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Births, Marriages & Deaths From The Carbon Advocate, 1876-1877
This is the second in a series of abstracts from the Lehighton Newpaper, The Carbon
Advocate.
Like the first part, in extracting the births, marriages & deaths, I have not included the
following types of items:
1. Items that did not pertain to Carbon or the surrounding counties. I excluded anything west
and south of Berks County, and south of Lehigh & Northampton Counties. I generally included
anything north of Carbon county.
2. Estate notices.
3. Murder trials.
4. Coroner inquests when they are not part of the original death notice.
In extracting these records, I have copied items as completely and exactly as possible. I
have not attempted to correct any spelling errors. If I felt a need to add any text, I did so in
brackets. Although most of the papers on microfilm were easy to read, there were some times
where the image quality made things difficult. Because of this, researchers are advised to consult
the original records.
Volume 4, Number 6, Saturday, January 1, 1876
Current Events. Noah Morgan, aged seventy-two, employed as watchman at a Luzerne county
colliery, met with a singular death last weak. He and a boy were on the outside of a mine, and as
several cars were let down an incline plane rapidly a portion of a mine rail at the top flew up and
struck him. He was knocked insensible and died from his injuries.
Local and Personal. The family of Thomas Crago of Dyberry, Wayne county, has become nearly
extinct by diptheria. Mr. Crago had lost four children this month, having buried two on Sunday.
Himself and servant girl were taken sick last week, and died on Thursday. The wife died a few
months ago. Only two children are left of the family, and they are reported dangerously ill with
the same disease.
Local and Personal. A fatal explosion of fire damp occurred Tuesday in Hutchinson's mine, near
Kingston, Luzerne Co. A wall had been erected to shut off a portion of the mine not in use, but
an opening was made in it Tuesday, and some boys, in opposition to orders, went through with a
burning lamp. A terrific explosion followed. Dennis Foster and Martin Ryan were instantly
killed, and James Hutchinson was blown into a poor of water and held face downward by debris
until he was drowned. Several others working near the scene of the explosion were injured.
From the County Seat. The funeral of Mrs. M. M. Dimmick was largely attended on Saturday.
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Volume 4, Number 7, Saturday, January 8, 1876
From the County Seat. A fatal shooting affray took place at Summit Hill on Wednesday
morning. This time we understand a "Molly Maguire" was the victim, a man by the name of
McGeagan. Two shots taking fatal effect, we did not learn the cause of the affray, neither who
committed the deed.
From the County Seat. E. W. Harlan, died at his residence on Race street, on Thursday
afternoon.
MARRIED, PETER-MANTZ.--On the 5th ult., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Mr. John A. Peter,
and Miss Emaline Mantz, both of Lehighton.
MARRIED, HONTZ-DILCHER.--On the 5th ult., by the same, Mr. William Hontz, and Miss
Leila Dilcher, both of Mahoning.
MARRIED, SCHAEFFER-SNYDER.--On the 12th ult., by the same, Mr. F. W. Schaeffer, of
Schuylkill, and Miss S. S. Snyder, of West Penn.
MARRIED, KNEPPER-LEILY.--On the 25th ult., by the same, Mr. William Knepper, and
Miss Carolina Leily, both of West Penn.
MARRIED, REHRIG-MULHEARN.--On the same day, by the same, Mr. James H. Rehrig,
and Miss Anna Mulhearn, both of Lehighton.
MARRIED, KLEINTOP-BEER.--On the 31st ult., by the same, Mr. Joseph Kleintop, and Miss
Emaline Beer, both of Lower Towamensing.
MARRIED, GOMBERT-HONTZ.--On the 2nd inst, by the same, Mr. Henry Gombert, and
Miss Emaline Hontz, both of Mahoning.
MARRIED, ANDREAS-COLE.--On the 24th ult., by Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr. Amandus Andreas,
of Washington Twp., to Miss Marvetta Cole, of Kreidersville.
MARRIED, CONELLY-ELLES.--On the 8th ult., by Rev. G. T. Haines, Mr. John Conelly, of
Mauch Chunk and Miss Mary Ellis, of Franklin.
DIED, KOONS.--On the 2nd ult., in Lehighton, George Henry, son of Willoughby and Sarah
Koons, aged 2 years, 7 months and 22 days.
DIED, SITTLER.--On the 6th ult., in Mahoning, Edilia J., daughter of Charles and Pricilla
Sittler, aged 2 years, 5 months and 17 days.
DIED, BROBST.--On the 12th ult., in Weatherly, Chas, husband of Sally Brobst, aged 45 years,
6 months and 28 days.
VARITIES. Mary Fister, aged seventy-four years, died suddenly at pottsville on Monday. Her
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death, it is believed, resulted from eating an apple or orange, a portion of which is supposed to
have lodged in her throat.
Volume 4, Number 8, Saturday, January 15, 1876
Local and Personal. The Post-office Department was advised Monday of the death of John
Sieberling, postmaster at Lynnville, in Lehigh county, Pa. Mr. Sieberling was appointed
postmaster in February 1820, and held the office continuously until his death.
From the County Seat. August Hartley, a resident of East Mauch Chunk, died on Saturday
afternoon, at 3 o'clock, of dropsey. The funeral took place on Monday afternoon, and was
attended by a large number of friends. Deceased was a member of the 28th Pa. volunteers, and
in consequence many of the old soldiers accompanied his remains to their last resting place.
From the County Seat. Mr. E. Harlan, who died at his home on Race street, on Thursday of last
week, was buried on Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The funeral was a very large one, in fact the
largest we ever saw in Mauch Chunk. Four orders to which Mr. Harlan belonged followed his
remains to the grave, viz: Masons, Odd Fellows, American Mechanics and Knights of Honor. It
seemed that every man in town was in file so long was the procession. The Masons performed
the ceremonies at the grave, at the conclusion of which other orders followed in file and dropped
green twigs into the grave. In the evening Rev. Mr. Wiggins, of the M. E. church, preached the
funeral sermon. The church was crowded.
MARRIED, SCHAFFER-ANDREWS.--On the 3d inst., by Rev. L. K. Derr, S. J. Schaffer and
Miss M. B. Andrews, both of Walnutport.
MARRIED, SEMMEL-HANKEE--On the 4th inst., by the same P. A. Semmel and Miss Ellen
J. Hankee, both of Slatington.
MARRIED, LEIBENGUTH-ANTHONY.--On the 6th Nov., by Rev. R. B Kistler, James M.
Leibenguth and Miss Lizzle L. Anthony, both of Cherryville.
MARRIED, KOCH-BRYFOGEL.--On the 2nd inst, by the same, Thomas J. Kock and Miss
Cecelia Bryfogel, both of Walnutport.
DIED, BARLOW.--In Philadelphia, on the 12th inst., Mrs. Ann Barlow, aged 85 years and 5
days, mother of Mrs. George Williams, of Mauch Chunk, and grand-mother of Mrs. Morthimer
and Thos. A. Williams, of this borough.
DIED, ANDREWS.--On the 12th ult, in Millport, Mary Louisa, aged 1 year and 19 days, and on
the 15th, Catharina Virginia, aged 1 year and 21 days, twin children of Peter Harrison and
Salome Andrews.
DIED, MILTENBERGER.--On the 18th ult., and Fennersville, Monroe co., Sam'l
Miltenberger, aged 50 years, 10 months and 17 days.
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DIED, RADELINE.--On the 20th ult., near Cherryville, Sarah Jane, daughter of James and
Susan Radeline, aged 7 yrs., 11 mos. and 3 days.
DIED, KUNTZ.--On the 23rd ult., at Walnutport, David, son of David and Mary Ann Kuntz,
aged 8 months and 27 days.
DIED, GEORGE.--On the 25th ult., in L. Towamensing, Juliana, wife of Samuel George, aged
37 years, 4 months and 3 days.
DIED, BRYON.--On the 26th ult, near Cherryville, Agnes Rachael, aged 7 years and 12 days,
and on the 31st, Thomas Parry, aged 4 years, 6 months and 28 days, both children of Joseph S.
And Elizabeth Bryon.
Volume 4, Number 9, Saturday, January 22, 1876
About six miles from Shamokin, Northumberland county, one evening last week, several thieves
entered the residence of Mrs. Billman, a widow, while she was at the barn milking. While the
depredations were in progress a son-in-law of the lady named Henninger approached her house.
He was warned off by a sentinel, who fired at him as he retreated to his own house. Henninger
ran up stairs, secured a gun and fired three shots at the robbers, who had congregated on the
outside, killing one of them, Philip Hughes, of Shamokin. Another of the robbers with whom
they fled, was wounded. They were tracked for several miles to a ravine, where a large quantity
of blood on the ground showed that they had halted with their wounded comrade. It is supposed
that the fellow has since died. Martin Farrel, one of the alleged robbers, was arrested near
Pottsville. One of the evidences of his guilt were his bloody boots. Mrs. Billman was robbed of
about $2,100, none of which has been recovered.
Local and Personal. Out in Maxataway township a fiddler got so drunk that he could not walk,
when the kind-hearted beer seller put him out in the wood shed, where he was found next
morning--Sunday--stiff in the embrace of death. This happened last Sunday morning a week.
AN AGED LADY BURNED TO DEATH.--On Saturday afternoon last, between 4 and 5 o'clock,
widow Bogh, relict of the long since decd. Jos. Bogh, of Hanover, residing in the family of her
son-in-law, Mr. Aaron Snyder, in Catasauqua, was literally roasted alive. The particulars of the
horrible occurrence are about as follows: It appears that during the afternoon Mrs. Snyder went
out on a short visit, and before going she filled up the stove with coal, and told her mother to take
the lids partly off when the fire was getting too hot or had burned up. There was no one in the
house but the aged lady, and when Mrs. Snyder had left the house Mrs. Bogh, locked the door.
It was supposed by some that she went to the stove to light her pipe, and that a spark fell on her
clothes, setting them on fire and burning her so severely that she was found dead when Mrs.
Snyder came home. She was burned only above the waist, and her breast and face were terribly
crisped. It is thought she inhaled some of the flames, and being an aged lady could not act as
promptly as a person of younger years. That she did all she could to save herself is evident from
the fact that she was found on the floor near the door, which she no doubt tried to unlock, but in
the excitement dropped the key, as it was also found on the floor--She had tried to extinguish the
flames with some water in a bucket, as some of the clothes were wet when found. Nothing was
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noticed by the neighbors, and no smell detected, so that when Mrs. Snyder came home she was
the first to see what had transpired during her absence. The door was forced in and a horrible
sight presented--one which plunged the family, relatives and friends into unspeakable distress.
Mrs. Bogh was the mother of Mr. Washington Bogh, who formerly kept the American Hotel,
Catasauqua.--Allentown Democrat.
MARRIED, GOWER-FREY.--On the 8th inst., at Pleasant Valley, Pa., by Rev. A. M. Strauss,
Franklin Gower of Monroe Co., to Miss Barbara Frey, of Corbon Co., Pa
Volume 4, Number 10, Saturday, January 29, 1876
Current Events. Edward Mullen, of Pottsville, an old man, fell over dead on Saturday. The
habitual use of intoxicating liquors killed him according to the coroner's jury.
Current Events. Judge Curry, one of the associate judges of Montour county, died last week.
He was a descendent of one of the primitive settlers. His grandfather was killed and scalped by
the Indians on the river between Danville and Northumberland. His grandmother was taken
prisoner at the same time but escaped by creeping inside a hollow log while the Indians were
sleeping.
Local and Personal. The Milford Herald of Jan. 26th, announces the death of Mr. Sipley, a noted
hermit of Green township, Pike county, Pa. He was formerly a wealthy merchant of New York
City, but failed in business. His reverses so preyed on his mind that he fled to a wild, disolate
place, several miles from any habitation. There for 35 years he has sustained himself by fishing
and hunting.
Big Creek Items. Mr. Anthony Fath, residing near Mackereltown, died suddenly on Friday
evening of last week, thought to be palsey.
From the County Seat. Infant daughter of Harry Brelsford died on Sunday evening.
From the County Seat. Rev. Wiggins left for Philadelphia on Wednesday afternon, on account of
the death of his grand mother, which occurred on the same day at her residence in the city.
Volume 4, Number 11, Saturday, February 5, 1876
Local and Personal. We sympathize with our friend Lynn, of the Mauch Chunk Democrat, in the
loss by death of his infant daughter, on Monday last.
Local and Personal. On Friday afternoon last between 5 and 6 o'clock, as the down passenger
train on the L. & S. Railroad was running past the Car Shops at Stemton, a little girl named
Amanda Schoenenberger, aged 15, employed as a domestic in the family of Dr. V. G. Huebner,
at Coplay, on this side of the Lehigh, was struck by the pilot of the engine and fatally crushed
and mangled by the wheels of the cars. It appears she had gone up to Newport to bring home a
dress which she had had made by a mantua maker there.--She was on her way home at the time
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of the occurrence, walking on the railroad track, because of the muddiness of the wagon road, as
is supposed.
From the County Seat. Mrs. Sprowl, an old resident of Mauch Chunk, had a paralytic stroke on
Tuesday, and died in about twelve hours.
From the County Seat. Beatrice Cooper, infant daughter of Jos. and Alice Lynn, died on
Monday afternoon, at the American Hotel. Interment took place on Wednesday p.m., at
Freemansburg, to which place the remains were taken on Tuesday morning.
From the County Seat. A grand wedding is to come off on the 10th inst., in the afternoon, at the
Presbyterian church. The contracting parties being Horace Hamlin, clerk at L. V. office, and
Miss Mary Brodhead, daughter of Hon. A. G. Brodhead. A reception, we understand, will be
held at the bride's home after the ceremonies at the church are concluded.
Moses Eilenberger, of Monroe county, has a pair of stockings which are more than a century
old. They were knit for Judge John Coolbaugh, of Stroudsburg, and he was married in them
about the year 1770. His son was married in them some thirty years later. The sister of Mr.
Eilenberger, who is now in possession of the stockings, and was also married in them, was the
wife of John Coolbaugh second, now deceased, by whom they were presented to Mr. E., "for
luck," on the occasion of his marriage.
A few days ago John Kennedy was found at the foot of a steep embankment in Luzerne Co.,
with a gash in his head and in a dying condition. It is supposed he was waylaid.
MARRIED, STUCKLY-GABERT.--On the 20th ult., at the house of the bride's residence, at
Jamestown, by Rev. J. C. Bliem, Mr. Jacob Stuckly, of Mauch Chunk, and Miss Fredericka
Gabert, of Jamestown.
MARRIED, CAMP-RUCH.--On the 14th ult., in Frieden's Church, by Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr.
Henry S. Camp, of Heidelberg, and Miss Louisa Ruch, of Lehighton.
DIED, SPROWL.--On the 1st inst. in Mauch Chunk, Mrs. Leah Sprowl, widow of Thomas
Sprowl, in the 59th year of her age.
DIED, REPH.--On the 12th inst., at Lehigh Gap, Wm. H. Reph, aged 33 years, 1 month and 9
days. On the same day, at Rockville, Samuel Reph, aged 58 years, 5 months and 27 days.
DIED, LYNN.--At the American Hotel, Mauch Chunk, at 2:30 p. m., January 31st, Beatrice
Cooper, infant daughter of Jos. and Alice B. Lynn, aged nearly seven months.
Volume 4, Number 12, Saturday, February 12, 1876
Matters of Interest. On Wednesday, of last week, the clothing of Mrs. Samantha Browning, of
Luzerne county, took fire while she was sitting in front of a range cutting carpet rags. In trying
to extinguish the flames she set the house on fire. By the application of a bucket of water she
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saved the building, but she fell to the floor and died.
Local and Personal. John Christ, a Lehigh county farmer, committed suicide on Tuesday, by
hanging himself in his barn. Mr. Christ owned a large farm. No cause is assigned for the deed.
Local and Personal. Jacob Booterman, a brakeman on the L. V. R. R., was accidently killed
while shifting cars at Penn Haven Junction, on Monday. His body was run over and severed in
two.
MARRIED, DUGAN-GALLAGHER.--On Sunday evening, the 6th inst., by Rev. Father
Bunce, Mr. Hugh Dugan to Miss Maggie Gallagher, both of Mauch Chunk.
DIED, MILLER.--At Upper Mauch Chunk, on Sunday, January 30th, Mary Ann, infant daughter
of Henry and Sophia Miller, aged 6 months and 17 days.
DIED, MITCHELL.--In Mauch Chunk, on Saturday, the 5th inst., Mr. Benjamin Mitchell, in
the 74th year of his age.
DIED, SHURLOCK--In Mauch Chunk, on Saturday, the 5th inst., Miss Ann Sherlock, aged 49
years.
DIED, NESLEY.--At Summit Hill, on the 1st inst., wife of William Nesley.
Volume 4, Number 13, Saturday, February 19, 1876
Matters of Interest. The wife of Jules Phillips, of Lock Haven, gave birth to her eighteenth child
last week.
Matters of Interest. A mother and her child in Luzerne county were found dead in a room last
week. The mother had evidently crushed the life out of the little one in a paroxysm of pain.
Matters of Interest. Last week Anthony Gannon and a few friends attended a ball in Schuylkill
county. On the way home they had a drunken quarrel, and Gannon was fatally stabbed. He died
on Saturday night. No arrests.
Matters of Interest. Thomas M'Clure, of Nesquehoning, Carbon county, shot himself in the
head with an old musket on Saturday. The top of his head was blown off, and the brains were
scattered about the room. The suicide is attributed to despondence produced by protracted
illness.
Matters of Interest. Benjamin and Rachel Corter, are the names of a venerable couple of
Lycoming county. The husband was born February 14, 1772, and the wife August 17, 1777.
They were married at Williamsport, August 16, 1800, on the twenty-third birthday of the woman.
The Northumberland Press says: One day last summer they walked a distance of six miles, three
going and three returning, for the purpose of taking dinner with a daughter. The old lady can see
to knit and sew almost as well as ever. They raised a family of twelve children, the oldest having
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nearly reached the age of seventy-five years. They have eighty-two grand seventy-five greatgrand and twelve great-great-grand children.
Local and Personal. Dr. Michael Thompson, of Summit Hill, died at his residence in that
borough, on Wednesday evening last. He had been ill but a short time, and his death caused
much sorrow among his many friends.
Local and Personal. The Hamlin-Brodhead wedding, on Thursday of last week, was largely
attended and the church snugly filled. The presents were numerous and handsome. The bridal
party left with the 7:30 p. m. train for Philadelphia, Washington, &c.
Local and Personal. A very distressing circumstance occurred at Nesquehoning on Saturday
last--the committing of suicide by Mr. Thomas McClure, by shooting himself through the head
with a musket. His head was badly mangled. No cause is assigned other than melancholly.
Justice Yeager held the inquest.
Fire Damp Explosion. On Saturday afternoon last a terrible explosion occurred in the Exeter
mine, belonging to the Lehigh Valley Coal Company, located at West Pittston, Luzerne county.
The mine had been idle during the week on account of the suspension, and, though the fan which
supplies fresh air to the chambers below had been kept going all the time, the quantity of air
forced into the mines was not sufficient to expel all the foul air and prevent the accumulation of
fire damp. The immediate cause of the explosion is not known, but sufficient knowledge has
been gained to lead to the belief that one of the men below entered a chamber with a lighted
lamp and that its sparks ignited the gas which had accumulated there. About twenty-five men
had been engaged in the repair of tracks and gangways at the headings since the previous
Monday, among the number being several miners, and on Saturday morning all went down to
work as usual. About half-past two o'clock on Saturday afternoon, while the men were at work,
the explosion occurred. The last report resounded through the subterranean passages and filled
the breaker above the shaft with its eminous echoes. The force of the explosion was so great as
to tear away battice props, doors tracks and great masses of rock and coal. The roof of the fan
house at the top of the air shaft was torn to pieces, and other damages, amounting to thousands of
dollars in the aggregate wrought; but there were twenty-five men below, and the many miners
who stood near the breaker hastened with all speed to relieve their distress. The main shaft was
very badly damaged, but an entrance was effected. It was a dangerous business to hunt for those
below in the uncertain condition of the mines, filled as they were with fire damp and with most
of the pure air drawn out; but the volunteers prosecuted their work for three hours, and had sent
to the surface 12 men, four of whom were dead, and the others more or less burned or mangled.
The report of the explosion had spread among the hundreds of idle miners, and in a short time
after the disaster crowos were gathered about the breaker. There were a few women present and
some of them were kept in a state of agonized suspense pending the rescue of those below.
When at last the bodies of the dead and the blackened forms of the mangled were brought up
great distress and sorrow was manifested by all. The men were returned to the surface at
intervals and as the dead and injured followed each other the agony of those who had friends still
below was increased by the terrible uncertainty resulting in the unavoidable delay of the
sorrowful business of bringing the bodies up; but the work was finally completed, when it was
ascertained that four men had been killed outright and six or eight badly injured. The names of
those killed are D. Smalley, Edward Allen, Thomas Harris and Aleck Jones.
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Volume 4, Number 14, Saturday, February 26, 1876
Local and Personal. Adam Sherman was killed and John Harris was fatally injured by an
explosion of sulphur in the colliery of King & Co., at Llewellyn, in Schuylkill Co., Wednesday
morning. It is thought the sulphur was ignited by the miners' lamps.
Henry Bray, of Wilkesbarre, while attempting to remove a piece of timber from a wagon, was
struck on the head with it, killing him.
John Strong committed suicide by hanging himself in the Lock Haven jail. He had been found
guilty of larceny and sentenced to the penitentiary for two years. It is supposed that he was
rendered insane by his troubles.
From the County Seat. Miss Mary Barker, well known to most of the teachers of Carbon
County, was married on the 22d inst., to Mr. Frank Morris of this place. The wedding was
private. Long may they live and happy be, &c.
A Surprise Party. A very agreeable affair came off at the residence of Mr. Thomas Harleman, at
Packerton, on Tuesday evening of last week, it being the anniversary of his birth, it was decided
to give him a surprise; accordingly about eight o'clock the party arrived and soon his spacious
parlor and dining room was filled to overflowing. As soon as peace was restored, Mr. W. Lee
Stiles, in behalf of those present, arose and in a a few appropriate remarks presented Mr.
Harleman with a combination inkstand, gold pen and holder and a handsome paper weight.
After he had somewhat regained his composure, Mr. H., in some well chosen remarks accepted
the gifts. The party then set about to have a good time in general, playing games, etc. The ladies
making it most agreeable by rendering some choice selections on the piano. We may here state
that a pleasant feature of the evening's ejoyment was a voluntary, played by Mr. Thos.
Harleman, Jr., accompanied on the bones by Mr. McMurtrire. At 10 o'clock refreshments were
served in a grand style, and not till morning dawned did the party retire to their homes, all
claiming it to be the most agreeable affair of the season.
DIED, NEEB.--In Towamensing twp., on the 19th inst., Mary, daughter of Casper and Mary
Neeb, of pneumonia, aged 6 years, 6 mos. and 20 days.
Volume 4, Number 15, Saturday, March 4, 1876
Local and Personal. Alfred Humbold, about 50 years of age, a machinist, committed suicide at
Wilkes-Barre on Sunday. He is supposed to have a wife in Philadelphia.
Local and Personal. On Monday last, an old resident of Bath, named Thomas Christ, committed
suicide by hanging himself in his barn. No cause is assigned for the commission of the act.
From the County Seat. The funeral of Mr. Adam Rose, of East Mauch Chunk, took place from
his residence on Tuesday p. m.
MARRIED, GINDER-NOTHSTEIN.--On the 6th ult., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Jas. W.
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Ginder and Miss Flora Ann Nothstein, both of East Penn.
MARRIED, DeLONG-FRANTZ.--On the 27th ult., by the same, James DeLong of East Penn,
and Miss Emma Frantz, of Mahoning.
MARRIED, BOYER-SMITH.--On the same day, by the same, Levi Boyer of Lower
Towamensing, and Miss Lydia E. Smith, of Eldred, Monroe Co.
MARRIED, HORN-RABE.--At Mauch Chunk, on the 19th ult., by Rev. A. M. Wiggins, Rich'd
Horn and Miss Maria R. Rabe, both of East Mauch Chunk.
MARRIED, BRETZ-BROWN.--At Mauch Chunk, on the 17th ult., by Rev. G. A. Struntz,
Zach. Taylor Bretz, of Port Carbon and Miss Alice E. Brown, of Upper Mauch Chunk.
DIED, ZIMMERMAN--On the 3rd ultimo, in West Penn, John, husband of Emma L.
Zimmerman, aged 24 years, 11 months and 21 days.
DIED, DREISBACH.--On the 5th ult., in Franklin, Albert Harrison, son of Dennis and Sarah
Dreisbach, aged 1 month and 28 days.
DIED, WHITEMAN.--On the 15th ult., in E. Penn, Manuel Edward, son of John Eck and Mary
Whiteman, aged 5 months and 19 days.
Volume 4, Number 16, Saturday, March 11, 1876
Local and Personal. At Ringtown, Schuylkill county, on Friday evening last while a man named
Staufer, a wheelwright, was sweeping down cobwebs for his wife, he accidentally knocked
down a gun hanging on the wall, which was discharged as it struck the floor, the contents
entering his eye, blowing half his head away. Mrs. Staufer, who was in an adjoining room at the
time, ran to ascertain the cause of the report, and found her husband dead, he having been
instantly killed.
Local and Personal. Mr. Stephen Koons, of Mahanoy City, but formerly of Weissport, died on
Saturday of last week. His remains were brought to this place on 11:02 a. m., train on Tuesday,
and deposited in the Weissport cemetery.
Local and Personal. The amiable wife of our friend, L. E. Wills, Esq., of Weissport, presented
him with a splendid Republican voter on Friday morning last. Wills is happy, and wife and child
are doing well.
Volume 4, Number 17, Saturday, March 18, 1876
A young man named Fritz Weber, of Boyertown, Berks county, hung himself on the 2d inst. No
cause is known for the act, except that he was to have been married on the 4th inst.
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Local and Personal. Dr. George Henry Bute died recently at Nazareth at the age of 83 years. He
was an homeopathist--the first, it is said, to commence practice after that school in America. He
came over from the old country in the year 1818.
From the County Seat. George, son of Mr. Wm. Dieterline, died at his father's residence, on
Broadway, on Friday last. Funeral took place on Monday. The deceased was suffering for nearly
a year.
From the County Seat. An old couple, aged respectively about sixty and seventy, were stopping
at the Broadway House for several days this week spending their honeymoon, apparently as
pleasant as though they had taken a trip to Long Branch or Europe. The happy pair hale from
Beaver Meadow, this county, and the groom's name, we, learn is a Mr. Brittan, of course the
bride's in the same, having been merged by the unwritten law.
From the County Seat. The wife of Mr. Ed. Leisering died at her home, at Upper Lehigh, the
latter part of last week. Her remains were brought to town on Sunday morning, and in the
afternoon the funeral took place from the residence of Mr. John Leisering. Mrs. L. had been
ailing for some time, but her death was not expected at the time it occurred. It was such a sudden
shock to her husband that he was unable to attend the funeral.
Volume 4, Number 18, Saturday, March 25, 1876
From the County Seat. Mr. Sam Behler, son of our worthy landlord of the Columbia House, was
married on Wednesday to Miss Geist of East Mauch Chunk.
From the County Seat. The wife of Mr. Ed. Remmel died at her home, an West Broadway, very
suddenly on Monday, of we were informed, heart disease. Interment took place on Wednesday
afternoon, and was attended by a large number of relatives and friends.
From the County Seat. George Kerst, of Lehighton, met with his sudden death on Wednesday
afternoon, about 5 o'clock, in the following manner: Kerst was in town the greater part of the
day, and while here it seems met too many friends (?) who together indulged a little too freely in
drink. Kerst in company with another man, was seen going down Susquehanna street with their
arms around each other, a short time before the arrival of the down passenger train, due here at
4.40 p.m. It was then thought by some that they were on their way to meet the train, but through
the persuasive powers of his companion he was induced to take another drink, during which time
the passenger train had arrived. By the time Kerst and his companion got to the Mansion House
the train had left, and at the same time a coal train was passing down, on which it seems Kerst
made up his mind to take passage for Lehighton. He attempted to jump on the train, and in doing
so was caught between the cars, and thrown violently to the ground, several cars passing over his
breast and one side of his head, mangling him badly and breaking his neck, causing instant death.
His remains were sent to Lehighton.
Packerton Dots. On last Friday, the 17th inst., Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Brodhead gave a party for
their daughter Minnie, it being her 10th birthday. All the little ones in Packerton assembled at
the house of their hostess, Miss Minnie, at a seasonable hour in the afternoon and made up their
11
minds to have a good time. Refreshments were served at about 4 o'clock, by Mrs. Brodhead
assisted by Mrs. Stiles, Mrs. Sittler and Miss Gould. The favorite game indulged in by the little
ones was "ring-around-a rosy," in which all that participated enjoyed themselves hugely.
MARRIED, WAGNER.-DINKEY.--On the 16th inst., at the residence of the bride's mother,
Mrs. M. E. Dinkey, by Rev. J. M. Wilson, assisted by Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr. T. G. Wagner, to
Miss Ella Dinkey, of Weatherly, Carbon Co.
MARRIED, LAWALL-OTT.--At the residence of the bride's parents, March 16th, by Rev. A. M.
Wiggins, Mr. Lyman H. Lawall, of Easton, Pa., to Miss Sarah C. Ott, of Mauch Chunk.
DIED, BERLIN.--In Kresgeville on the 10th of February, James, son of James and Amaline
Berlin, aged 7 months and 20 days.
DIED, RICKERT.--In Weissport, on the 2nd inst., Amalinda, wife of Daniel Rickert, aged 21
years, 2 month and 1 day.
As falls the leaf and fades the flower,
Thus one by one we pass away;
Like them we live our destined hour;
Like them we wither and decay.
Volume 4, Number 19, Saturday, April 1, 1876
Last Thursday night two men were overtaken on the railroad bridge of the Delaware and Hudson
canal company, Luzerne county, by a train of cars. Charles Law one of the party, was struck by
the locomotive and hurled into the river, the remains being found next day. Mr. Blair, his
companion was rendered insensible and thrown beside the track, where he was found
unconscious and with a large and probably fatal gash on the left temple.
Local and Personal. By the fall of a roof in the chamber of the Pine Brook coal shaft, near
Scranton, on Saturday, two men, named Kelly and Kilcullin, were instantly killed.
Local and Personal. Hon. Herman M. Fetter, died at his residence in South Bethlehem, on
Wednesday morning, of softening of the brain. Funeral to-day (Saturday), at 2 p.m., from the
Moravian Church, Bethlehem.
From the County Seat. Mrs. Anna Hine, late Miss Anna Albright, who was married about three
months ago, died at Washington, D. C., on Tuesday night last. Her remains were brought to her
former home, at Gen. Albright's, on Monday evening, at 7-10, and on Tuesday, at 2 p. m.,
funeral took place attended by many relatives and friends. Bishop Simpson and Rev. Wiggins
officiated.
Matters of Interest. On Friday Michael Sheridan, of Luzerne county, stepped from a moving
train and was thrown into a culvert, sustaining fatal injuries.
12
Volume 4, Number 20, Saturday, April 8, 1876
Local and Personal. The body of Bridget O'Donnell was found Sunday morning in a field at
Wilkesbarre, with indications that she had been feloniously assaulted and choked to death. A
tramp was seen near the place where the crime was committed, on Saturday evening.
Local and Personal. Mrs. E. McEnroe, of Leviston, Beaver Meadow mines, was burned in a
most shocking manner on Saturday evening last by the explosion of a kerosene lamp. She
lingered until Monday morning when death relieved her of her sufferings.
MARRIED, MOYER-REX.--On the 5th ult., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Elias Moyer of Lynn
twp., and Mrs. Catharine Rex, of Heidelberg twp., Lehigh county.
MARRIED, WETZEL-GERHARD.--On the 10th ult., by the same, David D. Wetzel, of
Weatherly, and Miss Lydia Ann Gerhard, of Packer twp.
MARRIED, HILL-GRAVER--On the 11th ult, by the same, Abraham Hill, of Lower
Towamensing, and Miss E. L. Graver, of Franklin.
DIED, SHAEFER.--On the 8th ult., in Parryville, Oscar D., son of Peter and Catharine Shaefer,
aged 3 years, 3 months and 9 days.
DIED, KRATZER.--On the 22nd ult., in Weissport, Sarah Amelia, wife of Charles Kratzer,
aged 47 years, 8 months and 5 days.
Volume 4, Number 21, Saturday, April 15, 1876
Matters of Interest. The mother of Hon. Myer Stroud, of Schuylkill county, died on Saturday
aged sevent-four years.
Matters of Interest. Charles M'Gill, of Schuylkill county escaped from a constable, who fired at
him. The ball lodged in the leg, and a few days ago the man died from the effects of the injury.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Bernard O'Donnell, of Cumbola, Schuylkill county, astonished the
natives of that place by giving birth, on Saturday last, to three sons. At last accounts the mother
and sons were doing well.
Local and Personal. Hugh Martin, working in the mines near Tresckow, was killed by being
crushed between cars on Tuesday night. He was a single man, about twenty-three years of age.
Local and Personal. Thomas Bevan, a wholesale liquor dealer, of Pittston, committed suicide,
by hanging, on Thursday morning.
Big Creek Items. Mr. Michael Weirich, from the upper part of this valley, was interred at the
Solt's church of this place on Thursday of last week. He was aged 44 years, 11 months and 27
days. Funeral services in German, by J. C. Bliem of Lehighton. The funeral was largerly
13
attended.
From the County Seat. At one of the mines at Nesquehoning, on Wednesday forenoon, a very
serious accident took place by the explosion of fire damp, killing four men and wounding twelve
others, none of whose names we could learn. Dr. Leonard was immediately called to the scene
of disaster and administered to the wants of the wounded.
Fire Damp Explosion.
The following account of an explosion of fire damp which occurred at Nesquehoning
mines, Wednesday morning by which three men were instantly killed, and five others badly burnt
and hurt, we take from the Morning Herald. The names of the killed and wounded are as
follows:
Thos. Shields, killed, leaves a wife and six children, four grown up.
Hugh Coffield, killed, leaves a wife and four small children.
James McGovern, killed, single man.
Chas. Callan, single man, badly burnt and hurt, cannot possibly live.
Levi Marsden, single man, badly hurt and burnt, will probably die.
Joseph Norwood, Richard Bauden and Jacob Myers, all married men, were badly hurt,
but will probably recover.
The search for the killed and wounded was necessarily done without a light, as the
firedamp always gathers again immediately after an explosion, and a second explosion would be
more serious than the first. On account of this, much time and trouble was spent before all were
taken out, and the result of the accident known. The account given by the men who took part in
the search was very sorrowful. One would take the middle of the gangway, and one on each
side, and they would proceed on their hands and knees, and feel as they went for the missing
ones. No one party could remain away very long from the airway, on account of being overcome
with what is known as the "after damp" foul air caused by the explosion of the sulphur. The
cause of the explosion is not know.
Volume 4, Number 22, Saturday, April 22, 1876
Local and Personal. Miss Norah Buller, of Nesquehoning, who has been lingering with
consumption for the past fifteen months, died on Monday morning, and was buried at Mauch
Chunk Thursday.
Local and Personal. While John Hoffman, of Middle Smithfield, Pa., was driving across the
Deleware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad track at East Stroudsburg, last week, the wagon
was struck by a locomotive, and Hoffman and the horse were instantly killed.
From the County Seat. And now it is reported that Daniel Kalbfus, Esq., will soon wed a
charming young school marm, of Washington, D. C.
From the County Seat. A child of Francis Eck, living at Coalport, fell backwards into a bucket
of hot water on Saturday, thereby scalding itself so badly that it died from the effects of it on
Sunday morning. Interment took place at Upper Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday afternoon. The
same child once fell out of a second story window sustaining no injuries whatever.
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Fatal R. R. Accident. Tuesday evening about half-past eight oclock, as Patrick Fagan, the
watchman on the Lehigh Valley railroad at Catasauqua was leaving the depot on his usual trip he
discovered the almost lifeless body of a young man lying at the side of the track, partly
underneath the platform. He at once summoned aid and the body was conveyed to the depot,
where, on examination they found it to be Thomas, the son of Mr. William Hopkins,
superintendent of the Catawissa Manufacturing Company's Mill at that place. Medical aid was at
once summoned. After an examination of his injuries it was found that they were of such a
nature that little could be done for the young man. He was then taken to the residence of his
parents, where all that was possible was done for him, but of no avail. Death relieved him of his
sufferings at three o'clock Wednesday morning. It is supposed the young man had jumped on a
coal train, and in attempting to jump off missed his footing, and thus met with this fate.
MARRIED, ROMIG-ANTHONY.--At Parryville, on the 11th inst., by Rev. L. B. Brown,
William Romig and Isabella Anthony, both of Parryville.
DIED, MAURER.--In this borough, on the 18th inst., Alice, wife of Frank Maurer, in the 23rd
year of her age. Relatives and friends and members of Infinito Castle, No. 78, A. O. K. of the M.
C., are invited to attend the funeral, this (Saturday) morning, at 9:30 o'clock, from the husband's
residence to Lehighton Cemetery.
Volume 4, Number 23, Saturday, April 29, 1876
Local and Personal. Thursday night, at half-past eleven o'clock, says the Morning Herald, one of
those terrible accidents, which causes every heart to shudder, occurred on the Lehigh Valley
Railroad, a short distance above Hoffman's saw mill. A man named Henry Wieand, who resided
in Clader's Division, Hanover, in jumping from a coal train, was run over and instantly killed, his
body being mangled in the most sickening manner. His left leg was severed from the body, at the
hip, the right foot cut off, and the ribs on the left side mashed in. He was dead when found.
Local and Personal. Colonel James J. Conner, the pioneer coal operator of the Mahanoy region,
died on Thursday of last week, at hsi residence in Pottsville.
Birthday Visit. On Friday of last week, B. A. Peters, the popular young druggist, was very much
surprised by an unexpected visit from his grand-father, aged seventy-five years, his mother and
two of his sisters, it being the occasion of his birthday. The goodies brought along were relished,
and the presents thankfully received. They expressed themselves highly pleased with the
thriving appearance of our town, particularly of Obert's pork packing establishment, the new
church edifices and the spacious school building. After having spent a very pleasant afternoon in
conversing over news of old and the news in general, they left on the L V. 4:41 train, as much
pleased with their visit as their host, whose time for entertaining them was limited. Mr. P. Being
still on the list of young batchelors we refrain from giving his age--'tis not yet 100.
MARRIED, EICKHOFF-LECHLER--On Friday, the 21st inst., by Rev. G. A. Struntz, Mr.
Geo. Eickhoff, of Upper Mauch Chunk, to Miss Christina Lechler, of Beaver Run.
MARRIED, SIGLIN-WEST.--At the house of the bride's father, on the 25th inst., by the Rev. T.
15
S. Faus, Ezra Siglin to Miss Elizabeth West, both of Hickory Run.
MARRIED, By Rev. A. Bartholomew, SILVIES-McFARLAND.--On the 2d inst., Mr. William
Silfies, of Parryville and Miss Catharine McFarland, of East Penn.
MARRIED, By Rev. A. Bartholomew, KERSHNER-GOMBERT.--On the 8th inst., Mr. Frank
Kershner and Miss Elizabeth Gombert, both of West Penn.
MARRIED, By Rev. A. Bartholomew, GOLLUS-GAUMER.-On the 27th inst., Mr. Joseph
Gollus and Miss Uriha C. Gaumer, both of Mauch Chunk.
DIED, KRUM.--In this borough, on the 26th inst., Sarah, wife of Mr. Lewis Krum, aged 23
years, and 24 days. The funeral will take place to-morrow (Sunday) morning at 9:00 o'clock. To
proceed to the Evangelical Church, West Penn township, Schuylkill county.
DIED, HONTZ.--On 20 inst., in Mahoning, Jonas, husband of Sarah Hontz, aged 78 yrs., 4
mos. and 20 ds.
DIED, FOCHT.--On the 4th inst., in Parryville, Charles H., son of Edwin and Sarach Focht,
aged 3 mos and 8 ds.
DIED, SCHROEHER.--On the 9th inst., in West Penn, Maria Matilda, wife of Daniel
Schroeher, aged 46 yrs., 5 mos. and 21 ds.
DIED, REX.--On the 14th inst., in Lehighton, Mary W., daughter of Tilghman and Maria Rex,
aged 2 yrs., 2 mos. and 17 ds.
DIED, HILL.--On the 17th inst., in West Penn, Presde Monroe, son of Mandis Hill and
Elizabeth Lorah, aged 8 mos. and 5 ds.
DIED, FENSTERMACHER--On the 23d inst, in Lehighton, Ellemanda S., daughter of John
and Mary Ann Fenstermacher, aged 9 mos. and 9 ds.
Resolutions of Condolence
At a stated meeting of Gnaden Hutten Council, No. 249, O. U. A. M., held at their hall on
Thursday, April 27, 1876, the following was unanimously adopted:
WHEREAS, It has pleased the great Councilor of the universe to remove from the side of
our Brother Lewis Grum, his beloved wife and companion, and
WHEREAS, It is the duty of the creature to bow in humble submission to the will of the
Creator, in whatever form it may be expressed, and
WHEREAS, It is the duty of the O. U. A. M., to sympathize with the affliced to mourn
with those that mourn, and hold in fond remembrance the virtues of departed ones, whether in
the higher or lower walks of life, therefore,
Resolved, That in the death of our Brother's wife he has lost one in whom his earthly all
was placed, one who was near and dear to him and to those with whom she came in contact.
Resolved, That, while we mingle our tears with his, we would kindly point our bereaved
brother to Him who doeth all things well, and that we recognize in this, that we too are mortal
16
and soon must die.
Resolved, That we attend the funeral in a body, and that a copy of these resolutions be
spread on the minutes, be published in the CARBON ADVOCATE, and one copy be sent to our
bereaved brother.
J. P. Smith, A. W. Horn, C. D. Schmale, Com., April 28, 1876
Volume 4, Number 24, Saturday, May 6, 1876
Local and Personal. John Stahler, a miner in the Mahanoy mines, was killed Monday morning
last by a fall of coal.
Local and Personal. Joseph Miller, a boatman, residing in Weissport, who has been sick since
last fall, died on Monday night. He was about 55 years of age, and leaves a wife and several
children to mourn his death.
Post Mortem Examination. The protracted illness of Joseph Miller, of Weissport, terminated in
death on Tuesday morning at three a. m. The cause of his sickness being somewhat obscure, his
dying request was, that a post mortem examination of his body should be made by his attending
physician. The friends of the deceased having given their consent to the proposed examination,
Dr. Zern, assisted by O. S. Grossman, proceeded to investigate the nature of his disease. The
Dr's opinion and also the opinion of Dr. Louder, of White Haven, was, that the patient was
suffering from cancer of the stomach: this diagnosis was confirmed by the examination. The
cancer originated in the stomach, affected almost its entire length and also extended to the liver
and pancreas, forming adhesions with these organs. During the last few weeks of his life, Mr.
Miller's sufferings were very great. Fortunately for humanity, comparately few persons are
afflicted with this terrible disease.
Obituary. On the 26th of April, Sarah Krum, consort of Lewis Krum, of Lehighton, aged 23
years and 24 days. Her remains were consigned to the grave in West Penn, on Sunday last,
attended by a large funeral procession from the residence of the deceased to the place of
interment, manifesting, thereby, their high esteem and kind regard of the bereaved family. The
American Mechanics, in a body, attended the interment and wore the badge of mourning, as an
idication of condolence. A large congregation was assembled at the church before the funeral
had arrived, so that it was almost impossible for the relatives and friends to obtain entrance. The
occasion was improved by Rev. J. C. Bliem, on Rev. 14th chapter, 13th verse, who delivered an
effective sermon, to a deeply moved and interested congregation. The services were concluded
by Rev. E. Butz, of Reading, with the Evangelical rite of interment.
DIED, REBER--In this borough, on Tuesday, the 2d inst., Mary Agnes, daughter of Dr. N. B.
and Rebecca Reber, aged 3 years, 2 months and 17 days, after a sickness of only 24 hours. The
disease being a malignant form of cerebro spinal meningitis. The relatives and friends of the
family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral, this (Saturday) afternoon, at 2 o'clock, from
the parents residence to the M. E. Church and thence to the Lehighton cemetery.
17
Volume 4, Number 25, Saturday, May 13, 1876
A Shocking Murder. On Tuesday a shocking murder was committed at Dunmore, a small village
about two miles from Scranton. Robert Savage, the murderer, and George U. West, his victim,
had been neighbors for several years, but had quarrelled over the boundery line between their
property. Their quarrels finally led to litigation, but they arranged their difficulty by opening an
alley between the two lots, each party giving five feet of his property for that purpose. This
agreement did not last very long, for Savage nailed up the gate, and West soon afterward erected
a coal house on his half of the alley. Then Savage wanted the alley reopened, but West refused
to remove the coal house. A few days ago Savage told West that if he did not remove the coal
house by Tuesday he would tear it down. On that morning Savage had a load of coal brought to
hs place, and opening the gate the driver drove into the alley to unload it. Savage then began to
tear down the coal house with his axe. West ran out to protect his property, and Savage attacked
him with the axe, cutting his head in a fearful manner. He then struck West with a heavy cobble
stone. West was carried in the house, where he died in a few hours. He leaves a wife and four
small children. Savage was arrested and locked up to await a hearing. The terrible event has
caused a great deal of excitement, as both West and Savage were greatly respected in Dunmore.
DIED, EMMET--On the 7th inst., of pneumonia, William Emmet, son of Mrs. George Hagen,
of Packerton, aged 21 years less one month and two days.
Volume 4, Number 26, Saturday, May 20, 1876
Local and Personal. Mr. Cameron Lockhart, an old and well known resident of Mauch Chunk,
died on Friday of last week.
Local and Personal. Daniel Sweeny was instantly killed on Friday by a fall of coal in a mine at
Wanamie, Luzerne county. John Williams was killed by the explosion of a blast on Monday at
the Diamond mine, Hyde Park.
Local and Personal. Mr. Stephen Gould, a well-known citizen of Allentown, died Tuesday, from
the effects of a paralytic stroke with which he was overcome last fall. He was 68 years of age.
Mauch Chunk Items. Died, at Upper Mauch Chunk, on Thursday, the 11th inst., Edward, son of
Fannie and John McGinley, aged 2 years. His funeral, on Sunday was largely attended.
Mauch Chunk Items. The death, on Friday last, of Cameron Lockhart, has robbed Mauch
Chunk of another of those who have been instrumental in the development of the resources of the
Lehigh region.
Mauch Chunk Items. Patrick Collins, a stranger, belonging, as subsequently ascertained from
papers found upon his person, to Macungie, Lehigh county, while walking the Lehigh Valley
Railroad track on Wednesday afternoon, was run over and instantly killed by a passing train,
between Ryan's lock and Catfish Pond. Deceased was on his way to visit an acquaintance whose
boat was lying in the upper basin, and while trying to avoid a heavy train, stepped right in front
of a light one approaching from an opposite direction.
18
East Mauch Chunk. Married, on Monday the 15th inst., by Rev. Father Heinen, John Hiesdorf
to Miss Cath. Bernhard. A serenade by the Hibernian Cornet Band in the evening, and a grand
jollification, lasting nearly all night, followed the marriage ceremony.
Big Creek Items. The wife of Mr. Nathan Solt, a resident of Mahanoy City, was buried at Solt's
church, on Thursday afternoon, The funeral was largely attended, Rev. S. Breyfogel officiating.
Accidentally Drowned.
On Wednesday afternoon last, about 4 o'clock, two youths named respectively John Esch
and Harvey Rehrig, started on a fishing excursion; proceeding to Heilman's dam, they procured
a flat bottom boat and launched upon the water; making fast to a log, they proceeded to fishing,
one at the bows and the other at the stern end of the boat. They had occupied themselves thus for
a short time, when Esch spoke to his companion Rehrig, and receiving no reply turned to look at
him, when he observed that he was shaking, and before he could reach him, Rehrig, had fallen
headlong over the side of the boat into the water. Esch seized him by the collar, but the boat
tipping he left it, jumping onto a log, and becoming exhausted let go his hold, when Rehrig sank
beneath the water. Esch immediately started, in his fright in, search of help, but it arrived too
late to save the boy, the body not being recovered for fully one hour after its disappearance.
Harvey Rehrig, the deceased, was a son of Moses Rehrig, of this borough, and was 16
years of age.
An inquest was held before Esq., T. S. Beck, and the following jury: H. V. Morthimer,
Jos. S. Webb, Henry Drumbore, Nathan Drumbore, Chas. T. Horn and Aaron Krum. After
investigation, the jury returned a verdict of "Acciental Drowning."
The funeral will take place on Sunday morning, at 9:30 o'clock, to proceed to Trinity
Lutheran church, and thence to the cemetery. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to
attend.
MARRIED, KOCH-MASTER.--On the 28th of March by Rev. G. T. Haines, Mr. Isbon Koch,
of Allentown, and Miss Ellen Master, of Franklin.
Volume 4, Number 27, Saturday, May 27, 1876
Local and Personal. Levi Stein, one of the jurors in the Yost murder case at Pottsville, died on
Wednesday night, of pneumonia. His death will cause a new trial, which cannot take place
before July next.
Local and Personal. The marriage of A. N. Cleaver, manager for G. B Linderman & Co., and
Miss Lizzie K., daughter of R. H. Sayre, Esq., Supt. L. V. Railroad, is announced for June 1st, in
the church of the Nativity, South Bethlehem.
Local and Personal. Edward O'Donnell, alias "Scotch Neddie," whom our readers will
remember was shot at Bugtown, near Tamaqua, on the 22d of April, while engaged in shaving
himself, died last Monday from the effects of his wound. At the time it was thought that
O'Donnell would recover, as the ball had glanced from his skull without fracturing it, as was
then supposed; but at the post mortem which was held upon his body by Dr. Solliday, of
Tamaqua, the fact was developed that the bullet had fractured his skull, and that an abscess had
19
formed, from which death resulted.
Local and Personal. The remains of Mr. Aaron Breisch, who died at White Haven on Saturday
of last week, were, on Wednesday, consigned to their last resting place in the Upper Mauch
Chunk cemetery, on which occasion the Masonic brotherhood were largely represented.
Big Creek Items. A child of Mr. Thomas Solt died this week, and was interred at Weissport on
Thursday at 1 p. m.
Big Creek Items. An infant of John Fritzinger died on Monday morning of this week, and was
buried at Weissport on Wednesday.
Explosion of Fire Damp. An explosion of fire damp occurred Saturday forenoon at the Oxford
air-shaft of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad Co., Scranton, by which one man
was killed instantly and four were seriously scorched and otherwise injured. The explosion was
caused by an accumulation of gas in the lower vein coming in contact with a miner's lamp at a
depth of four hundred feet from the surface, and immediately under the air shaft. When the
accident occurred four men were close to where the gas was confined, and these were burned
terribly. The shock was felt for a distance of a mile around. The gas on catching fire rushed up
the shaft with a roar, tearing the steam pipes in its course and completely shattering the heavy
timbers of the tower above ground and scattering them in all directions. A man named Paff,
employed at the mouth of the shaft when the accident occurred, had just stepped into the bucket a
second before the shock. He was flung high in the air, and then descended down the awful depth
of four hndred feet into the mine, where he was literally smashed to pieces.
Suicide in Easton. John D. Singman, a member of the firm of John D. Singman & Co.,
hardware merchants of Easton, was found lying in the office back of their store, No. 26 Centre
Square, a little after eight o'clock Tuesday morning, with two pistol wounds in the head and a
small contused wound across the nose. A revolver, with three chambers discharged, was found
lying under his left leg. He told a party a few minutes before that he felt as though he could blow
his brains out. He had lain but a few moments when discovered, and was not quite dead. He
was well known in these parts, was about thirty eight years of age, and has left a wife and five
children.
MARRIED, KOCH-MASTER.--On the 19th of February, by Rev. G. T. Haines, Mr. Isoon
Koch, of Allentown, and Miss Ellen Master, of Franklin.
Volume 4, Number 28, Saturday, June 3, 1876
Local and Personal. A large fall of fine dust and rock in the Bear Ridge Colliery, at Mahanoy
Plane, on Saturday, buried a miner named James Holvey. Jerry Mahoney, a fellow workman,
went to the rescue of his friend, and was also buried in the falling debris. Several hours
afterwards both were dug out dead.
Local and Personal. Aaron Breisch died at White Haven on the 8th inst., at the age of 51. He
was born in Lehigh Co., near Laury's Station. He was in business in Mauch Chunk until about
20
17 years ago, when he removed to White Haven, where he became a member of the firm of
Wallace & Breisch, in the foundry and machine business. He left quite a valuable estate.
Big Creek Items. An infant son of Mr. S. Fritzinger died this week and was interred at
Weissport, on Thursday.
Easton, Pa., June 1.--Nine members of the family of Martin Laros, residing at Sandt's Eddy, a
point on the Delaware river five miles above Easton, was poisoned last evening by coffee which
contained some mineral substance. Mrs. Laros is dead, and several of the others are considered
in a critical condition. The presence of poison in the coffee is not accounted for. Later,--it is
now reported that Martin Laros and another one of the poisoned have died.
Obituary.
Died, in this borough, on Monday evening last, at 9 o'clock, Hon. Daniel Heberling, of
kidney disease, aged 75 years 3 months and 19 days.
Daniel Heberling was born in Moore township, Northampton county, on the 10th of
February, 1801, from which place he removed to Lockport, on the opening of the canal, where he
was appointed the first locktender, which position he filled for several years, finally removing
from that place to Weissport, where he assumed the proprietorship of the old Weissport Hotel,
which he presided over for a number of years gaining many friends by his gentlemanly and
affable bearing toward his patrons. Retiring from the hotel business he opened a store and
commenced boat building, accumulating considerable property. During his residence in
Weissport he filled the office of Postmaster and Justice of the Peace with much satisfaction and
was elected Associate Judge of the county, which position he filled with much credit. He
removed to this borough some eight years ago, since which time he has lived a retired life, very
highly respected by our citizens. His wife survives him with seven children all of whom are
married.
The funeral took place on Friday morning from the Lutheran church, of which he was a
member, and was largely attended by the relative and friends.
Volume 4, Number 29, Saturday, June 10, 1876
Sketch of the Life of Col. Robert H. Ramsey.
Robert Ramsey, late editor and proprietor of the Daily Miners' Journal, of Pottsville,
whose death was annouuced last week was born in South Pottsville, May 29, 1838. He received
a good comcom school education and attended the Pottsville Academy for a short time. He was
from boyhood a regular attendant at church and Sunday school and became a communicant of
the one and a teacher of the other. When fourteen years old he entered the office of Benjamin
Bannan, then the publisher of the Miners' Jornal, a weekly paper, where he learned the trade of
printing. He was a favorite with Mr. Bannan and was entrusted with the important work of
setting up and correcting the coal tables, which, as published in the Miners' Journal have long
been noted for their freedom from typographical or other errors. Mr. Ramsey, after leaving the
Journal office, entered the printing office of Stein & Jones, Philadelphia, and while there
published a little book called "Honey from the Rock," an arrangement of the Psalms of David,
annotated and compared with parallel passages from other parts of the Bible. He was soon
afterwards appointed clerk in the Corn Exchange Bank, where he was at work when the war
21
broke out. When the famous Corn Exchange Regiment (the 45th Pennsylvania Volunteers) was
organized, Mr. Ramsey enlisted in it and was commissioned second lieutenant. He was
mustered into service July 3, 1863. The regiment, after aiding in the work of expelling Lee from
Pennsylvania, was sent to the coal regions, where Lieut. Ramsey acted as Assistant Adjutant
General. When Gen. Whipple, his commanding officer, was ordered to join the Army of the
Cumberland under General Thomas, he sought to have Lieutenant Ramsey also transferred. He
procured for him a captain's commission, and although he failed to have the transfer effected at
that time, Captain Ramsey reported to Gen. Thomas for assignment to duty February 22, 1864.
When the Atlanta campaign opened he took the field as Acting Aide-de-Camp and Assistant
Adjutant General to General Thomas, and served as such to the close of the war, leaving the
service in July, 1866. In the meantime he had been commissioned Major on the recommendation
of General Thomas, and had received from President Johnson commissions by brevet of
Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel. On his return to Pottsville he immediately purchased an
interest in the Miners Journal from Mr. Bannan, his old employer. In December, 1866, he was
married to Maggie L., daughter of A. V. S. Lindsley, Esq., of Nashville, Tenn. He has had two
children, only one of whom, a daughter, survives him. He established the Daily Miners' Journal
September 1, 1868. In February, 1873, Mr. Bannan sold all his interest in the paper to Col.
Ramsey, and since then it has been wholly under the control of the latter. It has been very
prosperous, and quite recently moved into one of the handsomest printing offices in the country.
Mr. Ramsey had been suffering for a long time from laryngeal phthisis, a painful disease of the
throat, and he went to Nashville, Tenn., early in May to seek relief in a warmer climate. He was
so much weakened by his inability to eat sufficient food, however, that he obtained no relief, and
died on Wednesday. His old employer, Mr. Bannan, in introducing him to the readers of the
Journal as its new proprietor, said of him:
"He has been found faithful in every position he has heretofore occupied, and has met the
approbation and friendship of all whom he has served. We have tried him as a boy and man for
upwards of twelve years in this establishment, and as such we ask the friends and patrons of the
Miners' Journal to give him a full trial also, feeling confident that they too will find him all that
others have found him. He is fully imbued with the leading principles wich have characterized
the conduct of the Journal--he is affable, capable, and pushing in business, and is also a fluent
writer; but, above all, he is honest, and is governed in all his actions by upright principles; and, in
these degenerate days, when so much corruption abounds among public men, and there is so
much plundering by office holders and office seekers, an honest editor and proprietor of a
newspaper is a jewel; and we say to you all, that, if you love your country and its institutions,
wherever you find such, cherish them as you would do in guarding your own honor, and support
him also; for the more you give him, the more he will give you; and we know, from our
association with him, that he will be much more likely to give you too much than too little."
Local and Personal. Austin Naylor, of Bethlehem, while at White Haven the other day got
drunk, fell into the Lehigh, and was drowned.
Mauch Chunk Items. Died at Upper Mauch Chunk on the morning of Saturday the 3d inst., John
Hine, in the 20th year of his age. Deceased, a very excellent young man, was a machinist by
trade, and previous to his fatal illness was in the employ of Messrs. J. H. Salkeld & Co. with
whom he had also served his apprenticeship. Having been an active member of the Phoenix
Hose Company, and also of the Phoenix Cornet Band, both of those associations attended his
obsequies on Monday afternoon, during which day, as a mark of respect for the departed, work
22
was suspended at the shops of his late employers. Rev. G. A. Struntz, conducted the funeral
rites of the Lutheran church, at the grave of the deceased, at the Upper Mauch Chunk Cemetery
where his remains were deposited.
A peddler named Levy was killed near Abingdon, Luzerne county, from injuries received in
being thrown from his wagon by a runaway horse.
Death of Anthony Schneider.
The following in regard to the death of Mr. A. Schneider, of Summit Hill, which took
place about noon on Wednesday last, we take from the columns of the Intelligencer.
We are pained to announce the death of our honored townsman, Anthony Schneider, Esq.
This event, though sadly to be deplored, was not unexpected. Mr. Schneider had been afflicted
for a number of years with that most painful disease, the gravel, and at various times was
operated upon by Dr. Gross, of Philadelphia. He was subject to periodical attacks which so
affected him that it was impossible to attend to business, or do anything more than to use every
effort to escape the complaint that tormented him. Few knew what he endured. Mr. S. was one
of the most prominent, wealthy and enterprising citizens of Summit Hill. He was identified with
all the most important projects for the advancement of this place, and though comparatively a
young man, occupied a high and honored position as a citizen of this town.
He was engaged in the mercantile business for a number of years, and by reason of his
personal popularity built up an extensive trade. He was known as an upright dealer, kind hearted
and sympathetic, and generous to a fault; and there is probably not a man, woman or child in the
Summit that does not mourn the death of this good hearted, industrious friend and neighbor. The
community has suffered an inreparable loss. We can truly sympathize with the widow and the
fatherless children of Mr. S. though we congratulate them upon the fact that he left them well
provided for. Besides having a large store and a profitable business, he was one of the largest
stockholders of the Savings Bank here. He was an estimable citizen, a kind hearted, intelligent
gentleman, and let us hope he is now enjoying rest and peace in that beautiful home above.
The Easton Tragedy.
Alvin Laros, son of Martin and Mary Laros, who were buried Sunday, died Sunday from
poison administered last Wednesday to the family by Abner C. Laros, the son and brother. This
makes the fourth member of the household who has died.
A post mortem examination was held on Moses Schug's remains Sunday, and the
stomach was taken to Easton, and Dr. McIntire, of Easton, will analyze the contents this week.
Laros this morning confessed to a reporter of the Easton Express that he committed the
deed for money to help him in the study of the law. He said he was sorry after he saw his family
so sick and took a couple of swallows of the coffee to die with them.
In conversation with a fellow prisoner on Saturday night he asked the latter what he was
in jail for, and when told for larceny, he remarked, "Oh, I am here for a larger crime, for
poisoning a whole family." He said an evil moment came over him, and he did the deed.
When told this morning that his brother Alvin was dead, he exclaimed, "Oh my God? my
God!" and burst into tears. He refuses to eat anything, and his comrade in the cell towards
Sunday morning awoke and found him twisting his bed sheet into a rope, probably with the
design of committing suicide.
The tragedy, arrest and confession have caused the greatest excitement throughout the
county. The funeral of Laros and wife Sunday was attended by thousands of people from all
23
directions.
Patrick Riley, a track hand on the East Penn railroad, bewildered by an over-load of whisky, was
run over by a freight train and killed on Saturday, near Emaus. He leaves a wife and five
children in straitened circumstances.
BIRTH. BUNKER.--Samuel Cary Bunker, born at Pagoda Island, River Min, Foochow, China,
Thursday, March 30, 1876 at 9:30 a. m.
Volume 4, Number 30, Saturday, June 17, 1876
Local and Personal. William Welsh was killed and three other men were seriously injured by the
caving of a bank on the Perkiomen Valley branch of the Reading Railroad Monday.
Local and Personal. Henry Smith, who was serving out a sentence of 8 eight years for arson in
the Northampton county jail at Easton, committed suicide by hanging himself in his cell, on
Tuesday morning last.
Local and Personal. At Reading, Pa., Monday morning, Thos. Elliott and John Edwards were
suffocated to death while tapping a cess-pool, and a colored man named George Dorsey, who
endeavored to rescue them, came near perishing from the same cause.
Mauch Chunk Items. On Thrsday night of last week John Race, who about a year ago shot
George Sprowl, and in consequence underwent six months imprisonment in our county jail,
died, at the residence of his parents in the city of Philadelphia, of typhoid fever.
Mauch Chunk Items. The sudden and unexpected death of Mrs. Kate Middleton and child
daughter and grandchild of Hon. John Leisering, caused very general surprise and universal
sympathy here, where the former Miss 'Kate" was best known and her character appreciated.
Shooting at Ashton.
On Saturday evening last, another shooting affray occurred at Ashton, in the
neighborhood of Summit Hill. The following are the particulars of the affair, as we find them in
the Shenandoah Evening Herald of Tuesday last:
At about 11 o'clock on Saturday eveing last, Jonathan Reese and John Thomas, two
young men, were engaged in a conversation with Daniel Gallagher, when their attention was
attracted by a man named James Carr, who called out to them from across the street. They were
about to move on when Carr approached them, and advancing toward Reese held out his hand,
and remarked--"I think I knew you in Bull Run," Reese answered that perhaps he had,
whereupon Carr, who was under the influence of liquor, intimated that he could "lick" any man
in the place of one hundred and twenty-six pounds in weight. Concluding that fight was what
Carr's intention was, Reese said to his companion, "Come home, John," at the same time
walking up the street. Not satisfied with the turn affairs had taken, Carr used some very abusive
language, and became so threatening in his remarks that Reese turned and retraced his steps; but
when within a few feet of Carr the lattter drew a revolver, and, according to some, fired three
shots at him in rapid succession. Reese jumped for his opponent, and then ensued a struggle for
24
the revolver, during which Thomas drew his "shooter" and fired once, the report being almost
confounded with that of the fourth shot, said to be discharged from the pistol of Carr, who at this
time was on the ground. At first, although Carr yelled out that he was shot, the others would not
believe him, and, considering themselves assaulted without cause, Reese said to his
"butty"--"You stay here and watch him, while I go for a policeman;" but upon the appearance of
a rapidly-increasing crowd the two men concinded that their position was not peculiarly healthy,
so took themselves off.
For some minutes after the affair occurred very few people made their appearance on the
ground, and it was not until the news of the shooting match had been circulated by the crowd
which, when the "ball" opened, occupied the porch that adorns Klines' store that any unusual stir
was occasioned. In a short time, however, windows were thrown open, and voices inquired what
it was all about, the answer being generally deemed a sufficient excuse for a visit to the scene of
the encounter. As soon as all doubt as to the fact of Carr being wounded was dispelled, a
messenger was dispatched for Dr. Davis, who shortly made his appearance, and ordered the
wounded man to be taken under cover. Some friends lifted and carried him to Widow
McLaughlin's, where the doctor made an examination, and discovered that a ball had penetrated
the left side of the abdomen immediately below the seventh rip. In the course of half an hour Dr.
Donohue put in an appearance, and he and Dr. Davis having consulted, concluded that the
patient's safety would be endangered by any attempt to discover the ball. Between three and four
o'clock Sunday morning Carr was taken to his father's house in Coal Dale; but before this was
accomplished he admitted to 'Squire Williams, in the presence of several gentlemen, that he had
fired the first shot.
Carr's condition is more than precarious, and no hopes are entertained by Dr. Davis that
he will recover. Immediately after receiving the bullet he began to vomit, and continued to do so
at short intervals for several hours; but today this has ceased, though it has left him in a very
weakened condition.
This afternoon the friends of the wounded man considered his chances of living so poor
that they sent for 'Squire Williams to take the dying man's deposition, which will not, however,
prejudice the case of Reese and Thomas to any extent, as Carr was clearly in the wrong.
About an hour after the shooting occurred Reese and Thomas gave themselves up to
'Squire Williams, who took their statements, which amount to about what we have written in
regard to the manner in which the affair occurred. The "Squire held the young men, and on
Sunday morning they were taken to Mauch Chunk by Captain T. C. Williams.
Carr died on Monday evening.
MARRIED, SNYDER-HARLEMAN.--In Lehighton, on the 11th inst., by Rev. John
Carrington, Mr. Albert C. Snyder and Miss Mary A. Harleman, both of Millport, Carbon
county, Pa.
Volume 4, Number 31, Saturday, June 24, 1876
Local and Personal. On Saturday of last week Aaron Washburne went to a picnic at Stemton.
He stayed there the entire afternoon, and according to rumor indulged rather freely in the
"ardent." At about dusk he left by himself and nothing more was seen of him until Sunday, when
his friends, becoming alarmed at his protracted absence, went in search of him and in a short
time discovered his body in the Hokendauqua creek near Stemton. It is supposed that, being
25
overcome by the effects of the liquor he had drank, he stumbled into the creek, and being entirely
helpless, drowned. He leaves a wife and several children.--Herald.
Birthday Party.
On Thursday evening last, it being the 48th anniversary of the birth of Mr. J. T. McDaniel
a number of friends assembled at his residence (the Eagle Hotel, in Mahoning Valley), to
celebrate the event, among whom we noticed the following:
J. W. Raudenbush, and lady; Thos. Mantz, and lady; E. H. Snyder, and lady; Thos.
Weaver, and lady; John Hauk, and lady; Ammon Klotz and lady; David Ebbert, and lady;
Elwin Drumbore, and lady; L. McDaniel and daughter; Geo. McDaniel, and lady; Jas.
Hollenbach, and lady.
At about 8 o'clock the party sat down to a most elegant repast, to which all did ample
justice, after which the hall was thrown open, and to the excellent music of the L. McDaniel
string band, the party for an hour or so enjoyed themselves tripping it on the light fantastic toe.
About 11 o'clock the party broke up and returned to their homes, having spent the evening in
most pleasureable enjoyment, and one long to be remembered by them.
MARRIED, SHULTZ-LOWER--On Sunday, June 18th, by A. M. Stapp, J. P., Mr. James
Shultz and Miss Mary Ann Lower, both of East Penn, Carbon county.
Volume 4, Number 32, Saturday, July 1, 1876
Local and Personal. A little son of the Widow Evans, residing in the neighborhood of the W. B.
C. & I. Co's boat yard, in East Weissport, who had been missing since Tuesday forenoon, was
found at the mouth of the lock-feeder on Wednesday evening, having, as is supposed, while at
play accidentally fell into the canal and been drowned.
MARRIED, KISTLER-HANDWERK.--On the 3d ult., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Wm. A.
Kistler and Miss Hetty Handwerk, both of Heidelberg twp., Lehigh county.
MARRIED, BENNINGHOFF-HOFFMAN.--On the 24th ult., by the same, Wm. H.
Benninghoff, of Heidelberg twp., Lehigh county, and Miss Adeline Hoffman, of East Penn twp.,
Carbon co.
DIED, SCHAEFER.--On the 9th ult., in Parryville, David James, son of Solomon and Catharine
Schaefer, aged 2 years and 27 days.
DIED, STROHL.--On the 12th ult., in Lower Towamensing, Elizabeth, wife of Peter Strohl,
aged 76 years and 8 months.
There was no paper published July 8, 1876.
Volume 4, Number 33, Saturday, July 15, 1876
26
Local and Personal. Mr. J. L. Schreiber, one of the oldest residents of Weissport, died on
Tuesday afternoon last. Mr. S. was 71 years of age, and was highly respected by all who knew
him.
Local and Personal. On the afternoon of the Fourth, two men entered a saloon near the L. V.
Depot at South Easton, and called for drink, which was refused them on account of their having
more aboard than was good for them. They soon left and had not proceeded far, when John
Thomas, of Phillipsburg, struck his companion, Thomas Flynn, and knocked him down,
following the action with a brutal kicking of the prostrate man, which so injured him that his
death resulted in a few minutes. Thomas was secured after a hard fight and taken to the Easton
jail, where he awaits his trial next month. The deceased was 22 years of age, married and leaves
two children. Thomas has the repuration of a brute, and is aged 35 years.--Catasauqua Dispatch.
Volume 4, Number 34, Saturday, July 22, 1876
Local and Personal. Francis Markert, agaed 64, a laborer in the employ of the Pennsylvania
coal company, was found in the woods near Nay-Aug Falls in the vicinity of Scranton, on
Sunday forenoon, with his throat cut. He leaves a family and some property and the cause of his
suicide is unknown.
Local and Personal. Henry Serfass, a brakesman on the Lehigh Valley, on Monday noon, when
his train was about one mile below rockport, the pulling bar between the tank and engine broke,
and Serfass fell in between the cars and was crused to death. His body from the breast down to
the thighs was terribly mashed. He lived about 20 minutes. He was a young man and his parents
reside at Trochsville.
Mauch Chunk Items. An infant of Mr. Dan. Collins which died on Saturday last, was deposited
in its final resting place, at the East Mauch Chunk Cemetery, on Monday afternoon.
Mauch Chunk Items. To do her share towards the celebration of the Centennial, Mrs. Wm. H.
Flowers, of Lehigh Tannery, on the 14th inst. presented her husband with triplets--two girls and
one boy. The latter has since died; the girls live. No weight given.
Volume 4, Number 35, Saturday, July 29, 1876
Local and Personal. A sad burial took place recently at the Hyde Park cemetery, near Scranton.
The occasion was the funeral of three children of Morris Jones, of Pittston, namely, Sarah Annie,
six years of age; Roland M., aged four years, and Edith, the babe, one year old. All were buried
in one grave, and the scene was one of the most affecting character.
Volume 4, Number 36, Saturday, August 5, 1876
A dead tramp was found in the barn of Mr. Lichtenthaler, near Fogelsville, Lehigh county, under
eighteen tons of hay which had been piled upon him as it was hauled in from the fields. A
27
terrible stench in the barn revealed the presence of the corpse, which was entirely putrescent
when found. It had lain under the hay for four weeks.
Local and Personal. Tuesday evening, August 1st., being the 49th birthday of Mr. Daniel
Kostenbader, his three sons presented him with a very handsome watch, as a mark of their
affection.
Local and Personal. Jonas Bowman, formerly of this neighborhood, died at Mahanoy City, a
few days ago. His remains were brought to Weissport for interment on Tuesday last.
Local and Personal. The bodies of Simon Crauthomel and John Messer were found Friday
morning of last week, at Uhler's lime kilns, near Easton Pa. They were boatmen, and had been
loading lime, and it is supposed they slept near the kiln, and were suffocated by the gas. Messer
was unmarried; Crauthomel leaves a wife and six children.
Boy Killed. On Friday evening a boy named Clayton Elliot, aged seventeen years, met a
frightful death in the Bethlehem Steel Works. The superintendent missed him an undue time and
sent a boy in search of him. The lad soon returned and told the superintendent that Elliot was
lying dead near the rolls. An examination proved that the boy's skull was badly broken, the neck
broken, turned clean around, and both shoulders fractured. He had been caught in the machinery
in some manner and rushed through the rolls.--Allentown Democrat.
Items. Married, at East Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday the 25th ult., Mr. Thos. Major to Miss Annie
K. Swank.
Items. Miss Mary Winkler, of this place contemplates, on the 15th inst., to assume the name of
Mrs. Richard Kiefer. No cards, but friends invited to attend at the parental residence on the day
in question.
Matters of Interest. Paris green was the variety of poison selected by John E. Fassold, aged 55,
living at Pine Brook, Luzerne county, to put an end to unpleasant domestic relations. The
remedy was effectual.
Matters of Interest. James M. Robbins was killed near Montoursville, Lycoming county, on
Friday by the accidental overturning of a loaded wagon upon him. He is sixty four years old and
leaves a wife and four children.
Matters of Interest. Moses Milton, a prominent farmer of Berks county, committed suicide
Monday afternoon, by hanging. It is supposed he drank too much.
Volume 4, Number 37, Saturday, August 12, 1876
Obituary.
On Tuesday afternoon last the mortal remains of Major Abraham Shortz were consigned
to their last resting place at the cemetery of U. Mauch Chunk, in presence of a large concourse of
sorrowing relatives, neighbors and friends. Yet, although his towering form will no more
28
confront us, his memory will be cherished, while time shall endure, by all who have known him.
As a man and citizen he was not only above reproach, but was one of the few who, under all
circumstances, are determined to do right regardless of consequences. Born on the 3rd day
September, 1793, in the neighborhood of Bath, Northampton county, deceased removed thence to
this section in 1820 or '22, and in 1826 took up his permanent abode in Mauch Chunk where he
devoted himself principally to contracting and mercantile affairs. But individuals of his stamp
never were nor ever will be left to lead a life of obscurity, and thus it happened that in 1837-8 he
was sent to represent the people of his county in the Lower House, and subsequently (1839-40)
was chosen State Senator, in which capacity he represented the district of Northampton one year.
That his conduct both as a representative and Senator was fully appreciated, is evident from the
fact that he was, after the conversion of this District into Carbon county, repeatedly elected by
the people to fill offices of trust; for besides the many minor offices he held during his eventful
career, he was once elected County Treasurer, and twice to the office of County Commissioner.
From what has been said above it is plain that deceased's residence here dates back to the earliest
period, the very foundation, of Mauch Chunk. He knew all about it's history, and being
otherwise a man of more than ordinary inteligence and self culture it was always a treat to hear
the Major converse upon subjects connected with the history of the valley, with which he was
probably better acquainted than any other person in these parts. Even in private affairs, and
business matters, his valuable advice was greedily sought, and always cheerfully given. In fact
there were many who would undertake nothing of importance without first consulting the Major;
indeed he was, by many, regarded as a sort of an oracle, and so far as his advice was concerned it
was invariably good. How he obtained the military "handle" to his name we know not, and can
only explain it on the hypothesis that he must have ranked as such (Major) it the palmy days of
the old State Militia, an institution long since defunct. Although Mr. Shortz had been favored
far beyond the years usually allotted to man, his intellect remained unimpaired unto his end. The
precise nature of his disease we have been unable to ascertain, but may take it for granted that he
succumbed to the accumulation of years. His sickness was of but short duration, he having been
taken in on Tuesday the 1st inst. and died on the Sunday following aged 83 years, 11 mos. and 3
days.
Afterlife's fitful fever, he sleeps well.
Local and Personal. On Thursday last the wife of W. M. Rapsher, Esq., presented him with a
centennial daughter, and our talented young friend is happy.
Local and Personal. An overloaded scaffold at the new prison extension in Pottsville, tumbled
down Thursday, injuring seven men, one of whom, named Oeterbier, died the same night.
Local and Personal. Mary Welsh ended a disreputable life by a violent death at Scranton on
Saturday last. She poisoned herself with Paris green on Thursday and died in great agony after
two days of intense suffering.
Local and Personal. On Friday evening last, a number of young ladies and gents, of this place,
made a surprize visit to Miss Sarah Walker, at the residence of Mr. C. E. Greenawald, it being
the anniversary of her birth. A number of articles were presented by the assembled guests, and
Mr. G. Kostenbader made a few very happy and well-timed remarks. It proved a most
enjoyable occasion.
29
Letter from Mauch Chunk. The death, on Sunday afternoon of Major Edwin Schortz seemingly
calling for something more than a passing notice, I shall try to ascertain the particulars of his
long and useful career and give them to your readers in extenso.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. Mr. Roger Dougherty rejoices over the arrival of the long expected
Centennial boy. The happy event, I learn, took place on Monday.
MARRIED, SMITH-SCHULTZ.--On the 3d inst. by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Mr. John R. Smith
and Miss Annie M. Schultz, both of Mauch Chunk.
MARRIED, SHIPE-BOWMAN.--On the 6th ult., by the same, Mr. James Wilson Shipe and
Miss Mary Jane Bowman, both of Lower Towamensing.
DIED, FAUCETT.--At Philadelphia, on the evening of the 31st of July, after a long and painful
illness, which she bore with Christian resignation, Mrs. Catharine, wife of A. P. Faucett, of
Lehighton, aged 30 years. Interment at Mount Olive Cemetery, Philadelphia, on the 3rd of
August, 1876.
DIED, WEIDAW.--On the 5th ult., in East Penn, Alwin, son of Benjamin and Elizabeth
Weidaw, aged 1 year, 7 months and 16 days.
DIED, SOLT.--On the 4th ult, in Franklin, Maria, wife of Daniel Solt, aged 74 years and 25
days.
DIED, HILL.--On the 9th ult., in Bowmansville, Harry E., son of Abraham and Julia Ann Hill,
aged 6 years and 10 months.
DIED, KUNKEL.--On the 22d ult., in Franklin, Mary E., daughter of Dures and Susan Kunkel,
aged 6 months and 29 days.
DIED, FINK.--On the 25th ult., in West Penn, Rosina, wife of Reuben Fink, aged 55 years, 5
months and 8 days.
DIED, KUNTZ.--On the 29th ult., in Lehighton, Samuel, husband of Sarah Kuntz, aged 75
years.
DIED, SCHERER--On the 2nd inst., in Lehighton, Mary Ellen, daughter of Harvey and Matilda
Scherer, aged 10 months and 27 days.
DIED, MAURER--On the 4th inst., in Lehighton, George Adam, son of Franklin and Alice M.
Maurer, aged 3 months and 17 days.
Volume 4, Number 38, Saturday, August 19, 1876
DANVILLE, August 16.--Last evening a horrible accident occurred at Frosty valley, near this
place, resulting in the instantaneous death of a man named John Everett while adjusting some
30
gearing in the saw mill where he was engaaged at work. His clothing was caught by the saw,
pitching him headlong upon it. In an instant one leg and a portion of his hip were severed from
his body; also an arm and a portion of his shoulder. His body was terribly lacerated, presenting a
sickening appearance.
Local and Personal. The wife of Monroe Queen died at his residence in this place, after a short
illness, at 4 o'clock on Tuesday morning.
Local and Personal. At Oakland, in Schuylkill county, Monday, Michael Brennan and John
Cook attacked the house of William Roeder, and threw stones into it. One of Roeder's
daughters was severely injured, whereupon her father fired at the ruffians, killing Brennan on
the spot. Cook was arrested.
Local and Personal. Charles Doll, an employee at Packerton, while returning home on the hand
cars on Monday evening last, accidentally fell off and was so severely injured that he died on
Tuesday evening. He was a married man, his fami- residing in Bethlehem, to which place his
remains were taken on Wednesday morning.
Items. Mr. Fred. Wagner rejoices over the birth of a Centennial boy. The happy event
transpired on Sunday last.
Items. Messrs. Henry Nunny, and Fred. Wagner were, on Sunday last, both made happy "dads"
by being presented each with a bouncing boy by his special partner. But Mr. Paul Kresge of
Towamensing, went them one better, his being twins.
Items. The festivities attending the Kiefer-Winkler nuptials, at East Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday
last, will long be remembered by those that participated. Persons that were present assure us that
it was a more enjoyable occasion than any of the kind they had ever witnessed, and that none of
the "hifalutins" of Mauch Chunk ever celebrated a marriage with equal eclat. The "happy
couple" have our best wishes.
MARRIED, NESLEY-BOUGHNER.--On the 10th inst., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Mr. Wm.
Nesley, of Summit Hill, Carbon county, to Mrs. Harietta Boughner, of Tamanend Junction, Schl.
Co., Pa.
DIED, QUEEN.--In this borough, on Tuesday morning, 15th inst., Alice A., wife of Monroe
Queen, aged 20 years, 6 months and 7 days. The funeral will take place this (Saturday)
morning, at 8 o'clock, from the residence on Bank street. Interment at Lower Towamensing
church. Friends are kindly invited to attend.
Volume 4, Number 39, Saturday, August 26, 1876
Katherine Rief's Fate.
HONEDALE, Pa., Aug. 22.--In 1848, John Seitz a young German clerk in a store in New
York City, was engaged to be married to a German girl named Katherine Rief. The California
gold fever breaking out, Seitz joined a party bound for that region. The first letter that he
31
received from home contained the intelligence that Miss Rief was soon to become the mother of
his child. He wrote back that but for the distance and lack of means he would return at once and
marry her. He pledged himself to come back as soon as possible and make her his wife. Soon
after the birth of the child, the young woman came to Honesdale with the family of a brother.
They heard occasionally from Seitz. He always renewed his pledges, and said he was seeking
fortune alone to enable to come east and get his wife and child. Then nothing further was heard,
and after two or three years he was looked upon as dead.
Miss Rief's brother was a carriage maker. In his employ was a young blacksmith named
Wendt. This man had professed great love for Katherine from her first appearance in this place.
She refused all his offers of marriage for four or five years. At length, believing that her lover
was dead, and wishing to relieve her brother of the burden of herself and child, she accepted the
blacksmith, and they were married. They went to New York to live. Wendt turned out to be a
brute. He abused and neglected his wife so shamefully, that she soon broke down in health.
A few months after the marriage a letter came to Honesdale from Seitz. He had been for
a long time in out-of-way diggings and had at last made his fortune. He was about to start East
after his wife and child. This news created a great sensation in the family. Seitz arrived in
Honesdale in due time, and was stunned at the news he was told. He determined to see once
more the woman he had loved, and proceeded to New York for that purpose. He found her in a
miserable tenement dying of consumption with no one near her but her infant child. She died a
few days afterward, charging Wendt with having caused her death. Seitz had her remains
interred in Greenwood Cemetery. A week afterward Wendt, no doubt, filled with remorse,
visited the spot where she was buried and shot himself through the heart over her grave.
Seitz returned to California, placing his child in charge of its mother's relatives in
Honesdale. The boy grew up under the name of John Rief. It was not until after he was of age
that he learned his history and name. Six weeks ago he was prostrated with hemorrhage of the
lungs, and on Tuesday last he died. The night before his death a letter was received from San
Francisco saying that John Seitz of that city was lying at the point of death. News has since been
received that he died there an hour or so before his son's death here. Seitz married in California,
and at the time of his death was very wealthy. He owned a handsome residence in San
Francisco, in which there is a room, furnished elegantly, which Seitz called "Jonny's room". It
was fitted up for his son in this place who was too much attached to his childhood's friends to go
there and occupy it, as his father frequently requested him to do. In all his letters Seitz declared
that his son should share equally with his other children in his wealth. It is supposed that the
young man dying as he did subsequent to his father, was heir to a handsome property. As he
bequeathed all his property to the aunt who reared him, this will fall to her.
Local and Personal. An infant child of Mr. Jacob Kline, of this place, died at about one o'clock
on Friday morning, of this week.
Oliver Breneiser, Sheriff of this county, we regret to learn, died at his residence, in Mauch
Chunk, on Thursday night. Mr. B. has not enjoyed good health for a number of months past, still
the announcement of his death was a surprise to numbers of his friends. He was elected Sheriff
of this county in 1873, and his term of office would have expired on the 1st of January next. He
has filled the duties of his office very acceptably to all parties, and during his term has won many
warm friends. Requiescat in pace.
DIED, STROHL.--On the 5th ult., at Lehigh Gap, of convulsions, Charles Elvin, son of Conrad,
32
and Florenda Strohl, aged 1 month and 2 da.
Volume 4, Number 40, Saturday, September 2, 1876
A Honesdale, Pa., dispatch says: Mrs. Nicholas Staeger, the wife of a German laborer of this
place, went blackberrying on the mountains, and after picking a ten quart pail full of berries, was
taken sick. Two miles from home alone on the mountain, she gave birth to a child. She arrived
home in the middle of the afternoon with her pail of berries on her arm and her child wrapped up
in her apron. The baby is a lusty ten pounder, and Mrs. Staeger has not lost a day's work since
its birth.
A little boy named McDonald was killed on the Pennsylvania coal company's railroad at Pittston
on Saturday, by being thrown beneath a train of coal cars which he attempted to board while in
motion.
Mysterious Death. On Sunday evening, the 20th ult., Louisa Boyer, of Lower Towamensing,
with a younger sister, returned home from church in apparently good health, but shortly after
retiring to bed she was seized with pains and spasms, and after lingering about four hours, in
terrible agony, she breathed her last. The physician, called to her bedside, when first called in, at
once perceived that he had to deal with a case of poisoning, but when called on to explain what
she had taken or eaten before retiring, the sufferer would invariably exclaim, "er hat mir's geben,
er hat mir's geben," and when on subsequent examination, the girl was found to be enciente, the
truth at once flashed upon the physician's mind. Previous to interment a Coroner's jury sat over
the corpse, and a kind of a post mortem was held, the result of which, however, has not
transpired. The stomach of the victim is now in the possession of a Mauch Chunk physician.
The fact of an attempted abortion in the case being evident, says the M. C. Democrat, suspicious
were at once aroused with regard to a young man named Charles Wagner, the son of a
respectable widow neighbor, as the only male person ever known to have kept the girl's
company. Nothing was said, however, and at the girl's funeral the young man in question was
one of the chief mourners. But things were not to rest there; others took action in the case, which
resulted in the issue of a warrant against the body of Wagner, which warrant was placed in the
hands of Officer Boyer, one of the Coal and Iron police stationed at Mauch Chunk, for
execution; and young Wagner was taken to Mauch Chunk on Friday evening of last week, and
lodged in jail.
Volume 4, Number 41, Saturday, September 9, 1876
Local and Personal. Mrs. Thomas Higgins after getting off a train on the Lehigh and
Susquehanna railroad, at Minooka, on Saturday, was run over and killed by an engine upon the
side track. She was 70 years old.
Local and Personal. Monday morning about half past six o'clock, as passenger train No. 18,
Lehigh Valley railroad, was nearing the furnace below East Penn Junction, it struct two ladies
walking on the track, and both were instantly killed. Their names are Mrs. Rudolph and Mrs.
Messer, both from Salisbury township, Lehigh county. Mrs. Messer is a daughter of Mrs.
33
Rudolph.
Matters of Interest. Four men were killed, and a number injured, five perhaps fatally, by an
explosion of nitroglycerine on a scow at Hell Gate Tuesday.
Matters of Interest. At Reading, Pa., Wednesday, the horses attached to a street sprinkler ran
away, fatally injuring the driver Jacob Peck. A woman and three children were run over by the
team, and were seriously injured.
Matters of Interest. The death of Mr. E. L. Merrimen, the democratic candidate for Congress in
the Twelfth district, resulted from congestion of the kidneys and was very sudden and
unexpected. Mr. Merrimen was only 36 years of age and was one of the most promising
attorneys in Luzerne county. The democratic standing committee of Luzerne will name a new
candidate for Congress this week.
DIED, SOLT.--In Franklin township, on Wednesday, the 23d ult., Sarah Jane, daughter of Henry
and Emelia Solt, aged 4 years and 10 days.
Volume 4, Number 42, Saturday, September 16, 1876
Local and Personal. Patrick Gallagher was killed by a fall of rock while working in the Bear
Ridge Colliery, at Mahanoy Plane, on Monday evening.
Local and Personal. Patrick Kiernan, on Wednesday last, was accidentally killed in the mines at
Jeansville, and Thos. Jones, was badly injured at the Scotch Valley mines on Tuesday.
Local and Personal. A young man named John Brobst, a brother of Peter Brobst, residing near
Stemlersville, fell down stairs Tuesday night, and injured himself so badly, that he died about 9
o'clock Wednesday morning. His funeral will take place to day (Saturday.)
Local and Personal. William A. Kuntz, an old resident of Lehigh township, Northampton Co.,
and for some years past one of the proprietors of the Exchange Hotel, at Walnutport, died at that
place on Tuesday morning of last week. His age was 71 years, 5 months and 7 days.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. Justice Yeager is said to be rapidly failing, with no prospects of a
possible recovery.
Resolutions of Condolence.
To the C. C. V. C. Officers and Members of Lehighton Lodge, No. 231 K. of P., of Pa.
Sirs and Brothers.--The Special Committee appointed for the purpose of drafting
resolutions expressive of the feelings of this Lodge at the loss (by death) of Brother G. P.
Wintling, respectfully submit the following:
Whereas, It has pleased the Great Ruler of the Universe, who in His great providence
doeth all things well, to remove from our midst Brother G. P. Wintling, a most worthy and
respected member of this Order and this Lodge; Therefore, be it.
Resolved. That, while the members of this Lodge deeply feel and deplore the loss of
34
Brother G. P. Wintling, they humbly bow to the decree of Providence and the will of Him who
doeth all things well; they sincerely hope that their departed Brother has been admitted into that
Supreme Lodge where no legislative labors are required where all is peace.
Resolved. That we do most sincerely condole with the family of the deceased in this the
hour of their great tribulation, they having lost a loving husband and a fond and indulgent father.
Resolved. That a copy of these preambles and resolutions be sent to the family of our
deceased Brother, as a slight expression of the friendship which we held for him, and our sorrow
at his decease, and that the same be published in the Carbon Advocate, and also entered upon the
minutes.
Fraternally, Wm. M. DuFour, N. B. Reber, Thos. R. Ratcliff.
Matters of Interest. Henry S. Brown drowned himself in the canal at Reading on Thursday
during temporary lunacy occasioned by business troubles.
Matters of Interest. A boy named Dolan was choked to death at Cherry Ridge, Wayne county, on
Thursday by a bean which lodged in his throat.
DIED, BURGESS.--In Weissport, on the 8th instant, Albert V., son of Ed. C. and Julie V.
Burgess, aged 3 months and 9 days. Remains were interred at Laurel Hill, Philadelphia.
Volume 4, Number 43, Saturday, September 23, 1876
The Reading Eagle devotes over a column to a marriage which was celebrated in that city last
week, in the acadamy of music. The parties to wedding were Mr. Simon Ullman, of
Williamsport, and Miss Rose Dreifos, daughter of Mr. Bernard Dreifos, of Reading. The hebrew
ceremony was performed, and the occasion was the most brilliant ever known in Reading
Local and Personal. Thos. S. Beck, Esq., and his wife, on Wednesday last, completed the 25th
year of their wedded life.
Local and Personal. Ezekiel Fritz, night dispatcher of the Reading Railroad at Allentown, was
run over by a train at that place, on Saturday last, and killed.
Items. A young man, son of Levi Hartz, in the employ, as brakeman, of the L. V. R. R. Co., was
squeezed to death, while in the act of coupling cars at Centralia, on Wednesday last.
Obituary. Milton W. Raudenbush, son of Adam and Anna Maria Raudenbush, departed this
life at his home at Packerton, on Sunday last, the 17th inst., of consumption, leaving a bright
evidence "that if his earthly tabernacle shall be dissolved, that he has a building of God, a house
not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." The subject of this memoir was born in Milford
township, Bucks county, Pa., on the 27th of June, 1827, entered the state of matrimony in 1849,
with Sophia Rader, with whom he lived 27 years, and was blessed with 3 children, of whom an
infant son preceeded the father to the land of immortality. He was a consistent and worthy
member of the M. E. church, at Packerton. By his death the church has lost a useful and active
member, his family a devoted husband and father, the aged mother an affectionate son, his
neighbors a kind and true friend, but he has gained an immortal crown of glory. Truly their loss
is his eternal gain. He attained the age of 49 years, 3 months and 10 days. The funeral services,
35
on Wednesday, were held at the Evangelical church, in Lehighton, the occasion being improved
by Rev. J. C. Bliem, who preached a very appropriate and eloquent sermon to a large and deeply
interested congregation, he was assisted by Rev. G. W. Townsend, of Claymont, Del., formerly
pastor of the Packerton M. E. church. Deceased was interred in the Lehighton Cemetery by the
brotherhood of "Free Masons," in a solemn and impressive manner. He leaves a wife and two
children--a son and daughter, an aged mother, brothers, sisters and many friends to mourn their
loss, but not such that have no hope. May the good Lord comfort them.
Matters of Interest. William Artz, a brakeman on the Reading Railroad, was caught between two
coal cars and crushed to death Wednesday at Centralia.
MARRIED, BRADY-HOXWORTH.--On the 21st inst., by Rev. J. J. Fitzmaurice, at
Allentown, P. T. Brady, of Lehighton, and Miss Bell Hoxworth, of Allentown, Pa. We extend to
the happy pair our hearty congratulations, and wish them a happy and prosperous journey
through life.
MARRIED, DREHER-SMITH.--In this borough, on the 18th of August, by H. A. Beltz, J. P.,
Mr. B. Dreher and Miss Lucy Smith, both of Lehighton, Pa.
DIED, RAUDENBUSH.--On the 17th inst., at Packerton, of consumption, Milton W.
Raudenbush, aged 49 years, 3 months and 10 days.
DIED, QUEEN.--In Lehighton on the 16th inst., an infant child of Monroe Queen.
DIED, HAUSER.--In Rickertsville, Franklin twp., on the 15th inst., Emma Agnes, infant
daughter of Adam and Dianna Hauser, aged 11 months and 23 days.
Volume 4, Number 44, Saturday, September 30, 1876
Items. The late Squire Yeager's funeral was largely attended on Sunday afternoon last despite
the very unfavorable state of the weather.
Items. The remains of Henry Metzger, aged 61, and his wife Dorothea, aged 56, late residents of
E. Mauch Chunk, who died of typhoid fever on Sunday evening and Monday morning
respectively, were, on Tuesday afternoon, deposited in one grave at Evergreen Cemetery.
MARRIED, SCHULER-DENTINGER.--In this borough, on the 25th inst., by Rev. J. C. Bliem,
James Schuler, of Shenandoah, and Miss Emma E. Dentinger, of Lehighton.
MARRIED, OHL-GERBER.--On the 20th ult., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Henry Ohl and Miss
Sabina Gerber, both of West Penn, Schuylkill co.
MARRIED, RUFF-WEISS.--On the 3rd inst., by same, Joseph Ruff and Miss Catharine N.
Weiss, both of Frankln twp.
MARRIED, LAROSE-SENSINGER.--On the 10th inst., by the same, William Larose and Miss
36
Susanna Sensinger, both of Franklin twp.
DIED, HISKEY.--In Lehighton, on the 27th inst., Emma Amanda, daughter of Henry Hiskey,
aged about 14 years.
One by one we fade away.
Like the rose that is in bloom:
Awaiting that great glorious day.
When God shall call us from the tomb.
We shall dwell with Him on high,
In that celestial home above,
Where pain and sorrow ne'er are nigh,
Where all is peace and sacred love.
Soon thy journey here did end,
To part from us and come no more;
To dwell with Jesus, that dear friend.
In heaven to live for evermore.
Farewell, Emma, youthful friend.
In heaven we hope to greet thy hand.
To met you there to part no more-There, over on the golden shore.
DIED, BUCKMAN.--In this borough, on the 25th inst., Elda I., daughter of Adam and Mary
Buckman, aged 9 years and 28 days.
DIED, SHADRICK.--In Lehighton, on the 21st inst., of hemorrhage Thomas Shadrick, aged 17
years 8 months and 17 days.
DIED, KNERR.--In Weissport, on the 28th inst., infant child of Daniel Knerr, aged about 2 yrs.
Volume 4, Number 45, Saturday, October 7, 1876
Local and Personal. Willie Meyers, a seven year old brother of Mrs. David Kreamer, of this
place, on a visit to her home, was taken with scarlet fever on Friday last, and died on Monday.
The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon.
Local and Personal. During a saloon fight at Taylorsville, near Scranton, Wednesday morning,
Edward James and Charles Cernen were mortally stabbed by Reese James. Cernen died
Thursday. Reese James and his mother, who took part in the fight, have been arrested.
Local and Personal. Charles Horn, brakeman on the Lehigh Valley railroad, Wyoming division,
was killed Friday morning of last week. He was attached to freight train No. 45, which as it
neared Gould's siding broke by the parting of the couplings. He was standing on the platform of
one of the cars, and as the cars rushed together when the train slacked up, he was thrown on the
track and instantly killed. Mr. Horn was an estimable young man about twenty-one years of age
and was highly respected.
37
Items. The funeral of the late Chas. Horn, of East Mauch Chunk, was largely attended on
Sunday last, when sorrow at the untimely departure of this very excellent young man seemed to
be the all prevading sentiment of the community. Rev. Young, of the M. E. church of E. Mauch
Chunk performed the solemn burial rites of that Church, both at the residence of deceased and at
the Upper Mauch Chunk Cemetery.
Items. Patrick McKenna, a well known Irish citizen of Nesquehoning, died last Monday night,
aged 54 years.
Items. Mr. George Long, the West Broadway green-grocer, feels sore because Sunday's new
arrival proved to be a girl, instead of the coveted Centennial boy.
Fatal Shooting.
Wm. W. a son of Lyman D. McDaniel, of this borough, on Wednesday forenoon, was
ascending a ladder in the Fort Allen Foundry, at Weissport, with a revolver in the breast pocket of
his coat, muzzle upwards, when by some means the pistol was discharged, the ball passing
through the lappel of the coat and entering his face below the cheek bone, passing upwards and
backwards, it penetrated the center of the brain, causing instant death. Dr. N. B. Reber was
immediately on the ground, but was unable to reach it with his instruments. The above being the
Dr.'s testimony before the jury of inquest. The community deeply sympathise with the parents in
their sudden bereavement. This should prove a warning to our young men to give up the
prevalent custom of carrying revolvers about their persons. In a community like ours it is
entirely unnecessary and should be strictly forbidden by parents.
The funeral will take place from his parents residence, No. 9 Company's Row, to-morrow
(Sunday) afternoon at 1:30 o'clock. Friends and relatives are invited to attend. Deceased was
aged 19 years, 2 month and 9 days.
MARRIED, ANTHONY-WAGNER.--On the 1st inst., by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, Mr. George
Washington Anthony and Miss Caroline Charlatte Wagner, daughter of the late August Wagner,
both of Lehighton.
DIED, EMMETT.--On the 29th ultimo, at Long Run, William Siloanus, infant son of Wm.
Emmett, aged 1 year, 8 months and 4 days.
Volume 4, Number 46, Saturday, October 14, 1876
The body of an unknown man, supposed to be a tramp was found on the track of the L. & S.
Railroad, near the gas house, at Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday morning, with the head severed from
the body and otherwise mutulated. He had been seen the previous day visiting the different
saloons and drinking shops, and is supposed to have lay down on the track to sleep--he did
effectually. He was taken to the poor house for burial.
Local and Personal. The funeral of William W. McDaniel, on Sunday afternoon last, was very
largely attended. The services were conducted by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, of the Lutheran church.
Local and Personal. On Monday morning while three loaded coal cars were being hoisted from
38
the slope of the Middle Lehigh colliery, at New Boston, Schuylkill county, the rope broke and the
cars ran to the bottom. Four mimers were killed, viz: Ed. Knauss, Wm. Bachus, Jos. Becker
and Thomas Jones.
A Strange Case.
Under the above caption, the Easton Express, of last Saturday, gives the following
particulars of the death of Mary Yetter. A few of our citizens have for some time wondered at
the suddenness of the girl's death; but the mystery, now seems to be thoroughly explained,
through the untiring exertions of Detective Johnson, of Easton, assisted by our indefatigable
constable, Jos. S. Webb, and two or three other of our citizens:
The readers of the Express will remember an account published in this paper of the
sudden death of a girl aged nineteen years, named Mary Yetter, which occurred at the Central
Hotel, Easton, on the 6th of September last. The girl arrived at the hotel about 11 o'clock in the
morning of the 5th from Lehighton, Carbon County, accompanied by a Mrs. W. D. Labar, for
whom she had been working as a servant. The girl had been sick for several days, and as Mrs.
Labar intended to visit some relatives near Bangor, this county, she concluded to take charge of
the sick girl and take her to the home of her parents near Stroudsburg, or at least accompany her
as far as Bangor. Arriving at Easton the girl's illness seemed to increase, and her companion
thought it advisable to stop here, and accordingly took a room at the Central Hotel. During the
trip from Lehighton to Easton the girl had several attacks of vomiting which so much increased
in violence after her arrival at the hotel that physicians were called in to attend her, but she grew
rapidly worse, and died at 5 o'clock that afternoon. Her remains were taken to Monroe County
and interred.
The physicians, although expressing the opinion that the sickness was cholera morbus,
were inclinded to the belief that the vomiting was too violent for that disease, and this, taken into
consideration with the fact that considerable blood was ejected, roused their suspicions that
poison might have been administered, and they accordingly saved some of the matter ejected
from the stomach of deceased for analyzation. The inmates of the hotel, noticing this action of
the physicians, and from their own observations while in the room before the girl's death, started
the report that there was some mystery connected with her death. The newspaper reporters of
Easton, ever on the watch for information, gained possession of the facts, so far as known, before
the removal of the body, and, as there was suspicion of foul play, refrained from publishing the
same at the request of District Attorney Merrill and the physicians, who feared that giving
publicity to the suspicions might possibly prevent the arrest of parties whom future investigation
would implicate.
In the meantime Dr. Sine and Mr. W. S. Sweeney, Assistant Chemist at Lafayette College,
each took a portion of the matter ejected from the stomach (saved by Dr. Sine), and annalyzed
the same separately, the result of which showed the presence of arsenic in large quanity. This
discovery gave the District Attorney some grounds to work on, and the case was placed in the
hands of Detective Johnson, who immediately went to work to ascertain who administered the
poison. He made a number of trips to Lehighton, and inquired into the standing of the Labar
family, with whom the girl lived; also as to the actions of the deceasesd while in service of the
family and the company she kept. All this he had to accomplish without exciting the suspicions
of any one. On arriving at Lehighton, however, he found that an opinion prevailed there that the
girl had died from poison, and this rumor necessitated still more delicacy in Mr. Johnson's
investigations. Repeated visits failed to elicit anything that tended to implicate any person in the
affair. Finding all attempts to probe the matter through outside investigation futile, Detective
39
Johnson resolved to interview the Labar family, and for this purpose and Express reporter
accompanied him to Lehighton.
The interview took place yesterday morning. The present servant girl at the Labar
house, Miss Cornelia Shingler; was accidentally met at a neighboring house, and, to the
questions of the reporter, answered thus: "I knew the girl Mary Yetter. I took her place at Mrs.
Labar's house. I went there two days before she left to go home. I slept with her two nights.
The night before she left we stayed up very late, getting things ready for breakfast, for she was
going to start for home early in the morning. She cried, and said she did not want to go home,
because she did not like Stroudsburg. We talked in bed until about 2 o'clock in the morning." It
was some time before Miss Shingler would tell what the conversation was that took place in
bed, but on being informed that it might have some bearing on the cause of Mary's death, she
replied: "Well, she asked me if I knew what arsenic was, I told her it was poison. She said "Mrs.
Labar had some to kill rats--will it kill people." I said yes. Then she asked how much it took to
kill a person, and I said I thought a very little. We did not sleep long. She also asked what
arsenic was while we were peeling potatoes, before we went to bed. We got up very early. Both
went in the yard for chips. I saw her go down to the barn. A short time after we were up she said
she was awful sick. I saw her go to the out-house three times. She came back crying each time.
I heard Mrs. Labar say, the reason she sent Mary away was because she could not do the work.
I heard Mary say she had the dropsy and I saw her limbs swollen very much. She ate but a few
potatoes for breakfast and drank a little water; she drank no tea or coffee. She appeared to be
very sick, and Mrs. Labar said I guess you better not go home to-day, and Mary said "yes, I ain's
sick, I will go." A young man named Patterson, who is not altogether right came to see Mary
twice, but Mrs. Labar would not let him come any more. I asked Mrs. Labar what Mary died
of, and she said cholera morbus. I found a paper containing sugar of lead several days after
Mary died, in a button basket. I told Mrs. Labar and she said it belonged to her, that she bought
it for her children. Mary did not want to go home, she cried when the stage come, and we had to
help her into it. I don't think she had any trouble with any one. She told me that Mrs. Labar
scolded her, but she liked the place and did not want to leave.
The Labar house was next visited. It is surrounded by a truck garden. Mr. Labar is a
gardner by trade. His barn is only about thirty yards from the house. Mrs. Labar met the
reporter at the door, and when he made known his mission, she cheerfully replied as follows:
"The day Mary started for home she had been living here just six months and six days. I know
there is a report that Mary died by poison. I bought poison to kill rats about two months since. I
used it on some cheese. I don't think Mary had sense enough to know what arsenc was. She was
not a bright girl. I concluded to send her home because she was incapable of doing the work, as I
was sick. I heard the girls talking very late the night before Mary started for home. I noticed
that she ate only a little potatoes and drank water at breakfast. She was sick and crying. I made
her mint tea, but she did not touch it. She appeared to be sick I told her we would not go, when
Mary said no, I ain't sick, I must go anyhow. I went with her to take her home, she vomited
nearly all the way to Easton in the cars. I heard the doctor ask her if she took anything, and she
said no. A half-witted fellow come to see her a couple of times and I drove him off. Her folks
told me I should allow no boys to visit her. She dreaded going home; while she was here she
joined the Methodist Church, when she came here she was a Lutheran, and she was afraid her
people would abuse her for going to the Methodist Church.
While the conversation was going on Mr. Labar came in from the barn and he said that
some of the arsenic bought two months ago was left; that he wrapped it up and placed it on a
beam in the barn where it still remains. " don't know if Mary knew whether it was there. It don't
40
look as if it had been tampered with. I recieved a telegram from Easton stating that Mary was
dead, and went down. When I came back I heard of the rumor about the poison, and went
immediately to the barn and found the arsenic where I left it. It might have been opened
though."
Mrs. Labar said she was sure Mary was not pregnant; that she never had any money,
because her folks ordered that her money should be kept.
Thus the matter stands. Officer Johnson has performed his part in investigating the case
as economically and thoroughtly as possible. Although he was pressed to have the Coroner
disinter the body of deceased at the start, he refused, hoping to prove his suspicions that the girl
had committed suicide. There is a strong suspicion entertained by some, however, that Mary
Yetter was pregnant, and that the poison was given to her to get her out of the way. A post
mortem examination would prove the girl's condition, but the question arises, which county will
proceed to have it done, the girl having been taken sick in Carbon, died in Northampton and is
buried in Monroe?
We give to day the above particulars of the case, as we no longer deem it necessary to
keep them from the public, ina much as the facts, so far as known, have become the town talk,
and injustice is being done to certain parties seemingly innocent. The Labar family are well
spoken of by their neighbors, and it is evident they knew nothing of the cause of Miss Yetter's
sickness. It seems altogether probably that the girl, who is represented as "weak minded,"
secretly partook of the poison for some imaginary or real cause, entirely without the knowledge
or connivance of any other person or persons.
MARRIED, GRIFFITHS-WILLIAMS.--At the residence of D. P. Hughes, Esq., at East Mauch
Chunk, by Rev. D. E. Hughes, of Coal Dale, Mr. David H. Griffith, of Ashton to Miss Leah
Williams, of the same place.
DIED, McDANIEL.--On the 4th inst., William W., son of Lyman D. McDaniel, of this borough,
by accidental shooting, aged 19 years, 2 mos., and 9 days.
Death has been here and borne away,
A brother from our side;
Just in the morning of his life,
As young as we he died.
One we loved has left our number,
For the dark and silent tomb,
Closed his eyes in deathless slumber,
Faded in his early bloom.
From or circle, dearest brother,
Early hast thou passed away;
But the angels say "Another
Joins our holy song to-day."
Dearest William, thou hast left us,
Here thy loss we deeply feel.
But 'tis God that hath bereft us,
He can aid our sorrows heal.
Yet again we hope to meet thee,
When the day of life is fled,
Then, in heaven, with joy to greet thee,
41
Where no farewell tears are shed.
Peaceful be thy silent slumber,
Peaceful in the grave so low;
Thou no more wilt join our number,
Thou no more our songs shalt know.
Lehighton, Oct. 19, 1876. B. McM.
DIED, ZELLNER.--At Bowmansville, the 8th inst., Ellen Zellner, consort of Samuel Zellner,
of typhoid fever of which she suffered on ly 10 days. Aged 31 years, 9 months and 7 days.
Volume 4, Number 47, Saturday, October 21, 1876
Local and Personal. Harry Moon, aged 14, was killed at Carbondale on Thursday on the gravity
railroad. He was meddling with the machinery and was crushed to death on the drum around
which the wire rope is coiled.
DIED, BLEIM.--On the 18th inst., near Catasauqua, Mr. S. Bleim, consort of David Bleim and
mother of Rev. J. C. Bleim, of Lehighton, after a sickness of typhoid fever of not quite 2 weeks,
aged 66 years, 2 months and 13 days. Interment will take place to-day (Saturday). Her mortal
remains will be deposited in the Howertown Union Cemetery.
Volume 4, Number 48, Saturday, October 28, 1876
Local and Personal. Edward Kearney was killed on the railroad at Mount Carbon, Pa., Tuesday.
He was run over by an engine while stepping from one track to another to get out of the way of
an approaching train.
Local and Personal. Mr. Harrison Wentz, of Franklin township, has had eight of his nine
children down with a malignant form of diptheria, three of whom have died, one being buried
last week and two on Thursday last. The first one was taken sick while the parents were absent
at the Centennial. The five others are now convalescing. The oldest boy deceased was aged
about 15 years, a girl 11 years and an infant girl of 1 1-2 years. Mr. Wentz has the sympathy of
the entire community in his sad bereavement.
MARRIED, KOONS-RHODES.--On the 21st inst., at the M. E. parsonage, Lehighton, by Rev.
L. B. Brown, Mr. William Koons, of Weissport to Miss Mary Alice Rhodes, of Lehighton, Pa.
MARRIED, SMAWLEY-GREEN.--On the 10th inst., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Mr. W. A.
Smawley and Miss Francisca Green, both of Lehighton.
MARRIED, BECHTEL-EROH.--On the 12 inst., by the same, Mr. David Bechtel and Miss
Susan Elizabeth Eroh, both of Delano, Schuylkill county.
MARRIED, HAUSER-MILLER.--On the 15th inst., by the same, Mr. Charles L. Hauser, of
West Penn, Schuylkll county, to Miss Kate Miller, of Mahoning, Carbon county.
42
MARRIED, DEPPY-OLEWINE.--On the 22d inst., by the same, Mr. Lewis Deppy and Miss
Susan Ann Olewine, both of Franklin, Carbon county.
DIED, HAUSER.--On the 29th ult., in Tamaqua, Maria Hauser, aged 87 years, 9 months and 12
ds.
DIED, HESS.--On the same day, in West Penn, Emma Catharine daughter of John and Pricilla
Hess, aged 14 years, 3 months, 2 days.
DIED, BECK.--On the 5th ult., in Lehighton, Edgar Samuel, son of Alfred and Amanda Beck,
aged 3 years, 3 months.
DIED, SCHERER.--On the 8th inst., in Mahoning, Alice Laura, daughter of John and Rosa Ann
Scherer, aged 3 years, 5 months and 23 days.
DIED, BROWN.--On the 20th inst., in Bowmansville, Thomas husband of Rebecca Brown,
aged 62 years, 2 days.
Volume 4, Number 49, Saturday, November 4, 1876
Local and Personal. A telegram from Scranton gives a list of two persons killed and twenty-five
injured by the collision on the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad at Goldsboro', on
Tuesday night. Four of the injured were not expected to recover. The passenger train was two
hours behind time, and was taking water at the Summit when the coal train dashed into its rear.
Local and Personal. The nine o'clock train from Scranton, on the Delaware, Lackawanna and
Western Railroad, consisting of seventeen cars, was run into by a coal train, near Goldsboro'
station, Monday night. One of the cars was burned and two telescoped. Five persons were killed
and about thirteen injured.
Local and Personal. Anton Binder, residing near Lehigh Gap, wa out gunning on Wednesday,
and in getting over a fence with his gun in his hand, muzzle up, it accidentally "went off," the
content entering his head, killing him instantly. He leaves a wife and four children. The funeral
will take place to-day (Saturday).
Local and Personal. Three "sleepers" and a passenger coach of the Buffalo express train bound
north on the North Pennsylvania Railroad, Wednesday night, were thrown from the track at
Centre Valley by the breaking of an axle. A brakeman and a porter were killed and several
persons were injured. The latter were cared for by surgeons sent on a relief train from
Bethlehem. The track was obstructed for several hours.
Murder of John Boschee.
On Saturday night last, another disgraceful murder was perpetrated near Locust Dale, in
Schuylkill county, the victim being a German, named John Boschee, and his murderers three
brutes nmed respectively John Lennen, James Lochlin and Michael Corgan, who knocked
Boschee down, hit him with stones, kicked him and otherwise assaulted him so brutally that he
43
died almost instantly.
The circumstances of the terrible affair are as follows: John Boschee, a German and a
married man with four children, worked at Locust Dale. He was thirty three years of age, about
six feet in height and rather fleshy. He had lived in Locust Dale for the past seven years, and had
always been respected. On Saturday evening, after he had washed himself and eaten his supper,
he remarked to his wife that he felt tired, but that he would go out for a glass of beer. He
repaired to Young's hotel, only a short distance from his house, where he remained several hours,
but did not drink anything of consequence. About half-past eleven o'clock in the evening, while
he was assisting a man by the name of Robert Benny to take his brother, Thos. Benny, who was
intoxicated, home, they were met by three men, who singled out Boschee and murdered him.
It is believed that the three murderers knew that he was absent from home, and that they
waited for him in an unfrequented locality, and attacked him as above described. One of the men
named Fogleson, who accompanied the murdered man, attemped to interfere in his behalf, when
one of the assassins told him to go on with his business, or he would shoot him. Another one of
the murderers then remarked let him (meaning Fogelson) alone, we don't want to have anything
to do with him. What was the motive for for the murder is not positively known, but it is thought
that it was an old sore, which will be developed, as the case in inquired into.
The three murderers after they had finished their fiendish work (with the object of
throwing off suspicion, it is supposed,) walked into Ashland and roused the deputy coroner,
'Squire Kemmerer, out of bed and informed him that a man had been murdered at Locust Dale,
and said that he sould go out and hold an inquest. The coroner suspecting that all was not right,
scanned the faces of the men carefully, whom he recognized. He then secured Officer Brit
Horne, of the coal and iron police, and a posse of citizens and proceeded to Locust Dale. On the
way they met several Germans who gave them the particulars of the affair. Mr. Kemmerer, upon
reaching the home of the murdered man, found the body in the house, where it had been removed
by some persons who thought they could probably resuscitate the inaminate form. He after
viewing the body, impaneled a jury and held an inquest. In the meantime arrangements were
made to arrest Lennan, Lochlin and Corgan. Lochlin and Lennan were arrested about three
o'clock Sunday morning on a bridge near where the murder was committed, and apparently were
making preparations to clear out. Corgan was arrested at home in bed. They were taken to the
Ashland lock-up where they remained until Monday morning, when they were taken to
Pottsville.
After hearing the evidence the Coroner's jury returned the following verdict:
That John Boschee came to his death by being assaulted with a blunt instrument in the
hands of John Lennan, James Lochlin and Michael Corgan.
James Lochlin teaches a school at Locust Dale, and when arrested turned pale and
evidenced great alarm. He is or Irish parentage, about twenty-three years of age, and is
unmarried. He bore an indifferent reputation but his parents are very respectable people. In
appearance he is gentlemanly. He has dark hair, light complexion, and is of the ordinary build.
John Lennan is about twenty-eight years of age. Nothing can be said to his credit. He is
a reputed "Mollie" and was always a first-class bruiser.
Michael Corgan is an Irishman of thirty-two years of age and is a married man. He has a
rough, rowdish appearance generally, and never bore a very good reputation.
The murder occurred in Columbia county, not more than ten yards from the Schuylkill
line, and it will remain for the authorities at Pottsville to decide whether the case will be tried in
Columbia or Schuylkill county. As the parties all lived in Schuylkill county, however, it is
supposed the case will be tried there.
44
Matters of Interest. Allen Bechtel, a prominent citizen of Reading, committed suicide Tuesday
morning by shooting himself through the head. It is said he was temporarily insane.
MARRIED, NUSBAUM-LONG.--On the 31st of October by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, Mr. George
W. Nusbaum, of Lehighton, to Miss Mary A. Long daughter of James Long, of Packerton.
Volume 4, Number 50, Saturday, November 11, 1876
Local and Personal. Gotleib Nesley, an old and respected citizen of Beaver Run, died very
suddenly on Tuesday last. He had been in Lehighton on Monday, and appeared to be in his
unusual health. He was in his 72d year. The funeral took place Thursday, at Lehighton, and was
largely attended.
Local and Personal. A woman, finally identified as Mrs. James M'Fadden, of Hyde Park, was
found drowned in the Lackawanna river opposite Nay Aug Grove, Park Place, Luzerne county,
on Tuesday morning.
Local and Personal. A little child, aged three years, named Ellis, was fatally burned at Mahanoy
City, Friday, of last week. He blew out a kerosene lamp which exploded, setting his clothing on
fire.
Local and Personal. Rev. William C. Reichel, professor in the Moravian Female Seminary at
Bethlehem, and a historian of considerable prominence, died last Thursday, after an illness of
about two weeks.
Volume 4, Number 51, Saturday, November 18, 1876
Items. John C. Rentz, the Philadelphia musician, well known in Mauch Chunk circles, on
Thursday the 9th inst., departed for the regions where angels are said to walk the gold-paved
streets. Whether with a view of playing at promenade concerts there has not transpired.
Consumption is assigned as the cause of his sudden change of base.
Items. John Filer and James York, two miners of Coal Dale--both married, and the former father
of a family of six children--who had for some time been engaged in driving an air shaft at No. 8,
on Tuesday afternoon met with an accident which terminated their existence. Engaged as usual
at the time referred to, the back water of one of the upper lifts suddenly broke in upon them,
causing, no doubt, the instant death of both. On search being made for the bodies, Filer's, with
neck and back broken, and York's with numerous wounds upon it, were found at a considerable
distance beyond the bottom of the shaft. When the bodies were taken to their respective homes,
which they had left but a few hours before, in buoyant health, the scene was such as beggars
description.
Items. The sudden death, on Wednesday last, of Mrs. Roger Dougherty of this place, causes
much sympathy to be felt for the surviving husband and family of small children. Having only
been sick since Sunday last, the announcement of the death of deceased took every one by
45
surprise, especially those who had known nothing of her illness.
Matrimonial. Our popular young friend, Mr. H. A. Peters, who for the past two years has been
employed in the drug store of A. J. Durling, on Thursday afternoon last, led to the hymenial
alter, Miss A. C. Horn. The ceremony took place at the residence of Mr. John Gomery, the
services being performed by Rev. L. K. Derr, pastor of the Reformed church of this place. Miss
S. M. Peter filled the position of ladie's maid, and Mr. J. A. Horn that of groom's man. Among
the visitors present were Rev. G. A. Bruegel and lady, Rev. A. Bartholomew and lady, and the
members of the bride and bridegroom's family. At about 3 o'clock p. m. a very elegent collation
was served up, to which ample justice was done by the guests. At 4:44 the happy couple started
for N. Y. city, where they propose spending their honeymoon. Before their departure they were
made the receipients of a number of very handsome presents, as a token of respect, from their
friends. The affair passed off very happily to all concerned. We extend to them our best wishes
for their happiness.
A brakeman on the L. V. R. R., residing at Easton, was caught between the bumpers of a coal
train, Wednesday last, at Packerton, and killed.
Matters of Interest. Wm. Hollinshead, and esteemed citizen of Stroudsburg, died in that place
on Saturday, aged 45 years.
Matters of Interest. A boy named Edwin Phillips was cut in two by a coal train on the Reading
railroad on Wednesday, of last week. He attempted to board the cars when they were running.
Matters of Interest. A boy named Smith, at Dalton, Luzerne county, bought a revolver from
another boy on Monday and before he learned how to kill other people with it killed himself,
lodging a bullet in his lungs.
MARRIED, RUDY-MISSIMER.--On the 11th inst., at his residence, by Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr.
Edward F. Rudy, of Slatington, to Miss Ellen F. Missimer, of Seagersville.
MARRIED, PETER-DOTTERER.--On the 12th inst., by the same, Mr. Edward H. Peter, of
Lehighton, to Miss Anna C. Dotterer, of Trochsville, Monroe county
DIED, NESLEY.--On the 7th inst., at Beaver Run, Gotlieb Frederick Nesley, aged 71 yrs, 6 mos.
and 25 days.
Volume 4, Number 52, Saturday, November 25, 1876
Matters of Interest. John B. Reese, of Minersville, Schuylkill county, dropped dead while
addressing the Welsh Congregational church at that place on Thursday of last week.
Matters of Interest. Peter Reph, of Bushkill, Norhtampton Co., aged 18, but melancholy,
discharged a loaded musket while the musket was pressed against his stomach on Friday. He
died on the same night.
46
Matters of Interest. The body of a young girl named Sophia Valentine has been found near
Stillwater swamp, Wayne county. She was lost on the night of the 14th of October and in her
wanderings her clothing was almost entirely torn off of her; her flesh was terribly bruised and
mangled and her bare feet cut to pieces. The coroner's inquest upon the body found a verdict of
death from cold and exposure.
Local and Personal. William C. Dietrich, cashier of the Kutztown savings bank, which
suspended Nov. 21, shot himself at noon on that day. He was found dead in the bank with a
pistol wound in his breast and head. It was stated that the proposed suspension of the bank had a
very depressing effect upon the deceased, who for some time had been laboring under
considerable mental anxiety owing to the financial troubles of the institution. It was also
reported that the deceased was to have been married this fall to a lady of Lehigh county, who
died several days ago, and that this had also an additional depressing effect upon him. Mr.
Dietrich was a young man of excellent character, and was highly esteemed by the citizens of
Kutztown and vicinity.--Ex.
Torn to Pieces. A strange and shocking accident occurred at the upper rolling mill of the
Lackawanna Iron and Coal Company, in Scranton, Tuesday, by which an old workman named
Patrick McNally was torn to pieces by a massive fly wheel that was revolving with lightning-like
rapidity. It was in the dim twilight of dawn when the horrible affair occurred and McNally who
had occasion to go from one portion of the works to another where he had to pass close by the
wheel, doubtless did not see it owing to its swift motion and the fact that he was near-sighted,
and so he walked right into it, and in an insant his mutilated body was hurled in fragments about
the mill, among the bewildered workmen. The signt of an arm or leg descending among those
who did not see the accident thrilled them with fear and wonder. The shocking affair soon
became known, and when the terrible wheel stood still its appearance told a fearful story. The
trunk of the old man's body lay beside the pit, and the difficult task of collecting his scattered
remains was entered upon. The head was missing and nowhere to be found until after several
hours, when it was finally discovered in the pit beneath the wehel. McNally was over sixty
years of age, and leaves a wife and child to mourn his fearful fate. About a year ago a small boy
while playing in the vicinity of this unguarded wheel was killed in a similar manner.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. On Tuesday afternoon last, an unknown tramp, who for some days
previous had been enjoying the hospitalities of the Miner's Hotel, Nesquehoning, died suddenly
in the bar-room of that house. No clue to his identity being obtained, the corpse was, on the
following day, forwarded to the District Poor House for burial.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. Miss Charlotte McAllister, of Upper Mauch Chunk, for some time
prostrated with typhoid fever, succumbed to that disease on Satruday last. Her funeral, which
took place monday, was largely attended. Deceased, aged 17 years, was a young woman of
excellent parts, a universal favorite among all that knew her, and her early demise is sorely
regretted.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. On Wednesday of this week a lad, aged 15, whose name did not
transpire, in the emply of Captain Chas. Ronemus, was accidentally drowned at lock No. 4. The
body was recovered shortly after and an inquest held resulting in a verdict of "accidental death
by drowning."
47
MARRIED, SCHMALE-DECKER.--On Oct. 21st, by Rev. C. Becker, at the parsonage in
Weissport, Mr. P. Schmale, and Miss Maria Decker, both of Monroe Co.
MARRIED, MAYER-ZIEGENFUSS.--On Nov. 19th, by the same, Mr. Francis Mayer, and
Miss Catharine Zeigenfuss, both of Carbon Co.
Volume 5, Number 1, Saturday, December 2, 1876
Matters of Interest. Mrs. Clark, a widow, was killed by a freight train at a street crossing in
Sunbury, Pa., on Saturday morning.
Matters of Interest. Isaac P. Foster, the oldest citizen of Honesdale, died in that place on
Saturday, November 18, in a house where he had lived for half a century, aged 89 years. He was
a citizen greatly respected and his death is sincerely mourned.
Local and Personal. On Thursday afternoon of last week James Haines, of Brooklyn N. Y.,
attempted to board a coal train on the L and S. railroad while passing through South Bethlehem,
and falling between the cars, had both feet cut off. he was taken to St. Luke's Hospital, where
both legs were amputed above the knees. He has since died.
Local and Personal. Probably the first instance of a woman being killed while mining coal
occurred last week at Austin, Schuylkill county. It seems that people--men, women and
children--are in the habit of digging coal out of the holes that have caved in around Ashland and
left the vein exposed, they dig in pretty far, because the farther they go the better coal they bet.
On Thursday evening of last week Mrs. John Nopon was in one of these places digging out and
carrying away her winter supply of the black diamonds, when the top fell in, burying her up and
killing her instantly.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. Mrs. Josephs, a highly respected colored widow, of East Mauch
Chunk, died on Saturday last, of heart disease.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. 'Squire Beckhardt, the popular magistrate of East Mauch Chunk, on
Tuesday celebrated the 49th anniversary of his birth.
Volume 5, Number 2, Saturday, December 9, 1876
A Sad Occurrence. On Thursday morning of last week, says the Allentown Morning Herald,
Miss Mary Moser, daughter of Henry Moser, who had been spending some time with her mother
in Bethlehem, left that place in the noon train for Mauch Chunk. It was remarked at the depot in
Bethlehem, by persons present, that she did not appear to be well, and as she stepped upon the
train, a gentleman was obliged to assist her to a seat. When the conductor came for tickets she
was apparently asleep, and he was forced to awaken her. After she had shown her ticket, she fell
into a swoon, and remained quiet for a moment or two, when she was seized with convulsions,
the spasms of which became so violent that the united efforts of several persons were necessary
to prevent her from injuring herself. When the train arrived at the L. V. depot, it was found
48
necessary to remove he to the waiting room, Dr. Reichard, of the First Ward, was sent for, who
did all he could to alleviate her suffering. She became gradually worse, and it was deemed
necessary to remove her to a place where she could have better attention. She was accordingly
taken to the Islands House, where Mrs. Scholl and her family did all that was in their power. In
the meantime her father at Mauch Chunk was telegraphed for, and arrived at 5 o'clock in the
evening to find her entirely unconscious. She lingered in this condition until 10 o'clock when
death ensued, from internal hemorrhage, from the rupture of bloodvessels caused by the violence
of the convulsions which attacked her. Her fether said that she had several just such attacks
lately, having had one fit only last week. Her remains were taken to Bethlehem for interment.
Items from Weissport. Mr. Editor,--On Monday a week ago the old and venerable father
Dreisbach, who lives with Mr. Henry Mertz, enjoyed a happy surprise from his many
descendants, it being the 80th anniversary of his birth. The occasion was one of encouragement
and enjoyment to the old sage. Rev. J. K. Knerr delivered an address and offered a fervant
prayer, after which all heartily engaged in devouring the goodies in reservation. May the sun of
father Dreisbach's life set beautifully!
Walcksville Items. Mr. H. O. Graver and Miss Alice Walck, both of this place, were united in
the bonds of holy matrimony by Rev. A. Bartholomew, of Lehighton, on Sunday last. The
happy pair have the earnest wish of P. & W. for their future prosperity. May their cup of joy
always be full.
Walcksville Items. It is with regret that I am called upon to chronicle the death of George
Franklin Arner, a much loved little son of our esteemed friend Mr Charles Arner, of this place,
who departed this life on Thursday evening, 30 ult., of scarlet fever, aged 2 years and 27 days.
His remains were deposited in their final resting place at St. Paul's cemetery, at 2 o'clock on
Sunday afternoon. The funeral services weere conducted, in German, by Lev. Mr. Fryman, of
Weissport. His parents in their deep sorrow and bereavement have the heartfelt sympathy of the
entire community.
Items. Mr. John Douglas Smith, head-waiter of the Broadway, rejoices over an increase in
family.
DIED, RAPSHER.--In this borough, on the 2nd inst., of Whooping Cough, Lucy Ann, infant
daughter of W. M. and Ellen Rapsher, aged three months and twenty-two days.
Volume 5, Number 3, Saturday, December 16, 1876
Mauch Chunk Items. Jacob Flickinger, one of the twelve sitting in judgment on Fisher-McKenna case, was seventy-nine years old on Thursday last.
Mauch Chunk Items. Miss Emily Salkeld, of this place, will shortly wed a Mr. Gullick, of
Newark, the ceremony to take place at Waterloo, N. Y., and "silver tongued Dan" is said to
contemplate entering into partnership for life with a Washington lady. Next?
A Most Determined Suicide.
49
For several days furing that latter part of last week, rumors were in circulation to the
effect that a colored girl, between 15 and 16 years of age, bound to E. H. Rhodes, of this plae,
was pregnant and that H C. Levanway was the reputed father of the "to be" offspring. On
Saturday evening a hearing, at the instance of E. H. Rhodes, took place before Esq. Beck, and
the result was that the said H. C. Levanway was required to enter bonds in the sum of $500, Mr.
W. Koons becoming his bail. During Sunday he applied at A. J. Durling's drug store for an
article of poison that would do its work quick, as they had a big rat down at the house which he
wished to destroy. The poison was refused by Mr. H. A. Peters, the attendant, and he returned to
his room, remaining there throughout the day. On Monday morning he arose, dressed himself,
and procceded to Slatington, where, at the drug store of Mr. Horn, he procured a two-ounce
phial of Wine of Colchicum Root--a poisonous drug for which there is no known antidote-returning to his home on the noon train; calling upon Mr. Ammon Klotz, at the Valley House, he
requested him as a favor to see Hon. W. M. Rapsher and Dr. N. B. Reber, and with them to call
upon him in his room at 7:30 p. m. Mr. Klotz having seen the above named gentlemen, at that
hour, or soon after, they met as per appointment, when Mr. Levanway produced some private
papers which he requested them to examine. Having done so he asked if they were correct,
being answered in the affirmative, he rose up from his seat, and stepping to the water pitcher
took a drink from it--as he had done two or three times during the reading of the papers--then
lifting a tumbler to his lips drained it of its contents, exclaiming--"In four hours it will be all
over!" This created intense excitement among his assembled friends, and Dr. Reber seeing the
bottle labeled as above, hastened to the drug store, and procuring the strongest of emetics
proceeded with the assistance of others to administer them, but was most strenuously opposed by
the suicide--getting only one or two tablespoonfuls into his mouth. Finally after about one hour
had elapsed he was induced to take the emetic of his own will, declaring at the same time "that it
could do him no good, that he knew he was doing"--"that there was no antidote for the poison he
had taken"--"his days of usefulness were over, and he desired to die." Tuesday morning it
appeared for a while, as though he would survive, but later, the poison began its more active
work, and he gradually sank, becoming weaker every hour, but retaining consciousness
throughout, finally breathing his last at about 7:45 o'clock on Tuesday evening. Deceased was
born Sept. 19, 1814, and when he died was aged 62 years, 2 months, and 23 days. He was an
intelligent, well-educated man. He leaves one daughter, married to E. H. Rhodes, of this
borough. She and her family have the sympathy of our whole people in this their sore affliction.
The funeral took place, from the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. E. H. Rhodes, this
(Friday) afternoon at 2 o'clcok. His remains being deposited alongside of his deceased wife, in
the Lehighton cemetery. The clergy officiating were Rev. L. B. Brown, of the M. E. church, and
Rev. John Carrington, of the 1st Presbyterian church of this borough.
Local and Personal. A few days ago Catharine Madden, an old woman of Schuylkill county,
was found dead near a stove in her house. From the fact that a half burnt stick lay alongside of
her it is supposed that she died while in the act of lighting her pipe.
Local and Personal. A little child of Mr. Molock, of Dolonsburg, died Tuesday of diptheretic
croup, after an illness of about 24 hours.
Local and Personal. A four-ear old daughter of Mr. Thomas Koons, of this place, died on
Monday last, of malignant scarlet fever and whooping cough.
50
Volume 5, Number 4, Saturday, December 23, 1876
Local and Personal. Martin Duffy, an old and resptected citizen of St. Clair, Schuylkill Co., was
killed by a fall of top coal on Saturday. He had been at work in the mines for 33 years.
Local and Personal. Edward S. Riverton was shot and fatally wounded by Jacob Simmet, while
attempting to rob the latter's dwelling, at Beaverdale, Schuylkill county, on Saturday evening.
Local and Personal. Ira Monell, of Hyde Park, Luzerne county, a young married man,
industrious and possessed of an excellent reputation, took morphine and killed himself. His wife
had been a mother just one week. The unfortunate man had been thrown out of employment, and
in despair took his own life.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. Dan. Kalbfus was the only counsel engaged for the defense of Alex.
Campbell. A herculian task--especially for one on the eve of a wedding!
From Mauch Chunk. Wednesday, the 20th inst., Miss Emily Salkeld, of this place, was
converted into Mrs. Gulick. The transformation took place at Waterloo, N. Y.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. Dan. Kalbfus will, on Tuesday, the 26th inst., wed Miss Mary E.
Jones, of Stevensville, Bradford county. The ceremonies, at which the Rt. Rev. G. H. Hopkins
will officiate, will take place at the residence of the bride. After the wedding the parties will set
out on the customary trip, returning about the 12th or 15th of January.
Volume 5, Number 5, Saturday, December 30, 1876
Local and Personal. Arnold Rad, of Upper Mauch Chunk died, on Tuesday, of inflamation, after
a few hours sickness.
Local and Personal. Rev. S. K. Brobst, well known as publisher and editor of Lutheran church
and Sunday school papers, died in Allentown on Saturday morning.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Kenney was burned to death and her husband was severely burned by
the explosion of a coal oil lamp at St. Clair, Schuylkill county, Tuesday morning.
Echoes from Mahoning. On the 10th inst, Mr. B. F. Mosser, led to the hymenial alter Miss Kate
A. Gombert. We wish the happy couple success in their new life.
Big Creek Items. The wife of our esteemed friend Mr. Chas. Dreisbach, ended her earthly
career at 4 o'clock on Thursday afternoon of last week, deeply beloved by all who knew her. We
deeply sympathize with the family in this their sad bereavement. May they put their trust in Him
who doeth all things well. She leaves a kind husband and eight children to mourn her loss.
Peace be to her ashes. She was interred at the Solt's cemetery, on Sunday morning last, at 11
o'clock. Her funeral was very largely attended, the church being filled to its utmost capacity with
relatives and friends, to hear the able sermon which was delivered by Rev. J. C. Bliem, of
Lehighton, who officiated in German. He preached from Revelations, 14 Chap. and 13th
51
verse--"And I heard a voice from Heaven, saying unto me: Write blessed are the dead which die
in the Lord from henceforth; Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their
works do follow them." She attained the age of 48 years, 11 months, and 9 days.
Accidental Shooting.
The enjoyment of Christmas day in Audenried, says a correspondent of the Shenandoah
Evening Herald, was clouded by one of the most distressing accidents that ever happened here.
Willie James, a son of Rev. E. James, was accidently shot and killed Monday morning about ten
o'clock by a man named David Lloyd, who was firing at a dog. The news of the unfortunate
affair spread with the rapidity that characterizes the transmission of evil tidings and a gloom that
it was impossible to shake off settled upon the whole community, whose hearts and thoughts
went out in sympathy to the bereaved family whose Christmas festivities had been so suddenly
turned into a scene of sorrow and woe.
It appears that Willie, who was a bright, intelligent and kind-hearted lad of twelve and a
half years, beloved by all who knew him, left his home at Yorktown to go to Beaverbrook to
make some Christmas calls and see the trees which had been erected in honor of the day, as is the
habit with children. His heart was filled with delightful anticipations of the pleasure of the day
before him, and his least thought was of any harm crossing his way. He had not left the house
more than five minutes, and had proceeded but a short distance on the road when he was struck
down with the fatal shot.
The gun was aimed at a dog by Mr. Lloyd who did not see young James in line, and
missing his aim the load lodged in the head of the unfortunate boy, who was instantly killed. Mr.
Lloyd is overwhelmed with grief at the unfortunate and fatal affair. When the inanimate form of
the dead boy was carried to his home, which he had left but a few moments before in the full
enjoyment of health, and with the promise of many years of usefulness before him, the anguish
of the parents may be better imagined than described. Mr. James the father, is the pastor of the
Welsh Congregational church of this place.
MARRIED, KLINE-BARTOLET.--On the 24th inst., at Lehighton, Pa., by the Rev. John
Carrington, Mr. Jeremiah J. Kline, of Packerton, to Miss Emma R. Bartolet, of Cressona,
Schuylkill Co., Pa.
DIED, PHIFER.--On the 22d inst., near Weissport, infant son of Alexander and Rachel Phifer,
(born Knerr, and sister of Rev. J. K. Knerr, of Weissport,) of croup, aged 1 year, 4 months, and
12 days. The mortal remains were interred in the Parryville cemetery on Monday P. M.
Volume 5, Number 6, Saturday, January 6, 1877
Local and Personal. On Wednesday afternoon last week, the Catawissa train ran over and killed
an old man named Samuel Watkins, of Yorktown, between Barnesville and Tamaqua. Watkins
was walking on the track. He lived but a few minutes after the accident.
From Mauch Chunk. Died at Upper Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday 26th ult., Mr. Arnold Ratke, a
native of Germany, and a man of some prominence in German circles.
Accidental Shooting. One of the most shocking accidents that has occurred in this vicinity for a
52
number of years, writes a correspondent of the Evening Herald, happened in a place called
Mount Pleasant, about three miles from Hazleton, on Monday night, the 1st inst. A party of
young boys dressed in disguise, as is customary for them to do on New Year's night, entered the
store of Pardee & Co. While going in the door one of the clerks by the name of Minnick seized
a gun, not knowing it to be loaded, and pointed it at the boys, and at the same time said, "Clear
out, or I will shoot you," when the gun accidentally went off, the charge taking effect in the body
of one of the boys named Boyle, kliling him instantly. The affair has created intense excitement.
Minnick has given himself up to the authorities.
Walcksville Items. A little child of Mr. Thomas Zeigenfuss, is living in a critical condition with
diphtheria. No hopes are entertained of her recovery.
Big Creek Items. A daughter of Mr. Anthony, residing at Moria Furnace, aged about 7 years
died of diphtheria last week.
Mrs. Mary Cook, a venerable lady, died in Lock Haven, on the 8th inst. at the remarkable age of
99 years 1 month and 15 days. She was born in Philadelphia Oct. 23, 1777, and with her parents
removed to Northumberland county in 1781.
MARRIED, SMITH-BECKENDORF.--On the 23d Dec., by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, Mr. John
Smith, of Allentown, and Miss Harriet Beckendorf, of Lehighton.
MARRIED, KUHNS-RISHEL.--On the 25th inst., by Rev. J. C. Bliem, at the house of Mr.
Krum, in the Borough of Weissport, Francis S. Kuhns, of Lehighton, and Miss Alice D. Rishel,
of Pottsville, Pa.
MARRIED, GRAVER-WALCK.--On December 3rd, by Rev. Abrm. Bartholomew, Mr. H. O.
Graver and Miss Alice Walck, both of Franklin.
MARRIED, HILL-GOMBERT.--On Dec. 24th, by same, Mr. Franklin Hill, of West Penn,
Schuylkill county, and Miss A. Vic. Gombert, of East Penn, this county.
Volume 5, Number 7, Saturday, January 13, 1877
Local and Personal. In a quarrel at Shenandoah, Pa., on Thursday night of last week. Oscar
McCord, a boy, killed Joseph Bokertz, by striking him with a club. McCord is in jail.
Local and Personal. Hon. F. M. Craine, a prominent lawyer, who served several terms in the
State Senate and House of Representatives, died suddenly in Honesday, on Monday evening.
Echoes from Mahoning. We are sorry to chronicle the early deaths of Mr. Zehner's children; one
being buried last Saturday, aged seven years, two months and five days. The other one being
buried last Tuesday. Unable to learn the age. Scarlet fever was the disease.
Miss Lutz, a young lady in the bloom of health and life, aged 18, fell instantly dead in the street
at Hyde Park, Luzerne county, on Wednesday last. Her death was said to be the result of heart
53
disease. All sudden deaths are now attributed to this cause if no other ready explanation can be
given.
From Mauch Chunk. On Tuesday evening Mr. Dan. Kalbfus and bride and Mr. Geo. Williams
and wife were serenaded by the Phoenix Cornet Bank, the members of which were amiably
treated by the parties honored.
From Mauch Chunk. At an early hour of Monday Mr. Fred Shulenberg, of Upper Mauch
Chunk, succumbed to the malady by which he had been afflicted since fall. His funeral, which
took place on Wednesday afternoon was numerously attended.
DIED, SHAPPELL.--On the 7th inst., Sarah, wife of Jacob Shappell, of East Penn, aged 56
years, 2 months and 5 days.
DIED, MULHEARN.--In Mauch Chunk, on the 10th inst., John Mulhearn aged about 70 years.
Volume 5, Number 8, Saturday, January 20, 1877
The News. A woman dropped dead on the streets of Pottsville last week and the coroner's jury
has decided that her death was caused by intoxicating liquor.
Local and Personal. On Friday of last week Martin Meyer, aged 60 years, a bone picker, was
frozen to death in Easton.
Local and Personal. A man named Eckley Farrow, a brakesman on the Lehigh Valley R. R. fell
from a coal train at Beaver Brook, Wednesday, and was killed.
Echoes from Mahoning. Last Saturday evening, a child of S. Fenstermacher, died of scarlet
fever, aged about seven years, was buried on Tuesday last, in St. John's cemetery, of this place.
Echoes from Mahoning. Not many weeks ago, a certain young man came down over the icy and
snow-capped mountains from Wilkesbarre, and sojourning for a short time among the opposite
sex of this place, came to a conclusion last Saturday evening to take to himself a "Frau." So
"getting up," with his beloved, made at once for the residence of Rev. Strauss, where after a short
conversation with the "Parra," they were united in the holy bonds of matrimony; after which they
immediately set out on their wedding-tour. They took the No. 8 and 9 shoemaker's train, and
moved westward as far as Fenstermacher's station--changed cars, then moved in a northern
direction as far as Fox Mountain, where they are now sojourning in the land of sweet repose
MARRIED, RATCLIFF-STOUT.--In this borough, on the 14th inst., by Rev. John Carrington,
Mr. Dan H. Ratcliff and Miss Ellen Stout, both of Lehighton, Pa.
DIED, WEBB.--In this borough, on the 13th instant, Lizzie M., daughter of Jos. S. And
Catharine Webb, of scarlet fever, aged 4 years, 3 months and 18 days.
Soon thy little feet have gone
The way to love the Missful home;
54
The way to Christ, the children's friend,
Who took you to that better land.
'Tis hard to part, but, Lizzie dear,
In Heaven there is no pain--no fear;
But love on that dear Jesus' breast,
Where children's heads recline and rest.
Soon we too shall follow thee,
In that bright land from sorrow free-Where parting tears awashed no more,
There, over on the golden shore.
Then farewell, Lizzie, till we meet
In Heaven, again thy face to greet,
To share with thee the life above,
Where all is peace and joy and love.
Volume 5, Number 9, Saturday, January 27, 1877
The News. The Pottsville Chronicle says: "Mrs. Honora Lynch, for the last thirty years a
resident of Heckschersville, died at the place on Sunday, at the very old age of ninety-nine years.
Her husband was a brittish soldier and participated in the battle of Waterloo. Mrs. Lynch
accompanied his regiment as cook, and was present in that capacity, at the battle which proved
the downfall of Napoleon. The old lady retained her mental powers until the last and many were
the tales she could relate of that campaign. She leaves forty-two great grand children."
Local and Personal. William Thomas, a saloon keeper, was shot dead by Peter Stryker, in
Plymouth, near Scranton, on Monday night. Stryker escaped.
Big Creek Items. It is with regret that I am called upon to chronicle the death of the wife of Mr.
Abraham Henry, which happened unexectedly on Saturday monging last at 7.30 o'clock. We
deeply sympathise with the bereaved family. She leaves a kind husband and nine children to
mourn her loss. Peace to her ashes. The funeral took place from her husband's residence on
Tuesday morning, 10 a. m., and the interment at the Weissport Cemetery. Services were
conducted in German by Revs. Erb, of Slatington, and Freeman, of Weissport, of the Lutheran
and Reformed Church. A large concourse of people followed her to her final resting place.
Big Creek Items. Mr. Adam Christman and Miss Sophia Berger, of Eldred Township, were
joined in the nuptial bond lately, and so were Mr. Henry Greenzweig, of Eldred, to Miss Lucy
George, of this place.
Big Creek Items. A son of Mr. David Youngkin, of this place, died lately of croup. Interment at
the Jerusalem church.
From Mauch Chunk. The funeral of the late Fred Schlie, of Upper Mauch Chunk, took place on
Saturday afternoon, and was well attended. Deceased was 29 years 11 months and 1 day.
Echoes from Mahoning. Last Saturday a child of S. Zimmerman died of scarlet fever, was
55
buried on Tuesday last in the Evangelical cemetery.
MARRIED, PILZ-EMMET.--On the 23rd inst., by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, Mr. Ferdinand Pilz and
Miss Wilhelmina Emmet, daughter of Mrs. George Hagan, of Dolonsburg.
MARRIED, ASH-WENTZ.--At Parryville, on the 13th inst., by Rev. S. Breyfogle, Mr. Franklin
Ash and Miss Annie M. Wentz, both of Millport, this county.
Volume 5, Number 10, Saturday, February 3, 1877
Local and Personal. A six year old son of Mr. John Bennyhoff, of Mahoning, died on Friday last
of diphtheria.
The News. W. F. Breisch was caught in the shafting of his father's mill at Zion's Grove,
Schuylkill County, on Friday last, and so mangled that he died. No person saw the fatal accident,
his mother entering the mill being the first to discover it. It is supposed the deceased had been
oiling the machinery.
Local and Personal. A five year old daughter of Mr. F. P Longstreet, attorney, of this borough
died on Saturday last. The funeral took place on Tuesday, and was largely attended by the
friends of the family and the children of the M. E. Sunday school.
Local and Personal. The wife of Amandas Olewine, residing on Bank street, this borough, died
on Monday afternoon last. Her funeral took place on Thursday. She leaves a husband and seven
children to mourn her loss, one little girl aged about 18 months lying sick with consumption.
Local and Personal. On Saturday last Christopher Erbe, of Tamaqua, aged about twenty years,
while engaged in taking coal out of a pit, was buried by a fall of coal and earth. An alarm was
given and a set of men set to work to dig him out. When found he was dead, in a crouching
position.
Local and Personal. On the evening of January 24th, Mr. Jonas Nothstein, an old and respected
citizen of East Penn, died. He has left a wife and seven children to mourn their loss--four
daughters and three sons. His funeral took place at Ben Salem's church on Saturday morning
last.
From Mauch Chunk. A life partnership between Mr. Geo. Wolf, the Broadway tobacconist and a
certain Miss Serfass, is talked of as likely to be one of the events of the present week. A union
between Mr. Jno. Engelman and Miss Mary Bellert, both of East Mauch Chunk is also said to
be on the tapis.
Echoes from Mahoning. A son of J. Benninghoff, died last Friday of scarlet fever. Interment at
the St. John's church, on Monday last.
Echoes from Mahoning. Last Saturday a child of J. Kemerer died of scarlet fever, aged about
seven years, and was buried on Monday in the St. John'e Cemetery.
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Echoes from Mahoning. On Wednesday last, our esteemed friend Jonas Nothstein ended his
earthly career. Interment took place, on Saturday last, at the "Ben Salem's" church.
MARRIED, HOLLAR-BETZ.--On the 27th ult., by Rev. Abr. Bartholomew, Mr. Ben. Q.
Hollar, and Miss Barbara Odella Betz, both of Rush twp., Schuylkill county.
MARRIED, WOLF-SERFASS--On the 1st inst., by Rev. Abr. Bartholomew, Mr. George Wolf
and Miss Lydia Serfass both of Mauch Chunk.
DIED, LONGSTREET.--In this borough, on the 27th ult. Elizabeth Roy, daughter of F. P. and
Mary E. Longstreet, aged 4 years, 8 months and 11 days.
DIED, SCHANTZ--On the 4th ult., in West Penn twp, Essam J. Shantz, aged 29 years and 7
months.
DIED, LEIBY.--On the 9th ultimo. near Lewistown, Maria, wife of Daniel Leiby, aged 46 years,
4 months and 11 days.
DIED, FENSTERMACHER.--On the 13th ultimo, in Mahoning twp., Pearce Franklin, son of
Step. and Catharine Fenstermacher, aged 6 years, 8 months and 3 days.
DIED, SACHS.--On the 22nd ult. in West Penn twp., Elizabeth, wife of John Sachs, aged 73
years, 5 months and 19 days.
DIED, HENRY.--In Franklin township, on the 20th ult., Sarah, wife of Abraham Henry, aged 42
years, 2 mo. and 10 days
DIED, GRAVER.--In Franklin Township, on the 22d ult., Lucinda, daughter of Peter Graver,
aged 5 months and 22 days.
DIED, BEIDELMAN.--In Lower Towamensing Township, on the 23d ult. Ida Lily, daughter of
Eli Beidelman, aged 4 mo. and 20 days.
Volume 5, Number 11, Saturday, February 10, 1877
Local and Personal. Henry Bender, an old and well know citizen of Easton, Pa., died Sunday.
Local and Personal. The Allentown Chronicle says four men were buried alive at
Hensingersville, Lehigh County, on Monday, by the caving in of an ore mine in which they were
digging. Two of the men, named Hunsburger and Lewis, were known to be killed and the other
two were thought to be. A fifth man had both his legs broken but escaped other injury.
From Mauch Chunk. That the Phoenix Cornet Band should have treated our fellow townsman
Geo. Wolf to a serenade on his return from his wedding tour, will not, of course, be strange news
to you, as serenades are rapidly becoming one of our fixed institutions; and although nothing has
transpired concerning the termination of the matter, you and your readers will be perfectly safe in
57
the conclusion that the party thus honored on Tuesday night came down handsomely.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. August Obert and Miss Annie Dick were on Monday forenoon last
declared "one in flesh" by Rev. Father Heinen of St. Joseph's R. C. Church. Our congratulations,
etc.
From Mauch Chunk. A man named Jno. Cummings, machinist by trade, employed at the
Weatherly shops, having got chuck full of bad whiskey, was, on Tuesday evening, run over and
badly mangled by the 6.20 p. m., L. V. R. R. down passenger train. When picked up, his left leg
was found to be almost severed from his body, necessiting subsequent amputation. He never
rallied, and at 3 a. m., breathed his last.
Items from Weissport. On Tuesday Mrs. Simon Brown died. She leaves a large family which
has the sympathy of the community. Burial to-morrow (Sunday) at 9.30 a. m. The services will
be held in Ebenezer church by Rev. J. K. Knerr.
Echoes from Mahoning. A four-year-old daughter of D. S. Longacre, and a member of of the
Centre Square Sunday School, died on Saturday morning last of scarlet fever. Interment which
took place on Tuesday and was largely attended by the friends of the family and the members of
the Sunday school.
DIED, KREIDLER.--In this borough, on the 2d inst., of cerebro spinal menianisis, Edgar J.,
infant son of Harrie R. and Susan L. Kreidler, aged 8 months and 2 days. The funeral took place
on Monday and was very numerously attended. Services by Rev. J. C. Bliem.
Volume 5, Number 12, Saturday, February 17, 1877
Local and Personal. The mayor of Wilkes-barre, M. A. Kearney, died in that city, on Sunday
evening, of pneumonia.
Local and Personal. A five year old daughter of Mr. Abraham Henry of Franklin twp., died, after
an illness of one week, of diphtheria, on Tuesday morning last.
Local and Personal. John Cosgrove, a miner, was crushed to death by a fall of coal in India
Ridge colliery, at Shenandoah, on Tuesday.
Local and Personal. John Hartland, a contractor, and independent candidate for Mayor of
Wilkesbarre, was accidentally killed in the Diamond Mine, near that city on Wednesday
morning.
Echoes from Mahoning. A childof Henry Longe, died last Sunday morning. Interment in St.
John's cemetery on Tuesday last.
Echoes from Mahoning. A child of Stephen Hedler, died of scarlet fever last week. Interment at
"Ben Salem's" church on Monday last.
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Echoes from Mahoning. It is with regret that I must chronicle the early death of Amandas
Zimmerman, of West Penn Township. Deceased was aged 16 years, 10 months and 7 days.
Interment took place last Saturday morning, in the German Evangelical Cemetery, near New
Mahoning.
Echoes from Mahoning. On the 4th inst., by Rev. W. H. Strauss, Mr. Charles Rehrig, of East
Penn township, was united in to the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Violetta Snyder, of Upper
Mahoning; also, at the same time, Mr. Fenstermacher to Miss Matilda Miller, both of West
Penn township. May they enjoy peace and happiness.
Echoes from Mahoning. Fianna, the youngest daughter of Stephen Hettler, of East Penn died on
Friday last of scarlet fever aged 14 years. Interment took place on Tuesday a. m., at the Ben
Salem church.
Items. Miss Emma Hulsizer, lately employed as teacher at the public schools of East Mauch
Chunk, will soon exchange her maiden-name for that of somebody else's.
Walcksville Items. The wife of Mr. Peter Shabo, of Towamensing, was buried at St. Paul's
Church on Monday of this week. Funeral services were conducted in German, by Rev. J. E.
Freyman, of Weissport. She was aged 22 years and 11 mo. She leaves a kind husband and two
children to mourn their early loss. Peace be to her ashes.
Walcksville Items. Mr. John Mungold and Caroline Nennstiel, of this place were joined in the
nuptial bonds on Sunday last. The happy pair have the good wishes of P. & W., for their future
prosperity.
Walcksville Items. A daughter of Abraham Henry died of croup on Tuesday morning (10 a. m.),
of this week--closely following her mother who preceeded her but a short time to the grave. We
deeply sympathize with the bereaved family again in this their sad loss.
Walcksville Items. Abe, son of Daniel Weidman, died of diphtheria on Tuesday morning of this
week--closely following his brother (John) who was buried only on Friday of last week. Both
are interred at the Solt's cemetery.
Big Creek Items. Deaths. The funeral of Mrs. R. Morris' daughter Sarah; which took place on
Tuesday of last week, was very largely attended. The Sabbath and Public Schools both attended
the funeral in a body, between 100 and 150 children were in line. It was indeed the most solemn
occurrence that ever happened in this valley--to see the tears that they shed at the loss of one of
their number who was then being deposited in the last and final resting place. She had to suffer a
great deal for a number of weeks. Her disease was dropsy.
"But afflictions sore long time she bore,
Physicians were in vain;
Till God, at last, did call her home,
And eased her of her pain.
Gone to meet her father.
MARRIED, SHIVERS-MILLER.--On the 13th inst., at the residence of Mr. Joseph Webb, by
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Rev. G. A. Breugel, Mr. Chas. W. Shivers, of Philadelphia, to Miss Malvina Miller, of
Lehighton.
MARRIED, FENSTERMACHER-MILLER.--On the 4th inst., by Rev. A. Bartholomew, Mr.
Lewis Fenstermacher and Miss Matilda Miller, both of West Penn, Schuylkill Co.
MARRIED, MAUGOLD-NEUNSTIEL.--On the 11th inst., by the same, Mr. John M.
Maugold, and Miss Caroline Neunstiel, both of Franklin Twp.
MARRIED, SMITH-ENGLER.--On the 3rd inst., at the Public House of Mr. Mantz, by Rev. L.
B. Brown, Mr. Charles H. Smith, and Miss Frances C. Engler, both of Mauch Chunk.
DIED, BRUEGEL.--On the 13th inst., of diphtheritic croup, Frederick Charles, son of Rev. G.
A. and Mrs. Olivia Bruegel, of Lehighton, aged 5 years and 2 months.
Volume 5, Number 13, Saturday, February 24, 1877
Local and Personal. Mrs. I. P. Bechtel, of Tremont, Schuylkill county, went to the barn on
Sunday last and hung herself. She was sick and despondent; 48 years old and left two children.
Local and Personal. The Courier says there were thirteen bodies of children in Tamaqua,
Saturday night, awaiting burial, death having occurred from whooping cough and scarlet fever.
Local and Personal. Henry Geisel, who for a number of years past ran the brewery below
Weissport, died at his residence on Sunday last. Deceased was born at Muehlhausen, Baden, on
the 4th of June, 1825, and when he died was aged 51 years 8 months and 14 days. His funeral
took place at Weissport, on Wednesday afternoon, and was very largely attended by our citizens.
From Mauch Chunk. On Tuesday morning Mr. Dan Bertsch, set out on his last journey. At the
time of his departure deceased was in his 76th year.
From Mauch Chunk. Miss Emma Hulsizer, "late school marm" at the public schools of East
Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday forenoon became Mrs. W. H. Bell.
From Mauch Chunk. Four funerals in one week! Something quite unusual for Mauch Chunk.
And of these four the late James Fister's was the most numerously attended.
From Mauch Chunk. James, a four year old son of Mr. Robert R. Carter, died of scarlet fever on
Tuesday monring. This is the second child Mr. C. has lost by this dread disease since Friday.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. James Fister, more familiarly known as "windy Jim" took his
departure for the mysterious regions beyond the Styxican shore, at an early hour on Monday
morning. His death created universal sympathy, and his funeral, which took place on Wednesday
afternoon, was largely attended; the Phoenix C. B., of which deceased had been an active
member, discoursing some excellent music at the grave.
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From Mauch Chunk. The body of an unknown man, was on Thursday morning, found floating
in the river near Hetcheltooth. It was taken ashore, and an inquest held, but nothing elicited that
might lead to his identification. From a scrap found about his person it is believed that his
christian name was Frank. It has also been ascertained that he was a Dane, but beyond this
nothing is known. Verdict according to the above.
MARRIED, BRINKMAN-DICK.--On the 20th inst., by the Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr. C. W.
Brinkman and Miss Sarah N. Dick, both of this place.
Volume 5, Number 14, Saturday, March 3, 1877
Local and Personal. Early Monday morning a scaffold in a blast furnace of the Bethlehem Iron
Company's Works, at Bethlehem, gave way, precipitating six men to the ground, a distance of
seventy feet. Two of the men, Charles Myer, of Rittersville, and Henry Keichline, of
Bethlehem, were killed. The others--Charles Durn, of Saucon; George Nice, of Hellertown;
Jacob Fogel, of Salisbury, and Milton Kepler, of Bethlehem--were severely injured, and two of
them may not recover.
From Mauch Chunk. The mortgage death held agains his life was foreclosed on Sunday last,
since which time poor , honest, upright Geo Long has ceased to exist. His remains were
accorded the honors of war, and his funeral, which took place on Tuesday afternoon, was largely
attended. Deceased leaves a widow and three children to mourn his death.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. Robert C. Laffrty, late chief operator of the Jersey Division of the L.
V. R. R., and wife, were in attendance at the funeral of the late James Fister on Tuesday of last
week. Their many friends were glad to see them.
From Mauch Chunk. Died at Upper Mauch Chunk on Monday p. m., the 26th ult., Miss
Margaret Esdale, aged 29 years.
Echoes from Mahoning. That dreadful foe--scarlet fever--is still raging throughout the valley. It
appears as if Mahoning's folks could not get rid of it, a child of J. Musselman, died last
Thursday, and the youngest daughter of D. Kistler last Sunday morning. Both buried in the
German Evangelical Cemetery.
The body of the girl Heiny Found in the Big Creek. The corpse of a woman was found in the
Big Creek, about one mile above Parryville, on Sunday forenoon, which was identified as the
body of Alice Heiny, an idiot girl, about 16 years old, who left her home last fall, between the 1st
and 10th of December, and no trace could be found of her until she was found in the Big Creek
on Sunday. It is supposed that she wandered about in the woods in the night and that she saw a
light in one of the houses on the other side of the river, and as she was near sighted as well as an
idiot, she wandered on in the hope of reaching a house little heeding where she went, and that
she fell in the Creek at a place known as the Big rock and was drowned. As soon as the corpse
was discovered the Coroner was notified of the fact, and he put in an appearance about 3 o'cock
in the afternoon, and summoned Messrs. H. T. Smawley, Isaac Bagenstose, Amandas Anthony,
Joshua Graver, Wm. Reber and Henry Masteller, as a jury of inquest, and they decided that she
61
came to her death by accidental drowning. Her body was taken in charge of by the Overseers of
the Poor, who had her property intered at Weissport on Monday of this week.
DIED, VIELHAUER.--On the 24th ult., John, youngest child of Mr. John and Anna Vielhauer,
aged 11 months and 17 days.
DIED, PATTERSON.--On the 25th ult., Sarah, wife of Charles A. Patterson, aged 37 years, 11
months and 21 days.
DIED, O'BRIAN.--On the 27th ult., Charles infant son of Joseph and Elizabeth O'Brian, aged
11 ds
Volume 5, Number 15, Saturday, March 10, 1877
Echoes from Mahoning. On Tuesday the 28th ult., a childof D. Fritz, died of scarlet fever.
Interment in St. John's cemetery on the 2nd inst.
Echoes from Mahoning. The oldest daughter of J. Musselman, died last Saturday morning of
scarlet fever. Interment, which took place last Tuesday morning in the G. E. Cemetery, was
largely attended. Deceased was aged 5 years and 25 days.
Volume 5, Number 16, Saturday, March 17, 1877
Local and Personal. Henry Silkman, a Luzerne county politician, died in the poor house the
other day. Of course he was a democrat.
Local and Personal. Peter Wycock, one of the oldest lawyers at the bar of Lehigh county, died at
his residence in Allentown on Thursday of last week. He was in his 71st year.
Local and Personal. W. G. Nugent, a well known physician of Pittston, Pa., died, on Friday of
last week. He was a surgeon in the army during the war.
Local and Personal. The Allentown Chronicle announces the sudden death of Rev. D. B. Ernst
on Sunday last. He dropped suddenly dead in his garden. Mr. Ernst was 62 years old and has
been in the ministry since 1845.
Big Creek Items. A son of John Wolfe was interred at the St. Paul's church. He was aged 1 year,
8 mo., 14 days.
DIED, BROWN.--In Lower Towamensing township, Franklin Walter, son of Levi and Susan
Brown, aged 2 years, 8 mos. and 27 days.
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Volume 5, Number 17, Saturday, March 24, 1877
Local and Personal. John Lindenmuth, of Newcastle, who has been missing since the 10th inst.,
was found Monday, frozen to death, at Flowery Field.
Local and Personal. John Scoot of Rockdale, while smoking a pipe in bed Tuesday morning, set
the bed clothes on fire, and died from suffocation before assistance arrived.
Local and Personal. A man named John Brannon was struck by an engine on the Lehigh Valley
railroad near Redington, on Friday, and killed. When picked up it was found that his neck was
broken. he had been at Catasauqua in search of work.
Local and Personal. The body of an unknown man was found half a mile from Silver Creek
dam, near Mahanoy City, on Friday. At the coroner's inquest held upon the remains a verdict of
death from unknown causes was rendered. The decease was thirty-five or forty years old.
MARRIED, MOYER-DETRICK. On the 8th inst., at the residence of the bridegroom's mother,
by Rev. J. E. Freeman, Mr. George Moyer and Miss Emma Detrick.
DIED, BARTHOLOMEW.--In Weissport, on the 10th inst., William Monroe, son of Elias and
Rebecca Bartholomew, of Croup and measles, aged 1 year, 5 months and 8 days.
DIED, GREENZWEIG.--In Franklin twp., on the 12th inst., Hannah Louisa, daughter of Joseph
and Elizabeth Greenzweig, of croup, aged 4 years, 7 months and 19 days.
DIED, FRANKLIN.--In Mahoning, Feb. 19, Pearce Franklin, aged 6 years, 1 month and 13
days.
DIED, FRITZ--In Mahoning, March 3, Harvey Oscar, childof Daniel and Lydia Fritz, aged 2
years, 8 months and 25 days.
DIED FRITZ.--In Mahoning, March 10, Amelia, child of Daniel and Lydia Fritz, aged 4 years,
6 months and 17 days.
DIED, HARRIS.--At Summit Hill, March 5, Ezra A. son of Charles and Kate Harris, aged 3
years, 5 months and 20 days.
DIED, REMELY--At East Penn, March 5, Edwin F., son of Nathan Remely and wife Emaline,
aged 24 years, 6 months and 7 days.
DIED, HOM--At West Penn, March 11, Alice Esther M. and Daniel Elias, children of Jonas and
Lydia Hom, aged: Alice E., 3 years, 9 months and 11 days; and Daniel E., 1 year, 1 months and
22 days.
DIED, HESS.--At West Penn, March 14, Jacob Hess, aged 11 years, 5 month and 3 days.
DIED, BILLMAN.--At West Penn, March 20, David Billman, aged 66 years and 6 days.
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DIED, MILLER.--On March 6, in Weissport, George, son of Henry and Amanda Miller, aged 2
years, 7 months and 26 days.
DIED, REX.--On the 19th inst., Mrs. Eliza E. Rex, wife of Mr. George M. Rex, and daughter of
Mr. Owen Wolf, of Lehighton, aged 22 years less 15 days.
Volume 5, Number 18, Saturday, March 31, 1877
Local and Personal. Mrs. John Graver, of Weissport, died very suddenly of heart disease, on
Sunday night last.
Local and Personal. Mr. Joseph Feist, of the Fort Allen House, Weissport, has buried two of his
children within the past two weeks.
Local and Personal. Summit Hill was the scene of a very sudden death Wednesday morning.
The wife of Nathan Roth, aged sixty years, was stricken by paralysis, from the effects of which
she died almost immediately. her funeral will take place on Saturday morning.
Local and Personal. A miner named James Clark, was killed while at work in his breast in the
Knickerbocker colliery of the P. & R. Coal and Iron Co., on Tuesday last, by a fall of coal. The
unfortunate man was unmarried and aged about thirty years.
Local and Personal. Andrew Champion shot his wife and then killed himself, at Skinner's Eddy,
in Wyoming county, Pa., a few days ago. he was a young man, and she had refused to live with
him because he was out of work.
Local and Personal. The Allentown Chronicle says: Josiah Hinterleitner and his aged spouse,
of Topton, were born on the same day, within a few hours of each other, seventy-one years ago,
resided in the same locality, attained maturity, were wedded, and passed a long life of usefulness
together. Singularly enough, death claimed them almost at the same time. Mr. Hinterleitner
died on Saturday, and his wife followed on Monday. They were buried together, and in the same
grave, at Topton.
From Mauch Chunk. A splice between Mr. Miller, of Upper Mauch Chunk, and Mrs. Annie
Weaver, of East Mauch Chunk, is the latest event in the matrimonial ane I wot of. Jointly they
have a family of ten young 'uns to start on. Encouraging, this!
From Mauch Chunk. Advices of the severe illness of his father, residing in Wisconsin, induced
Mr. J. W. Dodge to leave Mauch Chunk, on Saturday, to lie to his bed side. He was, however,
too late to see him once more alive, as shortly after the son's departure news of the father's death
reached him.
Volume 5, Number 19, Saturday, April 7, 1877
Local and Personal. By a fall of rock in th Pine Brook shaft, at Scranton, on Saturday, John
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Hopkins was killed and David Morgan and Patrick Ruddy were fatally injured.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. John Corgon, father-in-law of Recorder Phillips, died at West
Nanticoke on last Friday. Deceased left 12 children and 48 grand-children.
From Mauch Chunk. On Wednesday morning one Wm. Cahoon was run over, while walking
the L. V. R. R. track near Penn Haven Junction, and instantly killed.
From Mauch Chunk. Hugh Dugan, a married man, aged about 55 years, a resident of Upper
Mauch Chunk, was, on Wednesday forenoon, run down while crossing the L. and S. R. R. track
at the round house above this place, and had both of his legs almost severed from his body. He
survived but a few hours.
Big Creek Items. John Snyder died on Monday night of last week, he was interred on Thursday
at the Lower Towamensing Cemetery. Services in German by Rev. J. E Freyman, of Weissport.
Death of the Lehman Hermit.
On Monday and Tuesday of last week a fearful storm of snow and wind prevailed
throughout the Delaware Valley--drifts many feet in depth formed in the Pike county mountains,
and the weather was bitter cold. On Friday persons living in the northern part of Lehman
township found the cabins of a number of hoopole cutters nearly buried in the snow, and the
inmates almost dead with cold and hunger. In a ten-foot drift, near the top of the mountains, they
found the dead body of Austin Sheldon, better knwon as the "Hermit of Lehman." He had lived
over forty years in a cave in the rocks, near the entrance of which his body was found. Sheldon
was nearly 72 years old. He was discovered in his cave thirty years ago by a party of hunters.
He said he had been living there ten years, and had not seen any human beings in that time. His
cave was nine miles from the village of Dingman's. Nothing was known of the hermit's history
until a year ago. Then some mention of him was made in the papers of his living as a hermit.
The paragraph was seen by parties in Stony Creek, Conn., from which place a man named Austin
Sheldon had disappeared forty-four years before. A brother and a sister of the missing man, both
wealthy, started to look the hermit up. They reached his cave one day about dusk. The hermit
was their brother, but he could not be induced to leave his cave, even with the offer of $25,000,
and a luxurious home as long as he lived. It was learned from the brother and sister of the hermit
that he had lost his wife after a brief married life. He disappeared the day on which she was
buried, and not a word had been heard from him until the item in the newspaper was seen. His
friends thought he had gone to sea and died.
Before he took up his abode in the Pike county cave, Sheldon says he roamed for five
years through the woods of Connecticut, Vermont and New York, shunning civilization. At last
he found a cave in which he concluded to live the rest of his life. He did not know its locality at
the time, but found afterward that it was among the Moosic Mountains, in Wayne county, Pa.
The great forest that surrounded his cave soon attracted the attention of the lumbermen, and he
fled deeper into the wilderness. After three months of wandering he found the cave in the wild
region where he died. For over forty years he lived in this hole in the rocks. Originally not more
than eight feet square, accumulation of the rubbish of forty years reduced its proportion so that
there was barely room to turn about in it. Sheldon lived on game, fish, roots, and berries. At the
time of his death his form was much bent. The clothing that hung in rags and tatters from his
person had been donned 22 years ago, and never taken off. It was held together by hickory
65
withes. He never washed. A thick gray beard that hung almost to his waist, and hair of the same
color hanging over his shoulders, was matted with burrs and twigs, and had not been touched
with comb or brush for forty-five years. He never went far away from his cave. A long staff and
an ancient Bible--the latter hanging from his belt--were his constant companions. It was his
boast that he had read his Bible through twice a year ever since he had been in the wilderness.
He held daily communion with God, he said, and talked with the prophets of old. Several times
his cave had been surrounded with forest fires, and almost every avenue of escape cut off, but he
calmly remained in his retreat, reading his Bible, until removed by woodsmen thoughtful of his
safety. Nearly every winter for years he has been rescued from freezing and starving. He never
made any effort to save himself, saying he was in the hands of God. The cave in which he lived
was permeated with so horrid a stench that visitors could not remain in it, and the hermit himself
was covered with filth and vermin. Sheldon was an educated man. His family is among the
leading ones of Connecticut.
DIED, KRESSLEY.--On the 8th day of March, in Mahoning township, Mary Adella, daughter
of Daniel and Mary Ann Kressley, aged 1 year and 9 months.
DIED, M'CLEAN.--On the 12th day of March, in Mahoning township, Memphis Adella,
daughter of Robert and Henrietta McClean, aged 5 years and 10 days.
DIED, ROTH.--On the 27th day of March, at Summit Hill, Sarah, wife of Nathan Roth, aged 60
years, 1 month and 14 days.
DIED, BALLIET.--On the 28th day of March, in Mahoning township, Henry Milton, son of
Nathan and Sarah Ann Balliet, aged 9 years, 2 months and 17 days.
DIED, McDANIEL.--In Lower Towamensing, on the 24th ult., of scarlet fever, Puriet Erwin,
son of Thomas and Belinda McDaniel, aged 1 yr., 2 months and 26 days.
DIED, ZAHNE.--At Easton, on the 25th ult., Wilhelmina, wife of William Zahne, of that place,
and daughter of Mr. Charles Brinkman, of Lehigh Gap, where the funeral took place. Aged 21
years, 6 months and 6 days.
DIED, FEIST.--In Weissport, on the 17th ult., of scarlet fever, Andrew Joseph, aged 3 yrs., 4
mos., and 13 days, and on the 25th ult., Ada Sarah, aged 2 years, 1 month and 25 days, children
of Joseph and Sarah Feist.
DIED, RAMALY.--In Franklin twp., on the 25th ult., of breast fever, Charles Henry, son of Wm
and Sarah Jane Ramaly, aged 1 year, 5 mos. and 25 days.
DIED, GRAVER--In Weissport, on the 25th ult., of heart disease, Sarah Ann, wife of Mr. John
Graver, aged 39 years, 7 months and 28 days.
DIED, SNYDER.--In Franklin twp., on the 27th ult. John, son of Simon and Mary Snyder, aged
24 years and 20 days.
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Volume 5, Number 20, Saturday, April 14, 1877
Local and Personal. Joseph P. Conner and whis wife were drowned at Upper Lime Ridge, in
Columbia county, Sunday, by their horse taking fright and backing into the canal. They were
returning from church at the time. Mr. Conner was Vice President of the Pennsylvania
Agricultural Society.
Local and Personal. Quite a large number of the relations and intimate friends of Mr. and Mrs.
Daniel Graver, assembled at their residence on Bank street, this borough, on Thursday evening
last, it being the occasion of the anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Graver's births. In the general joy
of the occasion the printer was not forgotten, for which kind rememberance they will please
accept our thanks and best wishes for their life and happiness.
DIED, BRETNEY.--In this borough on the 11th inst., Emma Minerva, daughter of T. J. and
Mary Alice Bretney, aged 2 years and day. The funeral will take place this (Saturday) morning
at 9 o'clock from the parent's residence.
Volume 5, Number 21, Saturday, April 21, 1877
Local and Personal. It took place Tuesday, at 1:10, and is a girl. Don't you know we are happy!
Volume 5, Number 22, Saturday, April 28, 1877
Local and Personal. Richard Plint, jr., died at Slatington, Tuesday, after an illness of three years.
Local and Personal. Henry W. Martz, of Weissport, lost two of his children by death last week.
One died on Friday and the other on Saturday.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Swartwood, an old resident of this place, and mother of John
Swartwood, of Upper Mauch Chunk, was buried on Thursday morning.
Local and Personal. Reese Watkins, an old and highly respected citizen of Ashton, died in that
place on Wednesday morning.
Local and Personal. Mr. Charles Feist, of Weissport, father of Joseph Feist, Esq., proprietor of
the Fort Allen House, died in that borough, on Saturday last, April 21st., aged 76 years, 5 months
and 24 days.
Local and Personal. On Wednesday morning, a man named Hull, residing one door above the
Seminary, at Kingston, Luzerne county, committed suicide by haning in a barn near his
residence. No cause is assigned.
Local and Personal. E. C. Vincent, Esq., proprietor of the Mansion House, Hazleton, died
Tuesday night after a short illness. He was one of the oldest citizens of that place and was
widely known throughout that region.
67
Local and Personal. The wife of Mr. Robert H. Sayre, of Bethlehem, Superintendent of the
Lehigh Valley Railroad, died at the residence of her husband, in that place, on Monday last, after
a long and painful illness. She was a most estimable lady, and her demise will occasion a void in
the community not easily filled.
Local and Personal. On Tuesday morning about fifteen, minutes past eight o'clock a fearful
accident occurred on the Lehigh Valley railroad, near McKee & Fuller's carwheel works, situated
between Catasauqua and Allentown. A man, who cannot be identified on account of the
shocking manner in which his body was mutilated, was run over and instantly killed. His head
was severed from his body, and he was otherwise cut up.
From Mauch Chunk. Died on Sunday 22d inst., Mrs. Josephine Klinger, aged 53 years.
From Mauch Chunk. Mrs. McCrea, said to have been the oldest woman in town, died on last
Monday.
From Mauch Chunk. The funeral of Sebastian Mensch, the East Mauch Chunk suicider, was
largely attended.
From Mauch Chunk. Died on Saturday, 21st inst., Emeline B, wife of Wm. Scott, Esq., in the
38th year of her age.
Obituary. FELO DE SE --" Who would ------ bear to grunt and sweat under a weary life, when
he might his quietus make with a bare bodkin? "Such, probably, were the thoughts of Sebastian
Mensch, of East Mauch Chunk, as he hurriedly left the breakfast table on last Saturday morning;
only that he applied the muzzle of a gun to his mouth instead of driving the blade into his bosom.
The effect was the same however, for within a few minutes from the time he had left the room,
Sebastian has ceased to be a "Mensch." What griefs he had, we know not, but suppose that,
wearied and disgusted with life, he concluded that it were best for him his "quietus to make." He
now sleeps the last sleep beneath the clouds of the valley, in anticipation, let us hope, of a
brighter future. The cause and mode of his exit will, we hope be an admonition to others never
to indulge to excess, nor to attempt the swallowing of a loaded gun. Requiescat in pace.
Big Creek Items. Mr. H. Rice of this place, is lying in a critical condition, no hopes being
entertained of his recovery.
Big Creek Items. It is with regret that I am called upon to chronicle the death of a daughter of
Wm Boyer, (Susan), which occurred on Sunday last, at 8.45 a. m., after an illness of three weeks.
The funeral took place from her parents residence on Tuesday last, at 2 p. m. Interment at Solt's.
Her funeral was very largely attended, the church was filled to its utmost capacity. Services were
conducted in German by Rev. Mr. Werner, of Parryville. She was aged 17 years, 6 months and
28 days. Gone but not forgotten.
MARRIED, STRAUSSBURGER-STETLER.--On the 6th inst., by the Rev. J. E. Freeman, Mr.
Peter P. Straussburger to Miss Edith Stetler, the former of Parryville, and the latter of
Rickertsville.
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MARRIED, SCHERER-DREISBACH.--On the 16th day of April, by Rev. Abraham
Bartholomew, Mr. Robert Scherer and Miss Fyette Dreisbach, both of Lower Towamensing,
Carbon county
MARRIED, McDANIEL-WEISS.--On the 22nd day of April, by the same, Mr. Reuben
McDaniel, of Upper Towamensing township, and Miss Sarah Alice Weiss, of Franklin township,
Carbon county.
DIED, MILLER--In Lehighton, on the 19th instant, Jennie May, daughter of Mr. Alexander
Miller, aged 8 years and 11 days.
DIED, MORTHIMER.--In Lehighton, at 11:30 a. m., on Tuesday, April 24, 1877, Carrie A,
daughter of Harry V. and Elizabeth B. Morthimer, aged 8 days.
DIED, MUSSELMAN.--On the 8th day of April, in Mahoning township, George Jacob, adopted
son of Thomas and Emaline Musselman, aged 4 years, 1 month and 17 days.
DIED, BRETNEY--On the 11th day of April, in Lehighton, Emma Minerva daughter of Thomas
J. and Mary A. Bretney, aged 2 yrs. and 1 day.
DIED, ANDREWS--.On the 20th day of April, in East Penn township Owen, husband of Trushla
Andrews aged 36 years, 5 months and 18 days.
DIED, KOLB.--On the 23rd day of April, in East Penn township, Daniel, husband of Magdalene
Kolb, aged 61 years and 17 days.
DIED, SWARTWOOD.--On the 23rd inst., in this borough, Mrs. Catharine Swartwood, aged
71 years, 7 months and 17 days.
Volume 5, Number 23, Saturday, May 5, 1877
Local and Personal. The Pottsville Miner's Joural says: The rain and wind storms that have
raged within the past few days have been very severe in the mountain country above White
Haven. On Friday night two woodchoppers' cabins in that region were washed down the
mountain side by the flood that rose suddenly and swept everything in its course. In the cabins
there were six laborers--Thomas Burns, Edward Petty, Wm. Broggins, George Tracy, James
Maguire and Nicholas Brown. These men were all drowned. At last accounts their bodies had
not been recovered. As the storm was exceedingly severe it is feared much damage was done
elsewhere and other lives lost.
From Mauch Chunk. Died of consumption, on the 29th ult., at 10:30 a. m., Oliver Crilley, in the
35th year of his age.
From Mauch Chunk. Mrs. Susannah, wife of Thomas Kuehner, Esqr., of East Mauch Chunk,
died at an early hour on Monday morning, after a painful illness of long duration.
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From Mauch Chunk. The newly wedded L. F. Laurish and wife were serenaded by the Phoenix
Cornet Band on Monday evening.
From Mauch Chunk. On Thursday last District Attorney Siewers celebrated the thirty-first
anniversary of his birth.
John Hartlich, a stone-cutter of Reading Pa., committed suicide Wednesday morning by blowing
out his brains with a pistol. Pecuniary trouble is supposed to have prompted the deed.
DIED, OSWALD.--In West Penn, April 14, Howard Alwin, son of Frank and Caroline Oswald,
aged 3 months and 15 days.
DIED, MILLER.--In West Penn, April 14, Cora Cordilia, daughter of Daniel and Catherine
Miller, aged 1 year, 4 months and 8 days.
DIED, STROUB.--In East Penn, April 20th, Lydia Catherine, daughter of David and Mary
Stroub, aged 1 year, 4 months and 2 days.
DIED, BETZ.--In Blooming Dale, April 21st, Gideon, son of Phillip and Isabella Betz, aged 21
years 2 months and 7 days.
MARRIED, STEIGERWALT-WERTMAN.--April 22nd, by the Rev. W. H. Strauss, Mr. Owen
Steigerwalt, of West Penn, and Miss Fianna Wertman, of East Penn.
MARRIED, HAVERMAN-ANDREAS.--On the same day by the same, Mr. Benj. Haverman,
of East Penn, and Miss Caroline Andreas, of W. Penn.
Volume 5, Number 24, Saturday, May 12, 1877
Local and Personal. Mrs. Wm. M. DuFour, of Williamsport, arrived in town Thurday morning,
on a visit to her numerous friends hereabout.
Local and Personal. Ephraim Rupp was accidentally killed by a fall of coal in the Lincoln mine,
near Pine Grove, Schuylkill county, Monday afternoon.
Local and Personal. On Saturday night the widow of Mr. George Audenried died at
Howertown. Only last week we announced the demise of her husband, he having died suddenly
on the 23rd ult. The aged companion who had trod with him the journey of life for 51 years
sickened shortly after his departure, and on Saturday night last gently closed her eyes in death,
and followed him to the spirit world. In death now they are again united. Mrs. A. died at the age
of 68.--Allentown Democrat.
OBITUARY. In this borough, on Sunday morning last, Mr. Adam Buckman carriage builder,
died, after an illness of about one year of consumption. Deceased was born in North Whitehall,
Lehigh county, Pa., in 1842, and learned his trade at Bath, Northampton County. On the
breaking out of the war he enlisted in a New Jersey regiment, and faithfully served out his term
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of service--3 years--and was honorably discharged; when he settled down in Lehighton, and
worked in the carriage manufactery at Mr. L. F. Kleppinger for a period of two years, afterwards
going into business on his own account. He was married to Mary S., daughter of Geo. and Mary
Horn, formerly of Weissport, which union was blessed with an only child--Ella--who proceeded
her father into the spirit world last fall. His funeral services was very largely attended by our
citizens, manifesting the high esteem in which he was held in the community. Deceased was
aged 35 years, 4 months and 15 days. His mortal remains were interred in the Lehighton
Cemetery, the services being conducted by Revs. J. C. Bliem, J. K. Knerr, of Weissport, and S.
F. Leopold, of Pittman, Schuylkill county. May he rest in peace.
Mine Explosion in Schuylkill County--7 Men Killed and 7 Injured.
POTTSVILLE, PA., May 9.--Between 10 and 11 o'clock this morning an explosion of gas
or fire damp occurred at the Wadesville shaft, a colliery owned and operated by the Philadelphia
and Reading Coal and Iron Co., and situated near St. Clair, which resulted in the death of seven
men, and the injuring of seven more. At the hour mentioned about fifty miners and laborers were
at work in the western or upper gangway of the colliery, known as Lundy's Gangway; they were
using naked lights, as the fire bosses had reported the air clear and the ventilation good and were
not in the least apprehensive of danger. Suddenly a terrible explosion occurred, and the scene
was instantly changed to one of death and destruction. Those who could save themselves fled
and gave the alarm.
As soon as it was prudent, a force of men set about the task of searching for the dead and
wounded. In the former list were at this writing included: John Duron, Wm. Kirk and James
Teddy, of St. Clair; Benjamin Mosely and Herbert Moore, of Wadesville; Joseph Milward, of
Mill Creek, and Thomas Conners, of Summit Hill. All the bodies have been recovered except
that of Mosely, which is yet buried under a fall of coal and rock. The bodies are disfigured in a
sickening manner, being bruised or burned all over. Connors lost his head and feet, being blown
through a door. The wounded are Patrick Gibbons, Abe Jones, John Glavery, John Rees, and
Pat Moore, of St. Clair and John McAtee of East Mines. The latter is buned seriously, and the
others but slightly, comparatively speaking.
One of the mining engineers of the P. & R. C. & I. Company thinks it most probable that
the accident was caused by the fall of a top rock in some abandoned breast where gas had
accumulated and the consequent forcing of the gas down upon the naked lights. The explosion
was, singular to state, comparatively light and did but little damage to the colliery. The mine
inspector has made a thorough examination of the colliery, and will doubtless report in the
morning to a coroner's jury, when the subject of the cause of the explosion will be searchingly
inquired into.
POTTSVILLE, May 9.--The scene of the explosion to-day, was a deep pit, known as
Wadesville shaft, formerly owned by the Hickory Coal Co, but now being worked by the
Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron Co., and the shaft is 606 feet in depth. The explosion
occurred in a distant gangway, a mile from the bottom of the shaft, and could only be reached by
a half hour's walk through maze passage ways. Over two hundred men and boys were employed
in the mine at that time of the explosion. One of them named Edward Weakman, stated that he
was a butty of some of the vicims, and was on a low platform, shoveling coal into a coal car,
when there came a rush a burning gas down the air course like a flash of lightning. He dropped
from the platform and fell full length on the gangway track, grasped an iron rail and held on, and
the explosion buried the car from the track and threw it against the wall and shielded him from
the flame. He escaped, but on either side of him men were roasted alive while at their work.
71
Weakman lay still a moment and then jumped up and crawled along the passageway to escape
the deadly after damp. His lamp was out, and he groped his way through the debris in the dark
until he heard the voices of other miners, and he reached a place of safety.
It is supposed the explosion was caused by a large fall of coal which forced a large lot of
gas out of a breast that had been idle some time, and this became ignited from the lamps of the
miners.
DIED, ZIMMERMAN--On the 18th inst., at Zimmerman's Lock, William Franklin, infant son
of Benjamin and Ellen Zimmerman, aged 1 year, 1 month and 10 days.
Volume 5, Number 25, Saturday, May 19, 1877
Local and Personal. At West Pittston, Luzerne county the other day a youth of seventeen,
married a girl aged fourteen.
Local and Personal. David Milson, aged 8 years, was drowned in the canal, at Catasauqua, on
Friday of last week, while fishing.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Cath. Nailin, an old lady of 60 years, of Minooka, Luzerne county,
was run over and killed on the railroad on Friday last week.
Local and Personal. Michael Glaab, who is supposed to have broken into a Scranton jewelry
store, was arrested a few days since while in attendance at his wife's burial.
Local and Personal. Burke Downes, a boatman, while in a state of intoxication, attempted to
board a moving coal train, above Mauch Chunk, on Thursday last week, and fell beneath the
cars, and was fatally injured.
Local and Personal. The body of Philip Reilly, of Ferndale, was found on the Lehigh Valley
Railroad between Allentown and Catasauqua, at one o'clock Saturday morning. There was a
pistol wound in the head, and three deep cuts in the body.
ITEMS. Mr. J. R. Struthers, of East Mauch Chunk, and Messrs. Robert Belville and A. W.
Vananda of this place, assumed the marriage halter on last Thursday.
Volume 5, Number 26, Saturday, May 26, 1877
THE NEWS. Abe Jones, injured by the Wadesville mine explosion, died on Saturday at St.
Clair. The rest of the injured men are expected to recover.
THE NEWS. By an explosion of fire damp in the Mine Hill colliery at Minersville Tuesday
morning two boys, William Edwards and a companion whose name is unknown, were burned to
death.
Local and Personal. Philip Steinbach, of Port Carbon, was killed by an engine while working on
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the Reading Railroad track near Pottsville, Monday.
Local and Personal. Hon. A. J. Durling had the misfortune to lose his eldest son, James, aged
about 8 years, by death of membraneous croup, on Tuesday morning. His second son, Guy, is
also sick with diphtheria.
Local and Personal. John Sevens was killed at Crystal Ridge, near Hazleton, Saturday by a piece
of coal. It is almost incredible but the fatal lump weighed but two pounds. The unfortunate man
leaves a wife and six children.
Local and Personal. Abe Depuy, employed as an engineer with A. Pardee & Co., for many
years, was killed Friday of last week, at the old Sugar Loaf colliery. At the time of his death he
was going up the slope in a car, and was thrown off and instantly killed.
Local and Personal. Jack Boyle, of Eckley, a son of the Widow Boyle and a brother of James
Boyle, to be hung on the 21st day of June, in Pottsville jail, for the murder of Policeman Yost,
was killed at Stockton Monday. He was thrown off No. 1 train on the Lehigh Valley railroad,
and fatally injured. He was taken to Hazleton, where he died about two o'clock in the afternoon.
From Mauch Chunk. Died, at East Mauch Chunk, on Tuesday, 22d inst., Christian Stine, aged
79 years.
From Mauch Chunk. Hon. Jas. R. Struthers and bride safely arrived at home on Monday
evening. The following will more fully explain the matter. Married on Thursday, 17th inst., by
Rev. Doc Hartranft, Jas. R. Struthers, Esq., to Miss Margaret W. Vansyckle, of New
Brunswick, N. J.
MARRIED, STEIGERWALD-BEER.--On the 19th inst., by the Rev. J. E. Freeman Mr. B. F.
Steigerwald, of Parryville, and Miss Trucilla Beer, of Lower Towamensing.
MARRIED, REICHARD-DREHER--On the 12th day of May, by Rev. Abraham
Bartholomew, Mr. Lafayette Reichard and Miss Emma Dreher, both of Lehighton, Carbon
county.
MARRIED, KOLB-STEINER.--On the 20th day of May, by the same, Mr. William Kolb of
Weatherly, and Mrs. Lizzie Steiner, of Quakake, Carbon county.
DIED, FREDERICK.--On the 4th inst., in Lower Towamensing, Stephen Frederick, aged 45
years.
DIED, BLOSE.--On the 1_th [illegible] inst., in Lower Towamensing, Isabella Amanda, infant
daughter of Lewis and Isabella Blose, aged 1 year, 2 months and 11 days.
DIED, DURLING.--In this borough, on the 22d inst., James, eldest son of Hon. A. J. and Mrs.
Kate Durling, aged 8 years, 7 months and 22 days.
DIED, BECKER.--On the 13th day of May, in Mahoning township, Oliver, son of Peter and
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Julia Ann Becker, aged 2 years, 8 months and 4 days.
DIED, SNYDER.--On the 16th day of May, in Mahoning township, Jacob, husband of Fronica
Snyder, aged 85 years, 7 months and 18 days.
Volume 5, Number 27, Saturday, June 2, 1877
Local and Personal. An infant child of Mr. A. Whittingham of Weissport died Monday, and was
buried on Tuesday afternoon.
Local and Personal. Mr. Henry Rice, of Big Creek, departed this life on Thursday morning at 4
o'clock, aged about 81 years.
Local and Personal. Guy, a 6 year old son of Hon. A. J. and Mrs. K. Durling, died about 11
o'clock Sunday evening, of diphtheria, and was buried Tuesday afternoon. This is the second
death and burial in their family within two weeks, and a third son is lying in a very precarious
state with the same disease. Mr. and Mrs. Durling have the deepest sympathy of our entire
people in their sad bereavement.
From Mauch Chunk. Hon. James Houston, late Commissioners' Clerk, having died of dropsy on
Tuesday forenoon, it is currently reported that Mr. Thos. J. Heberling has been, or will be
appointed, his successor. This is as it should be.
From Mauch Chunk. The obsequies of the late Hon. J. Houston, which took place on Thursday
afternoon, were largely attended. The impressive funeral rites of the Masonic order, of which
deceased had been a prominent member, were performed at the grave.
Volume 5, Number 28, Saturday, June 9, 1877
PARAGRAPHIC. Hawley, Pa., June 1.--Mrs. Daniel Kunzerman cut her throat with a butcher
knife between the hours of two and three o'clock yesterday morning. On the evening previous,
while lady callers were at her house, Mrs. Kunzerman complained of her head feeling strangely.
At their usual time the family retired and were soon lost in sleep. At about three o'clock Mr.
Kunzerman was awakened by their little child, and reaching to the opposite side of the bed to
waken his wife, he discovered that she was not in usual place. The bed was cold, showing that
she had been up some time. Mr. Kunzerman imdiately arose and went to search for her. He
soon ascertained that the outside doors were all locked, but that the door leading to the pantry
was open. At the foot of the cellar steps he found his wife in a sitting position, with a gash
across her throat nearly six inches in length, entirely severing the windpipe, and a large butcher
knife by her side. About two years ago this family lost by death three interesting children, and
thereafter the mother was not herself.
Local and Personal. Charles Axt, a baker, 30 years of age, hanged himself in his bedroom at
Wilkesbarre last Friday. No cause is assigned for his suicide.
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Local and Personal. Willie, infant son of Hon. A. J. and Kate Durling, died of diphtheria, on
Saturday last, and was buried on Monday. Three of their four children have been called away by
death within three weeks by this dread disease.
A Tornado in Monroe Co. We learn by telegram that at a late hour on Monday night a wind
storm passed over the northern end of Monroe county by which damage was done to property in
the isolated agricultural districts, houses, barns and other buildings being destroyed. George
Brose, a farmer, while driving along the road was hurled from his seat in a wagon and dashed to
death on the roadside. A little girl, Lassie Whilie, was blown from in front of a house and killed.
An unknown man supposed to be a tramp was found dead soon after the tornado had subsided,
but whether he was killed during the storm or died form other causes is not known. The loss of
property is roughly estimated at $15,000
"Not Lost, but Gone Before." Our esteemed fellow townsman Hon. A. J. Durling and his
companion, have been deeply bereaved within the past three weeks. At intervals of but a few
days they have been compelled to follow three of their children to the grave. First Jimmie, then
Guy, and then Willie sickened, and after a short struggle with disease, succumbed to the power of
death. Appropriate funeral services were held for each in turn in the M. E. church, of this place,
and then their loved forms were tenderly laid away to rest in "God's Acre." There are three
vacant places in that home; three new made graves in the family burial plot; three representatives
of the family in heaven--Jimmie and Guy and Willie. "They were lovely and pleasant in their
lives, and in death they were not long divided." The home is left sad and lone, the parents hearts
are heavy with grief, but their loss has been the children's gain; they are safe now beyond the
reach of death or danger; they have gone to inhabit that city which is raftered with rainbows and
paved with stars, whose inhabitants never say they are sick, of which the Lord God and the Lamb
is the light, and where in day is never succeeded by night--transferred from Lehighton to
Heaven. then "weep not" father--"weep not" mother, three of your treasures are "safe in the arms
of Jesus." You will miss them, the vacant chairs at table, the little garments and toys unused, the
little mounds in the cemetery, all speak of them--but they are not lost, only gone before. Think
of them as safe at home and waiting to welcome you there. At your invitation the sympathising
Jesus will come to comfort you, to occupy the vacant place in your hearts, and at last to receive
you to where they are. May the consolations of the gospel sustain this sorrow stricken family in
my prayer, in which I am sure a sympathising church and community join. June 6, 1877. L B.
B.
From Mauch Chunk. A man named Conroy is said to have been accidentally killed at Coalport
this (Thursday) afternoon. Particulars have as yet not transpired.
From Mauch Chunk. Married, at the residence of the bride's arents, at East Mauch Chunk, on
Thursday afternoon, Miss Lilly, daughter of C. R. Cooke, Esq., to Mr. George Reed, of
Bethlehem.
THE NEWS. James Walton was killed, and Abraham Frye fatally injured by the premature
discharge of a blast in a quarry near Bath, Pa., Tuesday afternoon.
THE NEWS. Andrew Fatzinger, aged thirty-five, a machinist by trade, fell dead on Thursday in
Berks county. He expired in the presence of half a dozen persons, who had noticed nothing
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unusual about the man.
DIED, DURLING.--In this borough, on the 22nd ult., James E., aged 8 years, 7 months and 24
days; on the 28th ult., Andrew G., aged 6 years and 20 days, and on the 2nd inst., William L.,
aged 3 years, 1 month and 8 days, children of A. J. and Kate Durling.
Volume 5, Number 29, Saturday, June 16, 1877
Local and Personal. The young man Walp, reported in our last as having been seriously injured
at Packerton, died on Tuesday morning.
MARRIED, FRY-REX.--On the 10th inst., by Rev. G. A. Breugel, at his residence, Mr. Alvin
Fry and Miss Emma Rex, daughter of Mr. Jacob Rex, both of East Penn township.
MARRIED, REED-COOKE.--On the 8th inst., at the residence of the bride's parents, in East
Mauch Chunk, George A. Reed, of Bethlehem, and Lilly, daughter of E. R. Cooke, Esq.
MARRIED, HOLVEY-WILLIAMS.--On the 9th inst., in Lansford, at the residence of the
bride's parents, by the Rev. D. S. Thomas, George W. Holvey, and Mary Jane, daughter of Capt.
T. C. Williams.
DIED, RIVES.--Of paralysis, at Nesquehoning, Pa., on the 2nd inst., Robert Hess Rives, son of
Dr. O. A. Rives, aged 6 years and 9 months.
Volume 5, Number 30, Saturday, June 23, 1877
Local and Personal. Part of the roof of the Cayuga Colliery, at Scranton, fell friday, killing
Patrick McSully and fatally injuring Thos. Morgan.
Local and Personal. Jacob G. Shalter, aged thirty three years, a native of Muhlenberg township,
Berks county, who left Reading eleven years ago for the west, is supposed to have been killed by
the Indians in Dakota territory.
Local and Personal. Tuesday evening two laborers, Patrick Gallagher and Michael Lanigan,
who were recently employed by the surveyors of the new Port Jervis and Pennsylvania Railroad
as stake drivers, became engaged in a quarrel near Stroudsburg. The dispute grew into a fight,
which was terminated by Gallager throwing Lanigan over a high bluff. Lanigan fell into a
rocky gorge below, and was instantly killed. Gallagher escaped, but was subsequently captured
by some of the murdered man's friends, and so terribly beaten that he cannot possibly recover.
THE GALLOWS! Doyle, Kelly, Campbell and Donahue suffer the Extreme Penalty of Law for
the Murder of J. P. Jones & Morg. Powell.
The Majority of the law has been vindicated, and the four Molly Maguire assassins-Campbell, Doyle, Kelly and "Yellow Jack" Donahoe--so long confined in our jail, have now
paid the law its just penalty, namely, their lives. The community breathes more freely now that
76
these men, who feared neither the laws of God or man, have met their doom. The inhabitants at
large of this town and surrounding neighborhood, much as they regret the necessity which
compels capital punishment, cannot see aught else in this supreme atonement of the four men in
question, than a well-merited sentence.
To our Judges, to our District Attorney, to our Sheriff, to our police, to all concerned, who
have so faithfully helped the cause of Justice in bringing the Molly Maguires to trial, a debt of
deep gratitude is owing by all of us. It is to be hoped that no similar tragedies, like those for
which the four unhappy men are now lying stark in their coffins, may ever darken the annals of
Carbon county. The sorrow and shame these four men have brought on their families--(and of
them respected members of the several communities in which they reside)--can not be wiped out
for generations to come. The mantle of charity and Christian kindness must be thrown over the
past, and no man possessing a spark of manhood in his bosom will ever reproach any of the
doomed men's families for their connection with the Molly Maguire movement, which turned
Carbon county into a perfect pandemonium while it lasted.
In pursuance of instructions the holders of passes at nine o'clock presented themselves in
solid phalanx in front of the jail, and with hands tightly closed upon the precious pasteboard,
besought admittance. The stout, able-bodied policeman, dressed in authority and a black
moustache, said, "No, gentlemen, you cannot come in for some time yet."
Then the Easton Gays came up and so disposed themselves as to clear a large portion of
the street in front of the jail. Next came forth a man with perfectly solvent lungs who spoke as
one in authority, and not as one of the scribes, saying: "You, gentlemen, must all get right down
from here into the street, and clear them there steps."
Then the scribes, i. e. the reporters and the jury and the deputy sheriffs, and all those who
had passes stepped down to the street. Then the newspaper men having nothing else to do,
looked at the brick house across the street, where Donahue's mother was seated at the second
story window, and his brother from Cumberland, Md., at the window next the alley. The father
and mother of Doyle were in the house across the alley. A policeman emerged from the jail
bidding the Sheriff's jury to enter, which they did and were speedily sworn.
The jury consisted of 24 men representing different parts of the county, were called at
9:30. They entered a sideroom where their names were called by the Sheriff, and they were then
severally sworn.
At 10:30 the doors were thrown open and the 75 deputy sheriffs and some 35 newspaper
reporters entered and were assigned to their places. The arrangements for the execution had been
completed. The ropes were pendant in their places on the central beams; the appliances to
confine the limbs of the conemned were provided, and white caps designed to conceal their
features laid on each corner of the scaffold. Only a few minutes elapsed after the admission of
the few spectators allowed to witness the execution, when Sheriff Raudenbush descended from
the platform, an indication that all was ready. A painful sense of oppression seemed to perfeace
the assemblage, as the clang occasioned by the opening of a cell door announced that the work of
death was about to begin. The first to mount the platform was Alex. Campbell, who was
followed by his spiritual adviser. Campbell was ahead, and stepped up the stairway to the fatal
trap with as light a foot as one usually has in ascending a stairs. His limbs were free, and he took
his position on the gallows without a tremor. Sheriff Raudenbush had preceded him in order to
arrange details. Campbell, busy with his devotions, his lips moving silently, had his eyes fixed
on a bronze cucifix, which he held in his hand in front of him. He was accompanied by Father
Wynne, of Summit Hill, who was engaged in the reading of an appropriate Psalm.
Father Bunce and Doyle then ascended the scaffold, and Sheriff Raudenbush asked
77
Campbell if he had anything so say. Campbell replied in a tone so low that his voice could not
be heard beyond the distanceof a few feet, that he did not wish to speak. He already forgave
everybody, and died at peace with all in the world.
Doyle, upon being asked the same question, made a few remarks in a low and feeble
voice, regretting his past life, and closed by saying that if he had listened to the voice of his
priest and kept out of secret societies he would not have been in his present position. Thus, from
the verge of the gibbet and the very brink of the grave Molly Maguirsism has received its most
signal rebuke from one of its former votaries.
Donohue ascended the steps under guidance of Father Heinen, and took his place at the
side of Campbell. To the question of the Sheriff, he replied that he had nothing to say.
Kelley was the last to take his place and stood at the side of Doyle, his partner in crime,
and his companion on the voyage to eternity. Under the prompting of Father McEnroe, the
young man made a few remarks in effect that he asked pardon for his sins and forgave
everybody. Like Doyle he attributed his tragic end to neglecting the teachings of the Church and
association with evil men.
Father Bunce conducted the services provided by the church for such occasions, and was
joined by the condemned. Each held a crucifix in his hand and entered upon the stern duty of
preparing for death with heartfelt earnestness. At the conclusion of the religious exercises the
good fathers left the platform and the virtues of the law were left with their executioners. The
halters were promptly adjusted, the limbs of the condemned were speedily but gently secured,
and the white caps were drawn down, and the Sheriff took his position to spring the fatal trap.
Father Bunce gave the signal when all was ready and with a heavy thud the drop fell at 10.54.
The fall was two feet six inches, and as the bodies were precipated into the well-like
space under the platform, they began to whine in the most piteous manner. They did not collide
as it was feared they would, each sprung freely with plenty of room to spare, and the gyrations of
the strangling men could only be likened to an awful waltz of death. Campbell, Doyle and
Kelly hung perfectly quiet from the moment of their fall, and there was very little contraction of
the muscles with them and no struggles.
Donahue seemed to have more vital and muscular force than either of the others and may
be said to have died hard. They were all very pale but did not exhibit the slightest weakness, in
view of their dreadful doom. They died game as they promised to do, but left no signs of any
particular contrition. Regretting their mode of death they undoubtedly did, but it is a question if
they relented the commission of their crimes sufficiently to give up their compatriots in guilt,
who now roam the world in freedom. They made no comfession, except to the priests and at the
last moment to their God.
The doctors decided after the examination Kelley and Donahue died from strangulation
and that the necks of Campbell and Doyle were broken. The bodies were immediately delivered
over to the relatives and they were taken off to their former homes, Kelly's to Mt. Laffee, Doyle's
to Mt. Laffee, Campbell's to Lansford, and Donohue's to Tuscarora.
The details of the execution were most successfully carried out. Perfect system prevailed
throughout, everything was done in decency and order, and Sheriff Raudenbush is entitled to
much credit for the manner in which he conducted the first execution in Carbon county. Doyle
was pronounced dead in thirteen minutes after the drop fell, and the others parted with life in
about the same length of time, the average being about twenty-one minutes. After hanging about
thirty minutes the bodies were cut down and delivered to their friends.
The attending physicians were Drs. DeYoung and Erwin of Mauch Chunk, Stout, of
Bethlehem, Reber, of Lehighton.
78
The casket, or rather ice-box, containing the remains of Michael Doyle, was the first to
arrive at the Lehigh and Susquehanna depot, to be sent to Tamaqua. Its arrival soon attracted a
large crowd. Doyle's aged father and mother were there, and soon as the lid was raised such a
scene of wailing ensued as beggers description, and this continued until the chief mourners were
removed. some of them had to be removed by force to put an end to the distressing scene.
Next came the bodies of Kelly and Campbell, but owing to the tremendous pressure of
the crowd their respective coffins were not opened, greatly to the chagrin of the curious as this
may have been. In the ladies' waiting-room several of the friends of the late Michael J. Doyle
were in a fainting fit; and no wonder, the stifling atmosphere then and there prevailing would
have been sufficient to prostrate anyone, and how much more persons sorely bowed down in
grief.
Donahoe's body was the last to arrive and thus all four of the subjects of Heavenly
vengeance rested for awhile quietly in the small store-room of the Central Station, a group of
mourners surrounding each of the caskets. Every now and then a loud moan or piercing shriek
would rend the air, but beyond this no demonstration was made. Remains and mourners left on
2:10 p. m. train.
Sheriff Raudenbush fixed the noose around the neck of Campbell; Dr. Stapp, the
Coroner of the county, for Doyle; Taylor, Coal and Iron Police, for Kelley, and Brink, for
Danahoe.
Boyle, M'Gehan, Carroll, Roarity, Munley and Duffy. They are Executed in Pairs.
POTTSVILLE, June 21.--At 11:45 th Sheriff's jury took their positions facing the
scaffold, and at 11:51 a mournful procession, headed by the Sheriff and conmposed of the
Officials, Father Berchfod, of Port Carbon, leaning upon Boyle, and Father Welsh, of
Heckscherville, with McGehan, marched from their cells to the scaffold. Both of the
condemned men were pale as death, but otherwise apparently cool.
When the nooses had been slipped on both the doomed men's heads, kissing the crosses
extended to them by their confessors the culprits bade them bood-bye. Prior to being panoned
McGeehan said, "I have nothing to say to you about either my guilt or my innocence and I ask
forgiveness of all the world and ask God for the sake of all christians to forgive me. That's all I
have got to say.:
Boyle then stepped forward a few inches and said, "Gentlemen. I have nothing to say, at
about the same. I have nothing to say to you about my guilt or innocence, and I forgive he men
who put me here, and hope to be forgiven by them and all men."
At 11:07 the drops fell and at 11:29 the bodies were pronounced lifeless, and a minute
later were cut down. Both men met death calmly, but their last words satisfied all that guilty, and
not innocent, men had been launched into eternity.
At 11:50 another solemn procession, the prominent figures in which were Carroll and
Roarty, made its appearance and mounted the scaffold The same ceremony that was performed
in the cases of McGeghan and Boyle was performed, and after the two men had kissed Fathers
Gately and Beresford, Roarty said:
"Well, gentlemen, I want to talk a few words to you. I stand here to-day before the
public, and I wish to say the truth about the men that may have gone before or come after me.
Thomas Duffy is blamed for giving me $10 for shooting a man that I never saw, and Thomas
Duffy is a man that I don't want to belie by saying tha I never saw him three times in my life
before I saw him at Pottsville, and I will say that I never heard him say to me or ask me to shoot
Yost for $10. As for McGeghan and Boyle I never asked them to shoot Yost. I hope that all will
79
forgive me in this world, and that the Lord will also." Carroll then said, "Oh, I have nothing to
say, but that I am innocent of the crime with which I am charged."
A last look showed them to be calm At 12:20 the drop fell and at 16 minutes to 1 both
bodies were cut down. Both men died quietly.
At twenty minutes past one Munley and Duffy ascended the scaffold. Both men died
calmly and without opening their lips.
MARRIED, ACKERMAN-MENDSEN.--On the 15th inst., by Rev. J. S. Erb, Mr. Thomas
Ackerman, of Hazard, and Miss Ellen J. Mendsen, of Towamensing.
MARRIED, KUNKEL-BEER.--On the 17th ult., by Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr. Frank Kunkel, of
Treichlersville, and Miss Eliza Beer, of Stemlersville.
MARRIED, KRATZER-BARTHOLOMEW.--On same day, by the same, Mr. Wm. E. Kratzer,
of Franklin, and Sarah R. Bartholomew, of Slatedale.
DIED, ALBRIGHT.--On the 12th inst., in Weissport, Ida Minerva, daughter of D. B. and
Catharine Albright, aged 15 days.
DIED, REISS.--On the 18th inst., in Upper Towamensing, Henry Harrison Reiss, aged 80 years,
2 months and 10 days.
DIED, BEST.--On the 15th ult., in Walnutport, Berthe Birdie daughter of Robert and Emma
Best, aged 2 years, 11 months and 6 days.
DIED, BROWN.--On the 30th ult., in Lower towamensing, of breast fever, Quincy Adams,
infant son of Levi and Belinda Brown, aged 1 month and 27 days.
DIED, STANSBERRY.--On the 18th inst., of diptheria, Edward Daniel, son of Lorenz and
Susannah Stansberry, of this borough, aged 5 years and 28 days.
OBITUARY.
At a regular stated meeting of Washington Camp, No. 122, P. O. S. of A., held on
Thursday evening, June 14, 1877, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted:
WHEREAS, It has pleased Almighty God, in his all-wise Providence, to visit our Camp
and take therefrom to the Grand Camp above, our esteemed and worthy brother, Tilghman H.
Walp; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That while we submit to God in the call he has made from our ranks, we
will try and profit thereby, that when we are called we may meet him, in the grand Camp above,
where none but true men can meet.
RESOLVED, That in the death of our brother, the Camp has lost a good and faithful
member, the brethren a true friend, and his mother an affectionate son.
RESOLVED, That as a token of respect and love for our departed brother our Charter be
draped in mourning for the space of 30 days, and that the brethren wear the usual badge of
mourning for the same period.
RESOLVED, That these Resolutions be entered on the minutes; that they be published in
the CARBON ADVOCATE, and that a copy be presented to the parent of the deceased.
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D. F. Rickert, F. A. Graver, E. H. Kresge, Committee. Weissport, Pa., June 14, 1877
Volume 5, Number 31, Saturday, June 30, 1877
Death from Hydrophobia.
Mr. George Fister, a young gentleman of excellent character, clerk of the First National
Bank, Mahanoy City, and 22 years of age, was bitten on the outer edge of the left hand seven
months ago by a black and tan dog with which he was playing. The wound healed quickly,
causing little or no pain. The day after Mr. Fister was bitten the dog was seen playing with a
ball of worsted, and as he died a day or two later with symptoms of choking it was supposed
death was caused by his having swallowed or having attempted to swallow some of the worsted.
Mr. Fister first manifested unmistakeable signs of the dread disease hydrophobia on
Thursday afternoon of last week, and died early on Sunday morning, his sufferings being limited
in some sixty hours. After Thursday the symptoms were clearly marked, the spells of madness
frequent and violent, the intervals few. During these spells the sufferer would snap, bite, foam
and strike at the three or four strong men who constantly guarded him, and who, for selfprotection, had their hands thickly gloved, and carried each a pillow before them to repress each
onset. In the calm and lucid intervals he apologized, remembering distinct his words and actions.
In the next spell he would fight more furiously and cry out, "Ah, didn't I give it to you! Didn't I
fetch you that time!" &c. As pieces of ice were thrown towards his mouth he would snap his
opened jaws at them most furiously. He was attended by Dr. Carpenter, of Pottsville, and three
of the resident doctors, but treatment availed nothing. His throat swelled on Saturday, and with
the most painful chuckling and choking he died early on Sunday morning.
Local and Personal. James Roarty, one of the Mollies hanged at Pottsville, was buried at
Allentown Sunday. An admission fee of six cents was charged on Saturday to see Roarty's body,
the money so realized to be used for defraying expenses.
Local and Personal. An old man named Patrick Golden was brutally murdered in his own home
at Nicholson, Luzerne county. He was sitting with his wife when a masked man entered the
house with a double barreled gun and fired two shots at Golden. The latter, who was 80 years
old, died shortly afterwards. The murderer made his escape. There seems to be no cause for the
fearful crime.
Local and Personal. Patrick Connelly was murdered Sunday morning between Kingston and
Wyoming, fifteen miles from Scranton, by a party with whom he quarreled at a dance. His body
was then placed on the track to make it appear that he had been killed on the road, and later his
head was cut off by a special train. The revolver that did the shooting was found a short distance
from where he lay. The authorities are busy investingating the case.
Local and Personal. Andrew Ditrixe, a workman in the Lehigh Zinc Works, Bethlehem,
committed suicide Thursday morning at 6 o'clock by shooting himself in the mouth with a gun
the ball coming out at the side of his neck. no cause is assigned for the rash act, he was one of
the first workmen imprted from Belgium by the Lehigh Zinc Company, to conduct the
manufacturing of zinc about twenty years ago, when the process of making zinc was unknown in
the United States.
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The Burial of the Mollies.
The body of James Carroll, who was hung at Pottsville, on Thursday of last week, was
taken to the residence of his father, at Packerton, from which place the funeral took place on
Saturday afternoon, the body being buried in the Catholic Cemetery, in East Mauch Chunk. The
funeral was very largely attended by the relatives and friends of the family.
The body of McGeghan was taken to Summit Hill, Boyle to Coaldale and Campbell to
Lansford. The places are about two miles apart, and were constantly visited by crowds during
the wakes held after the arrival of the bodies. Two different arrangements were made as to the
funerals of these three. At first it was intended that the three funerals should take place Saturday,
but some of Campbell's friends failed to arrive, and the ceremonies were postponed until
Sunday. Afterward circumstances made it necessary to bury Boyle and McGeghan Saturday,
and they were interred in the Summit Hill Cemetery in the afternoon. At Campbell's the largest
crowd was present Saturday night. A barrel of tobacco nearly empty--it was full three days
prior--sat almost in the middle of the floor, and three boxes of clay pipes were beside it, and the
half-gallon measure on the table had made it is impossible to say how many trips to the whiskey
barrel in the cellar. The friends, in holiday suits, lounged about on the benches, and the more
fatigued sat on the floor with their backs against the wall. The chief topic of conversation was
the recent executions, and the views of the friends were given with much emphasis. Throughout
the whole night a large crowd was coming and going. At about 7 o'clock Sunday morning the
first comers to the funeral arrived, and from that time until 2 o'clock, there was a steady stream
of people walking in and out of the little two-story frame building which had been the home of
Campbell since his marriage. Soon the house became crowded, and the guests sat on the door
steps, then on the curb stone, and finally a crowd lined the other side of the street. The remains
laid in the best room in a handsome coffin. They were very well preserved and presented a
natural look. The mouth was slightly open and the dark ring on the neck was well covered. At
2:20 the body was placed in the hearse. The immediate male friends of the deceased walked
behind the coffin, an immense body of mourners, numbering three hundred. Then came the
carriages, and after them a large procession of men and women. The body arrived at the grave at
half past 3. The grounds were packed full of people, who were orderly and well behaved.
Campbell's grave was directly beside those of McGegan and Boyle. After the services the
people slowly dispersed.
From Mauch Chunk. Of all the Mollie funerals, Campbell's is said to have been the largest.
From Mauch Chunk. The tombstone of the late Mrs. Caroline Rustay is the first that ornaments
Evergreen Cemetery of East Mauch Chunk.
From Mauch Chunk. James Carroll's remains now rest quietly within the R. C. cemetery, at
East Mauch Chunk. His funeral cortege was, probably, the largest ever seen here.
Weissport Items. The Young American Cornet Band were out on Monday evening, and tendered
Mrs. Strausberger a serenade, it being her birthday anniversary.
MARRIED, DREHER-SCHLEICHER.--On the 23d inst., by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, of this
borough, Mr. Charles Francis Dreher, of Mahoning twp., and Miss Tevillia Schleicher, of East
Penn twp., this county.
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MARRIED, FROHNHEISER-SHAPPELL.--On the 9th day of June, by Rev. Abraham
Bartholomew, Mr. James Frohnheiser and Miss Emaline Elizabeth Shappell, both of East Penn
township, Carbon county.
MARRIED, HEINTZELMAN-KISTLER.--On the 16th day of June, by the same. Mr. Wilson
W. Heintzelman, of Washington township, and Miss Elizabeth A. Kistler, of Heidelberg
township, Lehigh county.
DIED, FRY--In this borough, on the evening of the 26th inst., after an illness of only a few
hours, of convulsions, a son of A. S. Fry, aged 11 months and 20 days. Funeral this Friday, to
proceed to Schoensville, Lehigh county, Pa.
DIED, SHIVE.--On the 3rd day of June, in Mauch Chunk, Mary Alice daughter of Alfred and
Harriet Shive, aged 6 years, 7 months and 6 days.
DIED, M'CLEAN.--On the 6th day of June, in Mahoning township, Jennie, daughter of Robert
and Henrietta McClean, aged 9 months and 10 days.
DIED, SHIVE.--On the 7th day of June, in Mauch Chunk, Harriet Isabella, daughter of Alfred
and Harriet Shive, aged 2 years and 9 days.
DIED, GERBER.--On the 9th day of June, in West Penn township, Anna, wife of Isaac Gerber,
aged 41 years, 11 months and 14 days.
Volume 5, Number 32, Saturday, July 7, 1877
Weissport Items. Last Sabbath an infant of Mr. Lewis Leuckel was buried. Its death was caused
by sucking the heads of a few matches, which are dangerous on account of fire and poison.
Weissport Items. The other day Mrs. D. Albright was deeply affected when she received a
dispatch that her father was dead. Truly this family is, of late, greatly afflicted.
The Shooting in Mahoning Valley.
Considerable excitement was created in our borough on Sunday last, a little before noon,
by the report that a young man had been shot and killed, a few miles up the Mahoning valley,
while engaged in stealing cherries. The particulars of the affair as we learned, appear to be about
as follows: Late on Saturday night a party of boys and young men, ranging in age from 14 to 21
years, consisting of James Burke, alias Kelly, Patrick O'Donnell No. 1 and 2, Francis Mallon,
Manus Bohner, William McLaughlin, William McClean, William Davis, Hugh O'Donnell, and
Frank Brady, left Summit Hill and proceeded to the Mahoning valley, with a supply of baskets
and pails, which they proposed to fill with stolen fruit, before the farmers were about Sunday
morning. A heavy storm of rain accompanied by vivid flashes of lightning and terrific peals of
thunder, passing over the valley between 3 and 4 o'clock, they were compelled to seek shelter,
which they obtained by entering an unoccupied building, through the windows. In this place
they remained until the storm had passed, when they proceeded to the farm of Mr. Amos Reigel,
over wich Mr. Daniel E. Fritz has been placed as manager or superintendent, and commenced to
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gather cherries from the trees, without asking permission from any one. Being observed by Mr.
Fritz, he armed himself with a gun and proceeded to the spot. Arriving there he ordered them to
desist from picking cherries and to leave the premises, which they all appeared to do with the
exception of one James Burke, or Burke Reilly, as he is called, a young man about 20 or 21
years of age, who loitered on the tree, and, on finally coming down, became abusive to Fritz and
commenced to throw stones at him, whereupon Fritz went up to him and struck him with his gun
alongside the head. Burke then reached to his pocket and exclaimed: "Damn you, I'll shoot
you!" when Fritz, believing his own life in danger, fired the contents of his gun at the lower
extremities of Burke; but the latter stooping, as he supposed to dodge the shot, received the load
in his neck. He staggered to and over the fence into the road, where, sitting down, he attempted
to take off his coat, but fell over dead before he could accomplish it. Fritz then went to his
house, but shortly returned and surrenderred himself to a Justice of the Peace. A coroner's jury
was empanneled, and, after hearing the testimony, rendered the following verdict: "That
deceased was shot by Daniel E. Fritz in self-defense." The following are the names of the
gentlemen who composed the jury: Josiah Musselman, Thomas Musselman, Geo. Maurer,
Elias Hoppes, S. Sittler, Wilson Miller, Robert McClean, Daniel Kressley, A. Hontz, Solomon
Sittler, Samuel Zimmerman and J. H. Arner.
On Monday afternoon, at the request of District Attorney Siewers, Dr. J. K. Kistler held a
post mortem examination on the body of deceased. Fifty seven wounds were discovered about
the neck and shoulders, and 39 shots were extracted; after which the body was interred in the
Catholic Cemetery at Summit Hill.
The Habeas Corpus Hearing.
About 7 o'clock on Monday evening Daniel E. Fritz had a habeas corpus hearing at the
Court House, in Mauch Chunk, before Hon. S. S. Dreher, President Judge, and his Associates,
Leonard and Wentz. The prisoner waived all formalities relative to the warrant issued for his
arrest. A large crowd of the curious were in attendance. The District Attorney having announced
that he was ready to proceed, Edward Gallagher, one of the cherry pickers, was called and,
being sworn, deposed as follows:
I was up on the tree with the rest; in about 10 minutes Fritz came out and said, "Come
down off them trees or I will shoot you;" we all got down and some ran through the field; then
Fritz said, "Get out of that field, or I will shoot you out;" Burke jumped over in the corn field
where Fritz was; I then heard a shot; Jim Burke afterward came running and jumped over the
fence into the road; he went back a piece and fell down; Paddy O'Donnell and Danny Conahan
went to him and held him up for a moment while he was dying; he was shot in the throat, chin
and shoulder; he did not speak after the shot was fired; I saw Fritz afterward and he had a gun in
his hand; he was going toward his son, who was standing off apiece.
Cross-examined by General Albright.--The parties with me were Burke, the two Paddy
O'Donnells, Francis Malloy, Manus Behner, Willie McLaughlin, Willie McLean, Willie Davis,
Hugh O'Donnell and Frank Brady; we were about fifteen yards from the fence; we did not have
permission to go on the trees; we left Summit Hill about 12 o'clock on Saturday night; we got to
Fritz's about daylight; we went in an old store house near by out of the rain; we had buckets and
baskets to pick cherries in; we all went over to the trees; Willie McLaughlin was the last one to
come down; we all ran away but Burke.
Daniel Conahan sworn.--I was in the storehouse at the time of the shooting; Brady told
me Burke was shot; Burke walked past me about ten yards, turned around and tried to pull off
his coat, and fell.
Cross-examined.--I came with Burke; started from Summit Hill; the band was out
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playing when we began to talk about going to Mahoning for cherries; we did not intend to go to
Fritz's; we were afraid he was a dangerous man; I had a pistol along.
Patrick O'Donnell, No 1, was sworn, but his evidence was similar to the others.
Lewis Fritz, son of Daniel Fritz, sworn.--Yesterday morning when I was in my bed my
mother came to me and said there were some rowdies on the cherry trees, and told me I should
go out with my father; I ran out towards the corn field; my father was calling to them, and when
they commenced to jump down Burke said. "Take your time, boys, I'll settle the old s-- of a
b---h;" then Burke went over the fence and walked up to my father and said, "You better get
out," and he picked up stones, then he said, "or I will make you;" my father was retreating and
Burke was trying to hit him; my father struck Burke with the gun and told him to get back;
Burke then said, "I will shoot you before you shoot me," and he put his hand in his vest pocket
as though he was going to shoot, and then the shot went off; he then dropped the stones and
walked out to the road and back again; a fellow then on the other side of the fence said, "Go for
him."
Cross-examined.--He then threw the stones at my father and said he did not care for old
Fritz.
'Squire Moser sworn, I am a Justice of the Peace in Mahoning township; when I reached
the body there where a number around it; there were no firearms in his pocket.
Dr. Kestler, who held the post mortem, was called, and he stated that the deceased died
partly from strangulation and hemorrhage. A number of other witnesses were called, but their
testimony was similar to the above.
After the hearing Judge Dreher said that according to the evidence Fritz could not be
tried for murder in the first degree. He then demanded bail to the amount of $5,000. Amos
Reigel, ex-Sheriff of Carbon county, went his bail, and Fritz, who enjoys the reputation of being
an orderly citizen, left for home. It was after 11 o'clock before the hearing was finished
For a long time the farmers of Mahoning Valley have suffered from the depredations of
the rowdy element of the adjoining mining towns, who, not content with stealing fruit, have
broken into their spring houses, chicken coops, &c., stealing all they could lay their hands upon,
breaking down limbs of trees and overturning fences, insulting and threatening all who attempted
to interfere with them in their wanton depredations, and to us, it is only a matter of surprise that
they have not been summarily dealt with by our farmers long before this. That the farmers have
been long suffering and patient with these ruffians is undeniable, and that Burke met with his
just reward appears to be the opinion of the largest part of our people. We hope that it will prove
a warning to others, and that hereafter our farmers will be left in peace to enjoy the fruits of their
labor.
THE NEWS. Doc Sweeney, the Carbondale bank robber, died in the eastern penitentiary a few
days ago. Two other convicts from Luzerne county have died in the institution the past few
months--one of them, Hen Deitrick, a burglar and would be assassin, who had been sentenced to
a term of seventeen years.
THE NEWS. Owen Higgins was run over by a street car at Wilkes-Barre and fatally injured.
THE NEWS. The two miners buried by the caving in of a mine in Luzerne county on
Wednesday last have not been reached, and all hope of rescuing them alive has departed.
THE NEWS. An ore mine in Lehigh county caved in and Jesse Smith, the contractor, with two
85
others, was buried. The contractor was killed. The oters escaped with slight injuries.
Volume 5, Number 33, Saturday, July 14, 1877
THE NEWS. Elijah Kiliam, a Wayne county farmer, on Thursday kissed his family and said that
he would be a dead man before night. A thunder storm was coming up. Kiliam went out to turn
hay. It began to rain. He went to the pig pen near by and took shelter. His pitchfork was on his
shoulder. A thunderbolt descended and struck the tines of the fork, melting them and passing
through the farmer's body, killing him instantly and also a dog that was near him.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Scholar, of Lehigh county, fell from a cherry tree and received fatal
injuries.
Local and Personal. Otto Kaiser, Recorder of Deeds of Luzerne county, died on Tuesday last of
consumption.
Local and Personal. A man named Michael Deitrich was accidentally killed, Thursday morning
last, at Ebervale, Luzerne county, while engaged putting a car on the track.
Local and Personal. A miner, named Ben. Clemson, was killed by a fall of coal in the Mahanoy
City colliery, about noon Tuesday. He was a married man and leaves a large family to mourn
their loss.
Local and Personal. A most distressing accident occurred at the Lansford depot on Monday. A
man named William Jones, while in the act of getting off a wagon to load ___e [cut off] goods,
accidentally slipped and fell his head striking the ground. He died from the effects of the fall on
___sday [cut off].
ITEMS. Lizzie, aged 17 years, daughter of James Ross, of Upper Mauch Chunk, who died on
last Sunday, was buried on Tuesday afternoon. Her death caused much sympathy for the
bereaved family, and her funeral was largely attended.
Weissport Chips. There is one more Zern in our vicinity. We hail him.
Weissport Chips. The sudden death of Mrs. D. Albright's father was caused by a rupture.
At Patagonia, Luzerne county, several boys threw ten pounds of powder into a fire which they
had created on the Fourth of July. There was a terrific explosion and Thomas Williams, one of
the lads, was fatally burned. The others received painful injuries, among them David Edwards
two named Raymond and two named Pembridge.
MARRIED, DEFREHN-SITTLER.--On July 4th, at the M. E. parsonage in Lehighton, by Rev.
L. S. Brown, Mr. Eli Defrehn, of Lehighton, to Miss Lucretia V. Sittler, of Packerton.
MARRIED, HUNSICKER-REMALY.--On June 24th, at his residence, by Rev. L. K. Derr, Mr.
Alfred Hunsicker to Miss Isabella A. Remaly, both of Washington.
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MARRIED, CASPER-BALLIET.--On June 19th by the same, Mr. George W. Casper to Miss
Sallie M. Balliet, of Weatherly, Carbon county.
MARRIED, OHLENWINE-SCHEFFLER.--On June 7th, by the same, Mr. Aaron O.
Ohlenwine to Miss Emma L. Scheffler, of Treichlersville.
Volume 5, Number 34, Saturday, July 21, 1877
Local and Personal. On Monday afternoon, a man named Sidney Grace, was killed by a fall of
coal in No. 2 Slope, at Upper Lehigh.
Local and Personal. Our friend P. T. Brady was made very happy, Tuesday morning, on account
of the arrival, per Reber express, of a bran new daughter.
Boiler Explosion and Loss of Life.
A terrible boiler explosion occurred Saturday morning, at the ore mines some nine miles
from Magungie, which caused loss of life. The mine is operated by Mr. Joseph Kiefer, for the
Lehigh Iron Company, at Allentown, and at the time of the explosion twenty-six hands were
employed in the works. The explosion took place at a few minutes before six. Three persons
were instantly killed, five fatally, and three seriously injured. The names of the killed and
injured as follows:
Aaron Miller, the engineer, aged 28, instantly killed; Owen Lamb, laborer, aged 25,
instantly killed; Wilson Andrews, aged 12, instantly killed; Llewellyn Rupp, laborer, fatally
injured; Harry Heinbach, a driver, fatally injured; Charles Wohr, laborer, fatally injured;
Thomas Kehm, fatally injured; Victor and Oliver Miller, sons of the engineer, aged respectively
10 and 12 years, were also injured, Victor fatally and Oliver seriously; Morris Schmeyer, aged
14, badly bruised by flying bricks about the face and legs; Willoughby Stephens, aged 30,
injured in the head and legs; Joseph Holloway, aged 60, slightly wounded in the right left leg.
All those killed have families.
Aaron Miller was thrown a distance of thirty feet, and his body shockingly bruised and
mangled. Rupp, who with Heinbach and Mohr, was sitting near the wall which enclosed the
boiler, was terribly burned and scalded, and was found lying in the hot coal under the boiler. He
cannot survive. The boiler was 35 feet long by 3 feet in diameter, and was broken into three
pieces. One piece consisting of three sections, was thrown fully a hundred yards to the west,
burying itself in a mud bank. Another portion, consisting of one section, was throw eastward
about fifty yards, and the third piece, over 20 feet long, flew in a westerly direction and landed in
a bank of earth, which it penetrated to the depth of eight feet.
The engine house was completely demolished, the horse shed, distant about eighty feet
badly wrecked, and the washery slightly damaged. Several horses and mules were killed.
The boiler had been in position over four years and in steady operation for the past six
months. It was examined last January and pronounced by the Inspector to be in sound condition.
Thomas Kehm, Henry Heinsbach and Victor Miller--the latter a boy of ten years--have
since died of their injuries. Their deaths make the number of killed seven.
The Coroner's jury in the case of the explosion of the boiler have returned a verdict which
after stating the cause of the great loss of life, concludes as follows: "We, the said jury, find that
on divers occasions before the explosion the boiler was charged with steam beyond its capacity,
87
thereby weakening and straining the same."
ITEMS. Mr. James Gormley, a well-known citizen of Ashton, died at that place on Sunday, of
cramps.
ITEMS. Wm. Caswell, son-in-law of David Reese, Esq., of Nesquehoning, was buried at Upper
Mauch Chunk on Saturday. The Washington and St. Patrick's Cornet Bands, of the former of
which deceased had been a member, participated in the funeral procession.
ITEMS. Sarah, a three-year-old daughter of Dennis Mulhearn, died on Monday.
MARRIED, KOSTENBADER-MOYER.--On the 24th ult., by Rev. Mr. Eizenberger, Henry
Kostenbader and Miss Rebecca Moyer, both of Lehighton.
Volume 5, Number 35, Saturday, July 28, 1877
Letter From Mauch Chunk. The funeral of the late John Shields of East Mauch Chunk, who was
accidentally shot on the 10th inst. by Thos. Patton at Bristol, Pa, took place this forenoon, with
the contrite Patton among the chief mourners. The remains of Shields were taken to Laurytown,
whither they were followed by a large cortege.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. A lad named James Feeley, of Milford, N. J., belonging aboard of a
boat lying in Catfish Pond, whill attempting to cross the railroad track ahead of a backing train
was, to day, run over and instantly killed near the Coalport schutes.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. Charles Schlafski, employed on the repair gang of the Switch Back
railroad, about noon was run over by a truck and so severely injured that he cannot survive.
MARRIED, KESTLER-MANTZ--On July 17th, 1877, by Rev. W. H. Strauss, Dr. Edwin H.
Kestler, of Summit Hill, and Miss Louisa Mantz, of Mantzville
MARRIED, WATT-STAHLER--July 19th, by the same, John H. Watt and Mrs. Sarah A.
Stahler, both of Summit Hill.
DIED, HENRY.--July 17, 1877, in Ashton, Sarah Hettie, daughter of Adam and Catharine A.
Henry, aged 4 months and 16 days.
PARAGRAPHIC. Michael Reifsnyder, aged 92 years, and the oldest citizen of Berks county,
died at Reading on Thursday.
Volume 5, Number 36, Saturday, August 4, 1877
THE NEWS. Two tramps were arrested at Honesdale recently on suspicion of being the
murderers of James M'Cune, an Erie employee, found dead there on the 5th ult.
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THE NEWS. Orlando Bortz, a lad of fifteen, living with his grandfather near Allentown
committed suicide the other day, hanging himself to a tree. His motive for the act is not
understood.
Local and Personal. Samuel McLean, once District Attorney of this county, died in Virginia
recently.
Local and Personal. John Spatz, of Berks county, aged 93 years, died a few days ago. He leaves
a wife with whom he had lived 71 years.
MARRIED, WERTMAN-TORRANCE--On the 16th day of July, Rev. Abraham Bartholomew,
Mr. David A. Wertman, of Lynn township, Lehigh county, and Miss Elizabeth Torrance, of
Mahoning township, Carbon county.
MARRIED, ZIMMERMAN-GEORGE.--On the 22d day of July, by the same, Mr. Alfred
Zimmerman and Miss Kate George, both of West Penn township, Schuylkill county.
DIED, GERBER.--On the 29th day of June, in West Penn, Elizabeth, wife of Solomon Gerber,
aged 59 years and 16 days.
DIED, RUCH.--On the 29th day of July, in Lehighton, Sarah Ann, daughter of John and
Catharine Ruch, aged 25 years, 1 month and 3 days.
DIED, THOMPSON.--On the 29th ult, in East Mauch Chunk, Mary Jane, wife of Elias
Thompson, in the 39th year of her age.
Volume 5, Number 37, Saturday, August 11, 1877
Local and Personal. On Monday night, at Bethlehem, Robert Clinton, a five-year-old son of Mr.
Tilghman Neilig, was accidentally drowned.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Esther Kase, of Allentown, celebrated the 74th anniversary of her birth
on Monday, and, as she was stepping into the front door, fell and broke one of her legs near the
hip.
Local and Personal. William Sidserf, commonly known as "Scotch Billy," committed suicide at
St. Clair, Schuylkill county, on Saturday by hanging himself in his cabin. Loss of employment
led to the suicide.
Local and Personal. Our friend P. M. Van Liew's better half presented him with a bouncing son
on Tuesday morning, and Peter smiled as man never smiled before. We are pleased to note that
mother and child are doing well.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Reed, widow of Aquilla Reed, who was killed some months ago by
being thrown from his wagon near Dolonsburg, died on Sunday last at her home in Weissport.
Her funeral, which was largely attended, took place Wednesday afternoon.
89
Local and Personal. Alice Solt, aged about 17 years, daughter of Stephen Solt, of Big Creek,
jumped into Big Creek to save a little daughter of John Roberts, who had accidently fell into the
creek while playing near the bank, and was drowned, about 3 o'clock Thursday afternoon. The
child of Mr. R. was saved by a brother of the deceased.
Obituary.
Died, suddenly, at her place of residence near Parryville, Carbon county, on the 5th of
August, Mrs. M. Wentz, wife of Daniel Wentz, Esq., aged 73 years.
The death of Mother Wentz was entirely unexpected. She arose early on Sunday
morning, being the anniversary of her birth. She had invited her children and grandchildren to
celebrate her birthday by partaking of a sumptuous meal which was to be prepared for the
occasion. After she had performed some of her household duties early in the morning, before
any of the members of the family had yet been up, and as her daughter-in-law came down stairs,
she, to her great grief and distress, found the aged mother dead and gone, without a sign of life
visible. It was a very serious shock for the family, the day of her death being her 73d birthday.
Her remains were interred in the Parryville cemetery, upon which occasion Rev. J. C. Bliem
preached the funeral sermon to a large and deeply affected congregation, assisted by Rev. J. K.
Knerr, of Weissport. J. C. B.
MARRIED, WELTEY-HEYDT.--On the 18th ult., by J. S. Hawk, J. P., Mr. Richard W. Weltey,
of Danielsville, Northampton county, and Celia M. Heydt, of Kresgeville, Monroe county.
MARRIED, GREENZWEIG-DEPPEY.--On the 21st ult., by Rev. A. M. Strausse, Mr. Richd.
R. Greenzweig, of Trachsville, and Miss Mary C. Deppey, of Albrightsville, Carbon county.
DIED, DREHER.--July 30th, of diphtheria, Harry, son of Beneville Dreher, of Lehighton, aged
4 years, 1 month and 8 days.
Volume 5, Number 38, Saturday, August 18, 1877
Local and Personal. Richard Lewis, an aged citizen of St. Clair, who disappeared on Monday of
last week, was found dead in the mountains near St. Clair on Sunday. The cause of his death is
not known.
Local and Personal. A little daughter of Wm. Oxenrider, of North Heidelberg township, Berks
county, fell down a flight of stairs, dislocating her neck, causing instant death.
Local and Personal. William Fritchie, of South Bethlehem, was the other morning found dead in
a room of his residence in said place. The Coroner's jury rendered a verdict of "Death from fatty
degeneration of the heart."
Local and Personal. Mrs. Warner, widow of Benjamin Warner, who was killed on the railroad
about a year ago, on Monday night, at Ashley, Luzerne county, drowned her infant in a rain
barrel and afterward cut her own throat. Since the death of her husband Mrs. Warner had
frequent attacks of melancholy, and while under the influence of one of them she committed the
double crime.
90
Volume 5, Number 39, Saturday, August 25, 1877
Local and Personal. Miss Sophia C. Kemper, of Easton, is a century plant.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. Mr. William Ditterline, a well known citizen of this place, having
had several strokes of palsey some weeks ago, died, in consequence, on last Tuesday noon, and
was buried on Thursday afternoon.
Volume 5, Number 40, Saturday, September 1, 1877
Local and Personal. Dr. A. N. Leinbach, a well known and highly respected citizens of
Bethlehem, died at his residence in that borough on Wednesday afternoon.
Local and Personal. Bro. Whitney's better-half presented him with a young (ten-pounder) son a
few days ago, and he was very smiling thereat. Mr. Dan. Graver was also made happy an
evening or two ago by the birth of a daughter.
Local and Personal. Monday evening a man walking on the up track about three miles below
Penn Haven and hearing a train coming jumped to the other track in time to be killed by train No.
6, bound for New York, which came thundering around a curve. He had the name of Gill pricked
upon his arm in India ink. The body was taken to Mauch Chunk, and an inquest held, a verdict
being rendered in accordance with the facts above. He was knocked from the track and instantly
killed. His destination is said to have been Mahanoy City.
Letter From Mauch Chunk. W. J. Gill, alias Wm. Rutledge, a tramp journeying north on the L.
V. R. R. track, was on last Monday evening run down by No. 9 down passenger train, near
Hetcheltooth, and instantly killed. No one appearing to claim the corpse, the remains were on
Wednesday forwarded to the District Poor House for interment. An inquest was held on Mondoy
night, but no clue obtained as to his identity.
MARRIED, BEHLER-BUCK.--On the 5th day of August, by the Rev. J. E. Freeman, Mr.
Henry W. Behler to Miss Leah Buck, both of Franklin township.
MARRIED, HERMAN-TRINE.-On the 19th inst., by the same, Mr. Robert Herman, of
Walnutport, Northampton county, to Miss Sarah Trine, of Slatington, Pa.
MARRIED, MILLER-MILLER.--On August 12th, 1877, by Rev. W. H. Strauss, Mr. Chas. W.
Miller and Miss Ellamanda Miller, both of Mahoning, Carbon county, Pa.
MARRIED, RUSTAY-FAEHT.--On the 9th day of August, by Rev. Abraham Bartholomew, Mr.
Frederic Rustay, of East Mauch Chunk, and Mrs. Mary Faeht, of Franklin township, Carbon
county.
MARRIED, ARNER-ANTHONY.--On the 19th day of August, by the same, Mr. Oscar Arner,
of Weissport, Carbon county, and Miss Jane Elizabeth Anthony, of Slatington, Lehigh county.
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MARRIED, OLENWINE-KOONS.--On the same day, by the same, Mr. Amandes Olenwine
and Miss Amelia Koons, both of Lehighton, Carbon county.
DIED, LEIMBAUCH.--At Summit Hill, August 15th, Ida B., daughter of John and Mary A.
Leimbauch, aged 11 months.
DIED, MILLER--At Mahoning, August 19th, Mollie Miller, widow of Jonas Miller, aged 70
years, 8 months and 14 days.
DIED, GERBER.--On the 12th day of August, in West Penn, Anna Rebecca, daughter of Isaac
and Anna Gerber, aged 2 months and 3 days.
DIED, MANTZ.--On the same day, in West Penn, Francis Joel, son of Francis G. And Sarah
Mantz, aged 5 months and 2 days.
DIED, KEMERER.--On the 18th day of August, in Lehighton, Sarah Minerva, daughter of
David and Sarah Ann Kemerer, aged 2 years, 1 month and 5 days.
DIED, YENSER.--On the 24th day of August in East Penn, Minnie Elmira, daughter of Wilson
and Sarah Yenser, aged 2 years, 2 months and 17 days.
Volume 5, Number 41, Saturday, September 8, 1877
Local and Personal. Mrs. J. T. Flick, a widow lady of 65 years, died at Yorktown on Wednesday
morning last.
Railroad Accident. Last Friday, the 31st ult., Mr. Benjamin Klotz, a resident of this place and a
boatman on the Lehigh Canal, while stopping at New Brunswick had occasion to exchange one
of his mules, and having to give a certain sum of money on the bargain, which he did not have
with him, he started at once to come to his home to get the requisite amount with the intention of
returning again on the following day. When he came to Metuchen station, on the Amboy
Railroad, he found that a passenger train would not be due for several hours, and wishing to be as
expeditious as possible, he boarded a passing coal train which was bound for Packerton. When
they came to Slatington, on the L. V. R. R., the rear brakeman of the train, who had been but a
short time engaged in railroading, stated to Mr. Klotz that six cars ahead of them a coupling was
giving way, and that it must at once be replaced. Mr. Klotz being an experienced railroader,
offered to assist him, and so they went forward to make the change. The engineer had lessened
the speed of the train for the purpose. The broken coupling was then removed and a sound one
inserted, but as the brakeman was about to drop the coupling pin, the engine gave a sudden jerk,
which drew the cars at the place of coupling apart, and Mr. Klotz and the brakeman were
precipitated on the railroad, and in the twinkle of an eye the six cars in the rear had passed over
them. The body of the brakeman, whose name we could not ascertain, was completely cut in
two, and death was instantaneous; while Mr. Klotz had his right foot crushed and three fingers of
the right hand lacerated, and his whole body was bruised and wounded almost beyond
recognition. He was brought to Lehighton on the 5:30 p. m. passenger train, in a very precarious
condition, where Drs. Derhamer and Zern amputated his leg above the ankle, and two of his
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fingers. At this writing Mr. Klotz is doing remarkably well, and his physician anticipate his
speedy recovery.
MARRIED, FRY-MECKES.--On the 15th ult., in Penn Forest twp., by Adam D. Christman,
J.P., Mr. Owen W. Fry, of Albrightsville, and Mrs. S. Meckes, of Meckesville, this county.
MARRIED, SCHOCH-HORNBERGER.--On the 20th ult., in Brodheadsville, by Rev. A. M.
Strauss, Mr. Wm. H. Schoch, of Meckesville, and Miss Sophia L. Hornberger, of
Albrightsville, this county.
MARRIED, KEIPER-LEINDECKER.--On the 25th ult., in Brodheadsville, by the same, Mr.
Alfred A. Keiper, of Kresgeville, Monroe co., and Miss Louisa L. Leindecker, of Wells Creek,
Penn Forest twp., this county.
DIED, HEIMBACH.--In Lehighton, on the 31st ult., Erwin A., infant son of Solomon and
Catharine Heimbach, aged 1 yr., 4 mos. and 4 days.
DIED, MECKES.--On the 7th ult., in Meckesville, of consumption, Anthony, son of Adam
Meckes, aged 23 years, 4 months and 10 days.
DIED, WELTEY.--On the 6th ult., in Kresgeville, of diarrhoe, Calvin, infant son of Rich'd W.
and Cecelia M. Wiltey, aged 11 mos. and 27 days.
DIED, FISHER.--On the 20th ult., in Kresgeville, of old age, Lawrence Fisher, aged 85 years, 5
months and 12 days.
DIED, DEPPEY--On the 24th ult., in Albrightsville, of diarrhoesa, Sarah Elizabeth, infant
daughter of Henry J. And Sarah J. Deppey, aged 2 months and 10 days.
DIED, HUESERMANN.--On the 26th ult., in Albrightsville, of diarrhoea, Louisa Charlotta,
infant daughter of William J. and Minne E. Huesermann, aged 1 year, 2 mos. and 9 days.
Volume 5, Number 42, Saturday, September 15, 1877
Local and Personal. At Bethlehem, the other day, Martin McHugh, of Philadelphia, attempted to
board a moving Lehigh Valley train and had his legs badly mangled. He has since died.
Items from Eckley, &c. A man by the name of Quinn, employed by the Upper Lehigh Coal Co.,
at Upper Lehigh, was killed by a fall of coal on Tuesday morning last shortly after he
commenced to work.
Items from Eckley, &c. One of those happy gatherings, which occur occasionally in and around
the coal regions, took place last Saturday evening at the house of Mr. M. A. Weiss, of this place,
formerly of Lehighton, it being the anniversary of his twenty sixth birthday. Among those
present we noticed the following persons: C. H. Weiss and wife, Harry Jacoby and wife, and
James Williamson of this place; Miss Hull and Miss Eaves, of Wilkes-Barre; Miss Mary
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Metzgar, of Allentown; H. E. Sweeny, of Lehighton. About 10 o'clock the party sat down to a
bountiful repast provided for them by the hostess, after which the party enjoyed themselves in
playing various games, &c., they finally adjourned wishing the host another year of prosperity.
The Murder of John Van Liew.
Mr. P. M. Van Liew, of this place, received a telegram Monday morning, requesting his
immediate presence at his parents home in Columbia county, on account of the murder of his
father on the previous Saturday night. The dispatch should have reached him Sunday, as it was
his father was buried before he could reach home. The following are the particulars of the
murder so far as we have been able to collect them:
Mr. John Van Liew was murdered, on the night of Saturday, Sept. 8th, while on his way
home from the village of Light street, which place he had left, in company with Mr. Samuel
Creveling shortly after 10 o'clock. About one quarter of a mile from town the roads to their
homes diverging, they separated; about 15 minutes afterwards Mr. Creveling stated that he heard
distinct reports of a gun in quick succession. The reports were also heard by other persons--Mrs.
Boon testifying that she heard the first report and immediately after an agonizing cry, followed
by the second report. The time at which the shooting took place was about 11 o'clock. The shots
were evidently fired from a piece of woods on the upper side of the road, a number of shots
having been picked out of the fence on the lower side. The shot used for accomplishing the
murder were coarse No. 1, or duck shot. Twenty-seven shots penetrated the breast of the
murdered man, and his skull was broken in, apparently by blows from the gun (clubbed), as
marks from the hammer were plainly visible, one cut was 7 inches in length along the side of the
head and near the top. The body of the murdered was found lying on the ground between 6 and 7
o'clock on Sunday morning. Deceased was 60 years of age, and leaves a wife and seven
children, as follows: P. M. Van Liew, of this place, who is the oldest of them, A. C., a farmer
near Light street, A. B., a miller, at Light street, Lenora A., Geo. W. Charles A. and Clara A., to
deplore the sad event.
A coroner's jury are investigating the circumstances connected with the murder, but
although a brother of Mrs. Van Liew, and his son, named Marr, have been arrested on suspicion,
no certain clue has been attained as to the real murderer, at this writing.
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. Gus Gorman, a very worthy resident of Upper Mauch Chunk, and for
many years a faithful employee of the L. V. R. R. Co., died on last Tuesday morning.
MARRIED, STAPP-BROBST.--On the 6th inst., at the residence of the bride's father, Hon.
Henry Brobst, of Rehrersburg, Berks county, Pa., by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, of Cherryville, Dr.
Assippa M. Stapp, of East Penn, and Miss Mattie A. Brobst.
Volume 5, Number 43, Saturday, September 22, 1877
Local and Personal. Ludwig From, a German committed suicide at Tremont, Schuylkill county,
because he was out of employment.
Local and Personal. At Alburtis, Lehigh county, last week Mrs. Meitzler, aged sixty years, was
fatally burned while engaged at preserving fruit. Her clothes caught fire while moving about the
stove, and being alone in the room she was terribly burned, dying the next day.
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Local and Personal. Tuesday morning an unknown man, supposed to be a tramp, was killed at
Penn Haven. As far as learned, it appears that he had been riding on a coal cars, and by some
means fell from the train and was run over.
Local and Personal. A mail train going north on the Philadelphia and Erie Railroad collided with
a freight train near Muncy, about half-past seven o'clock on Saturday morning. The baggage and
express cars, two cars of wheat, and several oil tanks were destroyed by fire. Jacob Steinman,
the express messenger, and William Attig, the engineer of the mail train, were burned to death in
the wreck.
ITEMS. Married at East Mauch Chunk, on Thursday, 19th instant by Rev. Father Heinen, Mr.
Joseph Rose, to Miss Mary Wimmel.
Volume 5, Number 44, Saturday, September 29, 1877
From Mauch Chunk. Mr. Daniel Esser, of this place, on last Tuesday evening wed Miss Alice
Merrick, of Upper Mauch Chunk, Rev B. T. Vincent tying the knot. The ceremony over, Mr.
Esser, very sensibly took his bride to his Race Street residence, where the "happy couple"
received the congratulations of friends, and were serenaded by the Phoenix Carnet Band.
John Brennan, of Big Mine Run, was knocked down by a train near Girardsville, and most
horibly mangled, Tuesday afternoon. He died the same evening.
DEATH--An infant of Joseph Rex, of this borough, died on last Thursday and will be buried on
Sunday (to-morrow), at 2 p. m. Funeral services by Rev. J. K. Kneer in the Evangelical church,
Weissport.
D. G. Yuengling, the well-known brewer, of Pottsville, died about 8 o'clock Thursday morning
last. Deceased was seized with a paralytic stroke on Tuesday morning of last week, while
descending the stairs.
DIED, GUTH.--In this borough, on the 20th inst., Susan Elizabeth, daughter of Paul and Mary
Guth, aged 2 years, 1 month and 27 days.
DIED, HOM.--On the 21st inst., in this borough, Mary Ann Jane, daughter of J. A. and Caroline
Hom, aged 22 years, 2 months and 24 days.
Volume 5, Number 45, Saturday, October 6, 1877
ITEMS. Rev. Eisenberger, of Lower Towamensing, who married the Armbruster couple 25
years ago, was present at their silver wedding.
ITEMS. Mr. Chas. Amidon, Gen. Freight Agent, Taylor's right bower, is announced to be
married to Miss Emma Bauer, daughter of Elwin Bauer, Esq., of East Mauch Chunk, on
Tuesday, the 16th inst.
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ITEMS. Mr. Louis Armbruster and wife celebrated the 25th anniversary of their wedded life, or
their silver wedding, as it is more commonly called, on last Wednesday. There was good cheer at
their residence that day, and the number of costly presents was quite numerous. During the
progress of the festivities the celebrants were honored with a serenade by the Phoenix Cornet
Band.
The Late Mr. Tweedle. On Friday morning, Sept. 28, 1877, the people of Beaver Meadow were
both surprised and grieved to hear that Mr. Samuel B. Tweedle was no more. We feel certain the
same sentiments will be felt by all who had the pleasure of forming his acquaintance. Mr.
Tweedle was a young man aged thirty-years and eleven month. His appearance promised a long
life, but Death, who spares not the young nor the old, cut him down in the bloom of manhood,
leaving in the family circle a void that never can be filled. The funeral took place on Sunday
afternoon, Sept. 30, at 2 o'clock, and was largely attended by a multitude of friend and
acquaintance. Mr. Tweedle, being a member of three different societies turned out in a body to
attend the funeral. The procession moved slowly along until it reached the church, where the
Rev. Mr. Wilson, of the Presbyterian Church, preached a very touching sermon. After the
services of the church were over, the casket containing the body of Mr. Tweedle, was borne to
the cemetary by members of the the societies of which he had been a member. After the minister
concluded the services at the grave, the different societies paid their last tribute of honor over the
body. This concluded the last rites for the dead. Dust was committed to dust, and the earthly
career of Samuel B. Tweedle was forever ended. He leaves behind him to mourn their loss his
parents, four brothers, one of whom is the well-known Dr. J. B. Tweedle, of Weatherly, and one
sister, besides his many friends and acquaintance.--Hazleton Daily Sentinel.
MARRIED, ROBENOLD-O'BRIAN.--On the 8th ult., by the Rev. A. Bartholomew, Mr.
Charles B. Robenold, of Lehighton, and Mrs. Susan E. O'Brian, of Mahoning.
MARRIED, PETER-RUCH.--On the 16th ult., by the same, Mr. James F Peter, and Miss Kitty
Ann Ruch, both of East Penn.
MARRIED, McCLEAN-TROXEL.--On the 16th ult., by the same, Mr. John McClean, of
Mahoning, Carbon county, and Miss Emma Troxel, of West Penn, Schuylkill county.
DIED, SCHUMACHER.--On the 22nd ult., in West Penn, Rosa Cassilia, daughter of Joel and
Mary Ann Schumacher, aged 6 years and 15 days.
DIED, HAUSER.--On the 29th ult., in Braunschweig, Esther Rebecca, daughter of Elias and
Rebecca Hauser, aged 11 years, and 12 days.
Volume 5, Number 46, Saturday, October 13, 1877
Local and Personal. In a fit of passion, a few days ago, Emma Pfeiffer, of Allentown, took a
dose of bed bug poison and died from its effects.
Local and Personal. Diphtheria was the cause of four deaths in a family at Trexlertown, Lehigh
county, recently. They all died within a few days of each other.
96
Local and Personal. William Ahner, a shoemaker at Alburtis, Lehigh county, hanged himself in
his garret the other night, and his "sole" is no longer marching on.
Local and Personal. A young man, named Pfleger, a resident of Tamaqua, went out shooting on
Saturday, in the woods in the vicinity of Tamaqua, and was found dead on Sunday morning. He
had not been shot but had evidently died from severe attack of illness, probably a paralytic
stroke.
DIED, HOM.--In Weatherly, on the 7th inst., Catharine, widow of the lat Andrew Hom, and
mother of Jonas A. Hom, of Lehighton, aged 77 years, 7 months and 2 days.
DIED, SCHULTZ.--In this borough, on th 30th ult., of dropsy and consumption, George Shultz,
at the good old age of 72 years, 2 months and 18 days. The deceased leaves a deeply bereaved
widow, with whom he lived 51 years in peace, happiness and blessedness, eight children and 43
grandchildren, to mourn the loss of this good old man. Since two years he had engaged Rev. G.
A. Bruegel, his former pastor (now of Cherryville,) to officiate at his funeral. He endeavored to
improve the solemn occasion, from Genesis XXV., 8, by showing a similarity between Abraham
unto deceased, on account of his faith and confidence in God, his humble and upright walk, his
strict integrity and conscientousness, his pure character, and his ardent love for his family, for
virtue and truth. He was a Christian, not merely by profession and policy, but by practice and
principle. His memory will live long with all who knew him.
Volume 5, Number 47, Saturday, October 20, 1877
Local and Personal. William Keegan, an old man, fell into a canal lock on Saturday and was
drowned.
Local and Personal. James Coyle, a miner, was killed by an explosion of fire-damp at the Eagle
Hill mines, near Pottsville, Friday of last week. Coyle's assistant was seriously, if not fatally
injured.
Local and Personal. Henry Deyken, of Manayunk, was found in a dying condition in the woods
near Reading a few days ago. He formerly kept the books for several Schuylkill county coal
operators. He married his wife in Pottsville. The deceased was ruined and finally came to his
death by drink, which made him a miserable wanderer on the earth. He has a brother in New
York who is a man of considerable means.
Local and Personal. Mr. Jacob Bowman, of Millport, father of W. W. Bowman, Esq., cashier of
the 1st National Bank, of Lehighton, died on Wednesday morning last after an illness of six
weeks. Deceased was upwards of eighty years of age, and for the last two weeks of his life had
not partaken of a particle of food.
Albrightsville Items. Diarrhoea and diphtheria is raging considerably in Albrightsville and
vicinity among the children. Many cases have proved fatal.
DIED, HECKMAN.--At Albrightsville, on the 4th ult., of diarrhoea, Jennie Lizzie, infant
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daughter of John H. and Susan A. Heckman, aged 1 year, 5 months and 8 days.
DIED, FELLER.--At Duttersville, on the 5th ult., of diphtheria, Emma Jane, daughter of Jacob
and Sarah Feller, aged 10 years, 3 months and 4 four days. On the 12th ult., Henry Oliver, agen
6 years, 8 months and 9 days, also on the same day, Wm. Emery, aged 2 years, 7 months and 9
days, and on the 24th ult., Jacob Franklin, aged 4 years, 2 months and 15 days.
DIED, SMITH.--In Middle Creek, Monroe county, on the 15th ult., of old age and paralysis,
Father George Smith, aged 78 yrs., 8 mos. and 12 days.
DIED, KOCH.--In this borough, on the 12th instant Charles Wilbur, infant son of I. S. and Ellen
Koch, aged one month.
Volume 5, Number 48, Saturday, October 27, 1877
Local and Personal. The body of an unknown mudered man, about 40 years of age, was
discovered Tuesday morning at Spring Brook, near Scranton.
Local and Personal. Henry Ray, proprietor of a saloon under the United States hotel, Tamaqua,
who tried to commit suicide by shooting himself some time ago, hung himself to a tree about ten
yards from his own house on Friday night about eleven o'clcok. He was found dead two hours
afterward by his son. To financial and family troubles is ascribed the cause of the deed.
Fatal Accident. A heartrending accident occurred on the Wyoming Division of the Lehigh Valley
Railroad, about 3 o'clock Friday morning of last week. James Scott, a conductor on the early
freight, was killed by being run over and cut in half on the track. Freight No. 50 of the first
section, conducted by Scott, was en route for Wilkesbearre, and when near bridge No. 28, in the
vicinity of White Haven, passenger train No. 15 going toward Easton, came along. Both trains
were on the same track, and the freight pulled into the sidling. As soon as the passenger train
passed Scott signelled to go ahead, and then went into his caboose. Shortly after he discovered
that part of his train had become disconnected, and he got on top of the freight cars, and ran
along to discover where the break had occurred. He thought, as is usually the case, that the cars
had broken loose near the engine, but it was the third car ahead of the caboose that had become
disconnected, and Scott was suddenly thrown to the track below under the wheels of the cars.
The two freight cars and caboose passed over him, cutting him in two pieces. Fortunately the
"pusher," or the engine behind the caboose, did not run over his remains, or he would have been
literally ground to pieces. The corpse was immediately taken to East Mauch Chunk, where his
family resides. He was about 35 years of age, and was one of the most popular conductors on
the Wyoming Division. His terrible death was the subject of conversation all along the entire
line, and his numerous friends were more than pained when they learned that Jimmy Scott was
no more.
Volume 5, Number 49, Saturday, November 3, 1877
Local and Personal. Hon. Edward Kern, of Schuylkill county, died last week. He was for many
98
years engaged in railroad building, and had acquired considerable means, but when the Miners'
Trust Bank failed he, with his son, Thos. F., lost heavily. This loss has preyed on his mind and
probably superinduced death. Mr. Kerns served in the Legislature in 1863, 1864 and 1868.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. The unexpected and quite sudden death, on last Saturday, of Jos.
Klinger, of the "European," caused quite a sensation and considerable sympathy and regret
among his many friends here. Deceased, who was little over 21 years of age, was indeed a nice
young man, and liked by all who knew him. A cold, contracted at the Lehighton Fair, is assigned
as the cause of the fever which terminated his life. His funeral, which took place on Tueaday
forenoon, was well attended. His remains were taken to Lehighton for burial.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. At 2 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, Mr. W. J. Thompson, of
Philadelphia, and Miss Emily Yeager (daughter of Mr. Leonard Yeager) were united in the holy
bonds of matrimony at the First Presbyterian Church of Mauch Chunk, Rev. E. Ferrier,
officiating. Shortly after the ceremony and subsequent reception, the bridal party left on their
wedding tour. They will return in about two weeks.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. Since my last, Hon. James Harvey, of Buck Mountain, has also been
gathered to his fathers. Ripe in years and for more than a year afflicted with an offensive malady
(cancer) he breathed his last on last Saturday, at 2 o'clock p. m. On Monday his funeral took
place, and he now sleeps his last sleep in the Catholic cemetery of Tarrytown. In Hon. James
Harvey the community has lost a good and useful member.
Edwin Weidner, aged fifty years, of Lehigh county, attempted to dash his brains out against a
barn wall on Thursday. Not succeeding he cut his throat from ear to ear. No cause is assigned
for the suicide.
MARRIED, TOWNSEND-FAIRCHILD.--On the 24th of October, 1877, at 7 1/2 P. M., at the
home of the bride's parents, by Rev. D. P. Kidder, D. D., of Drew Theological Seminary, assisted
Rev. M. E. Ellison, Rev. Geo. W. Townsend, of the Wilmington Conference, and formerly pastor
of the Packerton M. E. church, and Miss Theodosia M. Fairchild, of New Vernon, N. J. The
happy pair have our best wishes for their furture happiness and prosperity, and may the union be
blest with many a fair child.
MARRIED, HOWER-MATZ.--On the 20th ult., at the residence of Mr. Reuben Kuntz, of
Cherryville, by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, Mr. Allen W. Hower, of Cherryville, and Miss Lydia Matz,
daughter of Mr. Joseph Matz, of Rockdale, Lehigh county, Pa.
DIED, HEMING.--On the 27th ult., in Albrightsville, of diphtheria, Jennie A., daughter of P. G.
and Lucinda Heming, aged 3 years, 5 months and 15 days.
Volume 5, Number 50, Saturday, November 10, 1877
Local and Personal. That terrible disease--diphtheria--caused a large number of deaths in Easton
during the present fall.
99
Local and Personal. The body of James Lahey was found on the Lehigh Valley Railroad, near
Pittston, Sunday morning. It was terribly mangled, three trains having passed over it. It is
supposed he was robbed and murdered.
ITEMS. So well pleased with the day's result was Mrs. Bernard Phillips, that on the evening of
the 6th she presented her husband with an additional member of the Phillips family, it being the
seventh little Phillips of the feminine gender thus presented.
Mine Casualties.
The follwing mine accidents were reported to T. D. Jones, Inspector of Mines for the
South District of Luzerne and Carbon counties, for the month ending Oct. 31st, 1877, to wit:
Oct. 1--Adam Deihl, aged 32, pump man at Stockton No. 2, fatally injured by being run
over by a mine car on the slope. The deceased had been down oiling the pump, located in the
fourth lift and in coming up to attend to the third lift pump it is presumed that he was knocked by
the descending car, crushing him so severely that he died shortly after he was taken home. He
leave a wife and six children.
Oct. 10--Michael Boyle, aged 35, leaves wife and one child, was instantly killed by a fall
of coal at Council Ridge Colliery No. 2, caused by the miners advancing too far on the six foot
or bottom bench before taking down the top, or nine-foot bench.
Oct. 23--Thomas Trelure miner, aged 40, leaves wife and three children, was instantly
killed at Cransberry mines, by a fall of slate. The deceased, in company with another miner and
laborer, were employed at robbing an old counter-gangway, and on the night previous to the
accident they had fired two blasts, which did not do the required execution, so on the morning of
the acident, the deceased commenced to pry the loose coal, when a flag of slate, about ten inches
thick, fell on the car, causing him to go to the other side of the gangway, and a second piece fell,
after which he advanced about ten feet from the car, when the third and fatal piece fell, resulting
as stated.
IN MEMORIAM.
At a regular meeting of Honora Council, No. 120, O. U. A. M., held at Weatherly, Friday
evening, November 2nd, 1877, the following resolutions were adopted:
WHEREAS, It has pleased Almighty God in his inscrutable wisdom to take from us our
beloved Brother, Reuben Horn, therefore it seems but proper that we should testify publicly the
sense of our loss. In all his intercourse with us, and so far as we have knowledge, in all his
dealings with the world at large, he proved himself an honest man, an upright citizen and a
faithful friend; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That in the death of Brother Horn our Council has lost its Councilor, one
who filled the position with honor to himself and for the highest good of the Order, and ever as a
member he has held up, both by precept and example, our noble motto: Honesty, Industry and
Sobriety.
RESOLVED, That we bow submissively to this sad dispensation, conscious that our
Heavenly Father doth all things well
RESOLVED, That we offer our warmest sympathy to his bereaved family, and pray that
the great Ruler of mankind may enable them to bear their irreparable loss with fortitude and
resignation, and bow in humble submission to the will of Him who giveth and who taketh away.
RESOLVED, That a copy of these resolutions be presented to the family of our deceased
Brother and be spread upon the minutes of our Council, also published in the Mauch Chunk
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Democrat and The Carbon Advocate
E. C. Wilson, H. F. Freeman, John Hoover, Committee.
Attest: S C. Schooner, Jr., Ex. C. L. F. Wagner, R. S.
At a stated meeting of Lodi Lodge, No. 80, K. of P., of Weatherly, Pa., held November 6th, 1877,
the following resolutions were adopted:
WHEREAS It has pleased an all wise Providence to remove from us our esteemed
Brother Reuben Horn, who endeared himself to all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance,
and Lodi. Lodge, No. 80, K. of P., feeling the loss it has sustained in his death, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That while we humbly bow to the Divine will in taking from us our brother,
in his death this Lodge feels that it has lost an active co-worker in the noble principles of Pythian
Knighthood; that by his kind and unassuming manner he made friends of all who had the
pleasure of his acquaintance, and that although he will no more be with us in council assembled
to legislate for the good of the order he loved so well, yet his example still remains for us to
follow and emulate.
RESOLVED, That we tender the sorrowing family our warmest sympathies, that we
mingle our grief with theirs, and entreat them to look to God for strength to sustain them in their
great trial.
RESOLVED, That a copy of these resolutions be presented to the family of our deceased
brother and spread upon the Journal of our Lodge, also be published in the Mauch Chunk
Democrat and The Carbon Advocate.
H. S. Rinker, John Hoover, J. F. Davis, Committee
Attest: Chas. W. Stoeckley, C. C. John F. Davis, K. of R. S.
At a regular meeting of Weatherly Lodge, No. 691, I. O. O. F., held November 1st, 1877, the
following resolutions were unanimously adopted.
WHEREAS, It has pleased God in his Providence to remove from our midst Brother
Reub. Horn, a member of our beloved order.
WHEREAS, We humbly bow to the Divine will, believing that all His judgments are just,
and His ways merciful, and believing that our brother died in hope of a blessed immortality;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That in the death of our Brother, Reuben Horn, the Lodge has lost a
faithful member, his family an affectionate husband and father, and the community an upright
and honest citizen.
RESOLVED, That his family have our earnest sympathy in their bereavement, and we
commend them to Him who does not afflict willfully, out giveth grace to conquor and sustains us
in all our sorrows, and that a copy of these resolutions be tendered the family and published in
the Mauch Chunk and Lehighton papers.
RESOLVED, That, as a tribute of respect to our departed brother, our Charter be draped
in mourning for thirty days.
G. W. Miller, John Hoover, E. C. Wilson, Committee.
Weatherly, Nov. 8, 1877.
MARRIED, MINER-SCHOFIELD.--On the 24th ult., by Rev. J. C. Bliem, of Lehighton, Mr.
C. D. Miner, of Weissport formerly of Mauch Chunk, and Miss S. A. Schofield, of Weissport,
formerly of Chester Valley, Chester County, Pa. No cards. Chester county papers, please copy.
101
MARRIED, THOMAS-RASBRIDGE.--On the 3rd inst., at the house of Mr. William Lewis,
Hokendauqua, Lehigh County, PA., by Rev. James A. Little, Mr. John P. Thomas, of Coaldale,
and Miss Annie Rasbridge, of Hokendauqua.
MARRIED, MITCHELL-WEISE.--On the 4th instant, at the residence of the bride's father, by
Rev. L. B. Brown, of the M. E. Church of this place, Mr. Thomas Mitchell, of Dunnigan's
California, and Miss Lizzie S. Weise, of Packerton, Carbon county, Pa
MARRIED, ZIMMERMAN-SECHLER.--On the 11th ult., by Rev. Abrm. Bartholomew, Mr.
Aaron Zimmerman and Miss Kate Elizabeth Sechler, both of West Penn, Schuylkill co., Pa.
MARRIED, SANDHERRS-REHRIG.--On the same day, by the same, Mr. Geo. Sandherrs, of
Packerton and Miss Sarah Alice Rehrig, of Mahoning, Carbon co., Pa.
MARRIED, LUDWIG-SAUERS.--On the 13th ult., by the same, Mr. Franz Ludwig, of
Mahoning, and Miss Anna Eliza Sauers, of Lehighton, Pa.
DIED, BRITTON.--On the 27th ult., in West Penn, Schuylkill co., Pa., Elizabeth, wife of
Benjamin Britton, aged 78 years and 9 days.
BRIEFLETS. Philip Wismer and son, of Tobyhanna, Luzerne county, were burned to death in
their shanty a few night ago. The building caught fire from the stove.
Volume 5, Number 51, Saturday, November 17, 1877
Local and Personal. Mary Devans, aged 100 years, died in Luzerne county the other day.
Local and Personal. Mrs. John Koch, of Allentown, a few nights ago gave birth to twins, the
fourth time in succession. She is bound t'win the championship.
Local and Personal. While eating an apple a child of Commissioner Lines, of Luzerne county,
got a piece in its windpipe and was choked to death.
Local and Personal. A little daughter of Dr. J. H. Kauffman, of Pinegrove, Schuylkill county,
ate a small quantity of chloride of potash and died a few hours afterward.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Werling, of Lehigh county, took poison because her husband wanted
her to leave him. She has died from the effects of the poison.
Local and Personal. There was a slight fire at the house of George W. Copp, in Easton, Monday
evening, and his mother-in-law, Mrs. Bertha Valkamuth, was burned to death in bed.
Local and Personal. Mr. Jonathan Kolb, an old man of about 60 years of age, a resident of
Weissport, had been in attendance at the funeral of Isaac Moyer, in Lehighton, on Wednesday
afternoon, and after his return to Weissport, and on his way to lock No. 7, fell alongside the
towpath and instantly expired. The cause of death was supposed to be heart disease. Deceased
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leaves a wife and one married daughter.
Local and Personal. A. J. Marsh, better known as "Quill" Marsh, died in this place (Towanda)
on Friday the 2d inst., after a long illness, in the 44th year of his age. He was for a long time
conductor on the Sullivan & State Line Railroad, and was widely known in this section as well as
along the L. V. R. R. His funeral took place on Sunday last and was largely attended. "Quill"
had a host of warm and devoted friends who will long mourn his death.--Towanda Journal.
Accidentally Drowned. On Thursday morning of last week, Mr. Isaac Moyer, of this borough,
had occasion to visit Allentown, and returned in the evening on the Lehigh Valley train, arriving
here about 9:00 o'clock, when having an engagement to meet a gentleman in Weissport he
proceeded down the track until near the bridge crossing the Lehigh, when he by some means or
other accidentally stumbled into the river, the water being very high and the currant rapid, he was
swiftly carried out into the stream and down the river. His cries were heard by one or two
persons, but the night was so dark and stormy, and the water so swift in its course, that it was
impossible to render the unfortunate man any assistance. His body drifted down to near
Lockport, where it was recovered on Saturday morning, and brought to this place on Sunday
morning. The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon and was very largely attended.
Deceased was 62 years of age, and leaves a wife and several children to deplore their sudden
bereavement.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. "There is a time to be born and a time to die" and it is of death that I
am about to write. Not that I intend to give your readers a windy dissertation on death, but
merely to advise them of the sudden demise of Benj. F. H. Lynn, who died at Hazleton on last
Saturday. Deceased, a born Mauch Chunker, was well known here, and greatly respected by all
who had the pleasure of a more intimate acquaintance with him. Not yet past the prime of life,
he was a man of commanding presence, seemingly singled out by Providence to be a man of
note. He was an individual of many sterling parts, and his vast store of information, coupled
with a grand intellect, fitted him admirably for the calling he had chosen. Indeed there were few
in the editorial profession, in city or country, who wielded as facile a pen as he. A little more
stability would have placed him in the very front rank of journalism. But herein he was lacking:
stability wasn't his forte. Yet his erratic disposition caused him in the course of time to become
the founder of quite a number of periodicals, some of which are still in a flourishing existence.
There was method in all he did, and whether at the head of a prosperous city journal or a small
country sheet published in a one-horse town, his daily or weekly editions would invariably bear
the imprint of his character for thoroughness. Indeed there are few to this day who know how to
get up a sheet as well as Ben F. H. Lynn did. And yet, who was this prodigy? A self-made man
indeed, who, in his youth, had enjoyed but two months schooling! He was emphatically a selftaught man, whose grammar and style were acquired at the case, and by reading, and whose
reasoning faculties were of the first order. In short deceased was a genius, but though a genius,
he was far from having been a successful business man, and his failures were probably as many
as his success. As a man he was one of those free and easy going creatures who make friends
wherever they go, and who, no matter to what straits they may be reduced, command the respect
of age. But, poor fellow, he is gone. Having written his valedictory, he has departed, leaving us
much to admire and but little to lament. Besides, "Who e'er expects a perfect man to see. Seeks
what ne'er was, nor is, nor e'er shall be" and while fondly harboring the memory of Ben F. H.
Lynn in the innermost recesses of our hearts let us forget his frailties. When I first heard the
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particulars of his death--how he had died alone, far rom his wife and family, with no one to cheer
nor comfort him, I felt sick at heart, but when I thought of the life of usefulness he had led and
the proud record he had left behind in his writings, I grew silent in adoration of Him who
knoweth best. His funeral which sook place on Tuesday afternoon from the residence of his
brother-in-law, Mr. T. L. Foster was well attended, and while he sleeps his last sleep in the
Cemetery on the Hill, his works survive him.
Letter from Mauch Chunk. Mr. Martin Nuss, a man from the humbler walks of life exchanged
time and things timely for eternity and things eternal at 6 o'clock on last Sunday morning, aged
47 years. About six weeks ago deceased, who was a carpenter, was injured while working at his
trade on the Tamanend branch of the L. & S. Division of the Central R. R. of N. J., since which
time he continued to sink slowly until death came to his relief. In Upper Mauch Chunk, where
he had resided so many years, there was none more respected than he, as it was attested by the
numbers who came to pay him the last tribute of respect on last Tuesday afternoon when dust
was consigned to dust. Deceased leaves a widow and 5 children to mourn the loss of husband
and father. The sympathies of the whole community is theirs.
ITEMS. Section Boss of the B. M. division, Jas. Bannan, died on Tuesday of typhoid fever.
DIED, KOLB.--On the 14th inst., about 4 p. m., in Weissport, very suddenly of paralysis of the
heart, Mr. Jonathan Kolb, aged about 60 yrs. The relatives and friends of the familiy are invited
to attend the funeral, this (Saturday) afternoon at 1 o'clock, at the house.
DIED, STRAWM.--In this borough, on the 15th inst., Mr. Wm. Strawm, aged 79 years. The
funeral will take place this (Saturday) morning at 7:30 o'clock to proceed (by train) to
Applebachsville, Lehigh county, Pa.
Volume 5, Number 52, Saturday, November 24, 1877
Local and Personal. On Saturday, at the Diamond mine, Scranton, George Bask, miner, and Jas.
Johnson, laborer, were instantly killed by a fall of rock. They had just fired a blast, and were
just about to begin work when a section of rock over two feet thick fell upon them without a
moment's warning. Johnson's head was severed from his body.
MARRIED, MUMMY-HOWER.--On the 18th inst., at the residence of the bride's father, J. M.
Hower, Esq., by Rev. G. A. Bruegel, Mr. Alexander W. Mummy and Miss Henrietta Hower, all
of Cherryville, Pa.
Volume 6, Number 1, Saturday, December 1, 1877
Local and Personal. Lewis Dotter, of Weissport, brakeman on 43 freight, Tuesday, while making
a fly at Lehigh Gap, was jerked from the cars, the train passing over him. He died of his injury
while on the way up the road.
Local and Personal. Mrs. Abraham Van Horn, of Packerton, died very suddenly at the residence
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of Mr. Thomas Radcliff, in this place, on Sunday last, at which place she was on a vist. The
funeral took place on Wednesday.
Local and Personal. Mr. and Mrs. Barney Ward, of Allentown have been married a little over
ten years, and have been blessed with eight children, all born on the fourth of July--the first one
in 1869, the second in 1871, and the remaining six on each succeeding independence day up to
1877.
Beaver Meadow Region. Mr. Charles Ferry, of Beaver Meadow mines, an old and respected
resident of forty years standing, died on Saturday night last, and was buried on Monday, at
Beaver Meadow.
Beaver Meadow Region. An interesting little girl of Mrs. McCole's aged about six years, died
from heart disease on the night of the 23rd inst.
MARRIED, RHOADS-WEISS.--On the 15th ult., by Rev. Moses Dissinger, Mr. Hiram Rhoads
and Mrs. Mary Ann Weiss, both of Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
MARRIED, DERONER-HALL.--On the 17th ult., by L. H. Roth, J. P., Mr. Lewis Deroner, of
Washington, to Miss Isabella Hall, of Slatington.
MARRIED, OWENS-ENANS.--On the 5th ult., by Rev. Mr. Morton, at the residence of Mr.
James Williams, Mr. James Owens and Maggie T. Evans, both of Slatington.
MARRIED, LAUGHLIN-FULK.--On July 17th, Rev. M. H. Mishler, Mr. Hugh Laughlin, of
Rockport, and Miss Lizzie Fulk, of Buck Mountain.
MARRIED, CLOUSE-WEEKS.--On August 26th, by the same, Mr. Joseph Clouse and Miss E.
Weeks, both of Weatherly.
MARRIED, KRAUSE-DIEHL.--On the 22nd ult, by the same, Mr. George Krause and Miss A.
Diehl, both of Hazleton.
STATE NEWS. Mrs. Girton, of Shamokin, gave birth to triplets recently. She had previously
had twins on three occasions.
STATE NEWS. A child at Ashland fell from a chair on a stove and was roasted to death. The
child was found burned to a crisp on the stove.
STATE NEWS. Isaac Crider, a young man of Clinton county, fatally shot himself while
returning from a pheasant hunting expedition. His gun was discharged while he was in the act or
removing it from the wagon to shoot a pheasant near by, the hammer catching in he bed of the
wagon.
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Volume 6, Number 2, Saturday, December 8, 1877
Local and Personal. Nicholas Regnery was killed in the mines near Ashland, Schuylkill county,
on Monday evening, by the premature explosion of a blast.
Local and Personal. Frank Meyers, of Easton, was arrested and committed to jail Saturday
afternoon, charged with committing an outrage upon his step-daughter, only twelve years old.
After he had committed the assault he threatened to beat the girl if she should expose him.
Meyers came to Easton about three months ago, and married the mother of the girl. Their
married life has not run smoothly, his wife having had him arrested several times for assault and
battery.
Albrightsville Items. On Tuesday of last week a very sad accident occurred about 7 miles from
this place, (Well's Creek); while out hunting, J. Daniel Smith, accidently shot himself, from the
effects of which he died a few hours afterwards. As I heard it rumored, it seems that young
Smith attempted to jump upon a stump with the gun resting beside his feet, when by some means
the gun slipped off and in dropping was discharged, the contents entering the body of the
unfortunate youth. Young Smith was about 21 years of age. The sad event has cast a gloom
over the whole community; he was a young man universally respected.
MARRIED, KUNKLE-ROOF.--On the 28th ult., in Effort, by Rev. A. M. Strauss, Mr. Joel
Kunkle, of Kresgeville, and Miss Maria Roof, of Duttersville.
MARRIED, LIENDECKER-KEIPER.--On the 24th ult., by the same, Mr. George H.
Liendecker, of Well's Creek, Carbon Co., and Miss Hannah A. Keiper, of Duttersville, Monroe
Co.
DIED, SNYDER.--In Weissport, on the 1st inst., Mary Alice, infant daughter of Samuel and
Kate Snyder, aged 6 months and 19 days.
DIED, SEARFASS--On the 1st ult., at Hickory Run, of typhoid fever, Celesta, daughter of
Robert and Amelia Searfass, aged 6 years, 6 months and 9 days.
DIED, SILFIES.--On the 1st ult., in Albrightsville, of diarrhoea, Reuben H., infant son of John
and Elizabeth Silfies, aged 3 months and 24 days.
DIED, MERTZ.--On the 6th ult., in Duttersville, of diarrhoea, T. Oliver, son of Daniel and
Catharine Mertz, aged 8 months and 16 days. Also on the 8th ult., Robert Walter, of diarrhoea,
aged 7 years and 28 days.
Volume 6, Number 3, Saturday, December 15, 1877
Local and Personal. A child aged two years was burned to death at Hazleton on Monday, its
clothing cathing fire from a stove.
Local and Personal. Monroe Sheetz, employed in the Locke slate quarry at Slatedale, fell
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seventy feet into the quarry on his head and died next day.
Local and Personal. Joseph Weaver, select councilman of Allentown, aged sixty-four, went to
bed well, awoke with a pain in his breast and soon died.
Local and Personal. A child of Mr. William Johnson, of Bangor, Northampton county, fell and
upset a coal oil lamp, the result of which was the fatal burning of the little one.
Local and Personal. Twenty-one little graves dot the surface of the churchyard at Trexlertown,
Lehigh county, the children all having fallen victims to diphtheria within the last two months.
Big Creek Items. The funeral of J. Daniel Smith, who accidentally shot himself while out
gunning in the neighborhood of Wild Creek, a short ago, was very largely attended at Jerusalem
church. He was about 20 years of age.
Big Creek Items. The wife of Mr. Amandas Anthony, of this place, died of typhoid fever on
Monday evening of last week. The interment took place on Friday, at St. Paul's, near
Cherryville, Northampton county. Mr. Anthony has the sympathies of the community in this his
sad bereavement.
MARRIED, WENNER-CLACE.--On the 25th ult., by Rev. W. H. Strauss, David M. Wenner
and Maria E. Clace, both of Summit Hill.
DIED, ARNER.--On the 25th ult., at Summit Hill, Geo. Washington, son of Thomas and Emma
Arner, aged 3 years, 9 months and 3 days.
DIED, HARDUNG.--Killed, in Indiana, by the explosion of a boiler, on the 21st ult., Gideon
Hardung, son of Samuel and Abigail Hardung, and brought to West Penn, Pa., and buried on
the 3rd inst., aged 35 years, 1 month and 9 dys.
DIED, WIEAND.--In this borough, on the 5th inst., Bessie May, only child of Daniel and Mary
A. Wieand, aged 2 years, 7 months and 5 days.
Farewell, dear Bessie, God calls you
From this world of sin,
We weep, your death gives heartfelt grief;
But since it pleaseth Him,
We cease from all complaint,
And say with every saint: Farewell!
Farewell, dear Bessie, thou art a gift
That God has given,
Your time is up, and He hath called you
Home to Heaven.
God wants it so,
And we must let you go: Farewell!
Farewell, dear Bessie, we'll come after thee
As soon as God shall call;
You fled from here before life's bitter woes
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Had filled your cup with gall.
Your precious soul so sweet, so good,
Has triumphed now through Jesus' blood:
Farewell!
Volume 6, Number 4, Saturday, December 22, 1877
Local and Personal. On Monday of last week Mr. Thomas Bobst, a boatman, was drowned in
the Lehigh canal near Siegfried's Bridge.
Local and Personal. Daniel Gillespie, stock boss for the Crane Iron Company at Catasauqua was
covered with five or six tons of ore and fatally injured on Monday.
Local and Personal. A coal train on the Lehigh and Susquehanna Railroad ran over a cow near
Lehigh Gap Monday evening, and the engine fell down an embankment. John Schutt, the
engineer, was killed, and the fireman was severely injured. The engine and train were badly
wrecked.
Local and Personal. The body of a well-dressed man was found on the streets of Port Carbon
Saturday morning, under circumstances which led to the belief that a murder was committed.
Citizens allege they heard sounds of violence and groaning in the neighborhood during the night.
The Coroner is investigating the affair. The name of the man was Eleazer Evans.
Big Creek Items. Since my last letter one of our most respectale citizens, Solomon Solt, has
ended his earthly career. He had been a sufferer of tetter and consumption for some time, but
bore it with christian patience, until on Saturday afternoon of last week, when death relieved him
of his earthly suffering. Through his death the church has lost one of its best members, and the
seat he so regularly filled is now vacant. Let the family he has gone before, bow in submission
to Him "who doeth all things well." He leaves a kind wife and 12 children to mourn their loss.
The family, in this their sad bereavement, have the heart-felt sympathy of the entire community.
His funeral, which occured on Wednesday afternoon of this week, was very largely attended.
The services were conducted in German by Revs. Erb, of Slatington, and Freeman, of
Weissport. He had attained the age of 49 years; 8 months and 4 days.
From Mauch Chunk. According to an on dit our estimable Deputy Post Master will soon wed the
accomplished Miss Kate Sayre.
From Mauch Chunk. Mrs. Elizabeth Horn, nearly 94 years of age, died on last Sunday, from the
effects of a fracture of the thigh recently sustained. Deceased had been a resident of Mauch
Chunk for 57 years.
From Mauch Chunk. The funeral of the late John Schutt, killed in the recent L. & S. railroad
disaster, near Lehigh Gap, took place Thursday afternoon. The wrecked train, including engine
215, on which he was killed, passed up the road on Wednesday afternoon. It was as hard looking
a wreck as I've ever seen, the only wonder being that any of the crew should have escaped.
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MARRIED, BOWMAN-RAUDENBUSH.--By the Rev. W. H. Strauss, at his residence on the
13th inst., Mr. Alex. H. Bowman and Miss Mary A. Raudenbush, both of Packerton, Pa. In
taking up the Bible, we find almost at the outstart, THIS verse. "And the Lord God said, It is not
good that THE MAN should be alone.: Throughout the centuries that have elapsed since these
words were recorded, Man has ever been ready and willing to follow this scriptural advice. Alex
H. Bowman, our genial and courteous friend, of Packerton, having grown weary of threading the
tangled mazes of life alone, and uncheered, chose the better part and on Thursday Dec. 13th, was
united to Miss Mary A. Raudenbush, of Packerton. Knowing the amiability, and the obliging
disposition of both, we congratulate them, and do not hesitate to predict for them a tranquil
happy life. May the sunshine of happiness shed its beams o'er their pathway, and no cloud nor
shadow arise to mar the joy of their wedded life, is the earnest wish of their many friends.
Volume 6, Number 5, Saturday, December 29, 1877
Local and Personal. William Neisser, a brakeman, was fatally injured by falling under a train at
Easton the other day. Both his legs were cut off.
Local and Personal. A 10 year old daughter of Mr. Wm. Stocker, of Packerton, died of
diphtheria, Tuesday morning. Several other cases of this disease prevail at that place.
MARRIED, CLEMENTS-BURNS--On the 24th inst, at the residence of the bride's parents, by
Rev. L. B. Brown, Mr. James Clements and Miss Ella M. Burns, both of Packerton, Pa.
MARRIED, REHRIG-FRITZINGER.--On the 25th inst., at Meyer's Hotel, Lehigh Gap, by
Rev. G. A. Breugel, of Cherryville, Abr. Aaron Rehrig and Miss Melinda Fritzinger, daughter
of Mr. Levi Fritzinger, all of East Penn.
DIED, REMALY.--At Bloomingdale, on the 9th inst., Elizabeth, daughter of Stephen and Susan
Remaly, aged 12 years, 1 month and 27 days.
DIED, FOLK.--In West Penn, on the 11th inst., Elizabeth, wife of Henry Folk, aged 47 years, 11
months and 25 days.
DIED, MILLER.--On the 16th inst., at Bloomingdale, John S., son of Gideon and Susanna
Miller, aged 3 years, 8 months and 2 days.
STATE NEWS.--Wm. Leidy, an old shoemaker of Lehigh county, was struck by a train a few
days ago and thrown against rocks. He died in an hour and a half.
STATE NEWS. A seven year old son of Benneville Derr, of Lehigh county, secured a loaded
gun during the absence of his parents a few days ago, and while handling it the contents were
discharged in his face, producing fatal injuries.
Prepared by Tony Bennyhoff, April 18, 2010.
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