laid away in the cemetery nearby for its final rest.

(His marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  James Alexander Guild Born June 6, 1873 Died Jan. 30, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Miss Barnes, who has been with her sister, Mrs. E. P. Tibbs, who died last week, returned to her home in Philadelphia Monday. (Mound City)
 
Jacob Caster, who lived in this county (Pulaski County), near Olmstead, for about 55 years, died at his home Wednesday, Feb. 1, at the age of 70 years.  He came from Graves County, Ky., with his parents when six years old and with the exception of about nine years prior to the Civil War, has resided in this county since.  His wife, one brother and six children survive him.  He has been a zealous Christian since quite a young man and a most exemplary gentleman.  He was well informed upon all questions and kindly disposed toward all.
 
Mrs. J. G. Barnard and a  little child of Benjamin Jones died a few days ago.  Mr. Barnard seems to be improving at this writing.  (Sandusky)
 
Benjamin Jones and William Lynn were called to Elco last week to attend the funeral of an Odd Fellow at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug.  When they received the message to go it was too late to catch the train so they had a very cold walk to Elco that night.

(The funeral was that of James Guild mentioned above.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The Congregational church adopted the following resolution:  Whereas, in the economy of God, he wills that each of his creatures shall pass through the valley of the shadow of death, and in his wisdom has seen fit to call unto himself the spirit of our beloved sister, co-worker and deaconess, Ellen Winans;  Therefore, be it resolved, That we do bow in obedience to the Divine will and knowledge that our loss is her eternal gain, and that this community (Villa Ridge) has sustained a great loss and the Congregational church one of its most efficient intelligent, and capable members.
 
Died, Capt. John E. Detrich, nearly 78, at Chester.  He was a Civil War veteran.  Interment at Sparta.
 
Died, Louis A. Selden, aged 40, prominent businessman of Cobden.

(Louis A Seldon married Jessie H. Buck on 7 Nov 1883, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Henry T. Moss, a colored man of Olmstead, who was struck by a Big Four train while crossing the track in a sleigh, died at the infirmary here.  His skull was fractured.
 
Robbie, the little three-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. G. F. Weldon, died Tuesday evening, and Agnes, the six-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Morrow, died yesterday, both of spinal meningitis.
 

Thursday, 16 Feb 1899:
Harry Obrian died last Monday evening after an illness of about three weeks.  He had an attack of the grippe, which developed into pneumonia.  He was fifty-nine years of age, and had lived in Cairo for about 35 years and was well known in Southern Illinois. He conducted a barbershop, but was equally well known as a musician.  As a performer upon string instruments, and especially upon the double bass viol, he was in demand at dances and on other occasions.  He was born in Pennsylvania and was never a slave.  He was one of our oldest and best colored men, and was highly respected by our old citizens, who knew him.  He leaves a widow, who has lived in Cairo more than forty years, but he left no children.
 
Died, David Brown, one of the oldest citizens of Carbondale, of pneumonia.
 
Died, Mrs. Joanna Scales, aged 57, at Ridgway.
 
Died, Mrs. Martha Newell, wife of Willard Newell, of Gallatin County.

            (Willard Newell married Martha Nally on 8 Apr 1897, in Gallatin Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Charles Harrison, who a few years ago had charge of a fleet of flats at the shipyard here (Mound City), and who for two years ran a tug at Cairo, who was well acquainted and highly respected in this city, died in the insane asylum at Gallipolis, Ohio, Saturday.  His wife was visiting the family of Theodore Schuler in this city when she received news of her husband's death.  She had been visiting here two or three weeks, thinking her unhappy husband was improving.
 
Mrs. Margaret Farrew, an old lady which lived in this vicinity (Goose Island) aged 63 years, died last week of pneumonia.  Also a little boy of Walter Childers, died last week of congestion of the brain.
 
Huston Forker's infant child died Saturday night and was buried at Cache Chapel Cemetery Sunday.  (Friendship)

(Huston Forker married Lizzie Carr on 16 Oct 1896, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
William Tadlock died the 14^th inst. of pneumonia.  (Diswood)
 
Mrs. M. B. Sabin, mother of Dr. F. A. Sabin, was stricken with paralysis Friday night.  As she is quite old, little hope is entertained of her recovery.  (Anna)
 
WILSON OUT ON BAIL.

Flaw Found in the Indictment Against Him.

The Court Takes Motion to Quash Under Advisement, and Admits the Defendant to $5,000 Bail.—Wilson Stabbed David A. Rue to Death Last August Without Provocation.—Great Dissatisfaction with Result.

The case of Edward Wilson, charged with the murder of David A. Rue, came up for trial in the circuit court before Judge Robarts Monday afternoon.  An array of legal talent was present for the defense Messrs. Lansden & Leek, John M. Herbert, of Murphysboro, and Richard T. Lightfoot, of Paducah.  The indictment was read, and Mr. Leek immediately made a motion to quash it, on the ground that the words “then and there” were omitted, rendering it, as he claimed, void.  The indictment is as follows with the words, which the defense contended were necessary, given in brackets.

State of Illinois,

County of Alexander

On the October Term of the Alexander County Circuit Court, in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Ninety-Eight.

The grand jurors, chosen, selected and sworn, in and for the County of Alexander, in the name and by the authority of the people of the State of Illinois, upon their oaths present:  That Edward Wilson, commonly called Ed Wilson, late of said county, on the sixth day of August, in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Ninety-Eight, at and within the said County of Alexander, did unlawfully, feloniously, and of his malice aforethought, with a knife then and there held in his right hand, [then and there] assault and stab one David A. Rue, a human being, etc.

The motion was argued pro and con and the court then stated he was uncertain on the point and would take the matter under advisement until the next term of court.  The counsel for the defense then asked to have the defendant admitted to bail, and the court granted this and fixed the bail at $3,000.

We believe the court made a very grave mistake in this matter.  The error, if there is any, in the indictment, is a very slight, technical one, so slight that the court did not feel at all sure that it invalidated the indictment.  Had it been a very serious omission, he would have without hesitation quashed the indictment.  Anyone can read the indictment and understand clearly just what it means and while the preponderance of the opinions may justify the position that it is invalid, we believe that on moral grounds the indictment should have been sustained.  The court would have done no injustice to the defendant by holding the indictment to be good.  The defendant would still have the chance of an impartial trial.

But even had the court believed the indictment to be invalid, we think he made another mistake in admitting the defendant to bail.  Had he quashed the indictment, called a special grand jury and had him re-indicted, then the defendant could have been given a speedy trial.  Or, the court might have refused bail and let matters rest until the next term of court, when he could have been re-indicted.

We believe justice has been defeated.  A terrible crime was committed when David A. Rue was stabbed to death last August without warning, by the defendant, who, while intoxicated, made an entirely unprovoked assault upon him.  The admission of the defendant to bail practically makes the crime manslaughter instead of murder, and the continuance of the case makes it more favorable for the author of this terrible crime.

Justice has repeatedly been cheated in Alexander County until it is not easy to convict for the most flagrant violations of the law, if the defendant can command money.  We believe on moral grounds the court would have been justified, in view of these circumstances, in being over zealous for the People.  We believe evildoers in Alexander County need strong medicine.  An example is needed, and such an example as will give them to understand that even wealth and power and influence will not clear them if they transgress the law.

Since the above was written, the court raised defendant’s bail to $5,000.  It was during the forenoon session of the court yesterday that the court spoke of the criticisms of the press in the above matter, and also of the fact that defendant’s counsel had been congratulating themselves that the bail was not higher.  He stated therefore that he would raise it to $5,000.  The bond had already been filled at Murphysboro and sent down, and it was returned that it might be filled out with the larger amount.

Mrs. Sarah McNulty, widow of the late John McNulty, died early Wednesday morning of brain fever, after a short illness.  She came to Cairo when a young woman a few years before the war and married Mr. McNulty in 1860.  She leaves a daughter and four sons, all grown, besides several grandchildren.  Funeral services will be held tomorrow.

(John McNulty married Sarah Bigbee on 17 Nov 1861, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery reads:  Sarah wife of John McNulty Died Feb. 23, 1899 Aged 57 Yrs., 11 Mos. & 19 Ds.  Mother.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Death of Mrs. McCammon, Wife of Rev. McCammon, Last Saturday

Sunday morning, February 19, at 10 o’clock, Mrs. Ella McCammon, wife of Rev. G. E. McCammon, of this city, departed this life.  Deceased was the daughter of W. J. Clucas, of Lebanon, Ill., who with two sons and two daughters survive her.  She leaves two children, a girl about two years old and boy about two weeks old.  Her bereaved husband is the beloved pastor of Grace M. E. Church of this city.  She was about 30 years old, but were her life measured by her extraordinary worth and many womanly virtues, it might be truly said that she had lived the allotted three score years and ten.  She had been a loving devoted and helpful companion in marriage to Rev. G. E. McCammon for the past four years, during which time she has lived in our city. Funeral services were conducted at Grace M. E. Church at 12:30 p.m. Monday by Presiding Elder N. Kroh, of Carbondale, assisted by Rev. J. A. Scarritt, of Cairo, Rev. J. H. Ford, of Marion, Dr. Bessie, of Carbondale, Rev. Perry Brannon, of Villa Ridge, and Rev. Edmond Pharis, of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church of this city. The services throughout were very beautiful, impressive and inspiring.  The house was crowded with sorrowing friends who knew her in life as the highest example of pure Christian womanhood; and an angel of light and helpfulness to all with whom she associated.  The Junior Epworth League class occupied seats nearest the casket in which reposed the precious remains of their dear departed leader.  A large floral anchor provided by the Junior League rested upon the casket as a token of their undying love for her who had been their guardian angel.  The remains, accompanied by Rev. G. E. McCammon, Rev. C. D. McCammon and father of the deceased, W. J. Clucas, left our city on the 2:15 I. C. train for Lebanon, Ill., for interment.  In the death of Mrs. McCammon our city has sustained an almost irreparable loss.  That her place can be filled is possible; but that her place will be filled soon, is quite improbable.  She lived the life of a righteous woman; she died the death of a Christian saint.  Her life was a glorious triumph; her death was a Heavenly victory.  She lived in the pure atmosphere and sunshine of Heaven, and died in the arms of her Savior.  She is remembered by all as an ideal Christian.  Messrs. Eugene Yost and Thomas Cherry, of Cairo, were the ushers.  Mrs. Lon Smith, of Cairo, was also in attendance.

(G. E. McCammon married Ella L. Clucas on 1 Nov 1894, in St. Clair Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

 
Mrs. Grip Hughes was called to Elgin last Saturday, to attend the funeral of her sister, Miss Maggie Walker.  (Mound City)

(Gibson Hughes married Fredonia Walker on 14 May 1879, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Miss Iona McNulty, of this city (Mound City), went to Cairo today (Wednesday) to attend the funeral of her grandmother, Mrs. Sarah McNulty, who died Wednesday morning.
 
Mr. Clarence Bently, a son-in-law of Mr. D. B. Kennedy, died of pneumonia at his home in Pine Bluff, Ark., Wednesday, February 15.  The remains were brought to Villa Ridge for interment.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Brannum at the M. E. church, Saturday morning at 11 o'clock.  Mr. Bently left a wife and three children to mourn his loss.  Mr. Bently had a number of acquaintances and friends in this vicinity all of whom speak of him in the highest terms.  Mrs. Bently and children are now with her parents.

(C. Bentley married Maud Kennedy on 22 Oct 1890, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. John Davis and Mrs. C. W. Mowery are at Metropolis where they went to attend the funeral of their cousin, Miss McCartney, a daughter of the late Judge Robert McCartney.  She died in Chicago where she was a student.
 
Died, B. F. Bullock, aged 60, and Mrs. Rebecca Hamlin, aged 71, neighbors and members of the same church, at Mount Vernon.
 
Died, James Prowell, a veteran of the Civil War, at Harrisburg, aged 76.
 
Died, Henry Carlisle, one of Cobden's earliest settlers, aged 74.
 
Died, George W. Owen, near Anna, a prominent resident, aged 59.  He was chairman of the Republican committee of Union County and vice president of the County Soldiers’ and Sailors' Association.

(George W. Owen married Mary Jane Holland on 24 Jan 1867, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Keller Cemetery reads:  G. W. Owen Co. E, 81^st Reg. Ill. Vol. Died Feb. 12, 1899, Aged 59 Yrs., 3 Mos., & 5 Ds.  In my father’s house are many mansions.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Thomas C. Watkins, at his home in Cairo, of heart disease.  For many years he had been quartermaster of the Southern Illinois Soldiers' and Sailors' Association.
 
Died, Mrs. Harry E. Lewis, aged 70, at Harrisburg.  She was the mother of former Judge A. W. Lewis.
 
Thomas Corwin Watkins

Mr. Thomas Corwin Watkins died very suddenly at his home on Twentieth Street last Friday morning, February 17.  He had been quite ill for some days with pneumonia, but was thought to be improving.  As the day dawned, his watchers were hopeful and it was believed that he would recover.  But about 10 a.m. his heart suddenly failed to perform its functions and in a few minutes he breathed his last.

He was a member of Safford Lodge No. 67 I. O. O. F., and of Warren Stewart Post G. A. R. and was also quartermaster of the Southern Illinois Soldiers and Sailors Association.

Mr. Watkins was born in Zanesville, Ohio, December 2^nd, 1840, and was consequently 58 years of age last December.

His father moved to Illinois in 1852 and engaged in farming.  When the Civil War broke out he was a salesman in a dry goods house in Carbondale.  He enlisted in Co. I, Eighteenth Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, at Anna, May 11, 1861.  He was afterward made first sergeant, and was wounded in the service.  He was in twenty-two battles and escaped injury in all except Shiloh, where he was wounded three times.

From 1882 to 1885 he lived at Charleston, Mo., and was a railway mail clerk on the Iron Mountain railway.  Very soon after the inauguration of Cleveland in 1885 he was dismissed from the mail services for political reasons.  He then came to Cairo and has lived here since that time.  He got back into the railway mail service and was in the service at the time of his death.

He married Miss Lizzie Williams, of Dongola, a daughter of Rev. Williams, a Baptist clergyman.  He leaves his wife and four grown children, Mrs. Kate Barter, wife of Arthur Barter; Mrs. Maggie Weldon, wife of Alex. Weldon, and John T. and Thomas C. Watkins, Jr.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Calvary Baptist Church, of which deceased was a member, under the direction of Safford Lodge, No. 67, I. O. O. F.  Rev. Hoster, the pastor, officiated and Warren Stewart Post, G. A. R., also took a part in the service.  The funeral was very largely attended.  The remains were taken to DuQuoin at 4:45 p.m.  Accompanying the body were the relatives of the deceased and J. H. Woodward, F. E. Thurman, and J. P. Bozman, representing the lodge, Rev. Hoster and Mrs. Frank Randall and Mrs. McGahey.

At DuQuoin the same service was used that was held here.  Hope Lodge No. 232, I. O. O. F. had charge and the G. A. R. assisted.  The funeral service was held in the Baptist church there at 2 p.m.  Monday afternoon and the church was crowded with old friends of the deceased, who turned out to pay him their last tribute.  The remains were then taken to the Odd Fellows’ Cemetery for interment.  As a closing tribute, the Grand Army Post fired a salute over the grave.

The entire funeral service was very impressive and appropriate and the marked respect which the DuQuoin lodges paid to the deceased was gratifying to all the relatives and friends in Cairo.

(Thomas C. Watkins married Lizzie Williams on 5 Sep 1861, in Perry Co., Ill.  Arthur Barter married Katie B. Watkins on 1 Sep 1891, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Alex W. Weldon married Maggie Watkins on 6 Aug 1888, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 2 Mar 1899:
Died, J. H. Ghoch, aged 57, a veteran of the Civil War, at Harrisburg, of pneumonia.
 
Killed by an "Unloaded" Pistol.

A young man named Sexton was shot and killed at James W. Fuller's farm, two miles southeast of town by another young man named Wright, says the Anna Democrat of Monday.  Sexton was standing in front of a mirror combing his hair preparatory for dinner.  Wright took up the revolver and snapped it at Sexton's head.  It went off, the ball entering Sexton's forehead just above the left eye.  He lived for about five minutes.

The revolver from which the fatal shot was fired was a 32 caliber.  The young man had been to Anna this morning and the tragedy occurred soon after they returned to the Fuller farm.  Coroner Keith was summoned and went to the scene of the tragedy late this afternoon.
 
Our people were greatly shocked at hearing the sad news of Mrs. Emma Mackey’s death last Friday.  Mrs. Mackey was sick only a few hours.  Mrs. Mackey is a daughter of Mrs. George Minnich and a sister to W. P. and G. Minnich.  She formerly lived here, but for a number of years has lived in Carbondale.  She leaves a husband and daughter and other relatives to mourn her death.  The remains were sent to Villa Ridge Saturday afternoon for interment.
 
Grant Minnich, of Springfield, Ohio, was in attendance at Mrs. Mackey's funeral.
 
Mrs. G. Augusta Tarlton, aged 89 years, died Monday afternoon at her home north of town of double pneumonia.  The remains were sent to Lexington, Ky., for burial.  (Alto Pass)
 
Tobe Wagoner died last week of pneumonia.  He leaves a wife and several children.  (Goose Island)
 

Thursday, 9 Mar 1899:
Frank Sullivan, foreman of the gas company, died at San Antonio, Tex., last Thursday, where he went to recruit his failing health.  The remains were brought here and funeral services were held Monday forenoon in St. Patrick's Church and the body was interred at Villa Ridge.  Deceased had been in the employ of the gas company for more than twenty-five years.  He came to Cairo from Boston when only 17 and went to work for the company continuing until his death.
 
A man was drowned off the wharfboat about 1 o'clock Wednesday morning. He was seen and heard by several, but the swift current carried him down before anything could be done to saved him.  The City of Sheffield was lying at the wharf at the time and the boat was searched and the only missing person was Lewis Rucker, the porter, whose home was in Paducah.  It is supposed he was the one that was drowned.
 
The remains of Mrs. Healy, mother of Frank and John Healy, who died at St. Louis, were brought down to Villa Ridge last Thursday for burial.  Frank accompanied them.  He is now a druggist at Harvey, but formerly ran the drugstore at Twentieth and Washington now owned by Metzger.  John Healy, it is stated, is very low with consumption at St. Louis.  He is the baseball pitcher Cairo used to brag about.
 
Mrs. Florence Roedler died at her home on Twenty-sixth Street, at 5:50 o'clock this morning of acute rheumatism.  She is a sister of Mr. Gus Williamson, the Cotton Belt agent.  She leaves a husband and one little daughter.
 
The aged mother of Mrs. S. P. Bennett died at Pekin, Ill., last Saturday and her remains were taken to Pittsfield for burial.  Mr. Bennett was not well enough to attend the funeral.
 
CAPT. SHIELDS DEAD

Expired This Forenoon after Severe Illness.

Deceased Had Been a Prominent Figure in Cairo for Years.—A Virginian by Birth, He Early Moved to Missouri.  Served in the Confederate Army and Then Followed the River.—Burial in St. Louis Sunday.

Capt. Thomas W. Shields breathed his last at 10:45 o’clock this forenoon.  For several days he struggled against the inevitable, and the only surprise was that he held out so long.  His condition grew so alarming toward the end that his relatives were summoned and his son, Lilburn Shields, only reached here this forenoon and got up to his father’s room at the Halliday just as he was breathing his last.

Capt. Shields had been ill for two months.  He had a very severe attack of pneumonia from which it was feared he could not recover, but by careful nursing he pulled through and was able to be up and around.  He was soon taken ill again and, as his heart was diseased and his strength reduced by his former illness, he slowly passed away.

Thomas William Shields, son of Gen. William Shields, was born in Salem, Fauquier Co., Va., Oct. 15, 1833. He moved to Missouri with his parents in 1838 and settled In Lafayette County, where he was educated in the Masonic college.  In 1853 he engaged in wholesale boot and shoe business in St. Louis and continued until 1859, when he returned to Lafayette County.  During the war he was a lieutenant colonel in the Confederate service under Gen. Sterling Price.  After the war he returned to St. Louis and engaged in steamboating.  He owned a number of boats at different times and for years was connected with the Anchor line.  Capt. Shields lived in Cairo for many years and was one of our most public-spirited citizens.  He was married in 1856 to Miss Lizzie Hall Trigg and leaves two children, Mr. Lilburn M. Shields and Mrs. Lizzie Ohara.

Funeral services were held at the Church of the Redeemer Saturday at 1 o’clock p.m. and the remains will be taken to St. Louis and laid at rest in Belfontaine Cemetery at 10 o’clock Sunday forenoon.  Rev. DeRosset will accompany the remains to St. Louis and will conduct the services there.

Besides his children, Mrs. Obannon, Capt. Shields’ sister, and Capt. LeSueur are here.
 
Died, Friday, March 3, Mary Chambers, daughter of Henry Chambers, prominent colored man of this city (Mound City).  Her age was about 16 years.
 
Mrs. Lavina S. Garner, wife of G. P. Garner, died at her home in the country March 1, at the age of 59 years and 9 months.  She was married to G. P. Garner on March 26, 1865, and was the mother of seven children, five of whom still survive her.  We join with the community in extending our sympathy to the bereaved family.  (Thebes)

(Green P. Garner, Jr., married Louisa A. Smith on 26 Mar 1865, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Charles Baltzell, who has conducted a grocery store here for fifteen years, died Sunday, aged 55 years.  He was taken sick while alone in his store last Tuesday night.  Continued and violent vomiting caused the bursting of an artery in his stomach and this resulted in death.  His sister, Mrs. Harvey DuBois, and his aunt, Mrs. Sam Spring, of Cobden, were with him during his illness.  The remains were taken to Cobden Sunday afternoon and interred in the Cobden Cemetery Monday.  Alto Pass has lost a good citizen and a businessman of integrity and ability.

(Hervey Adelbert DuBois married Catharine Baltzell, daughter of William Baltzell and Eliza Henderson, on 17 Sep 1883, in Union Co., Ill.  Samuel J. Springs married Martha J. Henderson on 12 Mar 1854, in Union Co., Ill.  A marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  Charles Baltzell Born Dec. 30, 1845 Died March 5, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Rich died Sunday morning and was buried Monday.
 
An old colored man named Steward, who lived near Cache, died Sunday night of a congestive chill, after an illness of about twelve hours.  He was very old and leaves a wife who is also afflicted.  (Friendship)
 
Mrs. Mary Jones, of Moscow, was run over and instantly killed by an Illinois Central train at Anna last Thursday.  She went up to Anna from Dongola on the local and when the train stopped, stepped on the front platform of the caboose to get off.  Just then the train backed and she was thrown forward and under the wheels of the car in front, which passed over her body.  Her brother, J. F. Richardson, proprietor of the hotel at Dongola, was with her and tried to keep her from falling but could not.  The coroner’s jury exonerated the railroad company from all blame for the brakeman had warned the passengers that the train was about to move, but Mr. Richardson is hard of hearing.
 

Thursday, 16 Mar 1899:
Judge D. J. Baker Dead

Former Judge of Supreme Court Stricken with Heart Disease.

Sudden End Came Monday Afternoon in His Office in Chicago.—Career of One of Cairo’s Most Illustrious Citizens.

David J. Baker, ex-judge of the Illinois Supreme Court, dropped dead in his law office, 600-605 Boyce Building, Chicago, Monday, of heart disease.  He had just returned from luncheon and was talking with his son, John W. Baker, when he uttered an exclamation of pain and fell forward on his desk.  A moment later he was dead.  Drs. H. W. Baskette and E. J. Dennis said death had been instantaneous.

A few minutes later Mrs. Baker entered the office.  She was not aware of her husband’s death, and when she learned of it she was overcome and fainted.  She was taken home by her son.

Judge Baker had been suffering from heart trouble for some time.  Monday, however, he seemed to be well and did not complain.  Shortly before 1 o’clock he suggested to his son that they go to luncheon.  They returned at 1:30 o’clock and were chatting together when the fatal stroke came.

(Pic of David Jewett Baker)

Ex-Judge Baker was one of the best-known public men in Southern Illinois.  He had been living in Chicago scarcely a year prior to his death.  He was considered one of the brightest lights of the supreme court, and his opinion was always respected by his colleagues.

A year ago he was defeated for re-election by one of the present occupants of the supreme bench, Judge Boggs.  Shortly after his defeat he moved to Chicago and took up the practice of law with his son.  His decisions, while on the supreme bench, had won for him the respect of scores of Chicago lawyers, and his office was daily visited by those wishing opinions on important cases, or interpretation of fine points of law.

Since coming to Chicago he had resided at 5517 Cornell Avenue.  He was 64 years of age, but looked much younger.

“Judge Baker was,” said Judge Clifford, “an exceedingly able man and a strong lawyer.  He was a fine hand to write law opinions, preferring the work in chambers to that in open court.  As a justice of the supreme court he proved especially successful in handling the most difficult of legal problems, that concerning uses and trusts.  His death will be generally regretted by the bar.”

The above extracts were taken from the Chicago papers.

Judge David Jewett Baker was born in Kaskaskia, Ill., on November 20, 1834.  His father was the late Hon. David J. Baker, of Alton.  He received his education in Shurtleff College, at Upper Alton, from which he graduated in 1854.  Deciding to follow the legal profession, he read law for two years in his father’s office, and was admitted to the bar in 1856.  Moving to Cairo in November of the same year, he soon built up a remunerative practice and gained the confidence and respect of the people to such an extent that he became their mayor during 1864 and 1865.  In March, 1869, he was elected circuit judge to fill a vacancy, and was re-elected in June 1873, which position he held by re-election in 1879 and 1885, until June 1888, when he was elected judge of the supreme court for the term of nine years.  While acting under his commission as circuit judge he was designated by the judges of the supreme court as one of the judges of the appellate court, and this position he held most of the time while he was serving as circuit judge.  Soon after his election to the supreme bench the degree of LL. D. was conferred upon him by his alma mater—a highly deserved compliment.  In June 1897, Judge Baker was again the candidate of the Republican party for judge of the supreme court, and was defeated by the narrow majority of 207 votes out of a total of nearly 75,000 cast.

            Judge Baker came of old patriotic Revolutionary stock.  His father, Hon. David J. Baker, and his mother were natives of Connecticut.  His paternal great-grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary army and died of cruel treatment while a prisoner in the hands of British troops.  His material grandfather was a daring naval officer during the Revolution.  The family has always been distinguished for learning, loyalty and patriotism.  His father occupied the position of United States District Attorney for the District of Illinois, and was for a short time a member of the United States Senate by appointment of the governor.

            In July 1864, Judge Baker married Miss Sarah E. White, daughter of Capt. John C. White, a highly respected citizen of Cairo, and his widow and five children survive him.  The children are Lieut. D. J. Baker, Jr., who is a lieutenant in the Twelfth Infantry and is now on his way to Manila; Mrs. Mary Baker Galigher, wife of Albert S. Galigher, of Cairo; John W. Baker, who was practicing law with his father in Chicago; and Misses Margaret and Genevieve Baker.

Funeral services for ex-Judge D. J. Baker will be held today at 1:30 o’clock from the Church of the Redeemer, Fifty-sixth Street and Washington Avenue, Chicago, the Rev. Percival McIntyre officiating.  Interment will be at Mount Greenwood.  A committee from the Chicago Bar Association will attend s follows:  Benjamin D. Magruder, Nathaniel C. Sears, Egbert Jamieson, Hiram T. Gilbert, John H. Hamline, Richard Prendergast, John C. Drennan, Oliver N. Horton, Simon P. Shope, James B. Bradwell, Thomas A. Moran, David B. Lyman, Harry S. McCartney, N. W. Hacker, William C. Gilbert.
 
Funeral of Capt. Shields

The funeral of Capt. Thomas W. Shields was held in the Church of the Redeemer last Saturday afternoon.  The service was conducted by Rev. F. A. DeRosset, assisted by Rev. Phares, of Mound City.  The floral pieces were beautiful and in great profusion.  The pallbearers selected were Mayor N. B. Thistlewood, William McHale, M. J. Howley, Sol A. Silver, J. H. Jones, E. J. Stubbins, George Parsons, William B. Gilbert, Maj. E. W. Halliday, A. Ramar, Capt. W. P. Halliday and John Hodges.  The last two named were out of town and so could not serve.  The remains were taken to St. Louis, accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Ohara, Mrs. Lilburn Shields, Mrs. O'Bannon, Hon. A. A. LeSueur, Rev. DeRosset, and Sol A. Silver.  Sunday forenoon the remains were laid at rest in Belfontaine Cemetery.
 
Death of Mrs. Davis.

Mrs. Sarah E. Davis, mother of Angus Leek and Dr. J. H. Davis, died at her home, No. 622 Center Street, at 6:15 o'clock this morning.  On Tuesday of last week she received a severe stroke of paralysis from which she never recovered.  She was conscious to the last, but could not speak.  It was the first stroke she had ever received.

Mrs. Davis was born in Sumner County, Tennessee, on October 20, 1831.  Her maiden name was Sarah Elizabeth House.  She came to Illinois in 1846 and in 1852 was married at Metropolis to Capt. Robert H. Leek, the father of Angus Leek.  After his death, she married again, in 1860, to Capt. Benjamin F. Davis, whom she also survived.  He was the father of Dr. J. H. Davis.  Mrs. Davis came to Cairo about ten years ago and has since lived with her son, Mr. Leek.

Besides her two sons, she has other relatives, one brother, James W. House, of Metropolis, and one sister, Mrs. John H. Mulkey, of Metropolis.

The remains will be taken to Metropolis on the Fowler tomorrow and the funeral will occur Sunday.

(Robert H. Leek married Sarah E. House on 21 Nov 1852, in Massac Co., Ill.  B. F. Davis married Mrs. S. E. Leek on 5 Jun 1860, in Massac Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
A Remarkable Small Pox Record.

Health Officer Orr has fifteen patients in his small pox hospital quarantine camp.  Thirty cases altogether have been taken out there and only one death has resulted and the rest have all been discharged as cured.  Four more will be discharged this week.  The man who died was James Jones, and his body was buried on the county farm.  He died on the 8^th.  All patients have been colored people and that such a remarkably small percent has proved fatal is a tribute to the careful medical attention of Dr. William H. Fields.  Officer Orr makes daily rounds of the city and whenever he hears of a case of illness he investigates.  As a result there has been no spread of the disease in town.  Nearly all the patients have been men engaged in handling lumber here, and for the most part are nonresidents.  The presence of the disease has not caused the slightest alarm here, and only the usual precautions have been taken, such as isolating the patients and enforcing vaccination in the public schools.
 
William Shumaker, a well known and highly esteemed citizen of this county, died last Friday, March 10^th, at the age of 77 years, 4 months, and 10 days.  He was born in Germany, November 1, 1821, and came to America in the year 1838, and married Miss Mary A. Osman, with whom he lived nearly fifty-seven years.  To this union there were born fifteen children, twelve living to be grown, nine of whom are yet living.  The children now living are:  Mrs. H. H. Bass, J. R. Shumaker, Mrs. J. J. Melick, Mrs. J. R. Crenshaw, William Shumaker, Mrs. P. T. Meyer, all living in this county; Mrs. L. D. Wood, lives in Cairo and Mrs. B. F. Higgins and Mrs. D. H. Smith live away from here.  He has fifty grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.  He joined the church at the age of 14 years and has lived a consistent Christian since.  He was very much admired for his many noble traits of character.
 
Mrs. R. A. Davidson died at Metropolis on Monday of last week.  Her husband died only a few months ago.  Her maiden name was Mary Elizabeth Brauer.  She left two little children.

(Robert A. Davisson married Mamie E. Brauer on 1 Jan 1889, in Massac Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Dr. J. T. M. Knox was called to the bedside of his father at Washington, Ohio, last week by the news that he was lying at the point of death. Dr. Knox left Saturday afternoon, reaching Washington Sunday evening.  A letter received from the doctor since his arrival says that his father is suffering from paralysis of the bowels and that while he is very ill, he may linger for weeks.  Dr. Knox will return tomorrow.
 
Mrs. Rosa Elias, mother of Alderman Harry Elias, died at St. Mary’s Infirmary last night after a prolonged illness. She had lived in Cairo many years and had acquired considerable property.

(Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery reads:  Rosa Elias May She Rest In Peace.—Darrel Dexter)

 

Messrs. William B. and Miles Frederick Gilbert, nephews of Judge D. J. Baker, and Mrs. Albert G. Galigher, his daughter, went up to Chicago immediately on the receipt of the news of his death.
 
Matt Smith, a negro, was struck by an Illinois Central engine Tuesday and quite severely injured.  He was walking along the track and on account of deafness failed to hear the signals of the train which came up behind him.  He died this morning.
 
Mrs. Coakly, the aged mother of Mrs. W. W. Wilbourn, died at Olive Branch on Monday of last week, of pneumonia, and the funeral was held Wednesday with burial at Olive Branch.  The deceased was 74 years of age.  She left thee other children besides Mrs. Wilbourn, Mrs. P. H. Feldon, Mrs. C. C. Vick and John Coakly.

            (Christopher C. Vick married Josephine Coakly on 18 Jul 1889, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Died, Thomas Gossett, aged 52, at his home near Norris City, of pneumonia.
 

Thursday, 23 Mar 1899:
ACTION OF THE CAIRO BAR.
Memorial Adopted on the Death of Judge David J. Baker.

The members of the Cairo bar met in the office of State’s Attorney Butler Saturday afternoon to take action on the death of Judge Baker.  Judge William H. Green was called to the chair and Mr. Butler was chosen secretary.  The following paper was drawn up as expressing the sentiments of the meeting.

"The recent death of Hon. David Jewett Baker in the city of Chicago, on the afternoon of March 13, 1899, has produced throughout southern Illinois and particularly in this city, which has been his home for more than forty years, feelings of the most profound sadness and regret, amounting on part of our citizens, irrespective of race, politics, or religion, to personal bereavement.  Identified as he has been for the whole of his active forceful life, with the best interests of the state and country; closely associated personally with every interest affecting the betterment of the state, his face and figure have become familiar to the people and his name has ever been the synonym of fearless manliness—of Christian character and personal integrity.

"The volumes of the appellate court reports and of the supreme court reports are replete with opinions written by him and manifest in their clearness and conciseness a vast amount of learning, ability, and conscientious discharge of duty.

"His finely poised mind and cultivated sense of absolute fairness, justice and impartiality would not permit him to take the extreme positions for his client that bring success oftimes to the advocate.  In his contentions he would not permit himself to express a thought or contend for a position, which his judgment and high sense of justice would not approve.  As a jurist he was the ideal and as such, more than as a practitioner or advocate, he achieved eminence.  As a judge he was in his element.  He loved the work of the bench.  He appreciated its honor and dignity.  He never thought of making it the stepping-stone for political preferment, but filled his position fully and perfectly.

"As a Christian citizen he was a model.  In all the relations of life, domestic, social, religious, political, he was an ideal man.  Gentle, yet firm.  Kind and tender, yet dignified and just, but never harshly severe.  With him justice was ever tempered with mercy, and whatever he did was done with the approval of his conscience without having forced it into obedience by strained arguments or false logic.

"In his home relations, the embodiment of kindness and goodness. As a neighbor, ever ready to sympathize, comfort, and aid with his time, strength and means.  As a citizen, patriotic in its broadest sense and attentive to all the details of the duties imposed upon the citizen.  As an officer, painstaking, just, fearless and conscientious.  As a lawyer, careful, studious and respected.  As a jurist, he reached the ideal and sought to live up to it, realizing that his work as a jurist meant not alone the adjudication of questions of the present rights of persons, and the rights of things, but that would reach out and influence and shape the future of the community and state.  His opinions in the supreme court reports have earned for him a place among the great jurists of the state.  His intimate acquaintance with his many friends, neighbors and associates, particularly the friendly and brotherly relations borne by him towards the elder members of the bar in this section of the state, his careful, courteous dignified and fatherly relations and influence with the younger lawyers with whom he came in contact, and his generous conduct as a neighbor have made his demise a keen personal loss to the member of our bar and the citizens of this city and to his bereaved wife and family unreservedly go out the heartfelt sympathy of the members of the bar and of this community.”

Judge Green was also requested to present the above paper to the circuit at the May term, to be spread of record, and to accompany the presentation with such remarks as he may deem suitable and appropriate.

The following resolutions was introduced by Senator Warder in the senate Tuesday morning and adopted by a rising vote upon which the senate adjourned for the day:

WHEREAS, In the Providence of Almighty God, the Hon. David J. Baker, late chief justice of the supreme court of Illinois, has been called by death from the scenes and walks of this life to that bourne whence no traveler returns; and

WHERAS, Descended from a family of statesmen, jurists and soldiers, distinguished alike for learning, loyalty, ability and patriotism, he was himself a worthy son of noble sires, and by a life of nearly half a century in the active service of his state, he left a name to become a bright and shining light upon the pages of her history; and

WHEREAS, During his life he was repeatedly called to high positions upon the bench, having been chosen successively, judge of the circuit, appellate and supreme courts of the state, in all of which official positions, his learning as a lawyer, his integrity and fairness as a judge, his ability as a jurist and his honor as a man, won for him the respect and love of the people of the state, and an enduring flame for his memory; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the senators of the fifty-first general assembly hereby expresses its profound sorrow for his death, that the State of Illinois has lost one of its most eminent jurists as well as one of its most distinguished citizens, his friends a comrade without fear and without reproach, and his family a kind and loving protector whose memory will be kept green while life shall endure; and be it further

Resolved, That these resolutions be fittingly engrossed by the secretary of this senate and a copy thereof transmitted to the family off the deceased, and that as a further mark of respect the senate do now adjourn.

By unanimous consent, on motion of Mr. Wardner, the rules were suspended, and the foregoing resolution was taken up for consideration and unanimously adopted.

Judge Baker was buried Thursday, interment being at Mount Greenwood.  Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. at the Church of the Redeemer, Fifty-sixth Street and Washington avenue, the Rev. Percival McIntyre officiating.  The honorary pallbearers were:  Simeon P. Shope, George W. Wall, D. W. Munn, Maj. F. A. Smith, Egbert Jamieson, Arba N. Waterman, John H. Wood, G. Hunt, Hiram T. Gilbert, R. S. Tuthill, T. O. Osborne and Walter Warder. The active pallbearers were:  Murray M. Baker, John C. Mathias, Follett W. Bull, Jefferson D. Shatford, Miles S. Gilbert, Alfred W. Irvin, George H. Karcher, William C. Gilbert, Fred M. Rittenhouse and William C. Snow.  A committee, appointed by President Towle of the Chicago Bar Association, attended the services.

There were some slight inaccuracies in the published account of Judge Baker’s death, which we correct at the request of the family.  Judge Baker died calmly, without a struggle, in his chair.  Mrs. Baker did not faint when she reached Judge Baker’s office and was told of what had happened.  The judge had never before suffered from heart trouble.  Neither he, his family, not his physician ever suspected there was anything wrong about his heart, or that his health was otherwise than good.  He had sometimes complained of indigestion or “heart burn” but he always got over it right away.

Mount Greenwood Cemetery, where Judge Baker is buried, is also the last resting place of Mr. A. B. Safford, Mr. H. H. Candee, Mr. A. H. Irvin, and other old Cairoites.  Judge Baker visited the cemetery upon an occasion some months before his death and being impressed with the beauty of the surroundings, expressed the thought that anyone might be contented to be buried in such a spot.  This remark, coupled with the desire of the family to have his remains interred near their home, led them to select Mount Greenwood rather than some place in Southern Illinois, where Judge Baker spent nearly his entire life.

Judge Baker left little property. He carried some life insurance, and his family will receive a large fee shortly in a case just recently won in the Illinois Supreme Court.  Judge Baker always lived well.  He was a generous man, and made no effort to accumulate property.  His family will continue their residence in Chicago, where his son, John W. Baker, has excellent prospects in the practice of law.

Found Part of the Miser’s Gold.

A dispatch from Cobden dated Tuesday says:  Ever since the death of Elijah Hartline, the farmer miser, who grieved himself to death a few days ago over the loss of $200, search has been going on for his hidden thousands.  Today his son discovered in the walls of the house a tin box containing $7,800 in gold eagles.  The miser refused to divulge the hiding places of his money and fully $15,000 more is being searched for.

(Elijah Hartline married Mrs. Emeline Davis on 25 Mar 1866, in Jackson Co., Ill.  James Davis married Emeline Richards on 7 Jul 1859, in Union Co., Ill.   His marker in Casper Cemetery near Anna reads:  Elijah Hartline Born March 15, 1829 Died March 11, 1899, Aged 69 Yrs., 11 Mos., & 26 Ds.  Farewell my wife and children all, from you a father Christ doth call.  Mourn not for me; it is in vain, to call me in your sight again.—Darrel Dexter)

Death of an Old Pioneer.

Mr. L. S. Marshall died at his home in this city Monday afternoon about four o'clock at the age of about eighty years.  He has lived for many years with a widowed daughter, Mrs. Harriet Rose, at the corner of Thirty-fourth and Sycamore streets.

Mr. Marshall has lived in Cairo and Mound City for about forty-five years.  He was a carpenter by trade but was a local Methodist preacher, true to his convictions of duty and had the courage of his convictions.  He was a good man, an honest man, and commanded the respect of the community.  For many years he has been quite infirm and has seldom been seen upon the street.  He has lived quietly at Thirty-fourth and Sycamore where he kept bees.  He sometimes had a large number of colonies of bees.

He leaves three daughters, Mrs. Rose, Mrs. Lovelace, and Mrs. Richardson, of Mound City, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  His memory will be cherished by all old citizens who knew the worthy and true character of the man.

(Lewis Rose married Harriet Marshall on 4 Jul 1864, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Esra M. Lovelace married Susan E. Marshall on 1 Aug 1869, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

MORTUARY.
Mrs. Laura L. Rittenhouse.

Mrs. Laura Lewis Rittenhouse, wife of Wood A. Rittenhouse, died at her home at St. Mary's Place West, Tuesday evening about eight o'clock, of consumption. She had been ill for a long time and gradually growing weaker. Some days ago her mother came up from Greenville, Texas, and was with her during her last days. Her end was quiet and peaceful.

Mrs. Rittenhouse was born in Little Rock, Ark., and was in her 25^th year. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. D. Lewis, who lived here several years ago. Four years ago last December she was married to Wood A. Rittenhouse, electrician of the Cairo Electric Light and Power Company. She leaves a husband and one little boy, fourteen months old. Mrs. Rittenhouse was a member of the Presbyterian Church. She had a large circle of friends, for while she always led a quiet life, she was of a sweet, lovable disposition, and quickly won friends. Her death caused general sorrow among her acquaintances, not only on account of the home that is broken up, but from a feeling of deep personal loss.

Mrs. Laura J. Rittenhouse and son, Dr. H. H. Rittenhouse, came from Chicago to attend the funeral. Mr. Lewis and daughters, Misses Alice and Dorothy, are expected to arrive from Greenville, Tex., this afternoon.

Funeral services will be held in the Presbyterian Church, conducted by Rev. Dr. Knox, at 9 o'clock tomorrow morning with interment at Villa Ridge.

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

WALTER ANTRIM.

Walter Antrim died at New Orleans Tuesday evening of consumption. He had been failing gradually for several months. Last summer he came up to Cairo and spent three months, during which he gained in health considerably, so that he returned to his work in October. In December he was again compelled to give up his work, at least part of the time, and has been very bad since. Some weeks ago when his sister, Mrs. John A. Haynes, died, he came up to attend the funeral, but could not leave the house during his stay here, he was so ill.

Walter Antrim was a son of John Antrim and was born in Cairo on April 6, 1870, spending his years here until he reached his majority. He engaged in railroad work until he worked his way up to the position of assistant chief clerk of the general freight claim department of the Illinois Central railroad at New Orleans, which position he held at the time of his death. He gave great promise as a railroad man, being unusually apt.

In June 1895, he married Miss Mabel Smith, of Memphis, and she is left with an 18-month-old baby boy.

The remains were brought to Cairo today and the funeral will be held at the home of his brother, H. S. Antrim, on Tenth Street, tomorrow afternoon at 1:30 p.m., conducted by Rev. Dr. Knox, and the remains will be interred at Villa Ridge cemetery.

Will Stanfield, a colored man, was drowned at Bird's Point yesterday forenoon. He and another man were in a skiff at the ferry landing when their boat got caught in the wheel of the Katherine and was crushed. Both men were thrown into the water and Stanfield was drowned before help could reach him. He worked for Dr. Russell and lived on his place.

"LONG JOHN" HEALY DEAD.
Veteran Ball Player Expired of Consumption After a Year's Illness.

"Long John” Healy, one of the grandest twirlers the national game ever produced, died of consumption at his home, 2615 Bacon Street, last Thursday, says the St. Louis Globe-Democrat. The deceased had been ill for about a year. After retiring from baseball in 1896, he secured a position with the local police department. Illness compelled him to resign last summer, and he was employed for a short while after that at office work at Four Courts. Healy left a wife and two children. He saved considerable money during his playing career, and left his family comfortably fixed.

Healy attained his early prominence while pitching for Henry Lucas' Maroons of the Union League. His skill as a twirler at that time was famed throughout the land. Being particularly tall and slim of build, he was named "Long John," a title which always clung to him. Healy was a member of the pitching corps of the Indianapolis team in the late 80s, and when Al Spalding made that famous 'round-the-world trip with the Chicagos and All-Americans, Healy was one of the party. "Long John" played in the Western League in 1895 and 1896, his last engagement having been with the Minneapolis Club. His death will be regretted all over the land; by the players, especially, who knew him as a comrade, and by the public generally, who had admired him as the professional artist he was.

John Healy was an old Cairo boy. He was born and reared here, and did his first work on the diamond in Cairo. Every small boy here in the early 90s knew all about "Healy's curves." He was their hero. The older boys idolized him also.

Dick Brown, a colored man, was found dead Wednesday morning in the yards of the National Pump Works. (Mound City)

Died, Thursday, at 11 o'clock a.m., Lula Irene, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Duty, of this city (Mound City), aged 12 years and 3 months. Funeral services conducted by Rev. G. E. McCammon.

A. J. Tucker, a well-known farmer and gardener of this county (Pulaski County), died at his residence last Saturday, at the age of 65 years. He was born and reared in this county, near Grand Chain. He leaves one son, T. A. Tucker, and two daughters, Mrs. Reese and Mrs. Harder, both of this city. He willed his property to his son, Thomas, and gave each of his daughters $25.00. The will mentioned Mr. John Walker, of Olmstead, as administrator. (Mound City)

A cloud of sadness rests over this community (Alto Pass) as a result of an accident in Murphysboro Monday, which caused the death early Tuesday morning of one of our brightest and best young men. Virgil Barrow, aged 23 years, was employed on top of Mine No. 6, near Murphysboro, and while in the discharge of his duty was caught beneath the wheels of a coal car and his leg broken and mangled. The car was on him fifteen minutes before help reached him. He was then taken to the hospital and everything possible was done to alleviate his intense suffering. The accident happened about 11 o'clock Monday and he lived until about 2 o'clock Tuesday morning. In all his suffering his first thought seemed to be for his mother. He knew his leg would have to come off, but seemed not to realize that his life might also go. In forgetting himself and thinking of his mother, he displayed the highest type of a true Christ-like nature. It is hard to realize the sudden cutting down of so young and strong a plant just branching forth into maturity. He was a member of the Congregational church here and an active worker in the Christian Endeavor Society when at home, and when in Murphysboro was a regular attendant and member of the choir of the Christian Church and as an esteemed personal friend of its pastor. The writer has known him from early boyhood; we were playmates, schoolmates and classmates and the bond of friendship between us could hardly have been stronger; we wandered over hills and valleys together; our hopes and aspirations and our troubles were poured into each other’s ears. In the early dawn of a bright and promising day he has gone from us and left many hearts wounded and sore, and while there is always memory there is also hope and anticipation of a meeting on beyond when we, too, shall have finished our life here. The writer feels that words are wholly inadequate to convey the sympathy we feel for his heart-broken mother, father, sisters, and brothers.

(A marker in Alto Pass Cemetery reads:  William Jasper Barrow Born April 21, 1832 Died May 29, 1901. Father.  Virgil Barrow Born Dec. 11, 1875 Died March 21, 1899.  Son.—Darrel Dexter)

 

Thursday, 30 Mar 1899:
Killed While Trying to Board a Train.

Willie Creighton, aged 15, son of Martin Creighton, was run over by a Mobile & Ohio train at the "Y" about 5 o'clock Sunday evening and died from the effects of his injuries early Monday morning. Creighton, with some other boys, attempted to board a train from the south, which had just come over the bridge. In some way he fell under the wheels and both legs were cut off and one arm was crushed. When he was discovered, which was some time after the accident, he was at once brought down and taken to the hospital and everything possible was done to relieve his suffering, but his life could not be saved. Deceased was a pupil in the freshman class of the high school.

(Martin Creighton married Mary Cullinan on 6 Feb 1870, in Alexander Co., Ill.  A marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  William Creighton 1883-1899.  Son.—Darrel Dexter)

THREE MEN SEVERELY SCALDED.
Disastrous Results of An Accident at the Uptown Pump.

Three men were severely scalded at the Twenty-eighth Street pump about 10 o'clock Tuesday morning. They were James Tuttle, the engineer, and two tramps, who gave their names as Fred Rofink and Frank Appelgate, and claim to be from Evansville, Ind.

The accident resulted from the slipping off of the big belt. It struck the mud valve and tore it out, releasing a cloud of steam. Tuttle immediately went around to stop his engine when the accident occurred, and was badly scalded around the hands, face and neck. Staats Green, his fireman, escaped out of the door before the steam could reach him. The other two men were sitting by the engine preparing to eat their lunch. They had asked to be allowed to go in there so they could enjoy the warmth and shelter. They got the full benefit of the scalding steam where they were sitting. They were both taken to the hospital and Tuttle was conveyed to his home.

One of the men, Rofink, died Tuesday afternoon and the other during Tuesday night. Both were most horribly burned, and had inhaled the steam. The coroner held an inquest over them yesterday. Rofink's body was sent to his sister, Mrs. Emma Lane, at Evansville, Ind., but the other man's relatives were not located.

ONLY FOUR LIVES LOST.
Report of Accident to Rowena Lee Exaggerated.
Boat Sunk at Tyler, Mo., Yesterday Afternoon and Was Total Loss.—Mail Clerk, Chamber Maid, Lady Passenger and Deck Hand Reported Drowned.

The report of the accident to the Rowena Lee at Tyler, Mo., yesterday afternoon was greatly exaggerated. Advices from points near there this morning say only four lives were lost. The boat hit an obstruction when putting out from the landing and sank. The mail clerk, George Kuechler, a lady passenger, a chambermaid and a deck hand are reported lost. It is sad enough, but not nearly so awful as the reports sent out from New Madrid last night, which were as follows:

"Between three and four o'clock this (Wednesday) afternoon the steamer Rowena Lee sank in midstream in seventy feet of water at Tyler, Mo., a point about fifteen miles from Caruthersville. She had just backed out from the landing and headed down stream when as if by an explosion from underneath she seemed to raise slightly in the middle and break in two, both ends plunging downward and sinking from view instantly. All on board perished except Capt. Carvell and mate. As near as obtainable she carried a good cabin of passengers, quite a crowd going aboard here and at Caruthersville.

"As reported there were about 60 aboard, among whom were H. C. Lewis, traveling and soliciting freight agent for the Lee Line Company and Mr. Humprhey, general agent from the Chicago Mill and Lumber Company, Cairo. No cause for the sinking can be obtained."

The boat is supposed to have carried 25 or 30 deck hands, about 15 other members of crew and probably 10 or 15 cabin passengers, perhaps more. Her crew were as follows:

George Carvell, captain. J. K. Booker, first clerk. Gus Mitchell, second clerk. Sam Lewis, third clerk. Sid Smith and E. Banks, pilots. John Crosby and Pat Flanigan, mates. Albert Caldea and Frank Stull, engineers. George Tod, steward. George Kuechler, United States mail agent. Theodore Humm and Robert Salle, barkeepers. J. M. Fisher, carpenter.

Among the passengers believed to have been aboard at the time of the accident were: S. C. Humphrey, Caruthersville, lumber inspector of the Chicago Mill and Lumber Company, of Cairo. H. C. Lewis, Cairo, freight agent for Lee line.

It is reported the lady passenger who was drowned was Mrs. Chambers, of Caruthersville.

The little son of Mr. Wood A. Rittenhouse, who was bereft of its mother last week, will be taken to Chicago by its grandmother, Mrs. L. J. Rittenhouse, who will rear it. Mrs. Rittenhouse will leave in a few days, and will take the baby's nurse along. Drs. H. H. and Fred Rittenhouse, who came down from Chicago to attend the funeral of Mrs. Rittenhouse, have returned. Mr. R. D. Lewis and family, also returned to their home in Greenville, Tex.

Sebastian Herbert, the aged father of Louis C. Herbert, the laundryman, died early Sunday morning. A native of Germany, he had lived in Cairo since 1873, and was 84 years old.

P. C. Durborrow died Saturday morning as 1211 Walnut Street. He was formerly a switchman but had not followed that since the strike of 1894. His remains were taken to Bloomington for interment, accompanied by a committee of Knights of Pythias.

Aged Resident of Marion.

Mrs. Joseph Deadwood died at her home near Sandoval, aged 86. She had been a resident of Marion County for 65 years.

Died, Dr. J. C. D. Carr, who served in the Civil War, at his home in Galatia, aged 53.

Cairo Boy Frozen in the Klondike.

Clay Pindle is reported to have been frozen to death in the Klondike. The last heard from him was that he was working in a baker shop at Circle City. He formerly worked in Roneker's bakery and in Swoboda's grocery store.

Mrs. L. E. Propst went to Anna Wednesday to attend the funeral of George Eddleman.

(George E. Eddleman married Jennie Amanda Parks on 24 Dec 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  His marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  George E. Eddleman Born Dec. 25, 1873 Aged 25 Yrs., 2 Ms., & 26 Ds.  —Darrel Dexter)

Died, Sunday morning, of meningitis, Mr. Ol Dover. (Wetaug)

Miss Flora Vick is very ill at this writing and not expected to recover. (Vick)

Thursday, 6 Apr 1899:

John Rolwing died at Charleston, Mo., Monday. Deceased was the last of four brothers and resided in Charleston 53 years. He was one of the leading citizens of Charleston.

Richard Jones, Sr., died Monday night after a brief illness. He was proprietor of the saloon and restaurant at the corner of Eighth and Commercial. Mr. Jones was a native of Wales, and was 65 years old. He came to Cairo about thirty years ago and engaged in the boot and shoe business. He leaves a widow and four children. Two are sons, Richard and Harry, the former managing his father's business. His daughters are Mrs. James McCormick and Miss Nellie Jones.

George Desrocher died Tuesday morning, after a severe illness of pneumonia. He was a painter by trade and was 30 years of age. He was a brother of Oscar Desrocher, who was formerly a truck gardener here, but who is now in the Klondike. Funeral services were held at the home of Prof. W. T. Felts, who is a relative, and the remains were taken to Murphysboro for interment.

Died, at 7 o'clock Sunday night, of pneumonia, Mrs. Lide Wilson, wife of Solie Wilson. She was buried at Cache Chapel Monday at 3 p.m., the funeral services being conducted by Rev. E. Bartley. Mrs. Wilson leaves a husband and three sons, and a host of friends. She was a member of the United Brethren Church at Cache Chapel.

Mrs. Jennie Eddleman has come back to Wetaug to make her home with the family of L. E. Propst since the death of her husband. Mr. and Mrs. Propst raised Mrs. Eddleman from a child.

Died, J. F. F. Wallace, of Cobden, aged 65, an old settler and a prominent citizen, suddenly from a stroke of paralysis. The deceased had held the office of justice of the peace in Union County for 30 years.

            (James F. F. Wallace married America Hartline on 15 May 1860, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  J. F. F. Wallace 1833-1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Mrs. John Balcom, aged 66, two miles south of Carbondale, of spinal meningitis.

Died, B. F. Cook, an old soldier, at Elizabethtown.

Died, Hiram S. Bunn, aged 58, one of the largest and most prosperous farmers of Clay County, from injuries received in a fall from his hay mow.

Thursday, 13 Apr 1899:

Mr. Charles Wilson died last night at 10:30 o'clock, aged about 80 years. Mr. Wilson was a carpenter and builder by trade and was well known in Alexander and Pulaski counties. He had lived in Mound City and Cairo since about 1862. Mr. Wilson commanded the universal respect of all who knew him. As a mechanic he was thorough and scrupulously honest. He was a member of Cairo Lodge 237 A. F. & A.M. and also of the Chapter and the Commandery. He has been in extremely poor health for some years past. He leaves a widow and an adopted daughter in this city and a son in Philadelphia where he resided in his younger days.

Charles Grear, son of Walter Grear of Anna, and a nephew of Harry Grear of this city, died last Friday of consumption. Mr. Grear and his daughter went up to attend the funeral.

            (His marker in Anna City Cemetery reads:  Charles Walter Grear Born July 11, 1874 Died April 7, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Miss Emma Minton, daughter of Rev. W. B. Minton, died at Thomasville, Ga., Wednesday April 5. Miss Minton was born in Anna twenty-two years ago. She has a large circle of friends here, who hear of her death with deepest regret. Hers was a lovely character. She graduated from Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio, in June 1898. While visiting her uncle, T. H. Phillips, in this city, in July 1898, she was taken sick with pulmonary troubles. In the fall, on the advice of a physician, accompanied by her father, mother and sister, she went to Thomasville, Ga., in the hope that her health would be recovered, which, however, was not to be. The remains will be taken to Carlinville where the interment will be made Sunday. This was Rev. Minton's old home.—Murphysboro Republican

            (William B. Minton married Olivia Hughes on 7 Jun 1875, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

The trial of Theodore Vick for the murder of Dr. R. W. Farris, at Roswell, N.M., was called at the March term of court and the jury returned a verdict of guilty, recommending confinement in the state penitentiary from three to ninety-nine years, the definite sentence to be pronounced by the judge. The court sentenced him to eighteen years in the state prison.—Anna Talk

W. H. Jackson, who had lived at America more than thirty years, died on the 5^th inst., aged 71 years. He was highly respected by all who knew him. This morning, just one week since the death of Squire Jackson, his wife departed this life at the age of 77 years. They came to this county from Oxford, Ohio.

Two deaths have occurred here (Thebes) in the last week. Mr. Lee Batson, who died very suddenly last Thursday and a child of Thomas Hill's died Monday.

Thursday, 20 Apr 1899:

Death of John H. Oberly.

            John H. Oberly is dead. He died last Saturday, April 15, at his home in Concord, N.H., of pleurisy. He was born December 1, 1837, and was consequently 61 years of age. Mr. Oberly was well known in Cairo as he lived here from 1865 to 1879, a period of fourteen years. While here he served one term as mayor of the city of Cairo. He also served out one term in the Illinois legislature. While here he was appointed minority member of the railroad and warehouse commission by Gov. Cullom. He started the Cairo Bulletin and was its editor-in-chief while here. Mr. Oberly was quite prominent among the Odd Fellows of the state, having been at one time Grand Master. On leaving here he went to Bloomington and started the Bloomington Bulletin. This was a hard field for a Democratic paper, but he remained there until 1885. Immediately after the election in November 1884, he went east and formed the acquaintance of Grover Cleveland. In fact, he was, we believe, chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee in 1884 and conducted the Democratic campaign in Illinois that year. Cleveland appointed him superintendent of Indian schools and afterwards he was made a member of the Civil Service Commission. On the election of President Harrison in 1888, he went out of office and has served as editor of Democratic papers in Concord, N.H., Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Va. He was conducting the People and Patriot, a Democratic paper, at Concord, N.H., when he died. He was a man of considerable ability, a good political fighter, struck hard blows, made many friends, and some very bitter enemies. His enemies were sometimes of his own political household.

            He leaves a lovely family consisting of a widow, and seven daughters, one of whom is the wife of Hon. James H. Eckels. The news of his death was received in Cairo with surprise and general regret.

DEATH OF LEWIS T. LINNELL.

Cobden Banker Expired Last Sunday—Sketch of His Life.

            Mr. Lewis T. Linnell, the Cobden banker, died last Sunday after an illness of a number of weeks. He had been in failing health for some time and his financial reverses undoubtedly aggravated the trouble and shortened his life. Funeral services were held Tuesday forenoon at the Presbyterian Church and the remains were interred in the Cobden Cemetery.

            Lewis T. Linnell was born in the State of New York on February 13, 1839. His parents came to Illinois in 1848, to Rockford, where Mr. Linnell received his education, attending also an academy at Delton, Wis., where his parents afterward lived, and finishing his education with a year at Wayland University, at Beaver Dam, Wis. At the age of 17, he commenced teaching school and continued with very great success to follow this profession until the war broke out, when he enlisted in Co. E, Twelfth Wisconsin Volunteers, going out with the rank of second lieutenant. He was afterward promoted, and when mustered out in December, 1864, was assistant quartermaster of the third division of the Seventeen Army Corps. Mr. Linnell moved to Cobden the following year, and spent a couple of years farming. Then he went into the drug business there, which he followed until 1878, selling out then and turning his attention to banking and real estate, which he followed until his death.

            In 1864 Mr. Linnell married Miss Isabel A. Longely, who survives him with four children, Dr. B. McPherson Linnell, of Chicago, Lewis M., Grace and Florence.

            Mr. Linnell was an elder in the Presbyterian church at Cobden. He was prominent in politics as a Republican, having been a member of the Republican State Central Committee and chairman of the congressional committees and was for many years postmaster at Cobden.

Mr. Linnell carried $10,000 life insurance.

(His marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  Lewis Thomas Linnell 1839-1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Two two-year-old child of Mr. John Sydenstricker is dangerously sick with meningitis.

The people were surprised to hear of the death of Ira Lewis, of Alto Pass. He died last Sunday at the home of his brother, Iverson Lewis.

            (A marker in Alto Pass Cemetery reads:  I. E. Lewis Born Sept. 19, 1867 Died April 16, 1899,  Mother’s Boy.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 27 Apr 1899:

Death of Marion McKemie.

            Mr. M. McKemie died last Sunday after a brief illness of pneumonia.

            Deceased was a prominent farmer of Beech Ridge Precinct. He was a native of Tennessee, and was nearly 59 years of age. Mr. McKemie served in the One Hundred and Thirtieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry duding the Civil War, in Co. C., under Capt. John H. Robinson. He served three years. While in the service he contracted erysipelas, which resulted in the loss of his hearing. After the war he returned to this county and engaged in farming nearly all the time up to his death. He went to Texas in 1870 and spent a year and also lived in this city for a time.

            Mr. McKemie was twice married. His first wife was Mrs. Mary E. Journigan. She lived only a short time. In 1878 he married Mrs. Mary E. Berry. He leaves a widow surviving.

            (Henry M. McKemie married Mary C. A. Journigan on 30 Jun 1867, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Henry M. McKamie married Mary Berry on 16 Aug 1877, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

DEATH OF F. D. ATHERTON

Alexander County's Largest Landholder Expired Tuesday Morning.

            Francis Decatur Atherton, one of Cairo’s pioneer citizens and the wealthiest man in Alexander County outside of the city of Cairo, died at St. Mary’s Infirmary, in this city, at 4:10 o’clock Tuesday morning, of pneumonia, after an illness of six days.  Mr. Atherton came to Cairo last week Wednesday to pay his taxes.  He was taken suddenly ill with pneumonia and went to the hospital, where he died.  Mr. Atherton had been in feeble health since last July.  He had expected to go to Eureka Springs, Ark., for his health this week, and had made all his arrangements accordingly.

            Francis Decatur Atherton was born near the Shiloh Church in the vicinity of Villa Ridge, in Pulaski County, on October 4, 1824.  His father was Martin Atherton, a Baptist preacher, who at one time was a member of the legislature, and was also one of the founders of the Clear Creek Association, we are told.  He was one of the oldest settlers of this section of the country, and away back in the earliest records of this county is the entry which shows that in December 1819 he was married to Miss Betsey Hollingshead.

            They moved to Alexander County when their son Decatur was a young lad.  At that time Alexander County was very wild, and the young man’s common employments were chopping wood and fighting wolves.  The first $100 he earned was accumulated by cutting wood and the finest farm property he possessed was what is now the county poor farm.

            Mr. Atherton soon came to Cairo and clerked for several years for Bailey Harrell, then he went to Thebes and was engaged in the mercantile business on his own account.  It was while he was living there in 1851, that he married Miss Marilla Wicker, of Mississippi County, Mo.  She died in 1862, and three years later he married her sister, Miss Lizzie Wicker, who survives him.

            In 1853 or ’54, Mr. Atherton  moved down to the foot of Horseshoe Lake, and engaged in saw milling.  It was here that he laid the foundation for his large fortune.  He took up large timber claims, and in order to market the product of his mill to advantage, he bought a steamboat and carried his own lumber to market.  He owned at different times the Martha Lewis, the Bunker Hill and the Hindoo, the first named having burned at Cairo.  During the war he ran a general store at Goose Island, dealing in cord wood, as well, supplying steamboats with that fuel.

            In 1865, Mr. Atherton removed to Memphis and for three years engaged in the lumber business there.  Then he returned to Goose Island and to his old business, manufacturing shingles in addition to his other lines.  The year 1873 found him in St. Louis and for two or three years he did little aside from looking after his property and his saw mill on the Obion River, in Tennessee, but in 1875 he was back at Goose Island, and formed a partnership with Elijah Dickerson in the mercantile business.  Dickerson withdrew from the firm two years later and went down to Commercial Point, and Mr. Atherton continued the business until 1887, when he retired to his farm, where he has lived quietly since.

            Mr. Atherton had four or five children, but only two survive.  One of these is Mrs. Fannie Vallette, wife of Mr. T. B. Vallette, of Glen Elder, Kan., a child of his first wife, and the other is Leslie C. Atherton, a son by his present wife.  Mr. James S. Roach married another daughter, but she is now deceased.

            His family was with him at his death.  The remains were taken to his old home yesterday and this afternoon at 3 o’clock was the time set for the burial in Richwood Cemetery, with Rev. J. W. Hunsaker, of Anna, officiating.  Mr. Atherton was a member of the Lake Milligan Baptist Church, having professed religion in 1895 during a revival at Eureka Springs, Ark.

            Mr. Atherton was the wealthiest man in Alexander County outside of Cairo.  His last act before he was taken ill was to pay taxes on 2,200 acres of land which he owned in this county.  While he never farmed himself, he rented his land out on shares, and it was no uncommon thing for him to market 10,000 bushels of wheat during one season.  He also owned property in Eureka Springs, where he frequently visited.

            Mr. Atherton never figured in public life.  He quietly attended strictly to his own affairs and by ceaseless toil and strict honesty acquired his large estate.  He was a man of unusual ability, was held in high esteem by his neighbors, and was generous to those in need.

            (James S. Roche married Maggie Atherton on 7 Mar 1886, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Alexander and Pulaski counties have alike suffered this week in the loss of prominent citizens. In the death of Francis Decatur Atherton, Alexander County lost its largest landholder, a pioneer and a man of ability and integrity. Pulaski County likewise suffered an irreparable loss in the death of County Commissioner R. A. Davis, of Grand Chain. R. A. Davis was respected by everyone. He was a very conscientious man and as county commissioner rendered his county valuable service.

Mrs. Charles T. Hinde, sister of Capt. W. P. and Maj. E. W. Halliday, died at her home in San Diego, Cal., Monday. Mr. and Mrs. Hinde once lived in Cairo. Miss Alice Halliday was with her aunt during her last illness.

Edward Tierney was run over and killed while attempting to board an Illinois Central freight train at Bridge Junction last Friday evening. He came down from Louisville as a rouster on a towboat and was starting back. He was about 30 years old. His remains were shipped back to Louisville where his father lives.

Commissioner Davis Dead.

            Our county has sustained a great loss in the death of County Commissioner R. A. Davis, of New Grand Chain, which occurred last Saturday. The immediate cause of his death was nervous prostration. He was about 54 years old and had resided in this county since 1862, except a few years while serving in the Civil War. He was certainly one among the best county officers this county ever had, able, painstaking and conscientious in his every effort. He was truly a good and useful man in every particular. A considerable number of our county officials and other citizens attended the funeral Monday.

Rev. G. E. McCammon returned Tuesday from Lebanon, Ill., where he had been to see his father-in-law, Mr. W. J. Clucas, who died last Friday.

The only child of Mr. and Mrs. John Sydenstricker died Monday morning of meningitis. They have the sympathy of their many friends. (Wetaug)

            (John B. Sydenstricker married Laura Casper on 7 Jul 1895, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in the Reformed Cemetery at Wetaug reads:  Arthur E. Sydenstricker Born April 28, 1896 Died April 24, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Mr. George Williams, of near Ullin, who has been sick with typhoid fever, died last Saturday and was buried in the cemetery at New Hope last Monday. Mr. Williams was a member of the Methodist church and belonged at New Hope. He leaves a large family and a host of friends to mourn his demise.

            (George Williams married Margaret A. Cruse on 11 Aug 1870, in Union Co., Ill.  His marker in New Hope Cemetery near Ullin reads:  George W. Williams Born April 8, 1848 Died April 22, 1899, Aged 51 Yrs. & 14 Dys)

Tom Hubbard died at his home last Thursday morning April 20. He had long been a sufferer from inflammatory rheumatism. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. George Hubbard and was 19 years old. "Tommy" as he was familiarly called, left a host of friends and school mates to mourn his untimely death. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Scarritt of Cairo, and interment in Villa Ridge Cemetery.  (Villa Ridge)

A Double Murder.

            Marie E. Davie and Miss May Millstead were found murdered in their home half a mile east of Mount Carbon Mine No. 6, near Murphysboro. The husband of Mrs. Davie is charged with the crimes.

Burned to Death.

            Mrs. Caroline Kracht, the wife of Christ Kracht, of New Minden, Washington County, was burned to death while lighting a fire with coal oil.

Thursday, 4 May 1899:

Death of William Holmes.

            Uncle William Holmes, as he was best known, died at his home in Diswood last Thursday. Deceased was one of the old resident of the county. His father removed here at an early day and the son has spent nearly his whole life in Alexander County and was upwards of seventy years old at his death. He died of dropsy of the heart, after an illness of four months. He was married three times and leaves a widow and four grown children. The latter are Mrs. D. W. Sammons, Mrs. David Brown, Mrs. Walter George, and one son, Estes Holmes. He also had one granddaughter, Miss Ella Jones.

The remains were buried in the Holmes Cemetery Friday afternoon.

            (David Brown married Ida A. Holmes on 22 Mar 1892, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Walter P. George married Sarah A. Holmes on 8 Jun 1884, in Alexander Co., Ill.  William E. Jones married Melinda Holmes on 2 Apr 1880, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

BANKER COMMITS SUICIDE.

A. J. Miller of Cobden, Ill., Shoots Himself Twice.

            Cobden was the scene of another tragedy last Saturday. A. J. Miller, the surviving partner in the Cobden bank, ended his life with a pistol. The horrible story is told in a dispatch to the Globe-Democrat of St. Louis as follows:

COBDEN, ILL., April 29.—A. J. Miller, one of Cobden's businessmen and prominent citizens, committed suicide at 5:30 this morning shooting himself twice. The weapon used was a 32-calibre Smith & Wesson. The first shot struck the base of the nose and glanced off. The second took effect in the forehead, death being instantaneous. Mr. Miller was 55 years old, had been in the mercantile business here over thirty years, owned considerable real estate, carried a life insurance policy of $75,000, belonged to the Masonic order and was at the time of his death state assistant grand dictator of the Knight of Honor.

Last September he bought a half interest in the Exchange Bank of Cobden, owned and operated by L. T. Linnell. Mr. Miller, upon entering the firm thought the bank was in a prosperous condition, which later proved untrue, it being insolvent at the time he entered as a partner. He had perfect confidence in the financial standing of the bank until March.2. When he found out the true standing of the old bank he stopped the payment of depositors, which resulted in a general withdrawal and the closing of the bank. In the March term of court suits were filed against Miller for the payment of all claims of the old and new bank, and Linnell and Miller were both indicted for embezzlement. Mr. Miller has always been a close dealer in business transactions, but was honest. The indictment for embezzlement weighed heavily upon his mind, causing him to seek suicide as the only means of escape from its tortures. He was in his store yesterday transacting his business as usual. He was very excitable. His family had noticed this several times since he had been brooding over his troubles. Henry, the oldest son, slept in his room to watch over him, but this morning had accidentally fallen asleep and, upon being awakened by the pistol shots, rushed to his father's side, to find him already dead with two ghastly wounds in the forehead. He did not leave any message to his family. The coroner’s verdict was suicide, prompted by insanity. He will be buried Monday afternoon.

There is no doubt Mr. Miller's reason was dethroned. He labored under the hallucination that he was about to be robbed of everything and that himself and wife were to be separated. This delusion was so strong that he could not sleep at night, but brooded over it all the time. As stated in the dispatch, his family feared he would do himself violent injury, and the closest watch was kept over him, but he took advantage of an opportunity when his wife had left the room and committed the terrible deed.

Mr. Miller commanded the highest respect of everyone who knew him, and his untimely death was a great shock to that quiet community.

It would seem as if an evil wave were sweeping over Cobden. The failure of the bank, with the financial ruin it brought its founder, followed by his death; then the triumph of the saloon power, and the suicide of the other partner in the bank, all within two months are greater afflictions than it would seem the town could stand.

(His marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  A. J. Miller Born Jan. 3, 1844 Died April 19, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Mr. and Mrs. David Kennedy received Monday a check for $1,500 from the Home Forum as payment on a $2,000 policy on the life of their son Edward, who was shot and mortally wounded in this city by Cal Vaughn, November 5, 1897, and died on the 21^st of the same month. (Mound City)

The damage suit of Samuel Moss vs. C. C. C. & St. L. Railroad Company for killing James P. Moss, near Olmstead February 3, 1899, was opened in the circuit court Tuesday afternoon. The prosecution is in the hands of State's Attorney L. M. Bradley and C. L. Rice. The defense is represented by Wall & Bristow, and Judge C. S. Conger, of Carmi. The suit is instituted for the recovery of $2,000 damage. Young Moss (colored), son of the complainant, was riding in a sleigh drawn by a pair of mules along the line of the Big Four railroad track, on the 3d day of last February and while attempting to cross the track, the No. 2, passenger struck him and inflicted injuries from which he died in two days thereafter.

A child of Frank Slater's died last Thursday. It had been sick quite a while. (Thebes)

Mrs. William Porter received a telegram of the death of her son-in-law and left Tuesday to attend the funeral.

Thursday, 11 May 1899:
Press Anderson, a colored man, about sixteen years old, died suddenly in Grand Chain today, of heart failure.  Coroner Steele went up and held an inquest.
 
Robert Price, of Olmsted died Monday morning of consumption.  He leaves a father, John Price, and one sister.
 
Early Sunday morning the body of a colored woman was found floating or rather lodged in the log boom of the Holston factory.  Coroner J. C. Steel soon impaneled a jury of investigation composed of Dr. C. B. Powell, George Hays, Charles Coleman, Isam Chambers, Art Craig, and A. M. Palmer.  The body proved to be that of Mrs. Lena Robinson, wife of Wyatt Robinson, and who had been missing for nearly two weeks.  The evidence before the jury reflected no little suspicion against the husband of the supposed to be murdered woman.  Indications pointed unmistakably to her having been murdered and the body thrown into the river.  The jury's verdict recommended that Wyatt Robinson be held to account before the grand jury for the death of his wife.  Monday morning, Officers George Hays and Henry Crice captured the accused man and lodged him in jail.  (Mound City)
 
Dr. George S. Bratton, a prominent citizen and physician of Vienna, died yesterday forenoon after an illness of several weeks.  He was 67 years of age, and had been engaged in the practice of his profession at Vienna for half a century.  He left considerable property.
 
MORTUARY.

Richard A. Davis, whose death was briefly mentioned in The Citizen, was born in Indiana, January 3, 1845, and died April 22, 1899,at his home in New Grand Chain, Ill.  His parents were Joseph and Emily Davis, natives of Indiana.  He came to this county when about 17 years old—1862.  January 4, 1863, he enlisted in the Eleventh Illinois Volunteers and remained in the service until the close of the war in 1865.  June 2, 1872, he married Miss Frances A. Farmer, who died May 2, 1877.  The death of his wife left Mr. Davis with two little children to care for, a son, John William, who died May 8, 1879, at the age of about 3 years, and a daughter Emma, who survives him.  In this particular feature of his life he exhibited wonderful foresight, fortitude and parental care and kindness, proving himself a true parent in all the blessed word implies.  His entire earthly ambition seemed to be centered upon the proper care and training of his motherless babes and he preferred not to trust them in the hands of another, not their real mother, hence he remained unmarried the balance of his days.  His daughter, Emma, who survives him, married W. A. McIntire, of New Grand Chain, November 18, 1894.  He had taken great interest in her training and education, and she is well advanced in the line of education.  Mr. Davis has many relatives in Indiana, but none of his immediate family.  He belonged to the Congregational church several years ago, but of late years he claimed no relation to the church, yet his conduct and conversation were that of a practical and conscientious Christian.  In fact, his intense hatred of anything that savored of deception or hypocrisy in Christian profession was that which kept him disconnected from the church.  While we do not pretend to say that such a spirit is altogether commendable, it is nevertheless a clear indication of his high estimation of a Christian life and his profound respect for a Christian church.  He has been a member of Lodge 468, I. O. O. F. since 1888.  He had been engaged in the mercantile business about thirteen years, and was doing a fairly good business.  He held the office of police magistrate two terms and was elected last fall to the second term of county commissioner.  In his official conduct he made a remarkable record, when all the conditions and embarrassments connected with the performance of his official duties are taken into consideration; he favored no friends and fared no enemies; he went ahead discharging duties regardless of the threatened consequences.  He was a great and good man wrapped up in humility and unselfishness.

(A. Davis married Frances A. Farmer on 2 Jun 1872, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  W. A. McIntire married Emma Davis on 18 Nov 1894, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
John W. Trover.

News comes from Birmingham, Ala., that John W. Trover died there on the 4^th of May at the age of 77 years.  Mr. Trover had lived in Birmingham about sixteen or seventeen years where he was engaged in the grocery business.

At the close of the Civil War in 1865, Mr. Trover was one of the most prominent men in Cairo.  He was president of the First National Bank.  He was associated with Robert W. Miller in the grain and commission business.  A few years later he was mayor of the city.  He finally ran a steamboat between Cairo and Paducah for a short time.

Like many others who suddenly became rich during the Civil War, he lost everything soon after the close of the war.  Mr. Trover had good business ability, and was kind hearted and friendly.  His old friends will remember him kindly.
 
Major E. W. Green.

Maj. E. W. Green, who died in Florida on the 25^th of April, settled in Cairo after the Civil War and engaged in business with Col. G. M. Alden and Col. John Wood.  The firm was afterward dissolved by the withdrawal of Col. Alden, and Green & Wood continued in business afterwards taking in Mr. Bennett. As Maj. Green's health was extremely bad, he finally withdrew from the firm and went to Florida and engaged in the culture of oranges.  This was about seventeen years ago.  He settled in Ocala where he had a very fine orange grove.  The severe freeze, which nearly destroyed all of the orange trees in Florida a few years ago, greatly damaged Maj. Green's grove and we understand crippled him financially.  Maj. Green left a wife and three children, all grown. And now he has joined the grand procession, which has moved on to the bivouac of the dead.  He was a good man, a kind man, a brave man, true to his principles and to his friends.
 

Thursday, 18 May 1899:
C. P. Provo, of Paragould, Ark., dropped in upon us Tuesday morning. He is a son of the late Mark Provo and has been spending some time with friends at Elco, arranging the settlement of the estate his father and mother.  He left Tuesday for Paragould, where he is engaged in raising cotton.
 
Mr. J. L. Sarber is very low, and his friends fear there is little hope of his recovery.
 
Albert Byrnes died yesterday morning of heart trouble and consumption, after quite a long illness. He lived in the Preston house, on the east side of Commercial Avenue above Fourteenth Street. He leaves a wife and several children.  The remains will be buried at New Burnside.
 
Died, Rev. Henry W. Goodrich, of Harrisburg.  He was born at Mt. Vernon in 1821 and located in Saline County in 1869.
 
The case of the People vs. Edward Wilson for the murder of David A. Rue has been again continued on account of the absence of Henry A. Corzine, the principal witness.  We believe that Mr. Butler is not to be blamed for the absence of Mr. Corzine.  Mr. Wilson was guilty of a most flagrant and unprovoked murder and it seems probable that he will escape punishment entirely.  If the court trifles with justice and fails to enforce the laws, then the people themselves cannot be blamed if they take a hand in the matter and see that the penalties prescribed by law are enforced.
 
Rev. George E. Morrison, who poisoned his wife at Panhandle, Texas, with strychnine, has been sentenced to be hanged.  Rev. Morrison was a Methodist preacher and once lived in Cairo when his father was pastor of the church here.
 
Myrel, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank McGee, of Grand Chain, died Tuesday, aged 8 months.

(Frank McGee married Nellie Hooker on 4 Mar 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
DEATH OF GEORGE SCHULER.

Died in Mound City, May 17, George Schuler, aged 61 years lacking two days.  Funeral services May 19 at the residence of deceased at 1 p.m.  Funeral train leaves for Beech Grove Cemetery at 2:15 p.m.  Funeral services conducted by Rev. G. E. McCammon, of Grace M. E. Church.

George Schuler was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, May 19, 1838, and came to this city at the age of about 20 years with his parents.  His parents, George and Catharine Schuler were born near Strasburg, Germany, and came to this country when mere children.  Mrs. Schuler is now living in this city (Mound City) at the age of 82 years, honored by all who know her.

George Schuler was the oldest of six children, five brothers, George, John, Jacob, Edward and Theodore, and one sister, wife of the late Charles Boekenkamp, of this city, who died several years prior to the death of her husband.  The surviving brothers all live in this city, except Jacob, who resides in Ohio.  Mr. Schuler was in the Union Army more than three years, in the artillery service and for several months was in Libby Prison, where he contracted diseases that no doubt terminated in his death.  Soon after he returned from the War of the Rebellion, he married Miss Julia Kennedy, daughter of Thomas Kennedy, at one time sheriff of this county.  Deceased leaves besides the wife, six children, three sons and three daughters, Al, Ed and George, Kate, Ettie and Jennie,  While he was favorable to the Methodist church, it appears that he had no baptismal relations to any church.  He led a strictly honest, upright life, honored by all who knew him.  He was particularly noted for his industrious habits, frank manners, and fair dealings.  His life was such as not to excite the ill feelings of anyone toward him.  The people of this city will miss him very much.

(George Schuler married Julia Kennedy on 24 May 1866, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  C. L. Bokenkamp married Mary Schuler on 14 Jan 1880, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Raymond O’Brien, of Memphis, a 15-year-old boy, was taken from Grand Chain Saturday by a Memphis officer to that city to answer for having killed another boy by throwing a stone at him.  The boy is a grandson of John Merchant, deceased, late of Grand Chain.  The boy was stopping with his grandmother, Mrs. John Merchant, when arrested.
 
The Wilson murder case was continued until next term, on account of the absence of Corzine, the principal witness for the prosecution, and the only witness who was present and saw the crime committed.  Mr. Butler wrote and telegraphed several times to Corzine, who is working for the Cotton Belt road down in Arkansas, but could get no response.  Corzine made two trips to Cairo as witness before the grand jury, and as he was only allowed his expenses once, he felt quite wroth about the matter.
 
Death of Charley Hardy.

Charles Monce, universally known as Charles Hardy, died at St. Mary's Infirmary last Friday morning. His parents died when he was quite young and he was reared by a family who resided in Pittsburg named Hardy and took their name.  The Hardys were theatrical people and for years after he came to Cairo he was always in some way connected with our theaters.  Charles Hardy, and his brother, Nicholas Monce, came to Cairo about 1862. Nicholas died a few years ago and now Charley has gone.  He taught dancing for many years.  Afterward he was a general bill poster.  He was always kind hearted, always friendly and we do not believe that he had an enemy in Cairo. For some years his health has been giving away and finally some months since, he went to St. Mary's Infirmary where he remained until his death.  He was a charter member of the Rough and Ready Fire Company and they quite generally attended his funeral.  He was the author and originator of the K. M. K. C.  The funeral occurred Sunday and burial at Villa Ridge.
 
Mrs. Madison, wife of Frank Madison, died at her home at 413 Nineteenth Street Monday, and was buried from Rev. Allison's church yesterday.  She was one of the most prominent and best colored women of Cairo.
 

Thursday, 25 May 1899:
DEATH OF J. L. SARBER.
Superintendent of Singer Factory Passed Away after Three Months Illness.

Joseph L. Sarber, whose serious illness we mentioned in our issue last week, passed away shortly after noon last Friday.  His rapid dissolution was a surprise and a shock to a great many who did not realize his end was so near, for he always appeared to be strong, healthy man and his habits were known to be good.  Mr. Sarber was afflicted with degeneration of the spine and brain, which terminated fatally.  He was ill about three months, but his trouble dated back ten years.  He spent several weeks at a sanitarium at South Bend, Ind., but all efforts to prolong his life proved unavailing.

Mr. Sarber was born in Warsaw, Ind., July 1, 1851, making his age 47 years, 10 months and 10 days at his death.  He came to Cairo in April 1882, from South Bend, Ind., where he had been working for Singer Company.  He entered the employ of the same company here and within three years was made superintendent of the company’s plant here, which position he held until his death.  In fact, he served the Singer company for over thirty years and was faithful and untiring in the discharge of his duty.

Mr. Sarber has been a member of the Knight of Pythias for thirty years.  He was the first chancellor commander of the Ascalon Lodge No. 51. He also was a member of the Home Forum.  He never connected himself with any church, but was a member of the congregation of Calvary Baptist Church, and a regular contributer to its support.  He was also a member of the building committee of that church.

Mr. Sarber left a widow, who was Miss Mary F. Travis, of LaPorte, Ind., and three children, two girls and one boy, the eldest in his teens.  He left life insurance to the extent of $7,000 to provide for their support.

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. George P. Hoster, pastor of the church, and attend by the Knight of Pythias in a body.  The remains were taken to Beech Grove Cemetery for interment.
 
An infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Powlas died from membranous croup on Saturday and was buried at St. John's Cemetery on Sunday.  Also an infant of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Helton died from the same disease Monday night.

(Jacob Powles married Daisy I. Hase on 13 Sep 1893, in Union Co., Ill.  A marker in St. John’s Cemetery reads:  Mable M. dau. of J. F. & D. Powles Born Sept. 10, 1897 Died May 20, 1899.  William H. Helton married Laura A. Powles on 7 Dec 1890.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Emeline King died of consumption on May 18^th.  (Wetaug)
 
A floater was found in the Ohio River near Tenth Street yesterday. Coroner Stepp held an inquest and found the man to be Henry Tucker, of Louisville, Ky.  He was a colored man and was seen to fall off the I. C. wharfboat several days ago.
 
Mrs. David Barry, wife of the shoemaker, died last Saturday forenoon at her home, 1913 Commercial Avenue.  She was 42 years of age and was born and reared in Cairo. Her husband and five children survive, also her father and two brothers.  Funeral services were held Monday at St. Joseph's Church and the remains were interred at Villa Ridge.

            (David Barry married Margaret Jones on 5 Oct 1881, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Margaret Barry Born Sept. 10, 1857 Died May 20, 1899.  Mother.—Darrel Dexter)
 

Thursday, 1 Jun 1899:
The late Bridget Callahan left a sister and several nephews and nieces in Ireland, among other heirs.  This required the making out by County Clerk Miller of seven certified copies of the petition admitting the will to probate, which he mailed to these heirs.
 
Luther James, of Martin, Tenn., a colored man, was run over and killed by a train at Bridge Junction Tuesday night.  He came up to attend the Memorial Day exercises and was apparently trying to steal a ride back.
 
Alexander Lodge No. 224, I. O. O. F. passed resolutions at their meeting last Thursday night on the death of Hon. John H. Oberly, who embraced Odd Fellowship in that lodge.
 
W. Y. Oller was in from Elco Wednesday.  He informs us of the death last week of a little son of Rev. Samuel A. Cecil, and one of the Ernest Tindally's twin girls.
 
Fred Adams, a colored boy, a son of Louis Adams, was drowned while swimming in the Ohio River Monday evening.  His body was recovered.
 
Died, Mr. George W. Crain, one of the best-known men in Southern Illinois, at his home in Murphysboro, aged 78.
 
J. H. Tettaton, charged with murdering his stepmother and her four children and burning the house and their bodies at Malden, Mo., on April 25, was taken to Kennett last week to answer to an indictment by the grand jury.  This indictment charged him with murder in the first degree.
 
Mrs. D. V. Frost died very suddenly last Sunday night. She became very ill from the effects of some medicine taken to relieve headache and grew alarmingly worse, and died in spite of efforts to relieve her.  Mrs. Frost was 34 years of age.  She was a cousin to the Winter brothers, and her maiden name was Emma Winter.  Beside her husband, her mother and a brother and sisters survive her.

(Daniel V. Winter married Emma Winter on 29 Dec 1881, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery reads Emma Frost  Died May 28, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Mrs. Bridget Callahan, widow of the late Hugh Callahan, died Friday of concussion of the brain, caused by a fall received a week previous.  Deceased was 71 years old and had spent most of her life in Cairo.  She left several houses and lots.  Her niece, Miss Caroline Halloran, lived with her at 2020 Sycamore Street, and she had another niece at West End, Ala.

(Hugh Callahan married Bridget O’Callahan on 6 Oct 1880, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Mrs. Bridget Callahan Died May 16, 1899, Aged 72 Years.—Darrel Dexter)
 
The body of Thomas Price was found in he Mississippi River near the cable road, about opposite Bird's Point Sunday.  The body showed no marks of violence and had apparently been in the water but a short time.  A coroner’s jury investigated and returned a verdict of death by drowning.  Decease lived along and was seen as late as 10 o'clock Saturday night.

 
Thursday, 8 Jun 1899:
Held Under $1,000 Bond.

George Bundren, charged with the unlawful killing of Frank Robertson, was held under $1,000 bond by Judge J. P. Robarts in chambers Monday.  The parties both lived in Pulaski County when the tragedy occurred.  Messrs. Martin & Carter, of Mound City, counsel for the defendant came down to Cairo to endeavor to secure his release under habeas corpus proceedings.  State's Attorney L. M. Bradley was here representing the People.

The crime was committed on May 28th, and is related by the Mound City Hornet as follows:  Both men were fishermen and it seems had made some kind of a trade, over which a dispute arose and, among other things, a johnboat, which was in the deal, seemed to be unsatisfactory to Robinson, who, it is claimed, told Bundren to go and get his gun, that he was going to kill him.  Bundren went and got his shotgun and on meeting Robinson killed him instantly.  Bundren then came in and gave himself up to the authorities.

 

DEATH OF DR. N. R. CASEY
Pioneer Physician of Mound City Passed Away Tuesday Morning.

Dr. N. R. Casey, of Mound City, died at 5:15 o'clock Tuesday morning, from the result of an overdose of morphine taken about twenty-four hours before his death.  He had been called up as late as at 4 o'clock Monday morning to administer to the sick.  About 7 or 8 o'clock someone attempted to arouse him to get him up, and they became alarmed over his condition.  Physicians were summoned and they worked over him and he improved.  Dr. Bondurant went up from Cairo Monday and was with him for a time, and when le left, Dr. Casey was considerably better.  Monday evening the physicians were hopeful he would pull through, but he sank through the night and died Tuesday morning.

Dr. Casey evidently took the drug to secure sleep.  A note was found in his room addressed to his daughter, as follows:

MAUDE—By mistake I have taken an overdose of morphine.  I ring for you.  Give me 20 grains of ipecac, mustard water and coffee at once.

His daughter, Mrs. McDowell, lives in a house adjoining her father and an electric bell connects the doctor's room with her house.  Mrs. McDowell heard no bell, and it is believed the doctor was unable to ring the bell or thought he rang it when he did not.  At any rate, Mrs. McDowell did not know her father's condition until too late for the remedy he suggested to prove effective.

Dr. Casey's name is closely interwoven in the history of Mound City.  He was one of the most prominent men there as well as a leader in his profession at that place.  Several chapters of the history of Mound City, in the volume devoted to Alexander, Union and Pulaski counties were written by Dr. Casey, as he was the best-informed person on the early events of the place.  His death was not only a shock to the community, but it robbed them of a useful citizen.

Funeral services were held this forenoon at the Catholic church.

Dr. N. R. Casey was born in Jefferson County, Ill., January 27, 1826.  He acquired his education in Illinois with the exception of three years at the Ohio University at Athens, Ohio.  In 1845, he commenced the study of medicine at Mt. Vernon and later practiced there and at Benton, Ill., and in 1857 moved to Mound City at the request of his father-in-law, Gen. Rawlins, who laid out the city three years prior.  Dr. Casey at once took an interest in public affairs.  The year after his arrival he was elected a member of the city council and the year following that, in 1859, he was elected mayor of Mound City, and continued in office for fifteen years, finally declining to serve longer in 1874.  In 1860 Dr. Casey was a delegate to the national convention at Charleston, and was a warm supporter of Stephen A. Douglas.

In 1866, Dr. Casey was sent to the lower house of the state legislature by the Democrats of the district composed of Alexander, Union and Pulaski counties.  He was re-elected in 1868, and in 1870 and 1872 from the new district composed of Pulaski, Massac, Johnson, Pope and Hardin counties, and at each session was the choice of the minority party for speaker of the house.  One of the measures introduced by Dr. Casey, in 1874, was an appropriation of $25,000 for the erection of a monument in the National Cemetery at Mound City and he secured its passage.  In 1874, Dr. Casey retired from politics and devoted himself to the practice of his profession, living a quiet life until his death.  Under Cleveland's first administration he was appointed on the board of pension examiners, and remained on the board for twelve years.

Dr. Casey was married December 4, 1847, to Miss Florida Rawlings, of Louisville, Ky., daughter of Gen. M. M. Rawlings.  She died in August 1878.  They had three children—Mrs. Ida M. Dyer, of Kansas City; Frank R. Casey, of Chicago; and Mrs. Maud H. McDowell, of Mound City.

            (Daniel B. Dyer married Ida M. Casey on 15 Nov 1870, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Robert H. McDowell married Maud H. Casey on 16 May 1888, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 15 Jun 1899:

Fell From Scaffold and Died.

            Fred Ward, yard foreman, at the Chicago Mill & Lumber Company's plant, fell from a scaffold at 8 o'clock this morning, a distance of twenty feet and sustained injuries form which he died in about twenty minutes.  He was superintending the erection of the building the company was erecting there.  In falling he must have struck some sharp object, for there was a cut in his throat.  He died of concussion of the brain.  Dr. Rendleman was summoned and met the man at the Illinois Central crossing, as they were bringing him down town.  Medical aid could do no good.  The man bears an excellent reputation.  He resided on Twenty-eighth Street with his wife and one son.

Died, Mr. Bernard Taylor, a highly respected and aged citizen of the vicinity of Carbondale.

Died, Downey Reeves, aged 27, a soldier of the Spanish-America War, at Harrisburg, of quick consumption.  He was a native of Posey County, Indiana and enlisted in Co. B, Ninth Illinois, at Shawneetown.  He was buried with military honors.

Died, John Jones, aged 70, a Jefferson County pioneer.

DROWNED IN THE MISSISSIPPI.

Skiff at Thebes Overturns with Seven Men and Frank Slater is Lost.

            Quite a sad accident happened at Thebes Tuesday evening.  Seven men, Messrs. George Morris, John Hamilton, W. H. Beverly, Frank Slater, Joe McCabe, a Mr. Penninger and another man were coming from Gale in a skiff and when nearly half way home they met a steamboat and the waves swamped the skiff and when it went down it turned upside down all the men plunging for their lives.  Three of them managed to get hold of the boat and three swam ashore, but one, Mr. Frank Slater, went down and was drowned.  These men work at Gale and live here and go to their work and return in skiffs.  Some are carpenters, building houses at Gale, and some work on the transfer steamer Marian.  Mr. Slater was a carpenter and a hard working man.

            He leaves a wife and two children.  We join with the town and entire community in extending our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family.

Notice.

            Drowned in the river at Thebes, Tuesday, June 13th, at 6:30 p.m., Mr. Frank Slater, aged about 35 years, height about 5 feet 8 inches; light mustache and had on shoes, light shirt and blue cotton pants.  Anyone finding body, please notify family at Thebes, Ill.

Thursday, 22 Jun 1899:

MOST BRUTAL MURDER.
Superintendent of the National Cemetery the Victim.
Shot Down Without Provocation by Michael Tobin, an Employee.—Murderer Made His Escape and Sheriff's Posse Is Scouring the Woods for Him.—Strong Talk of Lynching.

The most horrible crime in the history of Pulaski County was the murder of Major Thomas E. Fitzpatrick, superintendent of the National Cemetery at Mound City, which occurred at noon yesterday.  He was shot down without warning by Michael Tobin, an employee at the cemetery.  The details of the horrible crime are as follows:  Tobin had been insolent of late and yesterday morning had some words with Major Fitzpatrick's daughter, who is his housekeeper.  The Major sent her into the house and then told Tobin that his services would not be needed after this month.  Perhaps a few heated words were exchanged, and then Maj. Fitzpatrick went into the house for dinner.  Tobin went into the tool house and sat down, but did not eat lunch, which was in there.  When the major came out of the house, and as he stood talking to Will Freeman, a colored employee, Tobin stepped out with a shotgun in his hands and aiming at the superintendent's heart, fired.  He was so close the flash set fire to the major's clothing.  Maj. Fitzpatrick threw up one arm in time to receive the charge through the wrist before it went tearing through his heart.  Then he turned and took a few steps toward the house and then fell and expired on the steps.

Tobin was in his shirtsleeves and his hat had fallen off, but he fled in that way, taking his gun with him.

The horrible news quickly spread to Mound City and the people were simply aghast when they heard it.  Dr. Simon Willard reached the murdered man before his body was cold, but he could do nothing.  Sheriff Charles Gaunt quickly deputized and armed a posse of men and search for the murderer was commenced.  Tobin had been employed at the cemetery for a number of years and he was well known by everyone living in the neighborhood.  He was seen and recognized at half a dozen places in the vicinity.  Messages were sent to Wickliffe and Fulton, Ky., and on the evening train four bloodhounds arrived.  Two belonged to City Marshal Reeves, of Wickliffe, who accompanied them, and the other belonged to Walker & McDode, of Fulton.  It was six o'clock last evening when the dogs caught the scent at the cemetery, but the fugitive had six hours start with the darkness rapidly approaching.  The dogs were followed by men on horseback and foot, all armed, and determined though saying little, and it was fully believed the murderer would never return to Mound City alive.

Tobin is about 35 years of age and has a wife and four children living in Mound City.  He has never been regarded as a dangerous man.

Major Fitzpatrick has been in charge of the cemetery about 15 years.  He was 67 years of age, a jovial, witty Irishman.  He was born May 15, 1832, at Florence, New York.  He attended West Point and in 1849 caught gold fever and went to California.  He was there when the Civil War broke out, and immediately enlisted.  He served with distinction through the war, and was promoted for bravery in battle.  At White Oak Swamp he was wounded in the hand and made a cripple for life.  He was mustered out of the service as acting captain of the Eighteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry.
After the war he worked in the Interior Department at Washington for a time and later was sent to establish the national cemetery at Santa Fe, New Mexico.  About '74 or '75 he was ordered to Mound City and placed in charge of the cemetery there, remaining until 1881.  Again he was transferred, this time to San Antonio, Texas, but at his own request was returned to Mound City in 1888, and has been superintendent there ever since.

He leaves two children, a daughter, Mrs. C. A. Jones, who was his housekeeper, and a son, J. E. Fitzpatrick.

The quiet, peaceful spot, which was the scene of the terrible tragedy, is the last earthly resting place of over 6,000 heroes who wore the blue in the War of the Rebellion.  It is situated one mile west of Mound City.

The murderer is still at large this afternoon, but large searching parties are out.

Mrs. Tillie Klier Simmons died at her home in Verona, Miss., Monday afternoon. She was the daughter of the late Francis Klier, was a graduate of the Cairo schools, and was also one of the public school teachers.  A few years ago she married Dr. Joseph Simmons and moved to Verona.

            (Joseph J. Simmons, Jr., married Matilda Klier on 9 Jun 1897, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Amelia Hodge, mother of Mrs. W. T. Felts, died at her home in Carbondale on Tuesday of last week, after a prolonged illness.

            (William T. Felts married Jennie Hodge on 29 Dec 1897, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, August Dorris, aged 64, an old resident of Clinton County.

Died, Philo Gilbert, one of the oldest and most prominent citizens of Jefferson County.  He erected the first two-story frame house in Jefferson County and for over fifty years was a member of the Universalist Church.

Mrs. Elizabeth M. Linnell, wife of L. M. Linnell, of Cobden, died June 12^th of consumption.  She leaves besides her husband, a little three-year-old boy.

            (A marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  Lib Linnell 1870-1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 29 Jun 1899:

Jesse Reed Refused Pardon.

            Jesse Reed was refused a pardon by the State Board of Pardons Tuesday.  He applied for a pardon or commutation of sentence at the April term of the board, through his attorney, William H. Parish, Jr., of Harrisburg. Jesse Reed is serving a fifty years' sentence at Chester for murder, to which charge he plead guilty at the September term of the circuit court in 1889.  The crime was committed on Washington Avenue just above the Hibernian engine house.  He stabbed his victim and the latter ran across the street and died.  There was a woman in the case.

Tobin Still at Large.

            Michael Tobin, who murdered Superintendent Fitzpatrick at the National Cemetery on Wednesday of last week, is still at large.  He is without doubt out of the state.  Sheriff Gaunt has been untiring in his efforts to capture the man, and has not relaxed his efforts yet.  No word of just criticism can be said against that official.  A great many false stories are circulated reflecting upon the sheriff, but they are set afloat by malicious persons.  The bloodhounds which were brought up to track the murderer proved a complete failure.  It is to be hoped the man can soon be brought to justice.

Mrs. Mary Cummings died at St. Mary's Infirmary Monday evening, after a long illness.  She lived at the corner of Eighth and Walnut for a long time.  Formerly she was engaged as a milliner here.  Her husband has been dead for many years.  Funeral services were held today,.

Mrs. Mamie Stratton Ray, wife of Dr. H. J. Ray, of Aiken, South Carolina, died at Charleston, S.C., last Sunday afternoon, where her husband had taken her for her health.  She leaves a family of three children.  Mrs. Ray was the daughter of William Stratton, a few years ago one of the most prominent citizens of Cairo, and a partner in the grocery firm of Stratton & Bird.  Death has visited the family often since their removal from Cairo and now Paul is only one left, since the death of his sister, Mrs. Ray.

The papers all over Southern Illinois pay tribute to the worth of John Dew, the Illinois Central section foreman, who was killed at Villa Ridge on the 17^th.  He dignified his position by his conscientious attention to duty.  It is said of him that he was considered one of the best men on the road, and that last year he received a prize for having his section in better condition than any other.  He was an earnest Christian man and though but a humble section foreman, he made the world better by having lived in it and left his example.

Mrs. Grace Cooper Johnson, wife of Alfred G. Johnson, of Mound City, died last Thursday of cancer of the stomach.  Deceased was 25 years of age, and married Mr. Johnson seven years ago.  She was born in Olmsted, but upon the death of her parents, was reared by her uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. James Y. Clemson.  She left four small children.

            (A. G. Johnson married Gracie Cooper on 8 Jun 1892, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 6 Jul 1899:

Died, E. N. Clark, aged 80 years, one of Cobden's prominent citizens.

            (His marker in Cobden Cemetery reads:  Elias Newton Clark 1823-1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 13 Jul 1899:

Drowning of Arthur McRaven.

            Arthur W. McRaven was drowned in the Ohio River at the wharf Saturday evening about 7 o'clock.  He attempted to board the steamer Mayflower to sell papers on board the boat.  The boats lay alongside the wharfboat with a coal barge on the outside of her.  McRaven stood on the edge of the coal barge ready to jump upon the Mayflower as soon as she was near enough.  Either the steamer struck the barge and threw the boy in the river, or else he stumbled and fell into the water.  In either case, he fell between the boat and barge and disappeared from view, and never came to the surface again.  Dynamite was exploded in the river Sunday evening, but failed to raise the body.  Monday forenoon it rose to the surface and was recovered.  As there was no current in the river the body rose where it went down.

            The deceased was a newsboy and had lived in Cairo three years.  He was a hardworking, honest boy.  The newsboys of Cairo purchased a beautiful floral anchor and it was taken to Sandusky with his body and laid upon his grave in the family cemetery at Diswood.  The deceased was about 18 years of age, and was a nephew of George McRaven, of this city and William R. McRaven, of Sandusky.  Both his parents died some years ago.  A letter from his relatives at Diswood says they appreciate deeply the help and sympathy which the people of Cairo extended to Weaver, which was the name he went by at home.

Mrs. Maude Light, wife of Alf. Light and daughter of G. P. Garner, died at her home Monday.  Funeral held at Thebes Cemetery Tuesday afternoon.

            (Alfred Light married Maud Garner on 2 Mar 1889, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Frank Sheehan, aged ten, who lived on Thirty-third street, was drowned while bathing in the Ohio yesterday afternoon.

Mrs. Charlotte Rossman, mother of Louis Rossman, of the firm of Fry & Rossman, and Miss Mamie Rossman, died Saturday night, after a long illness.  She had been an invalid for years, but skillful nursing had prolonged her life and eased her suffering.  Funeral services were held at the family residence, No. 522 Tenth Street, Tuesday afternoon.  Rev. Hursch officiating and the remains were buried in Villa Ridge Cemetery.

            (Her marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Charlotte Rossman 1831-1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 20 Jul 1899:

Unfounded Rumor of Tobin's Capture.

            A rumor was persistently circulated here Sunday evening to the effect that Michael Tobin, the slayer of Superintendent Fitzpatrick, of the National Cemetery, had been captured and landed in the Cairo jail.  The rumor stated that he was brought there on a Cotton Belt train and was put off at Twentieth Street, handcuffed and in charge of an officer, and hustled over to the jail.  Sheriff Hodges and Jailor Cauble, both emphatically denied all knowledge of the presence of the prisoner, but this was expected under the circumstances, whether they had him or not, as it seemed reasonable that they should want to keep the matter secret.  The rumor gained currency from the fact that Sheriff Gaunt was known to be on his way to Mississippi, having secured a clue to the whereabouts of Tobin, and he was expected back at any time.  Sheriff Gaunt returned Monday forenoon without the prisoner, but his trip was not a failure and we believe his capture will be announced in due course of time.

A white man, evidently a tramp, was killed at Bridge Junction Monday morning.  Freight train No. 91 was starting south over the bridge at 7 a.m. when the man jumped out of the weeds and boarded the train.  He caught hold the ladder, on the side of the car, but in attempting to climb around between the cars so as to ride the bumpers, he fell and the train ran over him, cutting him up badly.  He had no papers which he could be identified.  Coroner Stepp held an inquest and Undertaker Batty took charge of the remains.

Died, Judge Jonathon F. Taylor, of Carbondale, aged 50.

Thursday, 27 Jul 1899:

Death of Charles Wasem.

            Charles Wasem died at his home on Park Place West Monday night. He had been ill for several weeks.  Mr. Wasem came to Cairo several years ago from Mt. Vernon and engaged in the wood and coal business on lower Commercial Avenue.  About a year ago he closed out and retired from active business.  He leaves a widow and grown children.  Mrs. Wasem has been a very prominent figure in the Woman's Club and the Schiller Club.  Funeral services were held at the family residence Tuesday night and three remains were taken to St. Louis and interred in Belfontaine Cemetery.

Another Wanton Murder.

            Ed Collins shot and killed Charles Taylor in front of a restaurant on Commercial Avenue above Twelfth Street at 2 o'clock Tuesday morning. Both were negroes.  The murder was apparently entirely without provocation.  Collins made his escape after the shooting, but was later caught and put in jail.  This makes the third serious shooting affray within a comparatively short time, two of which have proved fatal.  All have been by parties who apparently hold no regard for the value of human life and think nothing of the reckless use of a gun.  What Alexander County needs is a few juries who will think nothing of the reckless use of a rope.

Charles Tansil, a member of the Cairo company in the Eighth Illinois regiment, shot Ed Robbs, better known as Ed Warner, Friday night and he died the next day.  They were sitting on the porch of a house on Twelfth Street and were scuffling with each other when Warner drew a razor and flourished it.  Tansil then drew a pistol and pointed it at Warner, who grabbed it.  The pistol went off, and the ball entered Warner's right lung, making a wound from the effects of which he died Saturday morning.  Warner made a statement before he died which practically exonerated Tansil and the coroner's jury acquitted him.

Henry Vickery, of Bird's Point, Mo., was drowned in Brewer's Lake while in swimming last Thursday afternoon. He was taken with a cramp and sank before rescuers could reach him. Word was sent to this city for Charlie Hill, the diver, but before he could get ready to go over, the news came that the body had been recovered.  The deceased was unmarried and was a brother of Henry Vickery, postmaster and merchant at Bird's Point.

Died, Mrs. Gabriella Smith, suddenly at her home in Alto Pass, aged 69.  She had been married 50 years and was the mother of 12 children.

A little child of Henry Mansur's, of Ullin, died Saturday.

John Lipe's baby died Monday with spinal meningitis.  (New Grand Chain)

Judge J. F. Taylor, of Carbondale, died on the 15^th.  He was one of the most prominent attorneys of Jackson County and was once county judge of Hardin County, and later served a term in the lower house of the Illinois legislature.

Thursday, 3 Aug 1899:

The father of Messrs. W. E. And J. C. Gholson died at Lovelaceville, Ky., Monday night.  His sons were at his bedside when the end came.

Death's Harvest.

Mrs. Willis, wife of Hugh Willis, living in Dogtooth Bend, died last Thursday, of congestive chills.

Mrs. Sickman, wife of William Sickman, died last Thursday, at Olive Branch, where had just recently moved from Mound City.  Mr. Sickman formerly operated the Greenfield at Cairo and later ran a ferry at Mound City, but some time ago bought a farm at Olive Branch.

A. J. Warden, one of the leading attorneys of Ballard County, died at his home in Wickliffe on Tuesday of last week, of kidney trouble.  Deceased was 46 years old.

William Needham, an old resident of Pulaski County, died last week.  He was 75 years of age and was one of the best citizens of the neighborhood.  He was thrown from a buggy and received injuries which hastened his death.  He was the father of John Needham, a prominent farmer of Pulaski.

Benjamin Jones is very low at this writing and his recovery is doubtful. (Sandusky)

Mrs. Marinda Sickman, wife of William Sickman and sister of Henry G. Weiman, died after an illness of seventeen days at her home near Olive Branch last Thursday.  Her remains were interred at the old Thebes Cemetery, Rev. P. A. Smith officiating.

Died, at her home in Dogtooth Bend, Mrs. Cynthia Willis, wife of H. B. Willis.  During life she was known as a good Christian, a loving mother, a fond wife and was held in the highest esteem by a host of acquaintances.  She leaves a husband, two daughters and three sons to mourn her loss.  Her remains were interred at the Baumgardt Cemetery and the funeral was attended by a large concourse of relatives and friends.  Mr. and Mrs. Wilson, of Whiting, Mo., came to attend the funeral of Mrs. Willis, mother of Mrs. Wilson.

Thursday, 10 Aug 1899:

Thomas McCabe, an old resident of Cairo, died at St. Mary’s Infirmary last Saturday afternoon of congestion of the stomach, after a short illness.  Deceased was an old resident of Cairo, a contractor of earthwork, and was once elected to the city council.  He was 68 years of age.  Three grown children are left.  The funeral occurred Monday afternoon.

An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Adams died Saturday of cholera infantum.

Roy Shifley, an industrious and highly respected young man, died Friday at the home of his sister, Mrs. Terrell Adkins, on Butter Ridge, of malarial fever.

Died, Robert Tate, a prominent pioneer of Jefferson County.

Died, Benjamin F. Page, well known, at Harrisburg, at the age of 76 years.

Thursday, 19 Aug 1899:

Death of William E. Feith.

            The uncertainty of life was never more fully illustrated than in the death of William E. Feith, which occurred Saturday morning.  Mr. Feith was seriously ill for only ten days.  He had been suffering from ill health for some time, but with no thought of death. His demise was due to an abscess of the liver.

            Mr. Feith had been engaged for some time in putting up a fine brick building for his undertaking business.  He would have had it done long ago, but for delay in getting the iron for the front.  The construction dragged along and his life went out before he saw the completion of his plans.  The widow will complete the building and continue the business.

            Mr. Feith succeeded to a large business which was established by his father, Nicholas Feith, in 1865.  He was born in Cincinnati the year previous and lacked only a few days of being 35 years old at his death.  He leaves a widow, who was Miss Mary Coleman, and three children.  Mrs. William Kluge was his sister.

            Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at St. Patrick's Church and a very large concourse of people followed the remains to the cemetery at Villa Ridge.

            (William Feith married Mary E. Coleman on 21 Oct 1891, in Alexander Co., Ill.  William Kluge married Anna Feith on 12 Nov 1865, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thomas Williams, an old soldier, died at the hospital here Monday of malaria contracted while at work for the Ayer & Lord Tie Company in Missouri.  His home was in Pennsylvania. The Warren Stewart Post G. A. R. looked after the funeral arrangements.

Clay Pindle Safe.

            Clay Pindle, who was reported lost in the Klondike, is safe.  A letter came yesterday from him to Roy Woodson, who has been his close friend ever since they were young lads.  The letter was written on July 9^th at St. Michael's, Alaska, which is away up on the Yukon River, no far from its mouth.  The letter was forwarded to Mr. Woodson, at Memphis.

Thursday, 24 Aug 1899:

Miss Nellie Hostler died last Monday in Mayfield, Ky., of congestion of the stomach.  She was sick only a short time.  Mr. and Mrs. Hostler were with her at the home of her death.  The remains were brought home, and the funeral services were conducted at the home by Rev. McCammon, of Mound City.  Interment at Villa Ridge. Nellie was a bright, lovely girl and had many friends to mourn her untimely death.  She was 20 years old and the third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hostler.  Since April, Nellie had been in Mayfield where she employed in the woolen mills.  The family have the sympathy of the entire community (Villa Ridge) in this their sad bereavement.

Died, Friday morning, of dropsy of the heart caused by cancer, Mrs. Catherine W. Swofford, aged 42 years. She was the wife of James Swofford, carpenter for the Illinois Central railroad quarry below town (Wetaug).  Her father, John Lockard, of Makanda, Ill., is a prominent farmer and the remains were shipped to Makanda and interred Saturday in the family ground.  She had been suffering about a year from disease.

            (James H. Swafford married Catherine E. Lockard on 4 Apr 1889, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in Lockard-Swafford Cemetery in Union County reads:  Cathren E. wife of J. H. Swafford Born June 10, 1857 Died Aug. 19, 1899, Aged 42 Yrs., 2 Mos., & 9 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)

Another Tobin Fake.

            A dispatch from Fulton, Ky., Monday says:  Michael Tobin, who murdered Maj. John Fitzpatrick, at Mound City, near here, several weeks ago, and who succeeded in making his escape was captured last evening nine miles from this place in a most remarkable manner.

            A negro saw Tobin sitting on the platform of the Fulton depot and recognized him.  He watched the man until he saw Tobin get into a boxcar, when the negro ran off and informed officers.  The latter got to the train just as it was pulling out, and told the conductor that he had Tobin on board.

When the train was nine miles out of town it was stopped and the train hands closed the boxcar containing the murderer and sealed it up.  Tobin was taken through to Memphis where he was arrested.  A reward of $100 was standing for the capture of Tobin and this will probably be divided between the negro and the conductor of the train.

            Tobin will be brought back to Fulton for trial at once.

This is probably a "fake," as Sheriff Gaunt had heard nothing of the capture.

Thursday, 31 Aug 1899:

A colored man was run over by a Mobile & Ohio train sometime during Tuesday night a short distance below Big Four crossing.  The body was dragged for a long distance and literally cut to pieces. It was supposed that freight train No. 71 struck him, as the body was found shortly after that train went out.  Undertaker Batty took charge of the remains.

Egbert Bailey Anderson, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Anderson, died on Wednesday of last week.  The little one was a little over a year old.  And had been ill for three or four weeks.  The friends of the parents deeply sympathize with them in their loss. (Willard)

A little child of C. S. Davis, of Stringtown, died Saturday of typhoid malaria, and Mrs. Davis and the rest of the family are seriously ill.

Two children of Rev. Mr. Dickerson died last week of congestive chills.  He was in Missouri at the time and has not yet returned.  They might have lived had they received medical attention.  A man with a wife and five children stands little chance of making a success preaching, especially among colored people.

It is with deepest regret that we inform The Citizen of the death of Mrs. Will Lynn, after an illness of only six or seven days. She died of typhoid fever Monday night.  The deceased was about 38 years of age.  She leaves a husband and four children to mourn her death.  Interment at Hazelwood Cemetery Tuesday, August 29^th.  The bereaved have the sympathy of the entire community (Sandusky)

Thursday, 7 Sep 1899:
Capt. B. B. Bradley departed for Milton, Ky., Monday evening, in response to a dispatch announcing the very serious illness of his sister, Miss Mary Bradley.  A later dispatch told of her death.  The deceased had visited the captain's family in Cairo and had many friends here.
 
Died, Mrs. Sophia Crabtree, one of the early pioneers of southern Illinois, and wife of Samuel Crabtree, who is the oldest man living in Jefferson County, of old age, at her home near Marlow, five miles east of Mount Vernon.
 
Mrs. Rhoda, wife of George Victor, who has been sick so long and who was thought to be much better, died Sunday evening.  She leaves a husband and a host of warm friends to mourn her loss.  (Friendship)
 
Miss Ethel Walker, aged 13 years, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fremont Walker, died at her home here (Alto Pass) Friday night last of typho-malarial fever.  The funeral was conducted in the Baptist church Saturday at noon by Rev. H. S. Lindsey, interment in Alto Pass Cemetery.  The heart broken parents have the sympathy of all in their great loss.

(Freemont Walker married Delia Brown on 29 Nov 1882, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
W. O. Brown, of Dongola, attended the funeral of Miss Ethel Walker last Saturday.
 
Robert Manus died at his home in Stringtown Monday of malarial hematura.  He was aged about twenty-five years and leaves a young wife. 
 
Died, Sunday evening, September 3^rd, Mrs. Rhoda Victor, wife of George Victor, of Friendship.  She was aged 25 years and a few days and had been married only about a year.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Patterson, who emigrated from Indiana to this vicinity about four years ago.  She was a young lady of many accomplishments and her husband and friends have the sympathy of a large circle of friends.  She was ill three weeks with typhoid fever.

(George Champion Victor married Roda Frances Patterson on 8 Jun 1898, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in Cache Chapel Cemetery near Ullin reads:  Rhoda wife of George Victor daughter of J. A. & Catharine Patterson Born in Shelby Co., Ill., Aug. 9, 1874, Died Sept. 2, 1899 Aged 25 Yrs. & 23 Dys.  Beside her grave is a marker which reads:  Son of G. C. & Rhoda Victor Died Aug. 8, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)
 
We learn that Mrs. Henderson, one of the pioneers of this county, died at her home near Thebes last Saturday.  Her age was in the nineties.
 

Thursday, 14 Sep 1899:
Albert Winter died Tuesday evening after an illness of about ten days, of malarial fever.  The deceased was a brother of the members of the firm of Winter Bros. and a son of the late Henry Winter, several times mayor of Cairo.  He was 35 years of age, and leaves a wife and eight small children.  Funeral services were held this afternoon at St. Joseph's Church and the remains were taken to Villa Ridge for burial.  Mr. Winter was a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and held a $2,000 insurance policy in that order.
 
Took Her Own Life.

Carrie Lentz, aged about 22, daughter of S. R. Lentz, ticket agent for the Illinois Central at Arcola, committed suicide by shooting through the heart.  The young lady apparently was in cheerful spirits and assisted her mother and sister in getting ready to go to church.  After they had departed, it appears that she went to her room and, barring the door with a portion of the furniture, took a 44-caliber revolver and ended her life.  At the coroner’s inquest nothing developed to reveal the cause of the rash act, and a careful examination of the young lady's effects disclosed no reason for the deed. The deceased graduated from the University of Illinois in 1897 with the highest honors of any young lady who ever attended the school, and was considered one of the brightest young women of central Illinois.
 
Clyde Mace, of DuQuoin, was killed last Saturday at Cobden by a passing engine.  Clyde was formerly a resident of our town, being employed in the firm of Hoopaw & Co.  Lately he has been employed by the Illinois Central railroad as brakeman.  He was a very bright intelligent boy and made many friends while here.  His untimely death was a great shock to all his acquaintances.
 
Miss Gale, a sister of Mr. Norman Gale, was buried Tuesday at the family graveyard.  (Thebes)
 
The writer saw in the St. Louis Globe-Democrat of the 11^th that Miss Carrie daughter of S. R. Lentz, agent at Arcola, committed suicide Sunday by shooting herself through the heart with a 44-calibre revolver.  This will be a sad shock to her friends here (Friendship)
 
A Mr. Fuller, veteran of the Civil War, died at Belknap last Thursday.  He served in the navy of his country.  He was a painter by trade and had been in Belknap a month, having come from the soldiers' home at Lafayette, Ind.
 
Albert Edgartown, a horse jockey, died last Saturday of inflammation of the bowels.  He trained down from 145 pounds in weight to 105 pounds in order to ride in the races at the Anna fair.  He used drugs to reduce his weight, and his death resulted.  He was 18 years old.
 

Thursday, 21 Sep 1899:
Accident at Gravel Pit.

Charley Hall, who managed the cars at Bryden's gravel pit near Elco, fell from the cars Tuesday evening and was so badly mangled it was thought he would die.  One leg was mashed all to pieces and he was bruised all over.  It is supposed he fell under the train and was run over.

A later report is to the effect that he died from his injuries Tuesday night.  He was setting the brake on a gravel car when the brake chain broke and he was thrown in front of a car, which passed over his body.
 
Killed by an Electric Car.

Bessie Reinhart, the 12-year-old daughter of the Sixth Street photographer, was struck by an electric car on the Egypt line on Sixth Street last Thursday evening, and died form the effects of her injuries in a couple of hours.  The accident happened about six o'clock.  She was playing with some companions and ran suddenly directly in front of car No. 6.  Motorman Ed Powers at once applied the brake, but the car struck here and knocked her down, and she was pushed along and crowded down under the front of the car  The wheel did not pass over her, but her body was severely bruised and lacerated, and her injuries were of such a serious nature that she died shortly after eight o'clock, in spite of the efforts of Drs. Stevenson and Clarke to save her life.  The coroner’s jury declared that the accident was unavoidable.
 
THE CARTERVILLE TRAGEDY.

Trouble broke at Carterville Sunday between the white union miners and the negro miners and seven negroes were killed.  The troops were withdrawn from Carterville on Monday of last week.  All was quiet until the Sunday following, when thirteen armed negroes from the Brush mines marched into town and went to the depot to take a train for Marion.  Up to this time the negroes had been prevented from entering the town.  Arriving at the depot a quarrel was commenced and the press accounts say a negro drew a pistol and fired at a white man, but missed him.  The battle then opened and as the negroes fled seven of their thirteen were either instantly killed or fatally wounded, so that they died soon afterward.  None of the white men were injured.  It is evident that both sides were spoiling for a fight.  Troopers were instantly ordered to the scene by Gov. Tanner and martial law again prevails there.  Gov. Tanner said in regard to the affair:

"While I have no information as to whom or by whom the trouble was precipitated, it seems to me from the fact that no one was killed except the negro miners, that it was a pre-arranged, preconcerted, premeditated murder.  If I am right in this conclusion, the officials of Williamson County should use every means possible and that vigorously, to bring these  parties guilty of wholesale murder to speedy justice and, in their efforts to do so, I promise them the cooperation of the state, the whole national guard if necessary to bring about the arrest and conviction of these parties, for the restoration of peace and good order in the county and so I advised the sheriff of Williamson County this afternoon by wire.  This is a blot on the fair name of the commonwealth of Illinois and will be a disgrace to the community of Williamson County unless quick and vigorous action is taken by the county authorities.  The good and law-abiding citizens of Williamson County should rise to the situation and support the law officers in restoring peace and order and in the arrest and conviction of the guilty parties."
 
Clay Pindell Back from Klondike.

Clay Pindell reached Cairo Monday on his return from the Klondike.  He left the gold field on July 9^th and came right through, stopping only at St. Louis to see his mother and brother.  He stopped here only a few hours and then went to Memphis to see his friend, Roy Woodson.  He has had enough of the Klondike and will not go back.  He did not strike it rich there, but was more fortunate than some who are stranded in that faraway country and have not means enough to return to the state.  The report was circulated here last winter that Clay had been frozen to death in Alaska, and it was only a few weeks ago that the real truth about him was known.  He is a cousin of Deputy County Clerk John A. Sammons.
 
Died, William H. Rose, of Golconda, aged 60, brother of Secretary of State James K. Rose.
 
Died, William Blair, a pioneer resident of Mount Vernon, aged 72.

 
Thursday, 28 Sep 1899:
CAIRO SUFFERS LOSS
In the Death of Capt. W. P. Halliday, Her Foremost Citizen.

He Passed Away at Chicago Last Friday Night.—Funeral from Halliday Hotel Tuesday Afternoon and Buried at Beech Grove Cemetery—Sketch of the Life of a Great Man.

(picture of Capt. W. P. Halliday)

Capt. William P. Halliday, Cairo’s most prominent citizen, died at the Lexington Hotel in Chicago at midnight Friday night.  Capt. Halliday had been ill for about six weeks.  He went to Chicago to receive treatment and change of air to ward off an attack of malaria.  While feeling badly, he was able to be up and around until a few days before his death.  His friends and family did not anticipate his demise would come so soon, but it appeared the captain himself did.  He made his will while in Chicago and prepared for the end.  A few days before his death, however, his condition grew so bad that his family were summoned to his bedside.  Thursday morning about 3 o’clock he lost consciousness, and although life was kept up by artificial means for many hours, he slept away and Friday night at midnight the final dissolution came.

The remains were immediately prepared for burial and were brought down from Chicago on the train leaving there Saturday afternoon.  The Illinois Central railroad very kindly furnished two private cars for the use of the family and friends.

Arriving here the remains were taken to the Halliday Hotel and lay in state in parlor A until Tuesday.

All that was earthly of Capt. Halliday lay in a handsome cloth covered metallic casket, and throngs of people passed through the rooms Sunday and Monday to gaze once more upon his features.  His illness had left its traces on his face, which looked thin and haggard.  Profuse floral pieces surrounded the casket, and the life-size oil painting of the deceased, which hung at the head of the casket, was draped heavily in mourning.

The same evidences of mourning were seen along the levee.  The Halliday Hotel the City National Bank and the gas office all bore crepe on their doors, while a number of buildings along the levee were draped in black and flags hung at half mast.

William Parker Halliday was born in Rutland, Meigs County, Ohio, on July 21, 1827.  His father, Samuel Halliday was a native of Scotland, and was a man of limited means.  While the Captain was quite young, he graduated from the common schools into a printing office, and after working at the case setting type for a time, became one of the proprietors of the Meigs County Telegraph.  Of recent years the Captain has often told the story of how he finally sold out the business to the sheriff.  From there he went to Cincinnati and worked as compositor on the Cincinnati Gazette.  Then he took to the river and his fortune commenced to turn.  He served as clerk on a number of boats among them the Planet, Highlander, Gen. Gaines, N. W. Graham, Highflyer, and Pacific, in the latter of which he owned an interest.

Just before the war he removed to Cairo, and became a partner in the firm of Graham, Halliday & Co.  They owned the wharf boat and did a general shipping business.  The river was the great highway of commerce then and their business thrived.  Then the war came on and Cairo instantly became one of the most important centers in the whole country.  It was during the war that the firm of Halliday Brothers was formed, succeeding the other firm and May 1865, found all the brothers in Cairo.  The firm of Halliday Brothers continued in business for more than thirty years, and it was only a few years ago that the interests of the brothers were divided up and each managed his own affairs separately.

It was during this war period that the foundation for Capt. Halliday’s immense fortune was laid.  He had rare opportunities for investments, and the profits were large.  His acquaintance with Union officers gave him advantages oftimes over others, and he was not slow to take every fair advantage.  Soon after the war he was appointed executor of a valuable estate in Arkansas, and in settling it up he was able to come into the possession of one of the most profitable plantations in the state.  He invested extensively in coalmines around DuQuoin, he invested a large share of his wealth right here in Cairo, and all his investments seemed to pay because he had the capital to make them pay.  At his death he was reputed to be worth from $3,000,000 to $4,000,000.  He owned a controlling interest in the City National Bank, the Cairo City Gas Company, the Cairo Electric Light and Power Company, the Cairo City Coal Company, the Halliday Hotel and the opera house, the Halliday and Phillips wharf boat company, besides much real estate in Cairo.  He owned all the riverfront between Cairo and Mound City and had an interest in the Marine Ways at the latter place.  He owned the coal and salt mines at DuQuoin and the coalmines at Hallidayboro.  He owned thousands of acres of cotton fields in Arkansas, opposite Greenville, Miss.  He owned the Gayoso Hotel at Memphis, which burned a few months ago, and also was interested in the Memphis Furniture Company and the New Orleans Furniture Company.  Besides all this great array of valuable properties, he had invested extensively of late in stocks and bonds and his income was very large.  Of late years he gave little personal attention to his properties.  He had them well organized and in experienced hands he was able to retire from active business.

Capt. Halliday’s family consists of his widow and four daughters and two sons.  His children are Mrs. Charlotte Josephine Wing, wife of Dr. Elbert Wing, of Chicago, who was best known here as Miss Daisy Halliday; Miss Mary H. Halliday, of New York, who has achieved considerable fame both in that city and Paris as an artist; Mrs. Florence Rogers, wife of Emery H. Rogers, of Boston; Mrs. Adelia Tiernan, wife of John Tiernan, who was married just a few weeks ago, Mr. Tiernan being superintendent of Capt. Halliday’s drainage district farm; William P. Halliday, Jr., of Memphis, and John Halliday, who graduated from Harvard last year.

Of the eight children of whom Capt. Halliday was one, only two now survive.  They are Maj. E. W. Halliday and Miss Mary Halliday, of Atlanta, Ga.  Three brothers, Samuel, Thomas W., and Henry L., and two sisters, Mrs. R. P. Robbins and Mr. Charles T. Hinde, having passed on before.

The funeral of the late Capt. Halliday was held at the Halliday Hotel Tuesday afternoon.  Long before two o’clock the crowds commenced to gather and when the services began the parlors and halfway were crowded with people and numbers could not get upstairs but waited in the office or outside on the street.   Rev. F. A. DeRosset, rector of the Church of the Redeemer, conducted the last solemn rites and a quartette choir composed of Mr. Buchanan, Miss Lelia Miller, and Messrs. Buchanan and Tunnel sang several beautiful hymns.  The funeral address was delivered by Rev. C. T. Phillips, of Princeville, Ill., formerly pastor of the Presbyterian church here.  Mr. Phillips was a close friend of the deceased, and it was the wish of Capt. Halliday that he might assist in the service.  Mr. Phillips spoke of the Captain’s kindness and generosity, how he rendered assistance to so many and did it in such a delicate way that no sensitive or proud natures were hurt.  He spoke of the Captain’s loyalty to Cairo.  How he aided the city in its struggle against the great floods; how he instructed the bank to cash all paper issued by the city in those dark days; how his fortune was ready to be used in protecting life and property here, and how his barges were always placed in readiness to be sunk opposite weak places in the levee.  He told of a conversation the Captain had with him in the panic days of 1892-’93, when banks were failing everywhere, in which the deceased said his entire fortune was ready to preserve the integrity of the bank here and to protect the businessmen from loss.  He told what a kind employer Capt. Halliday was, how a position with him was a life job if the employee did his work faithfully.  Mr. Phillips said he had known men at DuQuoin 21 years ago that were still in the service of Capt. Halliday.  He told how Capt. Halliday watched the careers of young men who were striving to get ahead in life, and how he helped them to get on by opening the way for them without ever letting them see his hand.  All this he told and more of the man whom he termed the best friend Cairo ever had.

At the conclusion of the service, the remains were conveyed to Beech Grove Cemetery.  A thousand people went out from Cairo in two long trains and several hundred from Mound City, Mounds, and surrounding towns were already gathered there.

The acting pallbearers were all heads of departments of the various institutions, which Capt. Halliday controlled, as follows:  George F. Ort, C. B. S. Pennebaker, L. P. Parker, Wood Rittenhouse, R. L. Redman, Norton Renfro, John Forrester, of St. Johns, and James Forrester, of Hallidayboro.

The honorary pallbearers were chosen as follows:  R. H. Cunningham, R. Bross, Andrew Lohr, C. Pink, Judge William H. Green, J. M. Lansden, William B. Gilbert, P. G. Schuh, Judge J.P. Robarts, P. J. Thistlewood, Walter Warder, Charles Galigher, John Hodges, M. F. Gilbert, N. B. Thistlewood, C. O. Patier, P. W. Barclay, M. J. Howley, Sol. A. Silver, Samuel Hastings, John A. Miller, F. Nordman, Sr., J. B. Reed, Louis Herbert, F. D. Rexford, of Centralia.

As the service at the grave was concluded the freshly made mound was literally covered from sight by the beautiful floral offerings, which were sent in great profusion by friends of the deceased.

Quite a number of men of prominence came here to pay their respects to the memory of the deceased.  They came from Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis, Pittsburg, and New Orleans, as well as from smaller and less distant places.  Among the number were Capts. Sam and Harry Brown, of Pittsburg; Capts. Henry C. Haarstick, and J. S. Nauson, of St. Louis, rivermen of prominence and associates of Capt. Halliday; also John Markley and wife of Chicago; Judge Youngblood and Barr, of Carbondale; Judge Monroe C. Crawford, of Jonesboro; Capt. William K. Murphy, of Pinckneyville; Senator Pleas T. Chapman, of Vienna; Maj. Daniel Hogan and family of Mound City; and numerous others.

Capt. Halliday was not a lodge man.  His interest were far too numerous to allow him to devote any time to secret societies.  Nevertheless, he found time to devote to Cairo’s interests.  He was a member of the Cairo Board of Trade, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Cairo Public Library.  In both of these organizations he rendered efficient aid and his counsel was always sought.  The  Board of Trade met and prepared a memorial, setting forth the value the deceased had been to the organization and to Cairo, which was adopted.  The Library board met and Judge William H. Green addressed them in an appropriate manner, paying a just tribute to the worth of Capt. Halliday and his assistance to the educational life of the city.  The city council also met and passed appropriate resolutions, and attended the funeral in a body.

The Mound City Board of Trade adopted the following resolutions at a special meeting Monday evening:

WHEREAS, It has pleased the all-wise ruler of the universe to remove from the active scenes of this life our beloved fellow citizen and patron, Capt. W. P. Halliday.

WHEREAS, It sees proper that one who has occupied such a prominent position in furthering the interest of Mound City, and who has always been ready to lend a helping hand in her welfare should receive proper notice at the hands of her citizens.  Therefore

RESOLVED, By the Board of Trade of Mound City:

First—That in the death of Capt. Halliday Mound City, as well as his home city of Cairo and entire surrounding country, has lost a friend who was always ready to encourage and assist in every enterprise that had for its object the uplifting of the community.

Second—That we mourn the loss of our friend as irreparable.

Third—That we hereby extend to his family our heartfelt sympathy on this their great bereavement.

Fourth—That the members of this Board of Trade will attend the funeral in a body as a mark of our respect.

Fifth—That these resolutions be spread upon the journal of this association and a copy be furnished the family of the deceased and that they be furbished the Mound City and Cairo papers for publication.

L. M. Bradley

G. J. Murphy

A. J. Dougherty, committee

Mound City, Ill., Sept. 25, 1899

            (Emery H. Rogers married Florence Halliday on 24 Aug 1892, in Cook Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

John Howley, another of Cairo's old residents, died Sunday night after a long illness running over five years.  Deceased was born in County Mayo, Ireland, June 22, 1819, and was the eighth of a family of ten children.  He was married in Ireland to Catherine Connolly, but they had no children.  He came to America in 1840 and settled in Cairo in 1854, and was a member of the first city council, was also city treasurer just after the war and was for several years the Cairo member of the county board.  He was the last survivor of his family.  He leaves numerous nieces and nephews, those in Cairo being P. J. Purcell, Mary Purcell, Ella Purcell, Kate Purcell, J. C. Crowley, Kate Crowley, Bibbie Crowley, and M. J. Howley.  Funeral services were held by Rev. Eschmann at St. Patrick's Church yesterday forenoon and the remains were conveyed to Villa Ridge for interment in the Catholic cemetery there.

(His marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  John Howley Born June 22, 1819 Died Sept. 23, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Cairo Will Miss Him

The death of Capt. William P. Halliday is a great loss to Cairo.  It will take the people of this city a long time to appreciate how much of a friend he was.  His resources were so great and his willingness to help was always to be relied upon.  Cairo has won a great reputation as a host, but it was because she had a Capt. Halliday.  When there was any entertainment of distinguished guests to be planned, it was done on a magnificent scale because Capt. Halliday’s purse was drawn upon for such a large part of the bill.  In this way Cairo won fame as a hospitable city.  She was able to outdo her rivals who had no Capt. Hallidays.  Now Cairo will have to fall back on a plane with the others.

In a business way, he was a great help to the city.  Everything he owned, he improved and beautified.  He employed large numbers of men and always paid good wages.  He was in every movement to advance the city’s interests and often it needed just his influence to carry the project through.

But where he will be missed the most will be among those people who have been sharers of his bounty.  Their name is legion.  He gave quietly, but he gave liberally.  It was true of him that he did not let his right hand know what his left hand did.  Very frequently the recipient of his bounty could only guess from whence the gift came.  He aided the needy in distress in thousands of ways.  He seemed to have some occult way of finding out that people needed assistance at certain times, and then he knew how to come to their aid without offending.  Hundreds whom the public would never dream had needed his assistance blessed his name as they gazed upon his features for the last time, because he came to them in a substantial way at a critical time.  This is where and by whom he will be missed the most.  Truly he was a great man.

Death of Mrs. Milne's Mother

            The following notice of the death of Mrs. Pauline Conway Clendenin, mother of Mrs. James Milne, which occurred at Urbana, Ill., on September 16^th, is from the Champaign County Herald:

After nearly three weeks of painful illness there passed away last Saturday morning at her home on West California Street, one who in her five years residence in Urbana has won an unusually large circle of loving friends, Mrs. Pauline C. Clendenin.  She came here to live with her daughter Miss Adele Clendenin whom this death will leave alone.  Three other children are let to mourn the loss of one of the most faithful and saintly women that ever lived, Mr. C. C. Clendenin, of Lebanon, Mo., Mrs. James Milne, of Cairo, Ill., and Charles M. Clendenin, of St. Louis.  The two latter were present at the bedside of their mother when she breathed her last.  The funeral was held at the residence Saturday evening and the body was taken that night to St. Louis for cremation and later the ashes were buried in the grave of her husband, at Rockwood, all of which was lovingly done to fulfill her oft expressed desire.

Pauline Conway Clendenin was born at Kaskaskia, Ill., April 31, 1820.  She married Ephriam R. Clendenin in 1842 and lived a faithful and happy wife with him till his death in the Union service during the rebellion.  To them were born seven children, four of whom survive their mother.

Mrs. Clendenin had outlived all her own family, but one sister, having attained the age of eighty years.  She had been a life-long Christian, having been a member of the Presbyterian church for over fifty years.  She was connected with that church during her residence here.  The pastor of the church, Rev. George E. Hunt, who has attended her bedside frequently during her illness and who spoke the last words over her bier declared he never saw greater patience in suffering and a clearer and happier faith to the last than was hers.  Her life was that of a noble Christian, her death that of a saint.

(Ephraim R. Clendenin married Pauline Conway on 30 Sep 1844, in Randolph Co., Ill.  James Millen married Emma G. Clendenin on 9 Apr 1867, in Randolph Co., Ill.  Ephraim R. Clendenin was the U. S. enrolling officers for the provost marshal’s department, U. S. Volunteers.—Darrel Dexter)
 
Lilburn Shields, son of the late Capt. Thomas W. Shields, died at Davenport, Iowa, Monday, of heart disease.  Mr. and Mrs. Ohara were in Chicago at the time and it was some time before they could be located and apprised of the sad event.

(George Edwin Ohara married Lizzie Trigg Shields on 13 Nov 1893, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)
 
David Hulen, the youngest son of William Hulen, died last Thursday, after a short illness. The vicinity joins with the family in their bereavement.

(William Hulen married Lena E. Brown on 12 Apr 1883, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

B. F. Mason Dead.
Prominent Pulaski County Farmer and Mill Man Passes Away.

B. F. Mason, of America, died Tuesday after an illness of nearly two weeks. He was one of the wealthiest citizens of Pulaski County and owned thousands of acres of land there besides having extensive lumber interests near Belknap.

Mr. Mason was born in Union County, Ind., February 5, 1828, and since 1865 has lived in Pulaski County. He married on August 15, 1850, Miss Elizabeth Campbell, of Franklin County, Ind., who survives him with eight children—fours sons, Oscar, Hughey, Charles and William, and four daughters, Mrs. Lee Full, of America, Mrs. Stephen Steers, of America, Mrs. Charles D. Wilson, of Olmstead, and Miss Rosa Mason.

Funeral services will be held at the family residence Friday afternoon and the remains will be buried at Villa Ridge.

(Stephen A. Steers married Mary E. Mason on 10 Mar 1897, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  One marker in Cairo City Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  B. F. Mason Born Feb. 5, 1828 Died Sept. 26, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

 

Thursday, 5 Oct 1899:
Died, Isiah Blue, aged 77, at his country residence near Ava, after a long illness. Mr. Blue was one of Jackson County's oldest settlers and was prominent in church and farm affairs.

Died, Mrs. James Hall, an old resident of Edward County. She was visiting her daughter, Mrs. G. P. Bowman, at Caseyville.

(George Pitcher Bowman married Elizabeth James Hall on 24 Dec 1868, in Edwards Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, William Thompson, aged 83, a farmer of Saline County.

Killed by a Big Four Train.

George Scott, colored, aged 18 years, was run over somewhere between Cairo and Mt. Carmel by a Big Four train Saturday and was brought to this city Saturday night where he died Sunday morning. He was beating his way home to Evansville, Ind. He was waterboy of Camp No. 3 of Creech & Lee, the contractors for the new railroad. The railroad company took charge of the remains and Undertaker Batty shipped them to Evansville.

Shot in a Crap Game and Died.

Burley Lacey, who was shot at Whiting, Mo., in a crap game, died from his wound at St. Mary’s Infirmary at 2 o'clock Tuesday morning. He was shot in the abdomen. His wife, brother and mother came over with him. He was the son of a prominent farmer and stock buyer at Whiting. His slayer was a man named Ben Leshough. The body was shipped to his home.

KICKED BY A MULE AND DIED.
J. Frank Cumins of Elco Killed While Drilling Wheat.

J. Frank Cumins, living west of Elco, was kicked in the stomach by a mule last Friday and died from the injury a few hours later. He was working the mule to a wheat drill and carelessly stepped behind the animal, when it kicked him directly in the stomach.

Cumins appears to have been born under an unlucky star. A few years ago his wife left the home on an errand, and while absent one of the children fell into a tub of water and was drowned.
Cumins was about 35 years old and leaves a widow and several children.

(James F. Cumins married Mrs. Lizzie (Corbet) Lee on 11 Jun 1890, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

DEATH OF ROBERT SMYTH.
Another Old Resident Passed Away This Forenoon.

Robert Smyth died at 11 o'clock Tuesday forenoon, of blood poisoning, after a lingering illness.
Deceased was born in County Galway, Ireland, about 1839. He came to Cairo in 1863, joining his brothers here who had established themselves in business some years before. The business was conducted by his brother, Bernard Smyth, until 1870, when the entire business fell into the hands of the now deceased.

Mr. Smyth was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernia and the Hibernian Fire Company.
Mr. Smyth left no near relatives. He had four nephews, one of which is W. P. Smyth, U. S. Consul at Hull, England. Two others, Martin Smyth and Father Burnett Smyth, live in Ireland. The fourth nephew, T. J. Smyth, came here a few weeks ago to take charge of Mr. Smyth’s wholesale and retail liquor business.

Mrs. James Drony died Monday of malarial fever. (Wetaug)

(James Droney married Cora Freeman on 2 Nov 1898, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Miss Noda Masterson, wife of the late Mike Masterson, died Saturday and was buried Monday at Murphysboro.

Frank Corcoran, whose death occurred Friday afternoon, was buried Monday, funeral services having been held at St. Patrick's Church. Deceased was 62 years old, a native of County Mayo, Ireland, and for many years was in the employ of the Illinois Central railroad here. He left an estate valued at $15,000, besides $2,000 insurance with the Catholic Knights of America. The interment was at Villa Ridge.
 

Thursday, 12 Oct 1899:
COLD BLOODED MURDER.
City Marshal Fry of Charleston, Mo., the Victim of a Negro's Gun.

City Marshal Elmo Fry, who was shot early Wednesday morning, as told below, died from loss of blood at St. Mary’s Infirmary at 11:30 yesterday.

He leaves an aged father and mother, a wife and two small children, a little boy of 4 years and a baby girl less than a year old.

His wife reached his bedside yesterday morning and they will take the body home on this evening's train. Fry was 27 years old.

Here is another cold-blooded murder, for which there should be just retribution.

Elmo Fry, city marshal of Charleston, Mo., was shot twice in the leg early Wednesday. There was a shooting scrape at Bill Scott's saloon on lower Commercial, growing out of a quarrel between two negroes who had been gambling. Riley Powell drew a pistol and shot a man named Winslow in the leg. Fry was attracted by the shooting and ran down to see what the matter was. He asked Powell about it as he came out of the saloon, and the latter replied with an oath and turned his pistol on Fry and fired twice. One shot broke Fry's left leg at the ankle and the other severed an artery in his leg above the knee. He bled profusely before Dr. Grinstead could reach him. Powell was caught at his home by Officer Merriman and placed in jail.

Will of Robert Smyth.

The will of Robert Smyth was filed in the county clerk's office. He leaves $100 to Rev. C. J. Eschman for masses, $300 for a monument on the grave of his parents in Ireland, $500 to Bernard Smyth, in Dublin, Ireland, and the balance of his estate to be divided between his cousin Maria Flynn, of Cairo, Ill., with M. J. Howley and C. J. Eschman as trustees; Mary Madden, a niece of Galway, Ireland, Ellen MacLachlin, a niece of San Francisco, Cal., and Thomas J. Smyth, a nephew of Cairo. The latter is made executor.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON MURDER.
Will Martin Shoots and Kills Joe Landrum.—Both Are Negroes.

Will Martin shot and killed Joe Landrum on Poplar Street, near Nineteenth, Sunday afternoon about 3 o'clock. Both are negroes. The trouble was over a woman and it appeared to be a cold-blooded affair. Landrum was unarmed. Martin fired three shots with a 38-calibre pistol. The fatal shot entered Landrum's left temple. Martin claims Landrum had threatened his life. After the shooting Landrum's lifeless body lay in the street and his slayer skipped out. He was caught on Park Avenue by Officer Green Lipe, who gave chase in a buggy. He surrendered when he looked into the business end of Lipe's gun, and was taken to jail. Monday the coroner’s inquest was held at the courthouse.

The coroner’s jury was composed of Albert James, Richard Ruffin, George Robinson, D. J. O'Connell, P. W. Kobler, and William Walton.

They returned a verdict in the afternoon finding that Landrum came to his death from three pistol shot wounds, the first in the left temple and the others in the back, just below the right shoulder, the pistol being in the hands of William Martin, and they further found that Martin was guilty of murder and recommended that he be held without bail.

 

Thursday, 19 Oct 1899:
TO PREVENT MOB VIOLENCE.
Colored Men Gathered at Court House the Last Three Nights.

Saturday some of the colored men of Cairo received an intimation that a party of men from Charleston, Mo., were coming over to Cairo to break open the county jail and take out the negro murderer, Riley Powell, and lynch him. Some of the colored men state that they saw parties here during the day Saturday whom they believed had come over here for that purpose. Accordingly a number of colored men armed themselves and went to the courthouse Saturday night, and again Sunday and Monday nights. They were quiet and orderly and Jailor Scott Cauble made no objection to their presence. In the number were Rev. N. Ricks, Rev. T. A. Head, John D. Stepp, and other colored men of that character. They were on hand to place themselves under the orders of Jailor Cauble should he need their services in upholding the law and preventing a mob from attacking the jail.

AN ELCO JURY.

Secured in the Wilson Murder Case on Trial Today.

Fifty-three men from the country appeared in court yesterday in answer to summons to appear for jury duty in the Wilson case.  Most of them were from Elco.

The trial was taken up when court opened and the following were chosen as jurors:  John Mulkey, Oliver Hileman, John Hale, Willie Pool, Carl Allen, Ben Cauble, James Cruse, J. J. Brown, Carlos Brimm, and John Mitchell, all of them from Elco.  This completes the panel.  Witnesses are being examined today.

WILSON CASE ON TRIAL.

Cause of the People vs. Edward Wilson for Manslaughter Begun Tuesday.

DEFENDANT PLEADS NOT GUILTY.

Two Jurymen Secured from Regular Panel and Special Venire Issued for Seventy-five Men to Come from the Country.—The History of the Crime.

            The cause of the People vs. Edward Wilson, charged with killing David A. Rue, was called for trial in the circuit court at 10 o’clock Tuesday.  The defendant was arraigned and pleaded not guilty to the indictment, charging him with manslaughter.  The work of securing a jury was then commenced.  Of the regular panel, two were accepted and 17 were excused.  These two are Louis Pool, of Elco, and Frank Alsup, of Sandusky.  A special venire was then issued for 75 men to serve as jurors, to be obtained from the country, and the sheriff was instructed to have them in court Wednesday morning.  Until their arrival the case rested.  The prosecuting witness, Corzine, is here.  The case promised to be a hard fought one.  The attorneys for the defense are John M. Herbert, of Murphysboro; Lansden & Leek, of this city, and R. T. Lightfoot, of Paducah.

            The crime with which Edward Wilson is charged is the murder of David A. Rue, on August 6, 1898, in Louis Wilmot’s saloon, corner of Twentieth and Poplar streets. It occurred at 6 o’clock in the evening.  There was no quarrel preceding the crime.  The men were strangers to each other.

            Rue, Harry Corzine, Theodore Laudon, W. W. Fletcher and Louis Wilmot were there when Wilson came in.  They drank together, Wilson being invited to join with them. Then Corzine and Rue withdrew to the back room and sat down to a card table and were chatting together.  Rue had his back to the door.  In a few minutes, Wilson entered.  He made some threatening remark, and drew an open knife out of his pocket.  Then he reached over Rue’s right shoulder and with a hard blow plunged the knife in Rue’s right breast.  Rue fell forward and his chair fell over with him.  Over this Wilson stumbled and sprawled on the floor and Rue then commenced to kick him and strike him in the face.  Wilmot heard the noise and coming in, said he would allow no fighting there.  Corzine told Wilmot what had happened and suggested Wilmot take the knife away from Wilson.  This Wilmot was afraid to do and Wilson made a threatening remark that if he attempted it he (Wilson) would treat Wilmot as he did Rue.  By this time Corzine had helped Rue up and they started for a doctor.  When they got outside Rue could only go as far as Raggio’s when he grew faint and Corzine left him there while he went after Dr. Walsh.  The patrol wagon was also telephoned for and it arrived and took Rue to the Infirmary, but he died just as they reached the gate.  Wilson remained in the saloon until about the time the patrol wagon drove up.  He threatened Wilmot and the latter had to stand him off with a pistol.  Then Wilson ran out the back door, and out Twentieth Street, around the courthouse and up Washington Avenue to Twenty-third and out that street to Walnut.  There Officer Greaney, who was waiting for an electric car there, took the man in charge and he was taken to the courthouse and placed in jail.

            The above is substantially the story as told by Corzine, who was the only eyewitness, before the coroner’s jury.

CAPTURED A MURDERER.

Chief Mahoney Arrested Sam Waters, Wanted at New Madrid, Mo.

Chief Mahoney made an important capture yesterday.  He arrested Sam Waters, wanted at New Madrid, Mo., for the murder of an old colored man and woman.  The negro claims he just struck town at 12 o’clock.   He was walking along in front of the Green Treehouse, on lower Commercial Avenue, when Chief Mahoney arrested him.  He fought desperately, and Mr. Mahoney had to call top his assistance some of the Syrians in that neighborhood.  At headquarters he was violent when they started to search him, and it took several to hold him while they took away his knife and gun.  He confessed to the crime.  The chief took him up to the county jail.

Mrs. Caroline Reinbold, aged 57, wife of Lorenz Reinbold, prominent farmer and pioneer settlers of St. Clair County.

Died, Mrs. Elizabeth Barnman, aged 97, the oldest women in St. Clair County, She died in the house she has lived in for 70 years.

Died, James W. McConnell, well known at Mount Vernon, at the home of his father, ten miles from Mount Vernon.

Killed by a Horse's Kick.

Arthur Chalk died at his home near Hamletsburg, Pope County, the other day from the effect of injuries received by being kicked by a vicious horse.

Died, Sept. 16, 1899, at his residence near Mill Creek, James W. Cruse, aged 44 years and 10 months. He was an industrious and kindhearted man and a good citizen. He leaves a wife and three children. The funeral services were held at the Lutheran church in Mill Creek and were largely attended. The Rev. R. R. Lackey of the Reformed Church, conducted the obsequies.

(James W. Cruse married Jane M. Wilson on 13 Jan 1878, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Julia Billingsly is very sick at this writing and not thought to get well, as she is old and has been sick so long. She has malarial fever. (Friendship)

Death of Prominent Wickliffe Citizen.

Thomas Linthicum, one of the most prominent and popular citizens of Wickliffe, Ky., and for a long term of years circuit clerk of his county, died Tuesday morning after a lingering illness. He was well known by many Cairo people.

Deceased was 63 years old and leaves a wife, two sons and three daughters, all grown. Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon, with Masonic honors accompanied by the Knights of Honor and a large number of friends.

 

Thursday, 26 Oct 1899:
JURY SAY NOT GUILTY

Wilson Can Get Drunk, Kill, and Escape All Punishment for His Crime.

PEOPLE INDIGNANT AT VERDICT.

Jury at First Stood 10 to 2 for Acquittal.—After Considering the Matter 17 Hours They Reach an Agreement.—Name of the Men Who Thus Menace Society.

The jury in the case of the People vs. Edward Wilson, for the crime of murder declared Saturday that the defendant should not be punished for taking the life of David A. Rue on August 6, 1898.

The case went to the jury last Friday between 5 and 6 o’clock.  The jury remained out all night and at 11 o’clock Saturday a verdict was reached, declaring the defendant not guilty.  The jury at first stood 10 for acquittal to 2 for conviction.  The two were Ben Cauble and J. J. Brown.  They stood out all night and finally yielded to the views of the majority.

The trial was an impartial one.  The court was fair and just, giving instructions with which no fault could be found.  The attorneys were faithful and earnest.  Mr. Butler made, some say, the effort of his life in his closing speech to the jury.  The lawyers for the defense, of course, did their full duty by their client.  But the jury—no word of praise can be given them.  By this verdict they practically say that a man can get drunk and do whatever he pleases and escape punishment.

Here are the names of the twelve men who brought in this outrageous verdict:  Louis Pool of Elco.  Frank Alsup of Sandusky.  John Mulkey of Elco.  Oliver Hileman, of Elco.  John Hale, of Elco.  Willie Pool, of Elco.  Carl Allen, of Elco.  Ben Cauble, of Elco.  James Cruse, of Elco.  J. J. Brown, of Elco.  Carlos Brimm, of Elco.  John Mitchell, of Elco.

All over town this afternoon nothing is heard but the angry protestations of an outraged people.

TRIED TO END HIS LIFE.

Sam Waters Butted His Head on the Iron Floor of His Cell.

HIS DESPERATE PLAN TO ESCAPE.

From Being Taken Back to New Madrid, But Game Didn’t Work.—The Sheriff Arrives to Take Him Back to Answer to the Double Crime of Murder.

Sam Waters, the negro murderer of New Madrid, tried to kill himself last Friday.  He lay down on the floor of his cell and pounded his head against the iron floor.  The noise was so great that it was heard out on the street and upstairs in the sheriff’s office.  Then Waters lay still as if he was dying.  Dr. Walsh was hastily summoned and when he arrived he found the man’s pulse strong and not a bruise on his head.  He was playing a desperate game to keep from going back to New Madrid.  Sheriff Willet, of New Madrid, arrived Friday afternoon after his man.

Waters has three murders to answer for.  He killed a man in Lake County, Tennessee, about fifteen years ago and escaped.  Then he murdered two old colored people at New Madrid last spring, the trouble arising over a dispute about a line fence.

Will Hang Oct. 27.

Rev. G. E. Morrison, told about in the following item, once lived in Cairo when his father was pastor of the M. E. church here.  The Carbondale Herald says:  Last week the judges at Vernon, Texas, passed sentence on Rev. G. E. Morrison, who was convicted of poisoning his wife at Panhandle, Texas, some time ago.  The time fixed by the judges for his execution is October 27.  Rev. Morrison is well known to many of readers.  The lady he murdered so cruelly was Miss Minnie Bradley, of this city, and his father a well-known Methodist minister who belonged to the Southern Illinois conference for so many years, and was at one time stationed at this city. The convicted man was a minister of much promise until he became infatuated with a woman who was not his wife, and wound up his career with a most cruel and brutal murder. His guilt was established at the time beyond any question. His case went to the supreme court of Texas, where the verdict of the jury was affirmed.

Died, John L. Blackard, who had been a citizen of Gallatin County all his life, aged 62.

Rev. John Wheatley, of DuQuoin, who died recently, married 266 couples in his residence of 30 years in Perry County. The DuQuoin Tribune says he enjoyed the honor of marrying more couples than any other minister in the county.

Died, Sunday evening, October 22, 1899, Mrs. Nettie Lentz, wife of Louis L. Lentz, aged 22 years, 2 months and a few days. Mrs. Lentz was the eldest daughter of the late Fair Hight, and was born and reared in this village (Wetaug). Besides her husband she leaves a little daughter and an infant just one day old. Her sudden demise was a great shock to her husband and friends. The funeral services were conducted at Mt. Pisgah by the Rev. Mr. Lackey and were very largely attended.

(Lewis E. Lentz married Annette Hight on 29 Dec 1895, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Annete wife of L. E. Lentz Born Aug. 19, 1875 Died Oct. 22, 1899.  Aged 24 Yrs., 2 Mos., & 3 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)

Colored Floater Found in Cache.

The body of an unknown colored man was found in Cache River at Droge's Ford, about a mile and half below Hodges Park Friday. Coroner Stepp went out and held an inquest and buried the man at the county farm. He is supposed to be a crazy man, a stranger, who was seen over in Pulaski County, and it is thought he walked into Cache and was drowned. He had on nothing but a sheet.

Capt. Halliday’s Will Probated.

            The will of Capt. W. P. Halliday was probated in the county court Saturday.  M. C. Wright and LeGrand C. Bush were the witnesses.  The latter is one of clerks of the Lexington Hotel, in Chicago, where the will was executed.  The personal property is estimated to be worth $400,000 and so the executors, M. C. Wright and John S. Aisthorpe gave bond in the sum of $800,000.  The bequests have already been published.

CAPT. HALLIDAY’S GENEROSITY.

Shown in a Bequest of $1,000 to a Spanish Girl He Had Met in Cuba.

            One of the beneficiaries of Capt. Halliday’s will was Miss Cecile Papie, of Havana, Cuba.  This is a lovely Spanish girl whom Capt. Halliday met when he took a trip to Havana a couple of years ago.  She was working in one of the factories there, and her ladylike ways and kind attention so impressed Capt. Halliday that he did not forget her.  She is said to be a girl of great purity of character and very devout, so much so that when Capt. Halliday desired to give her some slight token of his esteem, she first consulted the priest to see if it was proper that she should receive the gift.  Capt. Halliday left her $1,000 in his will.  We understand her parents are dead.

            Capt. Halliday remembered his sister in a substantial way before he died, and also his stepmother and half-sister.

            Another person whom Capt. Halliday met during his travels and became attached to was a young boy working in a factory in Japan.  He was a bright boy and attracted the captain’s interest and attention, and the captain’s frequently heard from him afterward.  Capt. Halliday sent him orders for Japanese pictures and souvenirs of various kinds and in this way rendered him substantial aid.

 

Thursday, 2 Nov 1899:
MOORE SHOT JOE COOK

President of Town Board of Pulaski Killed on Saturday Evening.

BAD FEELING PROMPTS MURDER.

Frank Moore Went to Villa Ridge After the Tragedy, Where He Was Arrested and Taken to the Mound City Jail.—Coroner’s Jury Say the Deed Was Unjustifiable.

Pulaski, 16 miles north of Cairo on the Illinois Central, was the scene of a terrible tragedy Saturday afternoon, in which Joseph T. Cook was killed by Frank Moore, son of S. J. Moore.  The homicide occurred about 3 o’clock p.m.  Frank Moore and his father were standing in the doorway of the elder Moore’s store, which fronts on the railroad, when Cook came along.  They had some words and young Moore drew a revolver and fired at Cook and the latter fell and died in a few minutes.  Moore then left Pulaski.  The news of the tragedy was sent to Sheriff Gaunt at Mound City, and he telephoned all around, to have Moore apprehended.  Constable Green, of Villa Ridge, found him in a barbershop there, where he was waiting to be shaved.  He was apparently making no effort to get away.  He was taken to Mound City and placed in jail.

Coroner Steele went to Pulaski Saturday evening and held an inquest over the remains of Mr. Cook.  Several witnesses testified, among them S. J. Moore, the young man’s father, and Green Williams.  The elder Moore was the only eyewitness who testified before the coroner’s jury.  He stated that he and his son were standing in the doorway of his store when Cook came along.  Cook said to Frank Moore, “D—n you, I’ll fix you.”  Frank then drew a revolver and fired, but missed Cook.  Cook then wheeled around toward Frank and stepped forward, and Frank fired again, and Cook fell.  Upon this evidence the coroner’s jury held Moore for the unjustifiable killing of Cook.

The ball, which ended Cook’s life, entered his breast a little to the left of the right nipple.  No arms were found on Cook’s person.

Joseph T. Cook was probably the heaviest man in Southern Illinois,.  He tipped the scales at over 350 pounds.  He was president of the town board at Pulaski and was a farmer and contractor.  He formerly ran a little restaurant there.  Frank Moore is a son of S. J. Moore, a wealthy farmer of Pulaski.  The young man gained considerable notoriety some months ago by failing in business at Villa Ridge.  It was alleged that he bought goods on time from St. Louis wholesale houses and then made way with them, and attempted to beat his creditors.  The matter got into the courts, but was finally straightened up, as far as he was concerned, but he had involved Van Amburg & Heilig of Pulaski, in this affair, alleging that they were in the plot to receive and sell the goods.  Cook was a friend of Van Amburg & Heilig, and in this way ill feeling was engendered between Moore and Cook.  It is also alleged that Moore went before the grand jury in the attempt to have Cook indicted for some charge.  Things of this character evidently nurtured the hatred of the two men for each other, and led to the final act.  We cannot learn that they had any personal encounter before on the day of the shooting.

Moore married Miss Stella Royal, daughter of Dr. B. A. Royal, of Villa Ridge, shortly before his trouble at that place.

The statement was made that only one shot fired by Frank Moore struck Cook.  This was thought to be the case until the body of the deceased was dressed, when another wound was found.  Coroner Steele sends this message to The Citizen:  “In dressing the body of J. T. Cook, we found that both balls had taken effect, the other entering the right side.”  This was the first shot fired.  As Cook passed and spoke to Moore, Moore fired and the ball struck his right side.  Then Cook turned and advanced a step toward Moore and the latter fired again, sending a ball into his breast, inflicting the fatal wound.

It was at first supposed that Moore’s father was the only witness to the shooting, but other witnesses have been found.  These did not testify before the coroner’s jury, but they will be on hand to appear as witnesses at the trial.

Moore was a desperate fellow.  He had threatened a number of people.  After the shooting he drove out to William A. Lackey’s and asked Mr. Lackey to go to Mound City with him.  Mr. Lackey declined, as he with Cook, was on Van Amberg & Heilig’s bond and was not on the best of terms with young Moore.  Moore then said:  “You ought to see what I’ve done.  I’ve killed Joe Cook, and I’ve got just two more men to fix.”  The conversation was carried on at a distance.  Moore was in his buggy and Lackey did not go to the road, as he feared Moore would kill him.

At another time after Sheriff Gaunt had broken into Moore’s store at Villa Ridge to secure some goods, Moore said to the sheriff:  “It’s a good thing that I wasn’t in the store when you broke in, for I would have killed you.  I’ll kill any man that I catch breaking into my store.”

These are a few of the many threats Moore has made.

An effort will be made, when Judge Wall returns from Springfield, Friday, to release Moore under habeas corpus proceedings.  It is to be hoped that this desperate fellow will not be turned out upon the community to kill others for whom he holds ill will.

UNKNOWN MAN KILLED

By Falling Sycamore Tree Nine Miles from Here on Missouri Shore.

William Crouley walked into town Tuesday from a point nine miles up the Mississippi and brought the news of the death of a companion, whose name he did not know, from the result of a caving bank.

Crouley and his companion, whom he addressed as Julius, left St. Louis in a skiff last Wednesday in search of work along the river.  Monday at noon they had reached a point about nine miles above here, and were drifting along, eating their dinner.  While passing under a high bank on the Missouri shore, a big sycamore tree suddenly toppled over upon them  The skiff was struck and instantly reduced to splinters.  Crouley escaped injury and clung on to the tree after it had fallen, but his companion was struck on his head, and his skull was crushed and he disappeared under the water. Crouley clung to the tree finding it impossible to climb up the steep bank, and at 4 o’clock in the afternoon the snag boat H. G. Wright came to his assistance and landed him on the Illinois side.

Crowley’s companion was a volunteer in the Spanish-American War, a member of the Second Missouri Regiment.  His home is at Second and Elm streets, St. Louis.  He was a German, 25 or 26 years of age, fully six feet tall, of dark complexion and weighed about 190 pounds.

Death of Oscar E. Weigant.

The Argus Saturday told of the death of Oscar E. Weigant, who was formerly connected with the mechanical department of that paper. He died at his father's home in Pittsburg on October 21^st. Mr. Weigant was a brother of John E. Weigant, of Sandusky, one of Alexander County's school teachers. Oscar joined his father and brother here a few years ago, coming down from Iowa. He was a printer by trade, and in addition to the employment already spoken of, he ran the Sikeston, Mo., Democrat for a short time. He was a young man of very pleasant address and good habits, polite and courteous to all whom he met. He was compelled to leave here last spring as consumption had marked him as its victim, but he lingered too long, and the change of climate and employment did not stay the disease.

Died, Dr. Adam Johnson, age 67, a resident of Mount Vernon for 35 years, at Quitman, Ark.

Our town (Villa Ridge) was thrown into a fever of excitement last Saturday evening by the report that Frank Moore, of this place had killed Joe Cook, of Pulaski. The report was only too true and Moore was soon taken into custody by George Green, the constable and transferred to the jail in Mound City. The verdict of the coroner’s jury was "unjustifiable homicide." Cook was buried at Wetaug last Monday.

Evelina Gibs was kicked in the face by a mule Sunday of last week, form the effects of which she died Saturday a.m. Evelina was a bright, happy child of six years and was accustomed to help her father with the chores, and that evening had been feeding the cow when the terrible accident happened which caused her death. The funeral services were conducted at the Congregational church Sunday p.m. by Rev. Stubbens, of Dongola. Mrs. Gibs is and has been an invalid for years and was unable to attend the funeral. Evelina was the only child and the family have the sympathy of the entire community in their sad bereavement., (Villa Ridge)

Mr. E. J. Phelps, brother of Dr. W. A. Phelps died here (Thebes) at his home Monday morning. He leaves a wife and several children. Funeral services held Tuesday afternoon and remains interred at the cemetery on the hill.

Joseph Cook of Pulaski, who was killed Saturday by Frank Moore, was interred in the Wetaug cemetery Monday. He formerly lived here. He was the largest man in Pulaski County and weighed about 350 pounds.

D. Gray, of Levings, was buried Sunday, the funeral being conducted by Rev. Ashby. (Friendship)

Old Mrs. Billingsley, who has been sick for so long, died at 6 p.m. Monday and was buried at Cache Chapel Cemetery Tuesday at 3:30 p.m., funeral by Rev. E. Bartley.

Rev. G. E. Morrison was hanged at Vernon, Texas, yesterday afternoon for poisoning his wife. The details of the crime have been told in these columns on several occasions. Not only were the murderer and his victims known here, but also the young lady, Miss Anna Whittlesey, formerly of Lebanon, Ill., for whom he formed an attachment, which was the motive of the crime.

Rev. George P. Hoster, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, received a message Sunday afternoon, notifying him of the death of his brother-in-law, C. C. Chew, in Philadelphia, of heart disease and he left this morning for that city to attend the funeral. He will probably be away over next Sunday.

 

Thursday, 9 Nov 1899:
ON TRIAL FOR HIS LIFE
James H. Tettaton, The Alleged Murderer of His Stepmother and Her Four Children.

The trial of James H. Tettaton, charged with murdering his stepmother and two half brothers and two half-sisters and then burning the bodies in their home, one mile north of Malden, on the night of March 25, 1899, was held last week at Kennett, Mo.  Tettaton was indicted in five cases for murder in the first degree, and the trial now going on is for murdering the oldest boy, George, a lad of about 15 years.

James H. Tettaton had up to this affair been highly esteemed as an honest and truthful man, and only a month before the horrible crime with which he is charged was committed, he was elected a member of the board of trustees of the village of Bernie.  He was administrator of his father, Wash Tettaton’s estate and was under bond for $5,000, but circumstantial evidence was so strong against him that even his own brothers, relatives and friends could not help but believe him guilty.  On the night of the crime, James H. Tettaton went to Malden and stated that he was going to go out and stay all night with his stepmother, Jane Tettaton, and pay her the balance he owned her on her part of the estate, $350.00.  When the neighbors arrived on the scene of the murder, he was found lying under a tree about twenty steps from the house, groaning, and taking on, saying that he had been beat to death, and that Jane and the children had been shot down and were burning up in the house.  Physicians soon arrived on the spot and discovered that he had nine gashes across the top of his head, only one being deep enough to penetrate the scalp.  His pocketknife was found by his side covered with blood, and on the fence nearby his pocketbook containing a few cents and a receipt for $350, dated a month before and covered with blood was found.  The receipt was signed “Jane Tettaton,” but evidence before the coroner’s jury went to show that the receipt was a forgery.  Some six weeks afterwards, it is claimed, that the officers found another receipt in the pocketbook dated on the night of the crime, for $350.00 and signed by Jane Tettaton. This receipt was also said to be covered with blood.

On April 26, Tettaton was brought to Cairo, and stayed here nearly all night under guard, but was taken from here to Jackson, Mo., where he was kept in jail until he was indicted by the grand jury at Kennett, as above stated.  Considerable interest has been aroused over the matter in Dunklin and Stoddard counties, and in fact the whole of Southeast Missouri.

The jury in the Tettaton murder case at Kennett, Mo., brought in a verdict of guilty at 10:30 Friday morning.  The case will be appealed to the supreme court if a motion for a new trial is overruled.

Lawson W. Baker, Jr., died Thursday from the effects of rheumatism, contracted while he was serving Uncle Sam in Cuba. He was a member of Co. M, of the Eighth Illinois colored regiment. He was 24 years of age.

(Lawson Baker married Melvina Gibson on 13 Dec 1871, in Alexander Co., Ill.  One marker in Cairo City Cemetery near Villa Ridge reads:  Lawson son of Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Baker Born Nov. 28, 1870 Died Nov. 1, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

William Evers, one of the Co. M boys, died Monday evening of consumption. He was 24 years of age. His remains were shipped to McKenzie, Tenn., where his brothers and sisters live. He lived here at 310 Twenty-fifty Street. Undertaker Batty took charge of the remains.

Mrs. Celia Wise, wife of J. O. Wise, employed at the Carey-Halliday Box Factory, died at her home on Sycamore Street, between Thirty-third and Thirty-fourth Monday, of pneumonia. She was 26 years of age. Her remains were interred at Wetaug Tuesday. Mr. and Mrs. Wise recently came here from Johnson County.

 

Thursday, 16 Nov 1899:
TOBIN'S BODY FOUND
Murder Mystery Cleared Up by the Discovery of His Skeleton.

ENDED HIS LIFE TO ESCAPE A MOB.

Suicide Evidently Followed a Few Hours after the Shooting of Major Fitzpatrick.—Coroner’s Jury Fully Identifies the Remains.—Story of the Tragedy, which Has Shocked the Community.

The mystery surrounding the whereabouts of Michael Tobin, the murderer of Maj. Fitzpatrick, superintendent of the National Cemetery at Mound City, was cleared up Friday forenoon when his dead body was found in the woods two miles northeast of Mound City.  An old colored woman out gathering nuts ran across his remains, and their appearance told the story of his death.

Tobin committed suicide.  After shooting Maj. Fitzpatrick on June 21^st last, and knowing escape was impossible and that an angry mob might get him at any moment, he tied a string to the trigger of his gun, tied the other end of the string to his foot, placed the barrel of the gun to his head and blew off the top of his head.

How the Body Was Found.

The remains were found by Jim Smothers, a negro boy, and his mother, at 11 o’clock Friday, in the woods between the Meridian Road and the Big Four track two miles above Mound City.  There is a heavy growth of underbrush and briers there and some timber.  The body lay flat on the ground with the head against an elm tree.  The gun lay lengthwise along the body.  A string was attached to the trigger of the gun and the left foot of the corpse.  The barrel of the gun had evidently been placed underneath his chin and the skull was in fragments.  The gun was rusty.  No flesh was left on the bones.  In the pockets were found a large number of shells loaded with No. 4 shot. The gun contained an empty cartridge.

Sheriff Gaunt, Judge Wall, State’s Attorney Bradley and Ed Fitzpatrick went to the spot where the body lay Friday afternoon and gathered up the remains and brought them to Mound City.  The body had not been molested when they found it, but the ribs fell apart as they attempted to gather them up.  They searched all around for a hat, but found none.

The colored boy who found the remains and brought the news to Sheriff Gaunt was nearly scared to death by his discovery.  He could not be induced to touch the body when he led the party back to the spot.

The Coroner’s Inquest.

            All that was left of Michael Tobin looked like a pile of old scrap out of an ash barrel.  The leg bones had not fallen apart and the trousers were still intact, while the shoes were still on his feet, but the body and head were all a scrap of dry bones and rotted clothing.  The skull was literally a mass of fragments, shattered by the charge of the gun.

            The coroner, J. C. Steele, empanelled a jury Saturday forenoon, with Marshal Reed as foreman and E. P. Easterday as clerk.  The remains, which had been placed in an ordinary grain sack, were then exposed to view, and a crowd of spectators, which had gathered at the courthouse, were allowed to pass around and view them.

            State’s Attorney Bradley conducted the examination.

            Monroe Tansel identified the gun as Tobin’s and recognized the shoes and suspenders.  He was employed at the cemetery.

J. E. Fitzpatrick, son of the deceased superintendent, accompanied L. M. Bradley, W. A. Wall, Sheriff Gaunt and Mr. Green to the spot where the body was found and testified as to its appearance there.  He testified that no hat, coat or vest were found on the spot.  He stated he belied from the appearance of the body that the man had taken his own life, and that the man was Michael Tobin.

            Leonard Armstrong, colored, identified the gun as Tobin’s by a dent in the stock.  The gun had belonged to John Sams, who had sold it to Tobin.  Witness had hunted with the gun.

            Tom Boyd, colored, identified the gun and shoes as Tobin’s, also suspenders.  Looked like the shells Tobin had.

            J. P. Nesbit identified suspenders as the ones he sold Tobin a few days before the murder of Maj. Fitzpatrick.

            Mrs. Tobin, widow of the deceased, identified the pants.  She was overcome when she saw the remains and fainted.  The ghastly sight was too much for her.  She also identified shoes and gun.

            George Eichhorn identified shoes as those he sold Tobin last April.  Had also repaired them since and identified his work on them.

The Verdict of the Jury.

            This was all the testimony before the coroner’s jury.  They were satisfied in their minds as to the identity of the body and they brought in the following verdict:  “We the jury find the remains to be those of Michael Tobin, and that he came to his death from some cause unknown, indications pointing to suicide.”

Find Exonerates the Sheriff.

            The discovery of the body proves utterly false all those stories about Tobin visiting his home and the sheriff being afraid to go into the house.

            Tobin was last seen crossing the Meridian Road about 3 o’clock in the afternoon and his body was found about three quarters of a mile from that point.  The dogs were taken to the point where he crossed the road, but they were young and not very good in following the scent.

            Tobin evidently killed himself soon after committing the crime, probably not later than the middle of the afternoon and long before his pursuers started on his trial with the dogs.

            All the stories published in the Telegram about Tobin’s movements and Sheriff Gaunt’s course are thus proved to be false.  They claimed Tobin visited his home in Mound City after dark on the day of the shooting, that the dogs tracked him there and that the sheriff was afraid to enter the house.  Tobin had ended his own life and his body was cold before darkness came.  The sheriff is thus exonerated from all charges of failure to do his duty.  He has spent lost of money and time since the murder was committed in trying to find Tobin, having advertised in detective journals and written to chiefs of police all over the country. This strange turn of affairs is a great relief to that official.

Story of Tobin’s Crime.

            The details of the horrible crime are as follows:  Tobin had been insolent and in the forenoon had some words with Maj. Fitzpatrick’s daughter, who was his housekeeper.  The Major sent her into the house and then told Tobin that his services would not be needed after that month.  Perhaps a few heated words were exchanged, and then Maj. Fitzpatrick went into the house for dinner.  Tobin went into the tool house and sat down, but did not each lunch, which was in there.  When the Major came out of the house and as he stood talking to Will Freeman, a colored employee, Tobin stepped out with a shot gun in his hands and aiming at the superintendent’s heart fired.  He was so close the flash set fire to the major’s clothing.  Maj. Fitzpatrick threw up one arm in time to receive the charge through the wrist before it went tearing through his heart.  Then he turned and took a few steps toward the house and then fell and expired on the steps.

            Tobin was in his shirtsleeves and his hat had fallen off, but he fled in that way, taking his gun with him.

Tettaton to Be Hanged.

J. H. Tettaton has been sentenced to be hanged at Kennett, Mo., on December 15th, 1899. An appeal however, has been taken to the supreme court and this cannot be passed upon until next spring, so this will act as a stay of execution.

MORTUARY.
Mrs. Hettie Isabell Cushman.

The death of Mrs. Hettie Isabell Cushman, wife of Harry A. Cushman, occurred at 2:30 o'clock Thursday afternoon. She had been ill for about three months, and a month ago went to Citonelle, Ala., in the endeavor to stay the results of quick consumption. The change had no beneficial results and Mr. Cushman brought her home just a week ago Friday, since which time she steadily grew worse.

Mrs. Cushman was born in Peoria, Ill., on June 28, 1859. Her parents removed to Columbus, Ky., and it was there she was wedded to Mr. Cushman, on October 17^th, twenty-three years ago. She came to Cairo with her husband soon after her marriage and made this city her home ever since. She leaves an immediate family consisting of a husband and six children, three boys and three girls, besides a mother, three brothers, and three sisters.

Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the Cairo Baptist church of which she was a member, Rev. W. S. Gee officiating.

The above is a brief sketch of the life and death of Mrs. Cushman, but it does not express the deep grief of the family and friends over her sudden demise, nor the loss, which has been sustained by her church and her cycle of acquaintances in her death. Mrs. Cushman was a consistent Christian and devoted wife and mother. She lived for her family and her children, and lived long enough to see her oldest boy grow up to manhood and her youngest child pass through the trying years of infancy and start off to school. Her life left its imprint upon not only those of her own household, but also upon her intimate friends.

Her sisters are Mrs. Will Pink and Misses Helen and Myrtle Sproat, and her brothers, James Sproat, of Memphis, and Charles and Thomas Sproat, of Peoria.

The remains of the late Michael Tobin were interred in the cemetery at Villa Ridge Sunday.

The murderer and suicide, M. Tobin, carried a $2,000 life insurance policy in the Franklin Life Insurance Company, of Springfield.

Joseph McNeil, aged 19 years, son of Mrs. and Mrs. Patrick McNeil, of this city (Mound City) died Saturday night and was buried at Beech Grove Cemetery today.

News has reached here that Frank Mosely was burned to death at his home near Vienna last week. He fell in the fireplace while suffering from a fit of epilepsy and was fatally burned before help reached him. He lived several hours after the accident. Mr. Mosely was a tenant on W. K. Underwood's farm west of here until recently and has several relatives here (Alto Pass).

Tom Sides, who lives on his farm south of town (Alto Pass), was almost fatally injured last week in a runaway. He had been to the cemetery to superintend the placing of a tombstone over his wife's grave, she having died several weeks ago, and after completing the job he procured a jug of whiskey and started home. He was found sometime afterward beside the road with several ribs broken and various other cuts and bruises that would have almost staggered the Christian Science healer and horse doctor that Mark Twain tells about. His team was found near his home, but a large share of the whiskey was missing and has not yet been recovered. Mr. Sides is now much improved. He will probably be more cautious in celebrating the death of his next wife.

(Thomas M. Sides married Susannah Grammer on 10 Sep 1878, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. C. S. Towne, of Cobden died last week Thursday. Her son, A. W. Towne, and wife, who live on Thirty-third Street, and her daughter, Mrs. C. U. Smith, went up to attend the funeral Friday.

(Charles U. Smith married Leta A. Towne, daughter of Charles S. Towne and Rosa M. Therman, on 10 Sep 1893, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Conductor S. W. Smith, of the Cotton Belt, died at the Halliday Hotel Monday afternoon, of pneumonia. He had been ill for several days. The remains were taken to Poplar Bluff that evening. His three sons and three daughters were with him at his death, but his wife was in Malden, not knowing his condition was so low.


Thursday, 23 Nov 1899:
Charley Gayer Passed Away Sunday Forenoon, After Long Illness.

Charles Gayer passed away at 4:15 a.m., Sunday morning, at his home, No. 905 Cedar Street.  His end had been expected for some time, as he had been quite low for a number of weeks.  The cause of his death was heart trouble, from which he had been a sufferer for about five years.  Even prior to that his health was poor and nine years ago he visited Germany in the hopes that relief might be found.

He has several very bad attacks of late, but toward the end he became unconscious and he passed away quietly.

Charles Gayer was born in Dermstein, Germany, on February 10, 1836.  He came to America when 16 years of age, stopping first in New York and then in Ohio.  In 1853 he came to Cairo and has since had a continuous residence here of nearly half a century.

Mr. Gayer was married here 40 years last Saturday, and he leaves a widow and one daughter, Mrs. Clara Aydt, of Dahlgren, Ill., who arrived just in time to see her father alive.  He also leaves one sister, Mrs. Knoenogel, of Mound City.

Mr. Gayer was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and was for twenty years one of the trustees.  He was a butcher by trade, but retired 15 years ago, having accumulated considerable means, which he invested largely in real estate.

Funeral services were held at St. Joseph’s Church at 10 o’clock Tuesday forenoon, and the remains were interred at Villa Ridge Cemetery.

(Charles Gayer married Anastatia Kerschner on 26 Nov 1859, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Robert W. Aydt married Clara M. Gayer on 7 Jun 1893, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Ernest Knoesnagel married Catherine Gayer on 11 Apr 1864, in Alexander Co., Ill.  One marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  Charles Gayer Trustee of St. Joseph Church 21 Years, Born Feb. 10, 1836, Dirnstein by Frankenhal, Bavaria, Germany, Died Nov. 19, 1899, Cairo, Illinois.—Darrel Dexter)

INITIATION KILLED LAFE DASON.

Cartridge Exploded and Fatally Wounded DeSoto Man.

Lafe Dason, a liquor dealer, died at DeSoto of an injury received while being initiated into the liquor dealers’ association at Murphysboro.  The lodge uses an instrument resembling a mandolin, with a long handle, which fired a black cartridge from one side, the other side being padded.

During the ceremony, and while Dason was bent till his head and feet almost touched, the paddle became reversed, and the cartridge exploded from the force of a blow dealt Dason’s body.  The wad or some substance struck Dason’s inner thigh from behind, making an ugly wound, but one, which at the time was not considered serious.  Dason returned to his home in DeSoto, took to his bed and gradually succumbed to his injuries.

The lodge members deplore the accident, for as such it is regarded, and there is said to be some talk of abandoning the use of the dangerous instrument in initiation ceremonies.  The coroner’s jury found that he came to his death by the use of a dangerous instrument in the hands of Gus Geiseke.

Death of James F. Parker.

James F. Parker, father of the Parker boys who run the store near the police headquarters, died Sunday forenoon of pneumonia, after a week’s illness.  The deceased was a native of Pulaski County, and was born at Villa Ridge 53 years ago.  He spent nearly his whole life on a farm in that county.  He leaves a widow and four children, a daughter, who made her home with her parents, and another son, besides the ones mentioned, who is employed at Woodward’s.

The remains were taken to Pulaski for burial Monday.

Mrs. Letitia Park Witherspoon, mother of Mrs. E. W. Halliday, is very low at her home in Louisville. A message yesterday said she was as low as possible. She was 80 years old on July 9^th, last. Mrs. Halliday has been with her for several weeks.

Miss Grace Eshleman left for Pulaski yesterday to be with her father, who is very ill and not expected to live.

Dr. S. H. Bundy, an old resident of Williamson County, died at Marion Monday night.

(Samuel H. Bundy married Sallie Carter on 13 Jun 1883, in Williamson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

John T. Halliday, a cousin of Maj. E. W. Halliday, died Sunday at his home in Gallipolis, Ohio.

Mrs. H. E. Cruse, a sister of Messrs. George W. and Elijah Dillow, died Monday night after a week's illness, from some spinal affliction as reported by Dr. Lence, who was her medical attendant.

(Earnest H. Cruse married Almedia Dillow on 15 Feb 1894, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in St. John’s Cemetery near Mill Creek reads:  Almeda wife of H. E. Cruse Born June 15, 1873 Died Nov. 21, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Mrs. Sarah Braddy, one of the oldest residents of this vicinity (Wetaug) died Monday night at the residence or her daughter, Mrs. Eli Sowers. She was aged about seventy years. She had been ailing all the fall, but Sunday morning her sickness developed unfavorable symptoms, brain lesion, from which she died. Her husband had been dead many years. She leaves four sons, Crawford Braddy, of Elco; Jacob, of Jonesboro; George, of this place (Wetaug); and Paul, of Des Moines, Iowa, and two daughters, Mrs. Eli Sowers and Mrs. John Cline, of this place. She was a woman who possessed many Christian graces of character and was well liked by everyone. The funerals services were conducted at Mt. Pisgah, of which church she had long been a worthy member.

(Eli Sowers married Malinda Braddy on 27 Mar 1873, in Union Co., Ill.  John Kline married Amanda Braddy on 30 Mar 1882, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Her marker in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Wetaug reads:  Sarah C. wife of Benjamin Braddy 1834-1899.  Come Ye Blessed.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Mrs. Cecillia Schoenborn, Nov. 21, 1899. (New Grand Chain)

Henry Hartline, of Union County, was a caller at H. J. Hudson's Tuesday, and brought the news to Mrs. Hudson of the death of Mrs. Amanda Braddy, her aunt. (Friendship)

(Henry J. Hudson married Annitta Lentz on 4 Oct 1876, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

News of another death on the family of Joseph Schoenborn, of Levings. One of his sisters died. She has been ill for some time past with pneumonia. (Friendship)

Death of John Barry.

John Barry died at his home, No. 316 Fourth Street, at 4 o'clock Tuesday afternoon, of dropsy, Deceased was formerly employed by the Illinois Central railroad, but more recently has worked for Engineer Charles Thrupp, as chainman. He leaves a wife, six children, three of whom, Mrs. Nellie Phillips and William and Robert Barry, live here. The others are a son and daughter in Chicago, and John Barry, a passenger conductor living at Jackson.

The deceased was 75 years of age and came to Cairo from Pierpont, N. Y., 47 years ago.

(John Barry married Mary Hogan on 5 Jun 1878, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Milton A. Phillips married Nellie Barry on 17 Feb 1890, in Alexander Co., Ill.  His marker in Calvary Cemetery at Villa Ridge reads:  John Barry Died Nov. 16, 1899 Aged 76 Years.—Darrel Dexter)

Died. C. H. Williford, aged 76, prominent at Jonesboro.

(His marker in Jonesboro Cemetery reads:  C. H. Williford Born Dec. 25, 1822 Died Nov. 13, 1899.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Mrs. Mattie Clements, wife of C. H. Clements, at Centralia.
            (Chris Clements married Mrs. Mattie Houdron Paris on 10 Nov 1890, in Marion Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Thursday, 30 Nov 1899:
TERRIBLE TRAGEDY
Committed at Murphysboro by Alderman Samuel Coad.

Killed His Wife and Then Sends a Bullet Through His Own Brain.—Details of the Crime Which Grew Out of Domestic Infidelity.—Verdict of Coroner’s Jury.

            At eight o’clock yesterday morning the dead bodies of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Coad, Sr., were found in the dining room at their residence in Murphysboro.

            The Independent gives details of the tragedy as follows:  Mrs. Coad was lying on her back with her left arm extended horizontally and right arm beside the body.  A large hole just above the right eye, around and in which was a quantity of congealed blood, told the cause of her death.  A strip of loose carpet upon which she was lying was scuffed up some, which indicated there might have been a struggle before or after she fell.  From the position of the furniture and the body it is assumed she as standing when the shot that killed her was fired.  The tongue protruded and was apparently considerably swollen.

            On the opposite side of the room, the table between them, lay Mr. Coad on his face.  Blood on the wall back and above had soaked into the sofa was evidence that Mr. Coad had been sitting upon the sofa when the ball that ended his life was fired.  He had fallen full-length face down upon the floor, the pistol falling under his body, where it was found by the coroner’s jury.

            The general opinion is that the tragedy took place between the hours of five and six o’clock, before the lamps were lighted or Mrs. Coad had begun to prepare the evening meal. The door of the cooking stove was open and on the back of Mrs. Coad’s hand was a patch of soot or smut which leads to the belief that she had just been in the act of starting a fire.  At about half past four she was talking to a neighbor at the gate and so far as we have been able to learn this was the last time she was seen alive by anyone outside of the house. At about the same time Mr. Coad was seen in the backyard by his grandson, Harry Sanguin, and was not seen again outside the house.

            The bodies were discovered by Mrs. E. B. Cox.  She went to the side or dining room door with Mrs. Coad’s little girl, Margaret May Bevans.  The door is of glass and after knocking, she looked in and made the horrible discovery.  She gave the alarm and Sheriff Fox and Coroner Creath took charge of the premises.

            For the past several months Mr. and Mrs. Coad were not living peacefully and time seemed to widen the breach until some two weeks ago Mr. Coad began to take meals with his daughter.  Negotiations were under consideration for a separation, but the terms could not be agreed upon.  The matter weighed heavily upon Mr. Coad’s mind, and while he was not a man who talked about his family affairs, during the past few days he spoke of his troubles to some of his more intimate friends, and by his conversation and conduct gave evidence of much mental anguish.

            The details of what occurred in that cozy dining room Monday afternoon will never be known to the world.  The most reasonable theory, however, is that the two unfortunate people came into the room, their trouble was renewed, leading to a violent quarrel and in a moment of insane frenzy the unfortunate man perpetrated the awful deed that dashed two lives into eternity.  Again, it is possible that the terrible act was premeditated and planned before hand.  However, the circumstances and conditions so far as known to the world do not give ground for this theory.

            Their inability to live amicably together may primarily be attributed to the great disparity in their ages.  Mrs. Coad was a young woman while Mr. Coad may be said to have passed to the shady side of man’s estate.  Having decided they could not live together the matter of separation was discussed, which carried with it the necessity of some agreement as to a vision of property. Mr. Coad recently learned that a deed he had made for some property to one of his sons was invalid which gave him great concern and weighed heavily upon his mind.  It was hoped by their friends all would finally be arranged satisfactorily, but no one expected the matter to result in the deplorable tragedy that has occurred.

            Samuel Coad was born in the old country and came to this city in 1868.  For a number of years he worked in the mines at Mt. Carbon; in 1878 he associated himself with C. O. Pettett in the grocery business, retiring from the firm in 1884.  Since that time he has not engaged in active business.  For a number of years he held the position of township treasurer an at the time of his death represented the people of the Fourth Ward upon the city council.  In his business venture he was successful and had accumulated considerable property.  In February, 1897, his first wife died, and in April 1898 he was married to Margaret Bevans, divorced wife of William Bevans.  He leaves five children, Samuel Jr., W. J., Mrs. Emma Sanguin, Mrs. Laura Burk and Leonard Coad.  His age was about 62 years.  Mrs. Coad’s age was 31 years.  She leaves a daughter, Margaret May Bevans, aged about 6 years.

            The verdict of the coroner’s jury is as follows:  We, the undersigned jurors, sworn to inquire of the death of Samuel Coad, Sr., and Maggie Coad, his wife, on oath do find that they came to their death by pistol shot wounds inflicted by the hands of Samuel Coad, Sr., at or about the hour of from 5 to 7 o’clock on the evening of November 27^th, 1899.

            (William J. Bevans married Margaret C. Arthur on 3 Oct 1889, in Jackson Co., Ill.  Harry E. Sangwin married Emma Jane Coad on 28 Feb 1884, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

As I write, it is reported that E. S. Shelton, who has resided in this city (Mound City) about twenty-five years, employed most of the time at the Mound City Stave factory, is dying. He is well respected by all who know him.

Two deaths occurred here (Thebes) last week. Mr. J. Lesch and T. B. Cobin. Both left wives and children to mourn their loss.

Died, Dr. S. H. Bundy, at his residence in Marion, aged 77 years. He was surgeon of the Ninth Illinois Volunteers during the Civil War.

Died, Mrs. L. E. Lingle, aged 55, at Jonesboro.

Died, Nov. 22d, ten miles east of Dongola, Mr. John Davis, age about 25 years. (Dongola)

Died, November 22^nd, two miles east of Dongola, Mrs. C. H. Fisher, aged about 26 years. Interment in the Union School House Cemetery.

(Charles H. Fisher married Mrs. Lydia A. Corzine Dawkins on 25 Mar 1893, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in Union Schoolhouse Cemetery near Dongola reads:  Lydia A. wife of Charles Fisher Died Nov. 22, 1899 Aged 31 Yrs., 5 Mos., & 6 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Tuesday, November 28th, an infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Manning. Interment in the Friendship Cemetery on Wednesday.

(Dennis L. Manning married Maranda Keller on 31 Dec 1893, in Union Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Our people (Villa Ridge) were surprised to hear of the death of Mr. Jake Eshleman. He died at the home of his son, Wardner, near Eastwood, last Wednesday and was interred Thursday afternoon at the Meridian Cemetery.

(Jacob W. Eshleman married Rachel E. Kelly on 23 Feb 1865, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)


Thursday, 7 Dec 1899:
MURDER AT VIENNA.

James Winchester Assassinated by Unknown Party.

Was Seated at His Own Fireside When Someone Fired Through the Window Blowing His Head Off.—Bloodhounds on Trial of the Assassin.

Vienna, Ill., Dec. 6.—James Winchester, a young farmer living five miles east of here, was assassinated Monday night while in front of his own fireplace.

The shooting was most deliberate.  Winchester, his brother Robert; Robert’s wife, her mother, Mrs. Redden, and a young boy were sitting in front of the fireplace talking.  Winchester was seated next to the window.  The assassin fired a load of buckshot, tearing off the left side of his head and sending a shower of glass from the window over Mrs. Redden.  Winchester lived about half an hour, but did not speak after he had been struck.  The back of the chair was covered with blood and several buckshot struck at different places in the room.

Sheriff Hankins was notified this morning, and rode out to the place.  A horse’s tracks leading up the road from a point a few yards north of the house were noticed.

Bloodhounds arrived from Paducah and were turned loose on the porch where the murderer was supposed to have stood when he fired the shot.  The dogs led the way through the yard and a narrow side gate to the field, then diagonally across this to a point where the horse’s tracks were noticed.  The sheriff said he had learned that a horse galloped along the Metropolis road half an hour after the shooting.

James Winchester was unmarried.  He was tired here eight years ago for the murder of Winston Elkins, and sentenced to eighteen months in the penitentiary, which he served.

This is the sixth killing in Johnson County since May.

            (Robert Winchester married Onedia Redden on 24 Sep 1893, in Johnson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

WILL BE A NOTABLE CASE.

Carterville Men on Trial for Murder at Vienna, Ill.

            Vienna, Ill., Dec. 6.—What will probably prove to be one of the most important criminal cases ever tried in Southern Illinois opened here Monday.  The formal style of the cause if the People versus William Smith and Thomas Jeremiah, white, Mike Brown, George Durden, James Hicks, Eli Booker, Ed Ritchie, Archie Brazzleton and Isaac McGee, colored, charged with the murder of Mrs. Kard, colored, at Lauder Station, near Carterville, June 30^th last.

            The defendants are all miners of Carterville who were engaged in the strike there, and the killing occurred during one of the numerous violent encounters between the strikers and the nonunion men who took their places.  The case came here for trial before Judge Vickers on a change of venue from Williamson County.  There is a great array of lawyers on both sides.

            When the case was called Monday the state announced itself ready for trial, but the defense moved to quash the proceedings and discharge the accused.  The motion was overruled and the defense asked until Tuesday morning to announce whether they are ready to proceed or not.  There are nearly 400 witnesses for both sides.

            Yesterday was taken up by the examination of prospective jurors.

            Four bailiffs were appointed by Judge Vickers, and they went to all portions of the county to secure talesmen.  They brought in 100.  Thirty men were examined, but not a juror was selected.  The selection of the jury alone will take a week, and it will require at least two weeks to submit the evidence, even supposing that half of the 300 witnesses subpoenaed are excused.  Although the answers to questions propounded by attorneys were satisfactory in almost every instance, the local attorneys on both sides were left to decide as to the acceptance or rejection of the men offered, and the rejections were due to the knowledge these men possessed of the personnel of the panel drawn.  Each side was 180 peremptory challenges, twenty for each defendant, and there are nine defendants.  In yesterday’s proceeding the defense used ten challenges and the state three.

            Judge Vickers called his court to order at 9 o’clock, and after a consultation between the attorneys on both sides the defense announced that it was ready, and the judge ordered the case opened.  The seats in the courtroom were all occupied by witnesses, as were the aisles and even the enclosed space in front of the judge.

            When both sides were ready Judge Vickers announced that all witnesses were excused and this served to clear the courtroom to the extent that all remaining found seats.

            The judge announced the rules governing the selection of jurors, which are those ordinarily prevailing, and a panel of twelve men was called.  The examination of talesmen for the state was conducted by Prosecuting Attorney Gillespie of Johnson County.  L. O. Whitnel examined talesmen for the defense.  The questions asked of the talesmen were designed to develop whether they were opposed to capital punishment, whether they were members of any church or secret society, and by the defense as to whether a prejudice exists relative to labor organizations.  An invariable question was as to whether the talesman was related to or acquainted with S. T. Brush, the Carterville mine owner.

            Many of the witnesses who were excused left here this evening, subject to a call from the court.

            J. M. H. Hunter, state president of the united Mine Workers’ Union, left here for Detroit, Mich., to attend the meeting of the Federation of Labor.  His place here will be filled by W. R. Russell, state vice president of the miners’ union.

Death of Mrs. Phillips.

Mrs. Nancy Vosburgh Phillips, mother of Mrs. M. Hyman and of Mrs. A. Comings, died at the home of her first named daughter on Eighth Street at 8 o'clock p.m. Thursday, after a long illness. The deceased was over 80 years old. She was born in what is now Rochester, N.Y., on March 4, 1819, and married Moses Phillips, coming to Cairo to live 33 years ago. She leaves another daughter, Mrs. Goodyear, of Hot Springs, Ark.

Funeral services will be held at the Hyman residence tomorrow afternoon and the remains will be interred at Villa Ridge.

(Max Hyman married Lillian S. Phillips on 25 Oct 1883, in Alexander Co., Ill.  Henry F. Goodyear married Harriet Phillips on 17 Sep 1868, in Jackson Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

MARTIN MURDER CASE.
Slayer of Joe Landrum on Trial at Courthouse Today.

William Martin, one of the negro murderers is on trial for his life in the circuit court yesterday. The case opened this forenoon. Attorney Frank Moore is defending the prisoner.

An account of Martin’s crime was given in these columns at the time it occurred as follows: William Martin shot and killed Joe Landrum on Poplar Street, near Nineteenth, Sunday afternoon, Oct. 8^th, about 3 o'clock. The trouble was over a woman and it appeared to be a cold-blooded affair. Landrum was unarmed.  Martin fired three shots with a 38-calibre pistol. The fatal shot entered Landrum's left temple. Martin claimed Landrum had threatened his life. After the shooting Landrum's lifeless body lay in the street and his slayer skipped out. He was caught on Park Avenue by Officer Green Lipe, who gave chase in a buggy.

Death of M. Siefke.

Mr. Mathias Siefke died at his home No. 323 Ninth Street, at 10 o'clock last Thursday after a few weeks illness of pneumonia.

He was about 66 years old, was born in Kattenchouson, Germany, and came to Cairo in 1858 and has lived here continuously since except six months he spent in Germany in 1865. He worked before and during the war for D. Hehl, shoemaker, on Ohio Levee, and conducted shoe shops of his own in different parts of the city since.

He married Miss Catherine Hill in 1865, who was a native of Hesser, Germany, and came to Cairo in 1860. His widow with three children survive him, one son and two daughters. The son lives in St. Louis. One daughter, Lizzie, is a sister at Loretto at Cape Girardeau, Mo., and the youngest daughter, Clara, is at home. The remains will be buried at Villa Ridge tomorrow.

(Mathias Siefke married Catharine Hill on 25 May 1865, in Alexander Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

MORTUARY.
William Jacob Eshleman.

Died, at the home of his son, Wardner, near Pulaski, at twelve o'clock Wednesday night, Nov. 22, 1899, William Jacob Eshleman, aged 61 years, 3 months and 13 days.

Deceased was born in Lancaster, Pa., August 9, 1838, and came to Illinois in 1860. Enlisted in the Union Army at Freeport, in Co. K, 46th Ills. Vol., in 1861 and served almost four years. After his return he located at Villa Ridge, and was married Feb. 23, 1865, to Miss Rachel Elizabeth Kelly. Six children, three daughters and three sons, have been born to them, five of whom survive him—Mrs. Carrie Cochran, of Brayfield, Ill., Wardner, of Pulaski, John M., of Oakland, Cal., Hugh B., of Pulaski, and Miss Grace, of Cairo, Ill. they were all at his bedside when he died, except John, who did not reach home until Monday, too late to see him.

Mr. Eshleman was taken with pneumonia Monday night, but was not thought to be dangerous until Wednesday morning at 3 o'clock, when he had hemorrhage of the lungs, which lasted until a short time before he died. He was unconscious from the time the hemorrhage began until his death, which occurred just as the clock struck twelve Wednesday night.

Funeral services were held at the residence of his son Wardner, Thursday afternoon, Rev. T. P. Brannum officiating. He was laid to rest beside his wife, who died Dec. 31, 1886, in the Redden graveyard, near his old home at Villa Ridge.

His health had been very poor for years, and he suffered constantly, yet his death came as a shock to his family and the community in which he lived. he died as he had lived, a loving and devoted father, a kind neighbor and a good citizen.

Mr. John Eshleman, of Colorado, came home last week to attend the funeral of his father. (Villa Ridge)

Mr. R. Lee Johnson, who was visiting his wife and family of Mrs. Thomas Buckle, was called home last Thursday morning by the death of his brother. (Villa Ridge)

David Lentz, an old settler who formerly lived near here (Wetaug), died at the home of his brother, Moses Lentz, near Elco, Tuesday night of consumption.

Died, Thanksgiving morning, at his home two miles north of Ullin, Henry Morford, of catarrhal pneumonia. He had been sick eleven days. He was a most excellent citizen, a kind husband and father, and his decease in the prime of life was a sad blow to his family and friends. His wife and three little children have the sympathy of the entire community (Wetaug). He was a member of the Dongola lodge of A. F. & A. Masons, of the Dongola lodge of I. O. O. F., and the Anna Encampment of Odd Fellows. The remains were interred at the I. O. O. F. Cemetery at Dongola, the funeral services being conducted by the Dongola lodge of Odd Fellows.

(H. C. Morford married Theodocia E. Brown on 10 Sep 1885, in Pulaski Co., Ill.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Monday, Dec. 4, 1899, Mr. Calvin Penrod, aged about 62 years. Mr. Penrod has resided in Dongola for the past 35 years. Funeral services were conducted at the residence of George Gurley, Tuesday afternoon at 3 o'clock Rev. Jacob Karraker officiating. Interment in the Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Resolutions of respect, adopted by the Dongola lodge I. O. O. F., No. 343, December 4, 1899, on the death of Henry C. Morford, who died Nov. 30, 1899.

Whereas, It has pleased the supreme ruler of the universe in his infinite wisdom to remove from out midst our very worthy and faithful brother, Henry C. Morford, a true Odd Fellow, a kind father, a loving husband and an esteemed friend, one in whom not only the members of the Dongola lodge respected but was a trusted friend by all who knew him. Realizing the loss to our order in general and this lodge in particular by the reason of his death and the honor that he has justly merited,

Therefore, be it resolved That we, in the death of Brother Morford, this lodge has sustained a great loss, the widow a kind husband, the children a loving father, and the community a good citizen. And

Resolved, Further, that we extend to the family of our late brother, our heartfelt sympathy in their deep sorrow and commend them to our Great Master, who doeth all things well. And further resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be spread upon the records of this lodge, and a copy be sent The Citizen, Cairo Illinois, and the Democrat, Anna, for publication, and a copy sent to the family of our late brother; that the charter of this lodge be draped in mourning for thirty days, and that the members wear the usual badge of mourning for the same space of time.
W. A. Ridge
P. W. Thompson
M. M. Casper, Committee

 

Thursday, 14 Dec 1899:
WILL HANG DEC. 29

William Martin, Slayer of Joe Landrum, Must Pay Penalty on the Gallows.

FIRST HANGING IN TWENTY YEARS.

Jury Brought in Verdict Last Saturday and Fixed Punishment at Death.—Judge Robarts Overruled Motion for New Trial and Passed Sentence Wednesday.

“We, the jury, find the defendant guilty as charged in the indictment and fix his punishment at death.”

The above verdict was reached in the Martin case at 10 o’clock Saturday forenoon.  One of the jurors who handed the written verdict to Judge Robarts was trembling like a leaf.  The prisoner however showed no signs of weakening. He bore the news stoically.

Attorney Frank More made the usual motion for a new trial and it will be argued at 9 o’clock Monday forenoon.

The case went to the jury at 3 o’clock Friday afternoon.  From that time until 9 o’clock Saturday the jury stood 10 to 2 for hanging. The two jurors who held out were H. H. McGee, who runs the peanut roaster at the corner of Commercial Avenue and Eighth Street, and George Kerr, who works at Smith Bros. wagon yard.

At 9 o’clock Saturday forenoon Kerr went over to the majority side and McGee followed after an hour’s further deliberation.  Both of these men favored  life sentence in the penitentiary.

The jury was made up as follows:  Joshua Lee, Sandusky; Louis Pool, Elco; John Gosset, Willard; and John Turner, Paul Clark, Joe Kelly, H. H. McGee, Miley Axley, George Kerr, Thomas Wilson, Len Skinner and Austin Bremley.

It is a bit singular that Joshua Lee was on the jury that hung the last man executed in Alexander County—Charles Glass, twenty years ago.

Louis Pool, another one of the jurors, was on the Wilson murder case.

The trial was fair and impartial one for the defendant.  Attorney Frank Moore did his best to save the prisoner’s neck.  There was the faintest shadow of self-defense, and he made all that was possible of it.  A knife was found on the spot where the killing occurred and the defendant claimed that Joe Landrum, his victim, had rushed at him with the knife in his hand threatening to kill him, and that he then shot him.  The evidence of other witnesses of course contradicted this.

State’s Attorney Butler made a strong fight for the People.  He said Saturday forenoon:  “The verdict is all right.  It will have a wholesome effect upon the community.”

The last legal hanging in Alexander County was on September 1, 1879.  John Hodges was then sheriff.  Charles Glass paid the penalty of the law at the gallows for a most brutal murder.  He killed a sleeping man with an ax by striking him in the head.

The crime for which William Martin will suffer the law’s severest penalty was committed on Sunday afternoon, October 8^th last.  Joe Landrum was standing talking to some other colored men on Poplar Street near Nineteenth when Martin came along and shot him down.  He fired three times, two of the shots being fired after Landrum lay prostrate, upon the ground.  The crime was a most brutal one.

Jailer Scott Cauble says Martin exhibited lots of nerve.  His pulse beat had not quickened in the least by the verdict.  Martin had little to say.  Mr. Cauble asked him if the trial worried him and he replied, “Yes, it did worry me some.”  There was a deathlike stillness in the jail when Martin was taken back to his cell.  The other prisoners seemed to have had a premonition that something dreadful had occurred.

The jury in the Martin case did nothing more than their duty in pronouncing the death penalty upon Martin.  Martin’s life was no more sacred than was that of the man he slew.  Nor is it any more sacred than the lives of scores of other colored men and white men in this city, who may be the victims of the murderers’ bullets if crime is never punished here.  The jury is to be commended for their courage.  The task was not a pleasant one, but was performed in manly fashion.  The community is indebted to these twelve men for their strict performance of duty.

William Martin, the murderer of Joe Landrum, will pay the penalty for his crime on the gallows on December 29^th next.  The court pronounced the sentence this forenoon.

The scene in the courtroom was an impressive one.  Attorney Moore had concluded his argument for a new trial, when the court reviewed the evidence, concluding with his decision overruling the motion.  During all the time the court was speaking, the defendant sat with unmovable features, and eyes fixed steadily upon the court.  The constant twitching of his fingers was the only indication of nervousness.  Then, when he had concluded this, the court asked the prisoner to stand while he delivered the sentence of death.  Martin seemed more calm than before, during the trying ordeal, and stood staring steadily at the judge, with an occasional appealing glance at his attorney, Mr. Moore.

Judge Robarts’ voice was filled with emotion and his eyes welled with tears as he pronounced the words that would deprive the prisoner of his life.  The judge’s heart was overflowing with pity, yet he manfully performed this painful duty.  His sentence was as follows:

“William Martin, you were indicted by a lawful grand jury at the present term of this court, on the 11^th day of October, 1899, charging you with murder.  It appearing to the court by your own statement that you were without means with which to employ counsel to assist you in making your defense to this charge, the court appointed to defend you Mr. Frank M. Moore, a young lawyer of the Alexander County bar of marked ability and much shrewdness for one of his years and experience in the profession.  Your case was continued to the adjourned term that you might have ample time to prepare for the trial of your cause.  When brought to the bar of this court you plead  not guilty to the indictment preferred against you, in which you were charged with the unlawful and malicious killing of Joseph Landum on the 8^th day of October of this year.  Upon this charge you were placed upon trial and tried by a jury of your peers of your selection.  These twelve men listened patiently to the witness called by the state and for yourself, who apparently without passion or prejudice, gave in detail the facts and circumstances surrounding the homicide, much of which was shocking beyond measure, and which, taken too together, made against you a clear case of willful and unprovoked murder, establishing your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  By your own evidence the jury would have been warranted in finding you guilty, for the circumstances surrounding the shooting, as told by yourself, showed the shooting to be maliciously done.  If you were, in good faith, trying only to prevent the deceased from arresting you, it is hardly possible you would have fired two shots into his body after you had fired a deadly shot into the side of his head, the first shot causing him to turn his back to you before you could shoot a second time.  This circumstance alone is sufficient to induce the belief that you were not acting in good faith—with only a desire to save your own life or to avoid receiving great bodily harm—but that you had malice toward the deceased and was bent on taking his life; that you were not satisfied that the first shot had killed him, and, to be reasonably certain that he would die you thought it necessary to shoot him twice more.

“This is a reasonable deduction from the story you told upon the witness stand of your bloody deed.  The four witnesses called by the People—the only witnesses who claimed to have witnessed the tragedy—all agree in their statements that the deceased was standing still upon the sidewalk of a public street, engaged in conversation with them, with both his hands in his pantaloons pockets, when you came into the crowd and immediately, without warning except to speak his name, and without giving him time to move from his tracks, you fired a shot into the left side of his head.  It appears from the whole evidence the only provocation you had for your act was jealously caused by an infatuation you both had for the same woman.  The jury heard all the evidence, and after considering of their verdict for 20 hours returned into open court their unanimous verdict finding you guilty as charged, and fixed your punishment at death.  The jury have found that without provocation, and with malice aforethought, you took the life of Joseph Landum, and they were warranted in so finding from the evidence.  The plain duty of the trial court is fixed by the statute, that of entering up judgment on the verdict, and pronouncing sentence of death.

“William Martin, you slayed Joseph Landum in a malicious and wanton manner; you sent his soul into eternity without giving him a chance to cry to his Maker and Redeemer for mercy; the law is more charitable to you.  Although upon the scaffold, yet an opportunity is offered that you make your peace with your Creator, and better prepare your soul to meet the Great Judge of the Universe who will fix your sentence for punishment through all eternity, judging you by the deeds done in body in this life.  We are taught there is no hope of redemption beyond the tomb.

“William Martin, it is the judgment of this court that on the 29^th day of December, 1899, between the hours of one o’clock a.m. and one o’clock p.m., you be hanged by the neck until you are dead.  And may the God of love, and the God of forgiveness have compassion for you and have mercy on your soul.

“The sheriff will execute the judgment of the court in accordance with the statute in such cases made and provided.”

When Judge Robarts finished his sentence, two negro women, relatives of the defendant, burst out crying and for some minutes this continued until they finally left the room.  Everyone present was moved by solemnity of the whole affair.

 

POWELL GETS TIME

His Case Continued Until the February Term of Court

Presents an Affidavit that Robert Mitchell an Important Witness, Is Absent.—People’s Witnesses Placed Under $100 Bond for Their Appearance at That Time.

            Riley Powell, murderer of City Marshal Elmo Frie, of Charleston, Mo., will not be tried at the present term of circuit court.  The awful fate of William Martin was too much for him, and he secured a continuance until next February.  Mr. Townley, his attorney, moved for a continuance and presented an affidavit setting forth that Robert Mitchell, an important witness for the defense, was not in attendance, and that his presence was desired at the trial.  The court granted the continuance and set the trial for the first day of the February term.

            The witnesses for the People were recognized in the sum of $100 to appear at the February term. They are:  John Muscovally, Ed Ellis, Charles French, Milton Apperson, George Cuff, Quinn Winston, Ida Resch, Lena Berry, A. L. Stewart, James Lefferty, R. A. Walker, Will Piper, Lawrence Bell, Ode Bell, Ed Axley, and Henry Dickmeyer.

           
Died, Edmund Day, of DuQuoin, aged 75.

Died, Dr. W. F. Mcolin, of DuQuoin.

FOUR MEN DROWNED.
In the Ohio by the Overturning of a Skiff Opposite Caledonia.

Mound City, Dec. 7.—Tuesday afternoon at about 4 o'clock, while seven colored men were attempting to cross the river from the Kentucky shore to Olmstead, they were thrown from the skiff and four were drowned: William Nichols, Ben Lewis, Wiley Burgess, and unknown man who lived at Paducah. James Brown, James Vincent and Sam Rose escaped the watery grave. The men were loading a barge with timber for a Paducah firm and all but one lived in this county. They were turning home from work when the high winds capsized the skiff.

COLLINS CASE CONTINUED
Negro Murderer Will Stand Trial at February Term of Court

The Collins murder case has been continued until the February term of the circuit court. Monday Attorney Miles F. Gilbert, who has been appointed to defend him, presented an affidavit signed by the defendant, to the effect that he could secure the presence to two witnesses which would help him to sustain the charge of self defense, if he had more time.

THE MARTIN VERCICT.

The verdict in the Martin case Saturday has caused profound satisfaction from all sides. The crime of murder had become so common in this community and equitable punishment so rare that there seemed to have grown up a feeling that human life was of little value, and the taking of it of little concern, but the people were thoroughly aroused over the miscarriage of justice in the Wilson case and they demanded that this thing should stop. The aroused public opinion had its influence upon the Martin jury. It nerved them to do their duty.

There should be no rejoicing over this verdict, for the taking of human life is a serious matter under any circumstances. The matter should not be made light of. But there should be a feeling of relief that confidence can be placed in courts and juries to execute the law and punish offenders.
The Martin jury has done its duty. The hanging of Martin will not pay the penalty for all the murders committed in Alexander County. Two more murderers are awaiting trail. Two more juries will be expected to do their duty. As Judge Robarts expressed it this forenoon, it is not the severity of the punishment, that will check crime, but the certainty that punishment will come. If the juries in these other two murder cases will do their duty, then we can hope to have less crime in this city.

Mr. Edward Hargis' baby died last Friday evening and was buried in Diswood in the Hargis Cemetery. (Vick)

Mrs. Lizzie L. Davenport, an old and highly respected citizen of Ullin, died last Tuesday of dropsy, complicating cancer.

(One marker in Ullin Cemetery reads:  Lydia A. Davenport Born Feb. 17, 1837 Died Dec. 6, 1899.  John S. Davenport Born Aug. 21, 1821 Died Feb. 12, 1886.—Darrel Dexter)

Died, Thursday, Dec. 7, 1899, Mrs. Allie Shourd, wife of John Shourd, of Friendship, of pneumonia fever. She was aged about thirty years. She was the daughter of S. B. Posey, a prominent farmer of that neighborhood and was highly esteemed as a housewife and as a mother. She leaves a husband and five small children.

(John F. Shourd married Allie Posey on 22 Feb 1889, in Pulaski Co., Ill.  Her marker in Cache Chapel Cemetery near Ullin reads:  Alla B. wife of John F. Shourd Died Dec. 7, 1899 Aged 51 Yrs., 3 Mos., & 3 Ds.  He took thee from a world of care An everlasting bliss to share.—Darrel Dexter)

Oscar Shourd, of Cairo, was called to see his brother's wife Friday, but did not get here (Friendship) until after her death.

Another of Mr. Snaire's children died and the two were buried together on Monday. Mr. Snaire has the sympathy of the community (Friendship) in is trouble.

Mrs. Allie Shourd, the wife of Mr. John Shourd and the youngest daughter of S. B. Posey died last week and was buried at Cache Chapel Cemetery last Friday. She had pneumonia.

L. W. Schoenbom passed through our place and gave the news of the death of a young man by the name of Snaire, of Levings. Funeral and burial Monday at Grand Chain

Richard McClelland died Monday after lingering for sometime with consumption (New Grand Chain).

 

Thursday, 21 Dec 1899:
The widow of Mike Tobin, who murdered Major Fitzpatrick and afterward committed suicide, is to receive her husband's insurance in a short time, as the proof of death was prepared today.
 
 
Mrs. Ira Casper, wife of the station agent at Ullin, died last week from an operation at Murphysboro.
 
Ira Casper's wife died last Friday at Murphysboro.  Mr. Casper resides at Ullin, but had taken his wife to Murphysboro for treatment.

(Ira S. Casper married Annie Sinks on 10 Sep 1899, in Union Co., Ill.  Her marker in St. John’s Cemetery near Dongola reads:  Annie wife of Ira S. Casper Died Dec. 16, 1899 Aged 17 Yrs., 7 Mos., & 23 Ds.—Darrel Dexter)
 
In Memory of Frank J. Parker.

WHEREAS, It has pleased our Heavenly Father to remove from this life our friend and brother, Frank J. Parker.

We desire to express our appreciation of his worth and our sorrow at his departure.  Therefore be it resolved, that we deeply sympathize with the members of his family and especially with her whose plans of life were closely interwoven with his and to whom this bereavement comes as it comes to no other.  We pray for God's comforting grace upon the sorrowing ones and for a deeper consecration of our own hearts and lives.

REVOLVED, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family and that this token of our esteem be placed upon the records of the Christian Endeavor Society of which he was a member and that we also request their publication in the Pulaski Enterprise and Cairo Citizen.
William M. Stringer,
M. J. Stringer,
Abbie Bankson, Committee
Abbie Bankson, secretary; William Stringer, president.
Pulaski, Ill., November 25, 1899.
 
Riley Powell is a dangerous negro.  He is continually plotting to make trouble.  Friday he passed a note out to Moses Taylor, who was outside the jail.  The note was addressed to Powell's wife and asked her to bring him something to eat and to conceal his corn knife in a piece of cake.  Taylor was discovered and was promptly put in jail.  He is a porter at the Planters House.  It is believed Powell would have used the knife to secure his liberty if the plan had not failed.  Attorney Townley read the riot act to his client and told him if he didn't behave he would give up the case.  Powell and Collins both believe their necks will stretch.
 

Thursday, 28 Dec 1899:
MARTIN READY TO DIE.
Condemned Murderer Baptized in Jail Yesterday.—Gallows Ready.

William Martin, the condemned murderer, was baptized in the jail yesterday by Elders Knowles and Crompton.  He has professed conversion and says he believes he will be saved.

His funeral will be held at Elder Crumpton's church at 3 o'clock Sunday afternoon.

The gallows has been completed and was tested yesterday.  A heavy bag was attached to the rope and the trap was sprung.  The drop made a noise that could be heard all over the courthouse.  Everything is ready for the execution tomorrow forenoon.  According to the sentence, Martin will be hung between the hours of 1 a.m. and 1 p.m.  Sheriff Hodges has not made known the hour of execution.

 

CHRISTMAS TRAGEDY.
Josh Sheldon Shot by a Negro on Upper Commercial Monday Afternoon.
His Assailer Then Skipped Out
And Was Captured at Grand Chain on Tuesday.—Shooting the Result of a Christmas Spree.—A Statement by the Parties Involved.

Josh Sheldon, better known as "Shorty" Sheldon, was shot in the breast Tuesday afternoon by a one-armed negro named Thomas.  The tragedy occurred at the corner of Twenty-ninth and Commercial between 3 and 4 o'clock, in front of the restaurant kept by a colored man named F. B. Robinson.

Sheldon was in company with Ed Allen and Will Brackey.  The three had been drinking.  Just what happened to provoke the shooting is hard to learn.  Brackey was seen Tuesday forenoon by a representative of this paper, but was very reluctant to talk about the affair.  He stated, however, that nothing had occurred to cause the deed.  The first he knew was that the negro, Thomas, who was behind them, cursed them and said he wished they would jump onto him.  The three men wheeled around and Thomas fired and Sheldon fell.  The negro then started to run, and he went out Twenty-ninth Street to Sycamore, and up that street.  Brackey followed for a while but was unarmed and could not capture him.  Brackey could not say how far the negro was from him when he fired, nor whether Thomas' right or left arm was gone.

Mrs. Robinson, wife of the restaurant keeper, was alone in the restaurant when the shooting occurred.  She was sick in bed Tuesday, so was no disturbed, but her husband said she knew little of the affair.  He said the wounded man lay out in front about twenty minutes before he was removed.
Sheldon boards with his brother, W. A. Sheldon, at 217 Thirty-second Street.  Mrs. Sheldon, his brother's wife, knew no particulars of the shooting.  Both the brothers have been working for Three States Lumber Company.

Chief Mahoney notified all conductors of trains leaving Cairo to be on the lookout for a light colored, one-armed negro, and Tuesday he received a dispatch from Conductor Church of the Big Four passenger train, that left here at 5:45 a.m., to the effect that a light, one-armed negro had got on his train at America for Grand Chain.  The conductor notified the officer at Grand Chain, and Thomas was immediately arrested by W. A. McIntire, who brought him down on the noon train.

State's Attorney Butler, in company with Chief Mahoney, called upon Sheldon Tuesday and made a statement under oath, practically as follows:  “My age is 32 years.  I was a member of Co. L, 23d United States regulars, and served in the United States Army in the Philippine Islands.  Served out my time and was discharged.  Have been home four weeks.  Monday about 3 o'clock in the afternoon I was going up Commercial Avenue to my brother's residence, in company with Will Brackey and Ed Allen.  When we reached the north side of 29^th Street I heard a disturbance in the building on the corner.  We stopped to listen and see what it was.  Had been there but a very short time when a one-armed colored man (a stranger to me) ran out of the building hurriedly with a revolver in his hand.  He saw me and aimed at me and before I could drop he shot me through the muscles of my left arm between the elbow and the shoulder, and it entered my left side, and the doctor informed me it has penetrated my lung.  Just before he shot and as he drew his gun on me he said:  ‘__ ____ white folks, you ain't no good at all.’  I was about three steps behind Allen and Brackey.  I had no idea of getting into trouble.  I saw him draw his gun from his pocket.  I thought he was going to shoot either Allen or Brackey, but he drew down on me.  I had no weapon on me; nothing but a ten-cent Barlow knife and that was in my pocket.  When I was shot I fell.  I laid there for some time.  I did not recollect anything that I recall after the shooting until 11 o'clock that night.  I make this statement in view of death coming to me shortly from the wound."

Lewis Thomas, who did the shooting, made a rather wandering statement to Mr. Butler.  He told of a quarrel in the saloon at the corner of Twenty-eighth and Commercial in which Rowdy Brackey abused an old man.  He (Thomas) was standing at the corner of Twenty-ninth and Commercial when the three passed.  Rowdy said:  “We ought to kill some of the black ___ ___ __ ___.”  Thomas replied “I think it is a sin for you fellows to jump on an old fellow like that, and hit him with a broom stick like you did."  Sheldon then said:  "What you got to do with it?"  He advanced toward him (Thomas) and kept coming.  Thomas then pulled his gun and fired.  He made two or three steps before he fell; was about twelve or fifteen feet away when he fired.  Sheldon had his right hand in his front pants pocket as he advanced.  Thomas thought he was going to shoot him.  After shooting Thomas ran to his home 313 Twenty-ninth Street and stopped for a few minutes.  He threw his pistol in a heap of rubbish behind the house.  It had four shells in it.  Then he left and went up in the woods above town, returning after dark.  Tuesday morning he walked up the Big Four track to America and took the train for Grand Chain, where he was arrested.

The statements of all parties are widely different and it is hard to get at the real facts.  Thomas was brought down and put in the county jail Tuesday noon.

Joshua Sheldon, who was shot Christmas afternoon, died from his wound at 3 o'clock yesterday morning.
 
Nathan Morris, a very old colored man, who lived near this city (Mound City) was found dead Monday morning.  The coroner took charge of the remains and seen to the burial today.
 
Uncle Blake Hargis, one of our (Diswood) oldest neighbors, who was stricken with a paralytic stroke, died December 26^th, aged 79 years.  He leaves two sons several grandchildren and a host of friends.
 
Robert Clancy, second son of Maurice Clancy, died of malarial fever last Friday at 4 p.m., aged 12 years.  Robert was a bright and intelligent boy, always kind and loving to his younger brothers and sisters.  He was buried at Villa Ridge last Saturday afternoon.  (Villa Ridge)

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