JANUARY 1908


 

 

ALLEN, Mrs. Anna Johns

The death of Mrs. Anna Allen, wife of Attorney F. R. Allen of this city was learned with deep regret by the many friends of the family. She passed peacefully away at her late residence at about 9 o’clock Tuesday evening, having been a sufferer from uraemia. The late Mrs. Allen had been in declining health for several months past, but was not confined to her bed until last Friday. From that time she began to fail rapidly. On Monday, Dr. John W. Bell, of Minneapolis, was called in consultation with the attending physicians, but no ray of hope could be offered the family. The late Mrs. Allen was born in Louisa, KY, Sep 2, 1863, and a year later came with her parents to Minnesota. They settled at Hutchison, but a short time later removed to Koniska, where they remained until 1888. The deceased was married to the sorrowing husband Sep 14, 1887, and had lived continuously in this city since that time. She leaves to mourn her loss besides her husband, her aged mother, Mrs. Anna Johns, who resides at the Allen residence, one sister and 4 brothers, namely: Mrs. Belle McClelland of Glencoe, D. B. Johns, Redwing; W. H. Johns, Litchfield; E. E. Johns, Annacories, WA and Charles Johns. Big Sandy News, Jan 3, 1908

 

BARTRAM, Davis

The affray which occurred in Fort Gay on the night of January 2nd, in which Sam Kinstler and Davis Bartram were engaged, and in which the latter was shot by Kinstler, has resulted in Bartram’s death. Bartram was brought to the hospital at this place soon after the shooting, and the next morning he was operated upon, every effort being made by the surgeons to save the man’s life, at the same time holding out little hope of ultimate recovery. In spite of the skillful aid and attention the wound which was in the stomach, proved fatal. Bartram dying about 9 o’clock Wednesday night. The body was taken in charge by undertake Snyder and prepared for burial, after which it was sent to the home of the deceased near Fort Gay for interment. Mr. Bartram was a son of John Bartram, former Mayor of Fort Gay. He was about 30 years of age and left a widow and one child. This unfortunate tragedy occurred shortly after the close of an election held in Fort Gay for municipal officers. A great deal of bad feeling existed, and the 2 participants in the affray belonged to opposing parties. Neither was a candidate, but Bartram’s father was a candidate for Mayor. Both men were duly sober. All agree upon these facts, but concerning the incidents which let up to and caused the fatal conflict there are widely different stories. The 2 men fell out over the firing of some canon crackers, and it is claimed by the friends and relatives of the dead man that Kinstler, after words had passed between him and Bartram, went into a store and armed himself and returning fired 2 shots at Bartram, one of them inflicting the wound which caused his death.

On the other hand it is claimed by Kinstler that Bartram, with a brick in his hand, seized him by the throat and after pushing him back several feet began striking him on the head with the brick and it was then and not until then that the fatal shot was fired. Not knowing what might occur during the excitement which followed Kinstler went to “Doc” Frasher’s on Tabor Creek and remained all night. The next day he went to Wayne and surrendered himself into custody. He is now in jail awaiting an examination. It is said that in an ante-mortem statement Bartram exonerated Kinstler from all blame and asked that he should not be prosecuted. Big Sandy News, Jan 10, 1908

 

BERRY, Mrs. John

Readers of this paper will remember that a few weeks ago it published the news of the horrible accident sustained by Mrs. John Berry, near Madge, this county. She was standing near a grate from which her clothing caught fire, causing burns, which, after weeks of the most intense suffering, caused her death. This happy release came early last Monday morning. To fill the poor woman’s cup of misery full and running over she gave birth to a stillborn child a day or two after the accident which ended her life. Big Sandy News, Jan 3, 1908

 

DAVIS, Logan

Hood Gearhart and Logan Davis killed each other on Middle Creek in Floyd county a few days ago. Liquor seems to have been the chief cause of the double tragedy, as both were under its influence. The men met in the public road and shot each other to death. They were neighbors and the killing occurred near their homes. If there had been any bad feelings between them previously the fact was not generally known. Both were heads of families and were considered good citizens. Floyd  county’s criminal dockets are heavy with murder cases, but these 2 killings will not add to the burdens, as the death penalty has been paid by all involved. Big Sandy News, Jan 3, 1908

 

GEARHART, Hood—see under Logan Davis

 

HARMON, John

Hulette—The pale horse and its rider entered the home of Mr. and Mrs. French Harmon and claimed for its victim their infant son. Little John was born Apr 28, 1907, died Dec 19, 1907, aged 7 months and 20 days. All that could be done by physicians and loving hands of friends was done, but One who is stronger than we reached out His loving hands and plucked the tender bud from their care and transplanted it as a star to shine on and beckon homeward father and mother. Big Sandy News, Jan 3, 1908

 

MAXIE, Billy

Mazie--Billy Maxie, father of John Maxie of this place, died suddenly at his home on Newcomb, in Elliott County last Thursday evening. The cause is supposed to have been heart failure. Big Sandy News, Jan 17,1908

 

MCCOIN, Jeff

Jeff McCoin, aged about 26 years, and residing in South Catlettsburg was struck by a C & O engine and instantly killed, near the railroad trestle approaching the Big Sandy bridge at 7 o’clock Monday evening. It is said that young McCoin and Sam Preston went to the railroad tracks to get coal from a car. Preston says there was a coal train standing on the west bound track, and that McCoin was between the 2 tracks when an engine and caboose came along going east. McCoin was some little distance out on the fill from the end of the trestle but the engine caught him and dragged him out over the middle of the street before he fell through to the ground below. The man’s head was crushed and half the bones in his body appeared to be broken. Big Sandy News, Jan 17, 1908

 

PRESTON, Lafayette M.

M. Preston, better known as Lafe, died Wednesday at his home at Patrick in the upper part of this county. He had been sick for several months and had spent most of this time in a hospital. The hopelessness of his condition had been realized for some time and about 2 weeks ago he returned home from the hospital to end his days with his family. Mr. Preston was about 67 years of age. He leaves a wife and 4 children, 2 of whom attended school in Louisa last year. The youngest child is only 2 years old. Mr. Preston was one of the best citizens in Lawrence County. He was a successful farmer and timber man. His death is deeply regretted by all who know him. Big Sandy News, Jan 24, 1908

 

ROBERTS, Butler

Jattie—We have lost one of our most prominent citizens, Mr. Butler Roberts who died of asthma at his home on the night of the 22nd of December. Big Sandy News, Jan 3, 1908

 

STUMBO, James

On Tuesday of last week James Stumbo, who formerly lived on Donithan branch, about 8 miles above Louisa, shot himself with a revolver and died almost instantly. At the time of the accident or suicide Stumbo was working on a logging job on Marrowbone, in Wayne County. He left a widow and 4 children. Big Sandy News, Jan 17, 1908

 

VANHOOSE, Isaac

One more life has flitted and gone into the great beyond. The grim monster of death has again visited the home of Serdin and Ella Vanhoose and took from them their darling little boy, Isaac, aged 2 years 5 months and 2 days. His dear little body was laid to rest in the family graveyard. Big Sandy News, Jan 24, 1908

 

WOODS, James Virgil

The dreaded monster has again come into our community, this time to the home of Mr. and Mrs. James Woods, of Vessie, KY and took from them their little boy, James Virgil. This little bud was not permitted to bloom. Was born Aug 1, 1904, died Nov 13, 1907, age 3 years 3 months and 13 days. He was very bright and affectionate, he loved his parents with love like fire that would penetrate the hardest substance. His sickness lasted only 3 days, everything was done that could be done in the way of medical skill, but to no avail, and like any tired child he was laid in his mother’s arms and laid his fevered head on the Saviour’s breast and fell asleep to wake in that beautiful city. His body was placed in the family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Jan 17,1908


 FEBRUARY 1908


 

BAKER, John

John Baker, N & W fireman, well-known in this city was killed Monday night near Dingess. It is not known definitely how he met with death, but it is supposed he lost his balance while standing on the gangway throwing coal in the fire box. The train was crossing a bridge at the time and he fell about 30 feet into the stream below. The train went half a mile before the engineer missed him. The train entered a siding near Canterbury and several of the men on board went back to look for the body which was found in a mangled condition. Baker was still alive when they reached him and was carried on to Dingess where he received medical aid. He was then taken to the hospital at Portsmouth, where he died early Wednesday morning. Baker was one of the oldest fireman now in the N & W service and was very popular with the railroad men. Mingo Republican. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

BANKS, Joe

Joe Banks, aged 82, was killed by a C & O freight train at Prestonsburg last Saturday afternoon. A train was on the main track at the depot when the local freight arrived. The local freight went in on the siding at rather slow speed. Mr. Banks was walking alongside the track in the same direction in which the train was moving, and when the engine was only a short distance behind him he stepped upon the track. The engineer, William Artrip, applied the brakes and reversed the engine, but could not stop the train in time to save Mr. Banks. The man was struck by the locomotive, 2 ribs were broken and an ear cut off. He died about 3 hours afterward.

 

Mr. Banks lived just above the mouth of Abbott, near the scene of the accident. The news of  his injury soon brought together a large crowd, among them a number being several relatives of the unfortunate man. Mutterings against the engineer were started and grew until some of the men were almost in a frenzy. Pistols were drawn and the engineer was surrounded by the angry men and it began to look like they would do him violence. The sheriff arrived on the scene and placed Mr. Artrip under arrest, taking him across the river to Prestonsburg. Here a warrant was sworn out on the charge of maiming and Artrip was placed in jail. The charge was changed to murder after Mr. Banks died. Bond would have been provided for Artrip but it was thought safer for him to remain in jail until the feeling against him subsided.

 

Artrip had an examining trial on Monday and was held to answer to the grand jury. Bail was fixed at $??? And bond was promptly furnished. This is a very unusual case. It is not often that an engineer is held for murder for accidents of this kind, and there seem to be no bad features in this case. From the reports received it was simply an unavoidable accident. Mr. Banks leaves a wife and some grown sons and daughters. He was one of the pioneers of that section. Big Sandy news, Feb 14, 1908

 

BOND, Mrs. H. H. (Borders)

Mrs. H. H. Bond died Wednesday afternoon at 3 o’clock at her home on the hill overlooking Louisa. The funeral will take place from the residence Friday morning and the interment in Fulkerson Cemetery will take place immediately afterward. Consumption caused the death of Mrs. Bond. Several months ago it became apparent that this dreaded disease had occurred a hold upon her and the husband moved the family into a house located in the pine grove on the hill just back of Louisa in the hope that pure air would prove beneficial to the young wife. But all that could be done availed nothing and death came as a relief to the suffering woman. She was only 20 years old. The husband and one little child survive. Mrs. Bond was a daughter of Leander Borders, of Georges Creek, one of the best citizens of our county. Big Sandy News, Feb 21, 1908

 

BORDERS, Claud

Claud Borders, age 17, son of Henry Borders, died at Paintsville Wednesday and was buried yesterday at Prestonsburg. His mother was a daughter of Walker Porter and the interment was made where other members of the family are buried. Mrs. Cynthia Stewart, of this place attended the funeral. Big Sandy News, Feb 28, 1908

 

BYINGTON, Phillip

Phillip Byington, brother of Prof. W. M. Byington, died of consumption near Buchanan last Saturday evening. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

CAPERTON, James O.

James O. Caperton fought as a Union soldier in the Civil War, and enjoyed his 74th birthday October 18th. He suffered a second stroke of paralysis Nov 18th, and on Jan 7th just as the sun’s last bright rays shone over our community, we were shocked by the white angles of death visiting our home and taking our loved one over the chilly tied of death. He had long awaited their coming. He was converted and joined the Christian Church in 1895 and was baptized April 1896. He lived a consistent Christian life. After the first stroke of paralysis he lived 5 years, 5 months and 2 days. He lived 51 days without much food. It seemed he was fed by the angels above, for who could live 51 days unless God be with him. Our loved one leaves a wife, niece and nephew and one brother who loved him dearly, besides a host of other friends and relatives to mourn the loss of their friend. Big Sandy news, Feb 21, 1908

 

CARTER, George, Sr.

George Carter, Sr., died at his home at Yatesville, this county, on Monday afternoon, Feb 24th. The funeral took place on Wednesday and the body was laid to rest at the close of the services in the family burial grounds. Mr. Carter had been ill for several months with Bright’s disease, and his case had been recognized by the family as hopeless for quite a while. On the morning of the day he died he was apparently better. It will be remembered that his brother, Millard, died recently from the same disease. George Carter was born and reared in this county, in the same neighborhood in which he spent his entire life. Had he lived until April he would have been 72 years of age. He had been married twice, his first wife being a Hutchinson and his second wife a Thompson, daughter of A. J. Thompson of Adams. The latter survives him with 2 sons, Al and Bert. There were 5 children from the first marriage, but 3 died. Mr. Carter was a farmer and stock raiser. His home was known as one where genuine hospitality was dispensed at every opportunity. No one was ever turned away hungry from his door. He was a good citizen in every sense, sober, law-abiding, a supporter of churches and schools. His sons are prominent citizens active in all movements that tend to the betterment of society. His wife is known as one of the kindest and best of our many good women. The funeral was preached by Rev. O. F. Williams, pastor of the M. E. Church, South at Louisa. The Masonic fraternity of this place had charge of the services. Mr. Carter having been an honored member for a great many years. The funeral was very largely attended. Big Sandy news, Feb 28, 1908

 

CHANDLER, Peter

Ulysses—On Jan 26, Peter Chandler, of Lost Creek died. He had been suffering for quite a while with dropsy. He was laid to rest Tuesday in the family graveyard. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

COBURN,

Glenwood—Grandma Coburn, as we stated in our last letter as being seriously ill, succumbed to that dreaded disease, dropsy, on the 28th of Jan. She was the mother of a large and prosperous family, and had a lovely disposition, even in her worst hours of affliction placing her heart with Him that doeth all things well. She was a member of the Christian Church for many years and passed away peacefully. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

COX, Jeremiah

Meskill, WA—Editor Big Sandy News: We have just received the new of the death of Jeremiah Cox, of Sedamville, MN. Mr. Cox was once a familiar figure on the streets of Louisa. He was a citizen of Lawrence County, residing on the Tug below the falls, leaving there on the second day of April 1865 and settling in Minnesota, where he has lived at different places ever since, with the exception of a few years that he lived in Missouri. Mr. Cox died on the 22nd inst. If we have his age correct, he was 94 years and 2 days old. He was a well-respected man when he lived in Kentucky and was regarded as a good old man in Minnesota. And will be remembered by the older class around Louisa and was a brother of Mrs. Nancy Sammons who lived above the falls. John J. McCoy. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

CUNNINGHAM

Olioville—The death angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Cunningham last Monday and took from them their little infant babe. Its life here had been brief but it brought joy in its fullest sense. Big Sandy news, Feb 14, 1908

 

FERGUSON, Mrs. Charlie

The wife of Charlie Ferguson, Jr., died at her home on Wilson’s Creek, near Wayne, Sunday. The deceased was a daughter of F. M. Booth. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

HARRIS, Dollie

Miss Dollie Harris died of consumption in Fort Gay on the 8th. A more extended notice appears elsewhere. Big Sandy news, Feb 14, 1908

 

Dollie Harris, born Apr 26th, 1886, died Feb 8th, 1908, age 21 years 10 months and 21 days. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Harris, who came to Ft. Gay many years ago from Virginia and have lived here ever since.  About 3 years ago Dollie contracted a severe cold, which grew worse continually, and finally resulted in consumption. Her mother preceded her a few months, having died on the 29th day of October, 1907. Ft. Gay Leader. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

HATFIELD, Tommy

Tommy Hatfield, whose dreadful experiences near Naugatuck recently were described in last issue of the Enterprise died at the home of his brother, George Hatfield, at Flat Gap, KY last Friday and was buried there on Sunday. His death was the immediate result of his exposure. Had he lived, his feet would have had to be removed, and while his death is a blow to his relatives and friends, it probably saves him a life of misery. Tommy Hatfield was a bright and cheerful fellow and was well liked here where he lived most of his life. Williamson Enterprise. Big Sandy News, Feb 28,1908

 

HAYS,, Ferba

Miss Ferba Hays died Jan 26. Her death was due to tuberculosis of the lungs, from which she had been a sufferer for several months. Miss Hays had a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. She was a devout member of the Baptist Church. Her surviving parents, sisters and brothers have our heart’s sympathy. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

One more life has flitted and gone into the great beyond. Ferba Hays was born Feb 15, 1882, departed this life Jan 10, 1908, she lived a happy and contented life until early last September she was stricken with that dreaded disease consumption, and for 5 long weary months knew not what rest was, but she did not complain. She said she knew that she must die and God’s will be done. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

HICKMAN, Jack

Jack Hickman, colored, died Wednesday night. He had been sick for a few weeks. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

HOWELL, Jesse

Jesse Howell, formerly a resident of Floyd County, died at his home on Ratliff’s Creek (Pike County), Sunday, aged 87 years. Mr. Howell was distinguished for being the father of 28 children. His first wife was Bettie Hall and to this union were born 18 children. His second wife was Spicy Hall and to them were born 10 children. He had 17 sons in attendance at his funeral which occurred at the residence and was conducted by Rev. M. C. Reynolds. Interment taking place in the Keel graveyard. Courier. Big Sandy news, Feb 28, 1908

 

JOHNSON, Emma

Miss Emma Johnson died at Ironton, OH Saturday evening after a brief illness of jaundice. The burial took place Tuesday. Mrs. Mary B. Horton and Mrs. John G. Burns, of this place attended the funeral. Miss Johnson was a sister of Lucien S. Johnson and often visited him when he lived in Louisa. She was a highly educated and very intelligent woman and her unexpected death was a great shock in a large circle of friends. Big Sandy news, Feb 28,1908

 

JONES, Charles W.

Charles W. Jones, who lived on Catt, in this county, about 12 miles from Louisa, dropped dead Wednesday morning at the home of W. H. James, on Chadwick’s Creek, near Catlettsburg. Mr. Jones had gone to Catlettsburg with his wagon and had stopped over night with his friend, Mr. James, as was his custom. In the early morning he went to the barn and fed his horses. Returning to the house he stepped upon the porch and fell dead. Ed. Short, of North Catlettsburg, a son in law of Mr. Jones was notified. He took charge of the body and brought it home the same day. Mr. Jones was about 65 years of age. There was not a better citizen in our county. He was a devout Christian and an active Sunday school worker. His sudden death was a great shock to his family and friends. He left home in apparently as good health as usual, to make one of his regular trips with produce. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

The pale horse and his rider has visited our community and taken from us one of our kindest and best friends in the person of Charley W. Jones. He was born in Gallia County, OH Sep 7, 1849 and died Feb 5, 1908, aged 58 years, 4 months and 29 days. He joined the M. E. Church, South and was converted at the age of 21 years. He was a noted Sunday school worker, conducting his first Sunday school in Gallia County, OH. In the year 1870 he moved with his family from Ohio to Lawrence County, KY and first settled on the Barrett farm on East Fork of Little Sandy, and conducted Sunday school at Trinity, during the time he lived there. He moved from East Fork to Cat Fork about the year 1884 and lived there until his death. He superintended Sunday school at McDaniels, Fallsburg, Olioville, Long Branch, Baker and Green Valley. His last Sunday school was at Green Valley, which closed in October 1907. He was also a great church worker. He wielded great influence over a congregation. He leaves a wife and 3 children and many friends to mourn the loss of Brother Jones, but thank God wwe do not mourn as those that have no hope, for while he is gone from us he is this night enjoying the happy association of Willie and Minnie, who preceded him to Gloryland. His oldest son, Willie Jones, died Feb 5, 1901, and brother Jones died Feb 5, 1908. His funeral was preached at his home by Brother H. B. Hulett. The body was taken to the Garred Short graveyard and buried beside his son, Willie. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

JUDD, Delta

Delta, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tobe Judd, departed this life Jan 25, 1908. She met death by her clothing catching fire from an open grate and before the mother could put the fire out the dear little girl was so badly burned that death resulted in a few days. Little Delta was a sweet little child and was loved by all who knew her. Big Sandy news, Feb 21, 1908

 

JUSTICE, John

Olioville—The little afflicted son of D. M. Justice died on the 6th. Little John lived a painful life, but he know nothing of his suffering. He was 7 years and 6 months old. He was laid to rest in the Lunsford graveyard to await the judgment morn. Johnie leaves a father, mother and 2 little brothers to mourn his loss. Big Sandy news, Feb 21, 1908

 

MCCLURE, Nelson

The following news was sent by James K. Chapman, who drove 30 miles to reach the bedside of Mr. McClure before his death. Nelson McClure was a brother of William McClure, deceased, who lived about 8 miles above Louisa, D. C. and Henry McClure of Gallup and Prof. T. B. McClure, of Wayne, are surviving nephews of Nelson McClure.

 

Bloomingdale, IN, Jan 28—Nelson McClure, age 94 years and 6 months, the oldest man in Park County, died of the grip Sunday night at his home at Annapolis, one mile from this place. The funeral was held today. He was the head of 5 generations and was the youngest and last survivor of a family of 12 children. Nelson McClure was born in Virginia, Jul 13, 1813. His father, Richard McClure, enlisted in the colonial army and served under Washington’s command. When a lad of 13, Nelson McClure came with his older brother to this county and with the exception of 5 years spent in Illinois, he had lived here continuously. Mr. McClure was a carpenter and he built boats for traffic on the Wabash River and the Wabash and Erie Canal. He was also skilled in mixing paints. His 90th birthday was celebrated in 1903 by a big dinner. Seven of the guests had passed their 80th year and a score more were more than 70 years old. Big Sandy News, Feb 7, 1908

 

MILLER

Meads Branch—Died on the 14th inst., the infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Miller. Big Sandy News, Feb 21,1908

 

MUSIC, Mrs. Jessie

Mrs. Jessie Music died a few days ago at Walbridge of consumption. She leaves a husband and one daughter, Mrs. Millard Webb. Big Sandy news, Feb 14, 1908

 

PAULEY, Mrs. ??

Mrs. Pauley died very suddenly a few days ago in lower Louisa. She had done a day’s washing and was in apparently good health when she retired for the night. Death dame to her during the night. She had come to Louisa only a short time previous to make her home with her daughter, Mrs. Clevenger. The body was taken to the old home place in the country for burial. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

PRESTON, Mrs. Elliott

PRESTON, Lida

Lida Preston, 15, burned all over and will die. Mrs. Elliott Preston horribly burned on breast and stomach, probably fatal. Mrs. John Preston badly burned about hands and arms. John Preston lives on a hill in the rear of A. Yost’s residence in the Chaffee suburb of Catlettsburg. With him live his wife, who 2 days ago gave birth to a baby; his son in law, Elliott Preston and wife, and Lida Preston, a 15 year old daughter. Mr. Preston and his son in law left home early and went out to their work. About 10 o’clock while Lida was working about the kitchen stove her clothing took fire and in an instant she was enveloped from head to foot in flames. Her screams brought the married sister hurrying to her, but in trying to put out the fire her clothing also caught and the two were swiftly burning to death. Lida rushed into the yard and ran to the home of Mrs. Louis Mead, perhaps 50 yards distant, but on reaching the yard she had inhaled so much flame that she dropped to the ground and writhed in agony while her clothing piece by piece dropped from her body. Mrs. John Preston then springing from bed where she lay with her 2 days old babe, came to the rescue of her daughters. She drew water from the cistern and poured it on the prostrate forms, one in the kitchen doorway, the other in the neighbor’s yard, until she quenched the fire and then fell fainting and was carried to her bed by neighbors who had by this time arrived. The charred body of Lida, perfectly nude, and the flesh dropping from some of her bones, was carried to the house and Dr. W. W. Morton hurriedly summoned. The doctor did all possible for the distressed family, but said there was absolutely no hope for the recovery of the younger girl, and that without extraordinary care in the case of Mrs. Elliott Preston, she would also die. Mrs. John Preston, besides the terrible shock sustained in her delicate condition is badly burned about the hands and arms. Tribune. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

SHORTRIDGE, Mrs. Van Buren

Mrs. Van Buren Shortridge died rather unexpectedly at her home at Vessie, this county, on last Tuesday. She had been an invalid for a few years, but there was no indication that the end was near until a short time previous to her death and the shock to her family and other relatives was therefore quite severe. She was 45 years of age and was a daughter of William Webb, one of the county’s good families. Mrs. Shortridge was a most excellent woman, devout in church work, and a devoted wife and mother. The husband and children have sustained the greatest possible loss by her death and much sympathy goes out to them from all who knew the deceased. Big Sandy news, Feb 28, 1908

 

SIMPSON, George

George Simpson, age 80, died Wednesday after an illness of only a short time. He was in Louisa only about 2 weeks previous to his death. The body was brought to this place and taken to the Isaacs burial ground for interment. He has many relatives in this vicinity. George Simpson was born in Giles County, VA and came to this county in the early ‘40’s. He was a noted hunter in his younger days. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

STONE, Mrs. Erie

The wife of Erie Stone died at the home of her sister, Mrs. Henry Young, in Louisa Tuesday night. She had been in poor health for some time. A husband and 2 children survive her. The body was taken to Cherokee for interment in the Thompson burial grounds. Mr. Stone is a well-known sawmill man. Big Sandy News, Feb 14, 1908

 

THOMAS, Margaret

Paintsville—Mrs. Margaret Thomas, aged 83, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Henry Lavier, of this city, Friday morning. Dr. Kessler, of Huntington, performed an operation but did not save her life. The body was taken to Pomeroy, OH for burial. Big Sandy news, Feb 28,1908

 

TRAVIS, Sarah Jane

Little Sarah Jane Travis, 4 years of age, a daughter of  Doc Travis, one of our best blacksmiths, was burned severely last Tuesday. While standing in front of an open grate her clothing caught on fire and before the blaze could be extinguished she was burned so badly that she died within a few days. Big Sandy news, Feb 7, 1908

 

WITTEN, Mrs. Ham

Paintsville—Mrs. Witten, wife of Uncle Ham Witten, died at her home on Tom’s Creek, last week. Big Sandy News, Feb 28, 1908

 


 

MARCH 1908


BEVENS, Elizabeth

Mrs. Elizabeth Bevins, aged 89, died at the home of her son, T. J. Bevins, at the Forks, Monday of the infirmities of old age. She leaves 3 sons, J. Matt, T. J. and William Bevins, and 3 daughters, Mrs. Andy Moore, of Catlettsburg, and Mrs. George Blackburn and Mrs. J. H. Justice of this county. The funeral was preached by Rev. Thomas Thacker of the Baptist Church and the interment took place in the family graveyard. Big Sandy News, Mar 6, 1908

 

BREEDING, Mrs. John

Died Monday at Allen City, Mrs. Breeding, wife of John Breeding, of that place. Mrs. Breeding was 38 years old and contracted measles some 2 weeks ago, death resulting from same on Monday. Big Sandy News, Mar 13, 1908

 

CARPENTER

On Friday last Messrs. G. W. and George F. Gunell and Frank Carpenter, of Catlettsburg, came to Louisa, bringing with them the body of the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carpenter. It was interred in Pine Hill Cemetery in the burial lot of the family. Big Sandy News, Mar 13, 1908

 

CARTER, Liss

We were sorry to hear of the death of Liss Carter, son of W. M. Carter of Portsmouth, OH. His death will be a shock to his many friends and relatives in Lawrence County. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

COMPTON, Sarah

Mrs. Sarah Compton died on Friday, Mar 13th, at Pilgrim, Martin County, of consumption. She was 52 years of age. A husband, James Compton, and a son, Charley Ross, of this place, survive her. The burial took place at Pilgrim on Sunday. Mrs. Compton formerly lived in Louisa and was a member of the Baptist church. The funeral was attended by her son, Charles Ross. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

DAVIS, James A.

James A. Davis passed away at an early hour on Friday, Mar 13th, at the age of 74 years. He had been confined to his room for several weeks and his death was not unexpected. He was a veteran of the Civil War, having been a member of the 5th Virginia. For many years after the war he was one of the best known river men in this section. A few weeks ago he was baptized and taken into the Baptist Church. The interment took place on Saturday afternoon in the family burial grounds across on the Point. Rev. L. M. Copley conducted the services. A wife and one sister, Mrs. Alice Ferguson, are the nearest surviving relatives. Dan Davenport, a nephew from Ashland, attended the funeral. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

EDWARDS, Harmon

Ulysses-Harmon Edwards, of Borders Chapel died of pneumonia fever recently. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

ELSWICK, Mrs. Jack

Pikeville—Mrs. Jack Elswick died on Upper Shelby, leaving a  husband and 8 children. Big Sandy News, Mar 13, 1908

 

FARRIS, Benjamin

Benjamin Farris died of heart disease at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Thompson, at Ceredo, Wednesday, Mar 11, aged 87 years. Big Sandy News, Mar 27, 1908

 

GOFF, Mary

Mary Goff, died at her home in Schlabee, Miss., a few days ago. She was 16 years old and was the daughter of Ira Goff, formerly of Louisa and whose death occurred some time ago in Mississippi. She was a niece of Mrs. Charles F. See and had numerous relatives in this county. Big Sandy News, Mar 13, 1908

 

HARRIS

Fort Gay—The little infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Buck Harris, of Red Jacket, was brought here Friday evening on No. 15 and buried in the S. C. Baire burying ground. Big Sandy News, Mar 6, 1908

 

HUGHES, Jery A.

Jery A. Hughes died at Ashland a few days ago at the age of 43 years. His eldest son, age 18, died only 2 weeks previous of pneumonia. Big Sandy news, Mar 20, 1908

 

LYON, Mary

Skaggs—The death angel has visited the home of Stantford Lyon and took away his beloved wife, Mary. She leaves a husband, 3 sons and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her loss. Big Sandy News, Mar 20,1908

 

LYONS, Katie

Ulysses—On March the second Mrs. Katie Lyons, wife of Andrew Lyons, died very suddenly and unexpectedly to everyone. While she never claimed to feel well, she was usually cheerful that day and had gone to visit her sister, Mrs. William Pack, in the forenoon having returned home in the evening. Mrs. Telie Borders, a neighbor was calling and they were sitting and talking pleasantly when Mrs. Lyons suddenly exclaimed, “my head is almost bursting”, and immediately fell forward and expired a few minutes later. She was a good woman and will be greatly missed. She leaves a husband and one son, and 2 grown daughters. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

MARTIN, Mary Jane (Hager)

Mrs. Mary Jane Martin, wife of Dr. J. W. Martin, died at her home 323 East Winchester Avenue, last night, after a brief illness of pneumonia. Mrs. Martin had been an invalid for several years, and during all that time, had been cared for as tenderly by her devoted family as though she were a child. The deceased was born in Floyd County, Feb 27, 1828. She was the daughter of Gen. Daniel Hager, this being one of the most prominent families in the Big Sandy Valley. She was united in marriage to Dr. J. W. Martin, at Paintsville, in April, 1857. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

MCCARTY, Mrs. George W.

Mrs. George W. McCarty died at her home in lower Louisa last Saturday, of consumption. She was in her 46th year. A husband and 5 children are left, the youngest being twins, nearly 4 years of age. Mr. McCarty is a C & O section foreman who moved here a few years ago from Bath County. The body of his wife was taken to Owingsville for burial. Mrs. McCarty was taken into the church recently by Rev. O. F. Williams. She was a good wife and mother and her death was the greatest loss that could have come to them in this life. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

MEADE, Everet

Everet, the 2 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Meade of Naugautck died Wednesday. Big Sandy News, Mar 27, 1908

 

RATCLIFF, Judge W.O.B.

Judge W.O.B. Ratcliff died suddenly at his home in Pikeville Saturday morning. He had not been in good health for some time, but his death was not expected. He was one of the ablest and most progressive citizens in the county, and as County Judge did more for the improvement of roads and bridges than any other official the county ever had. He will be greatly missed. His sister, Mrs. John Hager, was at Hot Springs, and received a telegram at noon on Saturday. She left at one o’clock and reached Pikeville at 8:30 Sunday evening. Thomas Coates, a brother in law, arrived from Richmond, VA on the same train. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

SIMPKINS, Leander

Leander Simpkins died at the home of Mitchel Douden on the Kentucky side of Tug River, opposite Naugatuck at 4 o’clock Friday. Big Sandy News, Mar 27, 1908

 

SNOW, Will

Will Snow died at the home of his aunt, Mrs. Honaker, in Fort Gay, of consumption Friday. He was 27 years old and unmarried. The family lived in Louisa several  years ago. Interment was made in the B. C. Beaire grounds. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

SYKES, Mrs. Levi

Pikeville, KY—Mrs. Levi Sykes of Elkhorn City, was fatally wounded Saturday night by Isaac Wallace, son of Thomas Wallace. The young man called at the Sykes home and called for Mrs. Sykes’ son, whom he wished to get out of bed to accompany him. She told him that she did not want her son out at that time of the night, whereupon the fiend turned and fired upon her, the bullet taking effect near the navel. She lingered in terrible agony until Monday afternoon, when she passed away the fatal effect of the bullet making this one of the foulest and most heinous crimes ever committed in this section. She was attended by Dr. Boothe of Elkhorn City, who called Dr. Z. A. Thompson, of Pikeville in consultation, but the bullet had ranged downward and cut a large artery and the would was necessarily fatal. Wallace is the same man who killed Drew Wright on Grassy a year ago. The murderer fled to the mountains of Virginia and is being hotly pursued by the Pike County officers and friends of the murdered woman. Big Sandy News, Mar 27, 1908

 

TACKETT, Thomas

Thomas Tackett departed this life Feb 15th, 1908, at Gallup, KY, at the home of his daughter, Minnie Wells. He was born Aug 1, 1858. He was a brother in law of the Rev. C. L. Diamond of West Virginia. He died of injuries received in the coal mines about one year ago. He was laid to rest beside his wife and 2 daughters in the Caines graveyard. He leaved to mourn their loss, 2 sons and 2 daughters, a mother, 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Bro. Tackett was a member of the United Baptist Church and died in the triumph of a living faith. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. C. L. Diamond. Big Sandy News, Mar 6, 1908

 

TRENT, Alexander

Alexander Trent, age 79, was shot at Williamson, WV Monday evening by Oats Riley, a policeman, and died from the effects of the wound on Wednesday at noon. Mr. Trent lived on a farm near Fort Gay, about 3 miles from Louisa. The particulars as we have heard them are as follows:

Mr. Trent, who was somewhat addicted to the use of liquor, was reported to the policeman to be in a boisterous mood on the second floor of the hotel. Riley went up the stairs and saw Trent near the head of the stairway. While yet some distance away, he said to Trent, ”What are you going to do with that knife in your hand?” The fatal shot followed almost immediately, it is said. Mr. Trent was taken to a hospital where an operation was performed in the hope of saving his life. He rallied and it was thought he had a chance to recover, but death came to him at the time stated above.

 

Riley was placed in jail and it is said that the sentiment is so strong against him that a guard has been kept at the prison ever since to protect him from mob violence. Riley is reported to be a constant drinker, and it is supposed that in a drunken condition accounts for the horrible crime. Relatives of the dead man stated that Riley arrested Mr. Trent once before, some time ago, and took $400 of his money; also that he had never given any of it back, and that had bad feeling existed between them because of this fact.  Mr. Trent was a well-to-do citizen, being worth a considerable amount of money. He owned 2 or 3 farms and had several thousand dollars in cash. He formerly lived in Logan and had been Assessor for that county. Eli Trent, who lived near Fort Gay, is a brother of Alex. Riley was about 35 years of age and has been on the police force for several years. The crime he must answer for is all the more horrible because of the extreme age of his victim. Big Sandy News, Mar 20, 1908

 

VANHOOSE, John C.

A fatal accident occurred at Russell about 10 o’clock Sunday night, when John C. Vanhoose, aged 35 years, fell under a C & O freight train and was instantly killed, his body being cut into. The young man was from Johnson County and had been employed in Fowler’s restaurant at Russell for the past year. He was in Ashland Sunday evening and about  10 o’clock boarded a freight train on the C & O to “bum” his way back to Russell. Vanhoose is a son of Brack Vanhoose, deceased, of Johnson County, and that the young man’s mother is Mrs. Anna Davis Vanhoose, who now resided in Paintsville. Big Sandy news, Mar 27, 1908

 

WARD, Jasper

Paintsville—Jasper Ward, a merchant at Williamsport, Johnson County, died on Feb 23rd. Big Sandy News, Mar 6, 1908

 


 

APRIL 1908


 

NOTE: There are no issues available for the week of April 17, 1908

 

AKERS, Mary

Miss Mary Akers died at Riverview Hospital last Sunday night. She was brought here from Pikeville suffering from acute brain trouble. The remains could not be taken to Pikeville until Tuesday because the trains were not running. The body was embalmed before leaving here. The brother of the deceased was with her all the time she was here. He requests us to assure the people of Louisa of his deep gratitude for the many kind acts received at their hands. Big Sandy News, Apr 10, 1908

 

BRADLEY, Mrs. L. E.

Marvin—We are very sorry to learn of the death of Mrs. L. E. Bradley, which occurred at John Shortridge’s in Catlettsburg last Thursday. Her remains were brought to Fallsburg for interment. Big Sandy News, Apr 24, 1908

 

DAVIS, Mrs. Craten

Paintsville--Mrs. Craten Davis died at her home at Flat Gap, Sunday. She was a daughter of J. M. Trimble of Barnetts Creek. Big Sandy News, Apr 3, 1908

 

DAVIS, Mary

Paintsville--Mrs. Mary Davis, wife of  Judge Brackin Davis, of  Coal, this county, died Wednesday of last week, after an illness of 3 days. She was a most excellent woman. Big Sandy news, Apr 3, 1908

 

MCKINSTER, W. H. C.

Rev. W. H. C. McKinster, a well known citizen of this county, dropped dead last Saturday at his home at Mattie. He was in apparently as good health as usual and was feeding the chickens. Failing to return to the house within a reasonable time his wife went out to look for him and found him dead. Mr. McKinster was about 72 years old and had been a local preacher in the South Methodist Church for many years. He leaves a num ber of sons and daughters and many relatives. The funeral took place on Monday and was largely attended. Big Sandy News, Apr 24, 1908

 

ROBERTS, William Sink

William Sink Roberts, who was shot a week ago last Saturday by Allen Thornhill, died from the wounds last Sunday. Thornhill appeared before Judge Thompson and executed bond in the sum of $2000. An examining trial will be held tomorrow. As stated last week, the men were neighbors living about 2 miles up Louisa, on the east bank of the river. Thornhill heard remarks alleged to have been made about his wife by Roberts and this caused the trouble. He moved here only recently from Martin County, where it is said a peace warrant was about to be issued against him. Big Sandy News, Apr 10, 1908

 

“Bill Sink” Roberts, who recently moved to Mont See’s farm near Louisa, stopped the contents of a double barreled shotgun fired by Allen Thornhill last Saturday evening. The shot landed on the abdominal portion of his anatomy. Dr. Marcum found that only 2 of the leaden pellets had perforated the “hollow”. Roberts is not, therefore, seriously hurt. Thornhill heard that Roberts had made some uncomplimentary remark about his wife and the trouble arose over this. Thornhill ordered Roberts off of his place and the latter started away, but suddenly turned around and started back, with a threatening manner. Thornhill promptly shot him. Thornhill surrendered to the county officials and is now under $1000 bond. An examining trial will be held Apr 4th. Roberts is about 6 feet and a half tall, weighs over 200 pounds, and has no eyebrows or hair. He is well known along the Norfolk & Western Railroad, having worked for that company for years as a sort of detective. Big Sandy News, Apr 3, 1908

 

SHORTRIDGE, Samantha

The subject of this sketch was born May 28, 1863. She was married to Van Buren Shortridge Oct 30, 1881, to which union were born 5 children, one son and 4 daughters, all of whom survive her. Sister Shortridge peacefully passed away from this world Feb 25, 1908, near Lizzie, KY, after a short illness. She suffered intensely, but her suffering was endured with the greatest of Christian courage. She joined the Baptist Church while quite young. About the year 1879, when Isaac Fannin was pastor of the Trinity Church, she joined the M. E. Church, South. She was converted the year of 1891 and remained a consistent Christian and member until her death. A message had been sent to Nora, her daughter at Fullerton, KY to hasten home. She was delayed and could not reach her bedside until after her death. She leaves a husband, 5 children, 7 brothers  and 2 sisters to mourn her loss. The funeral was preached by the Rev. Isaac Fannin, assisted by the writer (E.V. Perry), who had charge of the funeral services after which we laid her body to rest in the family cemetery. Big Sandy News, Apr 24, 1908

 

Drusie Shortridge Bradley, who at the age of 24 years 8 months and 4 days fell asleep in Jesus, from which none never wake to weep. Deceased was the daughter of J. W. and Elizabeth Shortridge and is the fourth daughter death has severed from them—Addie, Sarah, Gussie and Drusie. The earthly home is losing but the heavenly home is gaining. Deceased was married in 1904 to Mr. L. E. Bradley and to them was born one son, John Gay Bradley, a sweet little boy. She also leaves 3 sisters, Thursa, Lizzie and Charlotte and one brother Rowland R. Shortridge, to mourn their loss. She was a sweet spirited good woman. She was one of Lawrence County’s best teachers for awhile, bringing sunshine into the school room and those she associated with. But. Alas tuberculosis, the “great white plague” fastened its deadly fangs upon her. Her funeral services were conducted at Fallsburg, KY her old home, by the Rev. H. B. Hulett, assisted by the writer (S. Harry Auvil). Big Sandy News, Apr 24, 1908

 

VINSON, Mrs. Z. C. (Josephine Bromley)

The wife of Z. C. (Doc) Vinson died at her home in Catlettsburg last Friday evening, after an illness of several weeks. The funeral took place Sunday from the residence conducted by the pastor of the Baptist Church, of which the deceased was a faithful member during all of her natural life. Mrs. Vinson was a woman of fine character and loveable disposition. Her maiden name was Miss Josephine Bromley, of Ft. Gay, WV. She was a sister of Sam and Dr. A. W. Bromley of Louisa. Mr. Vinson, the deeply bereaved husband, is a native of Louisa and much sympathy goes out to him from his many friends here. Big Sandy News, Apr 10, 1908


 

MAY 1908

 


 

BLANKENSHIP, Edgar

Edgar Blankenship, of Cow Pen Cree, about 7 miles below Pikeville, was brought to this place last Sunday by Drs. Thompson and Campbell and placed in Riverview Hospital for treatment. He was accompanied by his father, a brother and a brother in law. The young man was suffering from typhoid fever and appendicitis and had been sick several days. An operation was promptly decided upon, and on Sunday afternoon Dr. L. H. York, assisted by Drs. Wroten, Thompson, Campbell and Bromley operated for appendicitis. The condition of the patient was bad in the extreme, and the revelation disclosed by the operation gave no hope of recovery. So far as the surgery was concerned nothing could have been more successful. The young man rallied well and for a considerable time really seemed better. He was only 17 years of age and a magnificent specimen of manhood, being over 6 feet in height and splendidly proportioned. He grew rapidly worse during Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning he died of hemorrhage of the bowels. The body was taken to Pike County via  C & O Wednesday evening. Big Sandy News, May 22, 1908

 

COOKSEY, Mrs. Andy

On last Saturday evening just as the sun was sinking in the west death came to the home of Andy Cooksey, Sr. and took from him his loving companion. She was the daughter of Jerry Wellman, born Jan 22, 1827, age 81 yeas, 3 months and 13 days. She was married to Andy Cooksey in 1848 and to this union 12  children were born, 6 boys  and 6 girls, only 2 of which have preceded her to the glory land. The hopelessness of her condition had been realized for some time, and all of her children that survive her were at her bedside during her illness except 2 daughters, Mrs. Lizzie Perdue, who is in WV and Mrs. Minnie Matney, who lives in Texas. The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon at the home of the deceased, and was largely attended. Rev. Cassady conducted the services. The circumstances surrounding this family was a genial, kind-hearted woman, a good wife and a loving mother. She has made her home on Catts Fork ever since her marriage to Mr. Cooksey and everyone that knew her enjoyed being in her presence. Big Sandy News, May 15, 1908

 

COOKSEY, Clarence

Death again visited our community on May 2, 1908, it took from Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Cooksey their darling baby, age 9 years, 4 months and 14 days. Father, mother, brother  and sisters weep not for little Clarence, but prepare to meet him where there will be no more partings or goodbyes. Big Sandy news, May 15, 1908

 

COOKSEY, Frank

Yesterday morning Lafe Cooksey, of Fallsburg, received a telegram from Coalburg, WV, informing him that his brother, Frank, had been shot and instantly killed at that place. The Cooksey are prominent people of the Fallsburg region. Big Sandy news, May 22, 1908

 

At Coalsburg, WV, on Thursday of last week, George Cooksey was killed by Joe Webb. Both young men from this county. Cooksey was a native of Fallsburg and Webb is a son of Mart Webb, of East Fork. Cooksey is the man who served a term in the penitentiary for killing Ralph Marcum, on officer at Fallsburg. He also shot Ray Jones a few years ago. The trouble between Cooksey and Webb was a bout a girl. Webb made certain of his destruction when he shot Cooksey, as death followed soon after the several pistol balls had landed. The body was brought home for burial. Webb is said to be in jail in Charleston, WV. Big Sandy News, May 29, 1908

 

CYRUS, Mrs. Jack

Mrs. Jack Cyrus died at her home on Tabors Creek, WV about 5 miles from Louisa Tuesday. She was the mother of Jesse M. and Joe Cyrus and Mrs. Jessie Cordle, of this county. Big Sandy news, May 22, 1908

 

CYRUS, Jennie (Fox)

Walbridge—On Apr 16, 1908, death visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Fox, and took there from their daughter, Jennie Cyrus, the wife of Ben Cyrus. Jennie was born Jan 9, 1885 being 23 years 3 months and 7 days old. Was married in 1900. She leaves a husband, 2 small children, father, mother, one sister and 2 brothers to mourn their loss. But their loss is heaven’s gain. She was converted some years ago and lived a Christian ever since. She was buried in the Summit graveyard. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

DANIELS, W.

Ulysses—W. Daniels, of Lowmansville, died Friday, May 15, and was buried at Richardson Sunday. He leaves a widow and several children, all of whom are grown. The deceased was a veteran of the civil war. He died of fever. He was a good citizen. Big Sandy News, May 22, 1908

 

DOBBINS, Mrs. James

The wife of James Dobbins died at her home near Gallup, last Tuesday, at the age of 38 years. She had been in ill health for several months. A husband and 4 children survive her. She was a daughter of John Wallace and a sister of Mrs. Bascome Hale, and was an excellent woman. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

ESTEP

John Estep’s little child, age 3 years, died on Little Blaine a few days ago. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

FRASHER, Bertie (Jordan)

In the midst of life we are in death. How true these  words apply to the death of Bertie Frasher, who fell asleep  in Jesus Apr 30. Deceased was the daughter of Green Jordan and this  is the first daughter that  death has severed from them. The earthly home is  losing but the heavenly home is gaining. Deceased was married in 1903 to Mr. John Frasher. How sad for husband, relatives and friends to be left without wife and without a kind friend but they have the consolation of knowing that they may meet her in the sweet bye and bye. She leaves 2 sisters, Cora  and Mary and 5 brothers to mourn her loss. Big Sandy News, May 15, 1908

 

GARRED, David W.

David W. Garred died at his home 9 miles south of Louisa last Saturday about noon. He had reached the advanced age of 85 years. A few weeks ago he was attacked by la grippe and his extreme age put him at a disadvantage that was too great for him to overcome. He suffered severely much of the time and death came as a relief to him. The funeral was held on Monday afternoon at the church near the home of the deceased, Rev. R. F. Rice and the local pastor conducted the services. All of Mr. Garred’s sons were at his bedside during his illness or at the time of his death except Richard, who is in Missouri and could not come. Lys was here from Montana, but returned the day before his father’s death. He was apparently much better at that time. The funeral was attended by the following Louisa people: Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Garred, Mrs. James Hale, Mrs. Augustus Snyder, and Mrs. M. F. Conley. Mr. Garred was one of our best citizens, He was a genial, liberal, kindhearted man. On moral and public questions he always stood for the right. He is survived by a wife, 6 sons and one daughter—Dr. R. P., Owen, A. J., Deck, Lee and Lys and Mrs. Onolda Burgess. Big Sandy News, May 1, 1908

 

HALE, Ira

Adams—Uncle Ira Hale departed this life May 12, 1908. Uncle Ira was a good citizen and was loved by all who knew him. He leaves a wife and 8 children to mourn their loss. Big Sandy News, May 22, 1908

 

HALL, Lyman

Lyman Hall, age 22,  was killed at Huntington on Thursday of last week. He was attempting to climb aboard a moving locomotive in the B & O yards when his foot missed the step and he fell under the wheels. One foot was cut off and then the body was dragged under the wheels and cut in two. Death was almost instantaneous. He leaves a wife and one child. He was a son of John Hall, of Getaway, OH and a nephew of T.J. and Augustus Snyder of Louisa. He was employed as a clerk in the B & O freight office at Huntington. Big Sandy News, May 29, 1908

 

HAMILTON, Mrs. James

Mrs. James Hamilton died at Inez a few days ago. Mr. Hamilton is one of the prominent citizens of that place. Mrs. Hamilton was 44 years old and a daughter of Eli Crum. She died of consumption. Rev. H. B. Hewlett of Louisa preached her funeral. Big Sandy News, May 8,1908

 

HATTON, Oda

In loving remembrance of Oda Hatton. The bright little 2 year old child of Mr. and Mrs. Marion Helton, who died of croup the first of April. Big Sandy News, May 1, 1908

 

HUGHES, Mrs. James W.

Mrs. James W. Hughes died at her home in Huntington, WV last Monday evening after an illness that had been recognized as hopeless for several weeks. The funeral was held on Thursday morning from the residence and the burial took place in the cemetery at Ashland, KY, later in the day. The remains were conveyed to Ashland by a special car of the Ohio Valley Electric Railway. Interment was made by the side of the son and daughter who died many years ago. Mrs. Hughes was 71 years of age and was the wife of James W. Hughes, postmaster of Huntington. In addition to her husband, she leaves 5 sons, Congressman James A. and Douglass E. of Huntington, ed S. and John, of Ashland, and Arthur M. of Louisa. All were at the bedside of their mother for some time previous to her death. Mrs. Hughes was a woman of fine character and the noblest traits. For many years, Mr. and Mrs. Hughes lived in Ashland. From there they went to Star Furnace, where Mr. Hughes was superintendent of a large mining operation. Later they moved to Huntington. Also, at Louisa she was quite well known, having visited her sons here a number of times; and the many inquiries made about her during her illness and the expressions of sorrow that followed the news of her death, showed the esteem in which she was held here. A few years ago she had a fall that crippled her, and from the effects of which she never fully recovered. Thus in a partially helpless condition she lived out her last years, but was made as comfortable as possible by the constant ministrations of one of the most devoted of husband and the attention of affectionate sons. Big Sandy News, May 29, 1908

 

JARRELL, Samuel S.

Samuel S. Jarrell, an aged and respected citizen of this county, passed peacefully away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Harvey Stewart, of this place, Wednesday morning, Apr 22, 1908. The deceased was known all over this and adjoining counties having been a resident of Wayne County nearly all his life. He was 83 years of age and was a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Jarrell had been confined to his bed since the 7th of last August, his ailment being a general breaking down of the system superinduced by age. The funeral took place from the Ceredo Baptist Church Thursday, conducted by Revs. William Jarrell, of Mill Creek, and B. S. Akers, of Catlettsburg, KY after which the body was laid to rest in the Perdue Cemetery, 2 miles southwest of town. The departed leaves 9 children as follows: James W., Columbus, and Harry Jarrell and Mrs. Harvey Stewart of Ceredo; Mrs. Alex Porter of Radnor, John Jarrell, of Greenup County, KY, M. V. Jarrell of Catlettsburg, KY and Jesse Jarrell, of Webb.—Ceredo Advance. Big Sandy news, May 1, 1908

 

KELLEY, Mrs. James

Overda—Death has again visited the home of James Kelley and taken from him his loving wife. She was loved by everybody who knew her. About a year ago she took sick and all efforts to secure relief were in vain. On the tenth of March the Angels called her home to live with Jesus. She was 66 years of age and had been a member of the church for 30 years. She leaves a husband 76 years of age and one son and a host of friends to mourn her loss. Big Sandy News, May 1, 1908

 

LAYNE, Samuel J.

Mr. and Mrs. John Layne arrived here Tuesday night from New York City called by the death of Mr. Layne’s father, Samuel J. Layne, whose funeral will be held Thursday morning. The services will be held in the residence. The interment will occur in Woodland, and the services at the grave will be private. Mr. Layne’s other son, Otto, will be unable to attend the funeral services. He is just recovering from an attack of typhoid fever and his physician did not deem it advisable for him to leave home. Ironton Register. The deceased was a native of Floyd County, KY and was an uncle of Dr. P. C. Layne, of Ashland, Mr. and Mrs. James Layne of Guyandotte, parents of Dr. Layne, and the latter and his family, attended the funeral in Ironton. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

MCKENZIE, Ran

A few days ago an accident happened in the coal mines at Sand Creek, Lincoln County, WV, which cost Ran McKenzie his life. A heavy fall of slate from the roof of the mine caught him and crushed out his life. The body was badly mangled. McKenzie formerly lived near Louisa. He left here to few years ago and went to work in the West Virginia coal regions and is said to have  been prospering. He leaves a wife and several children. Big Sandy News, May 15, 1908

 

MCKINSTER, W. H. C.

On the 18th day of April 1908, the Great Creator reached forth his omnipotent hand, clipped the brittle thread of life and took from out midst Rev. W. H. C. McKinster, Uncle Harrison as he was usually called was a man of sterling qualities and great ability. He was born Jan 2, 1844, age 64 years 3 months and 17 days. In the year of 1861 the great Civil War begun. Men were called from their homes and families to bleed and die upon the battlefield. Feeling that duty called him. Col. Thomas McKinster bade his friends good-bye and started to the war. But then Harrison was only a lad of 17, like the brave hero that he was said, “father you shall not go alone, if you go I’ll go too.” And he did go with as much energy and zeal as the most courageous. For a greater part of the time he was secretary of his father’s regiment, doing his duty faithfully. While in the army he was married to Miss Jane, daughter of William and Delila Moore. To this union was born 11 children. Six of them preceded him to their eternal home some time ago. They lived very happily together. Both being consecrated Christians until one beautiful morn in May God took his loving companion safely home to heaven. In a few years he married Miss Myrtle Rule, of of Johnson County’s most prominent young women. Unto them were born 2 children, but she was a victim of that fatal disease consumption and after a long illness her spirit took its flight to the God that gave it. Next he married Miss Mary I. Bowlen, of Elliott Count, who still survives him. Uncle Harrison had been a preacher of the gospel for a great many years. His young days were spent in his Master’s service as well as his last. For a long time he was superintendent of the Sunday school also, and on Sunday morning when the church bell rang Uncle Harrison was at his post. He has kept his charge faithfully and has gone to receive his reward. Big Sandy News, May 29, 1908

 

MOORE, Garland J.

The last Monday morning the many friends of Garland J. Moore were shocked to hear that he had died suddenly about 10 o’clock that morning at his home at Wilbur. He was I Louisa a few days before, as well as usual. His death was caused by heart trouble, from which he had been a sufferer for years. Mr. Moore was a prominent and prosperous citizen, well known throughout the county. He was 68 years old and was a native of this county. He is survived by a wife and a number of grown children, among whom are some of our best citizens. Representative Garfield Moore, Dr. A. H. Moore, of Ashland, Dr. John Moore, of Torchlight, Farris, Gus, E. L. and L. C. Moore are sons of his. The only daughter is Mrs. Jeff Ball. The funeral took place on Tuesday and was largely attended. Big Sandy news, May 1, 1908

 

NEEL, Dr. H. F.

Dr. H. F. Neel was born in Giles County, VA, Jun 9, 1842, and died Apr 20, 1908, at his home in Prestonsburg, KY. He was the son of John and Martha B. Neel, of one of the oldest and most prominent families of Virginia. He enlisted in 1861 while very young in the 37th Virginia Regiment of the Confederate army, which was one of the regiments of the famous Stonewall Jackson brigade, and was wounded at the battle of Chancellorsville, and upon recovery from his wound he again continued his service in the same brigade, until captured at the battle of the Wilderness. He was imprisoned at Fort Delaware where he underwent great privations of the Northern military prison. After the war he moved to Tazewell, VA where he married Letitia Hawthorne, of the prominent family of Taylors, who are closely related to Governor Robert Taylor of Tennessee.

 

After practicing as a physician at Tazewell he moved to Prestonsburg in 1875, where he has lived since until his death, practicing his profession with honor and distinction and where he has stood in the highest esteem with the people of Floyd and adjoining counties. He was a member of the Masonic Fraternity, having been initiated in 1876, into Zebulon Lodge No. 273, of this city, which lodge administered the last rites at his burial, at one of the largest funeral ever witnessed here. Ada Chapter No. 24 of the Eastern Star as a mark of respect and esteem, in while uniform accompanied the deceased to the cemetery and together with several old Confederate veterans, brought up the rear of the procession, making a most impressive scene. Dr. Neel was a man of the highest integrity and led an upright, moral life, and will be missed by the people of this section, because of his death they are deprived of one of the ablest physicians and an upright, useman. He is survived by his wife, 2 daughters and a son, Mrs. James Ratliffe, who lives at Galena, KS, Mrs. J. Sam Hatcher, of Allen, KY and George F. Neel, now a traveling salesman for Patton Bros., of Catlettsburg, KY. Big Sandy News, May 1, 1908

 

PRESTON, Beulah

Beulah, daughter of J. Henry Preston and Nancy Hays Preston, died at their home in Louisa on Friday evening, May 1st, at the age of 20 years. The funeral took place Sunday morning from the M. E. Church South, and the interment was made in Fulkerson Cemetery. Rev. O. F. Williams, pastor, conducted the services, delivering a message of comfort from a God of love and mercy. The church was crowded with sorrowing friends of the family The pall bearers were George Roberts, Fred Vinson, George Lewis, Will Barksdale, Ed Spencer and Labe Wallace. The honorary pall bearers were Misses Lizzie Bromley, Martha Vaughan, Willie Frazier, Ida Hewlett, Mexie Carey and Ethel Spencer. Beulah was converted and joined the M. E. Church South about 3 years ago.

The circumstances surrounding this case and this family are unusually sad. Twenty years ago when the family moved from Johnson County to Louisa, Mr. and Mrs. Preston brought with them 3 little girls, Beulah being the youngest and only 3 months old. No other children were born to them. These little girls grew into beautiful young womanhood all too soon, it seems, as we look back over the few short years that were allotted to them. Modest and retiring, and sweet of manner and disposition, they were the idols of their parents, favorites amongst their playmates, and much loved by all associates. On Christmas day 4 years ago, Lizzie was laid to rest on the hill overlooking her earthly home. Almost 2 years later, on Thanksgiving day, Ella’s body was tenderly placed alongside that of Lizzie. And now, Beulah, the last of the trio, just after the passing of Eastertide, joins her sister in the “City of the Dead.” Three exquisite examples of pure young womanhood, only one of whom attained the age of 21 years.

 

They were not ruthlessly removed by the heavy hand of Providence for a mysterious reason, as some are. In the habit of saying: but all fell victims to that awful, insidious disease, pulmonary consumption, to which the human race is subject under the laws that govern the world. They were Christians, truly converted during their girlhood and enjoyed the peace and hope that belong only to those who have been born into the kingdom. Death had no sting for them, save the regret over a brief separation from father and mother. For they had the happy knowledge that their parents are prepared to meet them in Heaven—an assurance that is sufficient in itself to take away the horrors of death. And to the deeply bereaved parents, what a consolation is the lively hope of that reunion! The loss of all their children would be almost beyond the powers of human endurance without the sustaining influence and spirit of the Christian religion. Mr. and Mrs. Preston took Beulah to California last October in the hope of restoring her to health, and after providing her the best medical attention for several months, they were told that the case was hopeless. About 6 weeks ago they arrived home and she steadily failed until the end came. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

SALMONS, Anna

Felix, WV—On Sunday, the 10th inst. The wife of Rev. Joel Salmons passed over the chilly tide of death and was buried Monday in the Salmons graveyard. Weep not dear ones Aunt Anna has gone to join the heavenly throng. Big Sandy News, May 15, 1908

 

STEWART, Amy (Fannin)

The dreaded monster has come among us again, this time to the home, and has taken from us our beloved sister, Mrs. Amy Stewart. She was 93 years 4 months and a few days old, and a daughter of Rev. John and Kisia Fannin. In early life she cast her lot with Absolom Stewart, who preceded her to heaven. To this union 10 children were born, 5 of whom have gone to live in the world beyond. She gave her life to Christ in early years. She united with the M. E. Church ad remained in that church until the church divided. She then united with the M. E. Church, South and was a loyal member. Her home was the preacher’s home, having been trained to this in her infancy by her father who threw open the doors of his home to our preachers when everything looked dark for Methodists in this country. Her illness lasted 3 weeks. The children lost a kind and loving mother, the church a loyal member and the community a friend who was a friend indeed. Her funeral was preached by Rev. Isaac Fannin, after which the body was laid to rest in the Fannin cemetery, near East Fork, KY. Big Sandy News, May 1, 1908

 

TOMLINSON, Ruthie (Wells)

About 7 months ago Ruthie, a daughter of Henderson Wells, of near Louisa, was married to a Mr. Tomlinson, and went to Arkansas to reside. On the 15th of this month she died after a long illness. Her husband brought the body to her old home where it was laid to rest. The Rev. L. M. Copley, of the Baptist Church, conducted the funeral service. Big Sandy News, May 22, 1908

 

One of the very saddest scenes of death was witnessed at the home of Henderson Wells, 4 miles from Louisa last Monday when his daughter Mrs. Minie Tomlinson, was brought home a corpse from Jennylind, Ark.. She was married only last October to Mr. Hugh Tomlinson of that state, and left for his home the last of January, where she never had good health. Minnie had married the 3rd of last October, at the age of 17 years and 4 months old. For 7 weeks before her death she was bedfast and when death came to her on Friday morning, May 15, she died just like she was going to sleep. The body was laid to rest in the Workman graveyard Tuesday. Rev. Copley, who married the loving couple 8 months ago preached her funeral. Big Sandy News, May 29, 1908

 

VAUGHAN, Mrs. Dan

Mrs. Dan Vaughan died in Catlettsburg last Tuesday and was buried Wednesday. She was a  sister of Judge J. B. Hannah’s father. Judge Hannah attended the funeral. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

WARDEN, Alice

Mrs. Alice Warden, mother of Attorney W. T. Cain, died at his home in Louisa on Thursday afternoon of last week. She was very old and her death was the result of the infirmities incident to extreme age. The body was taken to Martin county for interment. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 

WELLMAN, Frank

Frank, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. Boyd Wellman, of this place, died Monday night after an illness of  spinal meningitis. His age was 14 months. A funeral services was held from the residence on Wednesday conducted by Revs. Reynolds and Elsea. The burial took place in the Bearie Cemetery at Ft. Gay. This is the third child these parents have lost and the deepest sympathy goes out to them in their bereavement. Big Sandy news, May 8, 1908

 

WOOTEN

The mother of Will Wooten died at his home near Catalpa, this county, a few days ago. We did not learn the particulars. Big Sandy News, May 8, 1908

 


JUNE 1908

 


 

AUSTIN, Mary (Thomas)

Mary Austin, daughter of Donithan and Cenie Thomas, was born Sep 23, 1833 in Grayson County, VA. Professed religion at the age of 17 years in Summerfield church at a protracted meeting held by Brother King, of the South Methodist Church, and lived a consistent Christian until the end and died in full triumph of a Christian’s faith. She was married to Henry C. Austin by Rev. Washington Martin, of South M. E. Church in 1859. Her and her husband lived amicably together for over 49 years, when she passed away on the 2nd of June, aged 74 years 8 months and 7 days. They raised a family of 8 children—5 boys and 3 girls, all who are members of the church but one. Big Sandy News, Jun 19, 1908

 

BERRY, Andrew

Andrew Berry, engineer, lost his life in a wreck that occurred on the Big Sandy division of the C & O railroad last Friday at 5:40 p.m. 6 miles south of Louisa. The fireman, Richard Dwyer, was also injured, but he will recover. The baggage master, William Kilgore, and express messenger, Kelley Moore, were bruised considerably. The wreck was one of the worst in the history of this division. The train was No. 38, leaving Ashland for Pikeville at 4 p.m. It consisted of a baggage car, a combination smoker and colored compartment car and a passenger coach. At the Hardin ??? a mile and a quarter above Torchlight station, there is a large fill, on the upper end of which a rather sharp curve begins. The engine had passed over this fill and was rounding the curve when it suddenly left the rails and landed on its side several feet away from the track. The baggage car stopped in a position at right angles to the rails and with one end down the embankment. The combination car turned over on its side alongside the track. The front end of the passenger coach was off the track in such position as to careen the car considerably. In spite of this badly twisted condition of the train all the couplings held except that between the engine and tender.

 

The fall of the engine broke a number of steam pipes, sending a flood of scalding water and steam upon the prostrate engineer and fireman. Berry was in the worst position. One foot landed in the fire box among the red hot coals and at the same time the hot water was cooking the flesh of his entire body. By a great effort the tortured man succeeded in dragging himself out of the wreck. He was a pitiable sight and his suffering was horrible. A handcar was procured from section men about a mile away and the unfortunate man was laid upon a car seat and brought to the hospital at Louisa as quickly as possible. Upon reaching here he was shivering as though freezing to death. Every possible attention was given him, but the physicians, pronounced the case practically hopeless. The flesh was so cooked that it dropped off. His wife was brought here from Ashland by a special train, arriving at 9:30 p.m. Mr. Berry lived until 7 o’clock the next morning, remaining conscious almost to the end. The body was taken to Ashland at 9:30. Dr. Stallard of Pikeville, was on the train and looked after the fireman until the arrival of the company surgeon, Dr. Wroten and Dr. Bromley

 

The fireman was carried to the home of Dr. John Moore, at Torchlight, where he was properly cared for until the arrival of the company surgeon. These 2 physicians remained with the injured man all night, arriving home about 4:30 a.m. There were 12 white men in the combination car that turned over and it is miraculous that all escaped injury. The rear car was filled with passengers, and if it had gone 3 feet farther in the direction headed would have been plunged over the embankment at a point 100 feet high or more. A wreck train and relief train went to the scene as soon as possible and the track was cleared about daylight Saturday morning, when the passengers were taken on to their destination.

 

James McGuire, supervisor of track rode on the engine from Ashland to Louisa and got off to see a section foreman. When the train started he failed to reach the engine in time to get aboard and caught the rear coach. This probably saved his life, as he had intended to make the entire trip on the engine. A broken joint in the rail is supposed to have caused the wreck. The train is said to have been running about 20 miles per hour. The conductor in charge was Seeman, of the Lexington division.

 

In point of service on this road, Mr. Berry was next to T. C. Songer. He had been running about 19 years. He was a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge at Peach Orchard and was buried with the honors of the order. Many members from Louisa attended the funeral at Ashland Sunday. Mr. Berry was born and reared near Willard. His brother John is a freight conductor on this line. His wife is a daughter of William Carter, who moved from this county to Catlettsburg several years ago. She and 6 children survive. Mr. Berry had arranged to take a week’s vacation, and engineer Dent was ready to go out on the fatal trip when Mr. Berry decided to delay his vacation one day, and so notified Dent. Big Sandy news, Jun 12, 1908

 

BOCOOK, Mary

Wednesday, Jun 3rd, 1908, death reached forth its icy hand and touched the form of Mary Bocook, aged 20 years 6 months and 19days and took her from her many friends and relatives. Mary was a bright, beloved girl, just budding into womanhood. To know her was to love her. She had been sick for 3 months, when on that bright Wednesday morning the Lord knew she was too pure a ?? to bloom amid the thorns of this world, and called her to live with Him. So, dear father, mother, brothers and sisters, think not of Mary being dead, she is with Jesus. She was laid to rest in the Byington Cemetery. The burial services were conducted by Rev. Isaac Fannin. Big Sandy News, Jun 19, 1908

 

BORDERS, Lon

Word has reached here that Lon Borders, a son of Charlie Borders, was killed Sunday in a railroad wreck in Indiana. Both Mr. Borders and his son were well known here before moving to Quincy, Ill. Lon Borders was related to Miss Mabel Butler of this city. He was a railroad engineer. His engine left the rails on a curve and turned over on its side, scalding him until the flesh dropped from the bones. He died 5 hours later in horrible agony. He retained consciousness to the end. The accident was very similar to the one that killed Andy Berry. Lon was 28 years old and was born at Old Peach Orchard, Lawrence County, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 19, 1908

 

The Quincey Herald gives the following particulars of the accident that resulted in the death of Lon Borders, formerly of this county, mention of which was made last week.

He was a son of Charley Borders and a grandson of David Borders. Lon was a genial, popular young man and had many friends in Louisa. He became an engineer in 1903. At the time of the accident he was on a stock train consisting of 17 cars and a caboose.

 

The long stock train had just crossed the bay bridge and was swinging into the yards with a heavy pressure of steam in order to get the momentum sufficient to carry the heavy load up the incline into the freight yards. The engine was just rounding a curve at a speed rather unusual for a freight train but which is necessary in order to make the step grade. Just as the engine was rounding the curve at the foot of the Cedar Street the flange of the forward, or engine truck of the locomotive, instead of following the rail of the curve, mounted the track and as a consequence the engine’s grip on the steel rails was lost. The huge machine began to veer and in a second’s time had left the track. Engineer Borders applied the brakes, but the momentum of the heavy train carried the locomotive onward and striking it squarely, sent the locomotive and tender lunging over the track. The engine was thrown completely around, and through when entering the yards it faced directly south, after the accident it pointed its head toward the northeast, lying on its right side to the east of the track. The tender was thro??  To the west side making a horrid ??? in the apex of which where was death and destruction.

 

When Engineer Borders saw what was inevitable he did all in his power to stop the train and remained in his set in the cab. He was pinned beneath the frame work of his cab, and in this position was literally boiled to death. The injector pipe of the engine broke and the full force of the heavy pressure of the steam in the engine struck the prostrate engineer’s body. The cab of the engine was a veritable boiler of human flesh. From head to foot the engineer was scaled and the flesh peeled from the bones as the body was tenderly lifted from its terrible position. Into this scalding furnace the two brakeman of the crew and Dick Purcell and a companion, who chanced to be near the scene of the accident, plunged to extricate the burning engineer. By the time the steam had escaped Borders had been taken out of the cab. He was carried over to the shade of the corn planter works and the police and the doctors were notified.

 

The abdominal region seemed to have suffered worst, the flesh breaking away along the median lines, leaving the internal organs exposed. The spectators as well as the physicians saw that it was only a matter of time with the injured man. He was conveyed to Blessing Hospital, where all that skill and science could bring to bear was employed to alleviate his sufferings. They were of no avail, however, and Borders died a little after 5 o’clock. Suffering beyond compare, his courage never deserted him. To the last he was conscious and realized his condition and met death like the hero he was. Just as the shadows of death were cloaking about him, he asked that his mother be given a part of his insurance money to provide a measure for her old age. Big Sandy News, Jun 26, 1908

 

DAVIS, Lurenie

Death has again visited our community and claimed for its victim Mrs. Lurenie Davis, one of the best Christian mothers in West Virginia. She was married to Isaac Rickman when very young and the union was blessed with 6 children—3 boys and 3 girls, of whom 4 survive her. The father and 2 have gone on before. Her second marriage was to Mr. Melvin Davis, who still survives her. Sister Davis joined the Baptist Church when only 15 years of age and lived a Christian life until she was called away on the 12th of May. Big Sandy News, Jun 12, 1908

 

HALL, Mrs. David

On Tuesday, Mrs. David Hall, died at her residence in West Louisa, after a long illness. She had been paralyzed for a long time and was the victim of a heart trouble. The body was taken to the country for interment. Big Sandy News, Jun 12, 1908

 

HARMON

Torchlight—An infant, 3 months old, daughter of C. H. Harmon, died last Tuesday morning, having been sick for several weeks. Big Sandy News, Jun 12, 1908

 

KIMBAL, Tom

From a correspondent the NEWS learns that Tom Kimbal, formerly of Fort Gay, was killed by a fall of slate in a coal mine on Buffalo Creek near Chattaroy, WV. At the some time his son, Will, was so seriously injured that his life is despaired of. He was taken to the hospital at Welch. Mr. Kimbal left a widow and 4 small children. Big Sandy News, Jun 12, 1908

 

LAKIN, Samuel

On Mar 28, 1908, it pleased the Lord to call from us Samuel Lakin at the age of 82 years. Weep not, dear sister and brother, grandfather is at rest. Big Sandy News, Jun 19, 1908

 

LEE Robert E.

This community was greatly shocked shortly after noon last Friday when a telephone message from Huntington announced that Judge Robert E. Lee, of this place, had taken poison and could live but a few minutes was soon followed by another saying he might live until night. Hope was then felt and expressed that Judge Lee might recover but this hope was doomed never to be realized for shortly after this reception of the second message it was followed by a third telling of his death. Upon the reception of the painful intelligence of the rash deed. Mrs. Lee hastily prepared to go her husband, hoping to reach Huntington before his death. She took the 1:30 N & W but long before she reached her destination her husband was dead. The body was prepared for burial and brought to Louisa ??? night. On Saturday afternoon the funeral services were held in the Baptist Church, conducted by Rev. L. ? Cooksey. At the conclusion of the  service the body was interred in the Fulkerson Cemetery. Mr. Lee had been in Huntington a day or two before he committed the rash act which made his 6 little children fatherless. He swallowed a huge dose of morphine in ??? saloon on (the next few paragraphs are hard to read) ( He did marry a Miss ??? a daughter of At. Wel???) Big Sandy News, Jun 12, 1908

 

NEAL, Nora

Miss Nora, daughter of William Neal died last Friday at the home on East Fork, in this county. The burial occurred on Sunday and the services were performed by Rev. H. B. Hulett. Deceased was 24 years of age and was formerly a teacher of this county. She was a very intelligent and highly respected young lady and her early death is mourned by many. Consumption caused her death. Big Sandy News, Jun 5, 1908

 

PENNINGTON, Samuel T.

Washington, D.C. Jun 15—Samuel T. Pennington, of Carter County, KY, was killed in the elevator of the Munsey Building in this city this morning. There are conflicting stories as to the cause of the accident. The elevator conductor, Clarence Peake, says that Pennington, who was the only passenger on the car, fainted just as the elevator was leaving the second floor. The other passengers had gotten out at that floor and the elevator was starting and the door was swinging to at the same time. Pennington pitched forward, his head and shoulders falling in the opening and preventing the doors closing. Before the conductor could stop the car the head and shoulders were caught between the floor and the ascending car and the bottom of the next stop. Pennington sustained terrible injuries and death was immediate. Pennington had been a clerk in the office of the Auditor for the Navy Department for 2 years. He was graduated in law at the George Washington law school in this city a few days ago. He was to have been promoted July 1. He is survived by his widow. He had been married less than 2 years and had just passed his 31st birthday. The elevator conductor was taken into custody. The Coroner will hold an inquest this afternoon. Big Sandy news, Jun 19, 1908

 

PRESTON, Rev. South G.

Rev. South G. Preston, a native of Paintsville, and for many years a preacher in the South Methodist Church, died of heart disease at his home in New Mexico on Monday morning of last week. The body was brought back to Kentucky and buried in Ashland last Sunday. Mr. Preston was a pastor of the church at St. Rosa, NM. He had preached on the night previous to his death and was apparently in good health when he retired. After awakening the next morning he spoke to his wife about some domestic matters and she heard him gasp in a very noticeable manner. Upon investigation she discovered that he was breathing his last. Rev. Preston was a man of considerable ability and high literary attainments. A wife and one daughter, Mrs. D. H. Reid, survive. Big Sandy News, Jun 26, 1908

 

SMITH, John

A foul murder was committed on a Norfolk and Western freight train about 8 miles east of Louisa last Saturday afternoon. The victim was John Smith, age about 20 years, whose home was at Canada, Pike County, 6 miles from Williamson, WV. The crime is charged to Joe Sammons of Webb, WV, a son of Pierce Sammons. A warrant has been issued for him but his arrest has not been accomplished. The last time Smith was seen alive he was sitting in the doorway of a boxcar in a freight train that was going west. Near Glenhayes Smith’s dead body was found alongside the track, with a fatal pistol wound in it. A shot was heard by a woman on the opposite side of the river as the train passed. A little farther on were discovered what is thought to be tracks made by the murderer when he jumped from the car and went back to rob the body of his victim. The pockets of the dead man’s clothing were turned wrong side out, and nearby the remainder of a package of letters was found. Part of them had been burned and some of them that were too wet were torn into bits.

 

It is said 2 young men boarded the freight train at Naugautck. Smith was starting to a recruiting station to enlist in the army and had displayed some money before boarding the train for Naugatuck. He left Williamson on a passenger train, but got off at Naugatuck and the train left him. Joe Sammons is about 19 or 20 years old and bears an unenviable reputation. Some parties were here looking for him the next day after the crime. Young Smith was the son of John “Pocket” Smith, a well known citizen of Pike County. He is a large land owner and also one of the largest stockholders in the Pikeville Grocery Company. It is said that the murderer possibly jumped an N & W freight train at Fort Gay Tuesday night, evidently trying to get out of the country. Big Sandy News, Jun 12, 1908

 


JULY 1908

 


BELLOMY, John

Death has again visited our community and claimed from us our darling grandfather, John Bellomy. He was a devoted Christian, having joined the M. E. Church, South, in his youth. He embraced the religion of our Lord Jesus Christ about 50 years ago and his life has been a written epistle since. He was taken sick Jun 1907 and he patiently endured his afflictions for nearly 12 months, he was willing and ready to go and God took him from us Saturday, Jun 13. Surrounded by 2 daughters, 2 sons and a number of friends his spirit quietly passed away. Grandpa was 80 yeas 11 months and 5 days old. He leave 5 daughters and 3 sons to mourn their loss and a host of grandchildren and friends. Everything was done for him that could be done but God took him to dwell in paradise where flowers do not fade nor loveliness decay. Big Sandy News, Jul 3, 1908

 

BURGESS, Peter

Peter Burgess, an old and highly respected citizen of this county, died at his home near Wilbur last Monday. He had been ill for some time. He was the father of M. M. Burgess, Chairman of the Republican County Committee and of Mrs. Lewis Spencer. Big Sandy News, Jul 17, 1908

 

BURNS, John A.

The following account of a sad accident that resulted in the death of a former Big Sandian is taken from the Evening Review, of East Liverpool, OH.

John A. Burns, aged 53 years, was almost instantly killed by a horse and wagon, which he was driving, being precipitated over a 35 foot embankment last Wednesday night. Frank Hickman, a companion and Robert Burns, the 10 year old son of the unfortunate man, were also in the wagon, but escaped injury. The party ahd removed some furniture to a point on the hill and were returning to the East End, their homes, and were traveling an unfamiliar road. At the point on this road where the accident occurred ther roadbed is high and narrow, with an embankment on both sides. The men were not aware of this and in the darkness did not perceive their danger until it was too late. Taking a road which they presumed would lead them directly to Pennsylvania avenue, they drove for some distance when Hickman told Burns they were on the wrong track.

 

Burns commenced to turn. The wagon, in backing, was precipitated over the embankment and the horse turned a summersault in going down. Falling upon Burns. It crushed his bread and abdomen and death followed in a short time. Hickman and the boy were thrown under the vehicle into a pool of mud. Although somewhat dazed for a moment, Hickman soon came to and went to the rescue of the boy, but he had succeeded in getting out. An effort was then made to place the wagon in an upright position, as it was thought that Burns was under it. This proved too much of a task for Hickman and he went for help.

 

Almost literally covered with mud Burns was found under the horse. Several members of the rescue party immediately plaed him upon a stretcher and carried him to a point on Ambrose Avenue. Signs of life were still apparent. But the man soon died. Beside his wife, 12 children mourn the loss of their father. Burns was practically the sole support of the family, as but one daughter, Mary, is employed and she received but a minimum amount for working at the porcelain works, East End, where they are operated.

 

Following are the children: Mrs. Hattie Curnutte, East Liverpool, Mrs. Florence Castle, John and Lafe Burns, Ashland, KY, Fred Burns, member of Company K. Thirtieth Infantry, stationed in the Philippines; Mary E. Burns, age 18, living at home, Milton, 15, Charley, 13, Robert, 12, Bradley, 10, Kate, 6, and Maggie, 4, also at home.

 

Knowing the painful message that had to be brought to the mother and children a friend of the family proceeded cautiously in impairing the news. The first story told was that the father had been injured and was in the hospital. This thoroughly aroused the family, but later when told that he was dead, their grief was terrible. John Burns and his family came to this city 3 years ago from Ashland, KY, where he was owner of several acres of land. He had been employed as a laborer while in this city. He is said to have been a man of education and highly esteemed and admired. Hickman the owner of the horse and wagon lives near the Burns home on Erie Street. Big Sandy News, Jul 31, 1908

 

BURTON, Mrs. Bertie

Ulysses—Mrs. Bertie Burton, who was 85 years old died at the home of her son on Dragston about 3 weeks ago and was brought here to her former home for burial. Big Sandy News, Jul 17, 1908

 

COOKSEY, Harry B.

Death has made its way into our little town and robbed us of one of our bright young men, who was an honor to his country and liked by all. But God saw fit to call him to Glory, where trouble will never come. Brother Harry Blaine Cooksey, son of James and Mary Cooksey was born Sep 28,1885, died Jun 9,1908, age 23 years, 8 months and 12 days. He was converted June 5, 1908. Then called to all of his friends and said, “give me your hand you will meet me in heaven.” The funeral was preached by Rev. J. C. L. Moore in the Odd Fellows hall to a large congregation. Big Sandy News, Jul 3, 1908

 

COOKSEY, Maggie

On Sunday evening Jul 12, as the sun was casting its fading rays over the home of William  and Nancy Cooksey, the spirit of his loving daughter was taking its flight to glory land. Maggie was young in years, being only 14 years 1 month and 23 days. Her sickness was of short duration—lasting only about 2 days. She leaves father, mother, 6 sisters and 4 brothers to mourn the loss of a dear daughter and a kind sister. Big Sandy News, Jul 31, 1908

 

COOKSEY, Mollie

Little Mollie Cooksey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Cooksey died at her home near Fallsburg. Her funeral was preached at the Odd Fellows Hall by Rev. Cassady. A large crowd was out to attend the funeral and show the last tribute of respect to little Mollie. She was taken to the Fallsburg Cemetery and laid to rest beside her father who died a few years ago. Big Sandy news, Jul 17, 1908

 

COX

Walbridge-An infant child of Lafe Cox and wife was buried at Summit Graveyard Tuesday. Big Sandy News, Jul 31, 1908

 

FITZPATRICK, Jasper

Jasper Fitzpatrick, of Prestonsburg, father of Dr. W. J. Fitzpatrick, died at his home near Prestonsburg, last week. He had just returned from a hospital at Ironton, OH, where he was treated for dropsy. Big Sandy News, Jul 24, 1908

 

HICKMAN, Leander

Leander Hickman, a man widely known throughout this entire country, was taken sick last Saturday, growing rapidly worse until his agony was relieved in death at 6:30 p.m. Sunday. His illness was not thought to be of a serious kind until within a few hours of his death. He leaves a family of children, his wife having preceded him across the Jordan of death a short while ago. Big Sandy News, Jul 24, 1908

 

LOW, Stella

Stella Low, born Dec 8, 1875, died at Ashland, KY, May 8, 1908, aged 32 years anf 5 months. She is survived by her husband and 3 children, and one child had preceded her to the realms of light. Stella was converted when quite young and lived a pure and noble life. She said just before leaving this world that she saw her father, who died a few years ago, and her child and many other friends who had passed on before, and the lord was in the midst of them. Big Sandy News, Jul 31, 1908

 

MARTIN, Garland

Williamson, WV Jul 11—Garland Martin, age 17, an employee at the pumping station on the yards, met with an untimely death. He was riding on the rear of the yard engine which backed into a car that had no draw head. Having his face toward the engine he was unable to see the car an in less time than it takes to tell the engine crushed into the car catching the young man and crushing him into jelly. His body was removed to the Y.M.C.A. Hospital where he lingered until 9 p.m. Big Sandy News, Jul 17, 1908

 

NEW, Martha

The pale horse and its rider came to the home of John New, one day last week and took from him his beloved wife, Martha New. She was 47 years old and had been married 7 years, a faithful member of the Baptist Church for 12 years, was a zealous Christian and a faithful and devoted wife and an excellent neighbor. But like many others of the human family, she fell into the toils of that dread destroyer, consumption, and lingered 19 months before relief came. She now sleeps in the family burying ground on the hill overlooking the home where many years of joy were spent. Funeral rites were conducted by Revs. York and New. She leaves a husband, 5 children and scores of friends and relatives to mourn the loss. Big Sandy News, Jul 24, 1908

 

NOBLE, Will

A tragedy occurred on White’s Creek, a few miles south of Catlettsburg, Sunday night, which resulted in the death of one of the prominent young men of that vicinity Monday afternoon. Will Noble, 21, son of James Noble while escorting a young lady home from services at Greasy Church, was assaulted by John Nichols, a former claimant upon the young lady’s affections, who struck him in the head with the loaded butt end of a buggy whip. The physician found him unconscious, and owing to the nature of the injury, could do nothing for him. He died the next afternoon from a burst blood vessel in the brain. Nichols, against whom it is said there are already pending 2 indictments in the Circuit Court was captured in Ceredo, WV and is now in jail at Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Jul 10, 1908

 

RICE, Mrs. German

Friday night Mrs. German Rice was found dead in bed at her residence in Catlettsburg. Mrs. Rice was afflicted with epilepsy, which rendered her subject to fainting spells and on Friday night, after retiring, this faintness came upon her, the result proving fatal. Mrs. Rice was a young married woman of very reserved disposition. Mr. and Mrs. Rice had been resident of Catlettsburg about 3 years, living very quietly and exclusively. They had no children and no relatives in the city. Mrs. Rice was formerly  Miss Roberts, of Paintsville, from which town her father came immediately on receiving the news of his daughter’s sudden death. Mrs. Rice’s remains were taken to Paintsville Saturday evening. Big Sandy News, Jul 10, 1908

 

RUNYON, Emory

Emory Runyon, a young married man of Long Branch, Pike County, KY met death in the tunnel just west of Williamson Tuesday afternoon. Runyon was walking through the tunnel and was struck and killed by passenger train No. 15. His body was badly mangled. The young man was assisting in helping hauling goods from Chattaroy and when the wagon on which he was riding reached the tunnel, he decided to get off and walk through the tunnel and save the long ride around. It is said that those with him cautioned him about a train he laughingly remarked that if he met a train he would butt it off the track. Runyon was a married man and a son in law of Ben Williamson who lives on Long Branch. Big Sandy News, Jul 31, 1908

 

SPRIGGS, Caroline

Boons Camp—Died—since our last writing Mrs. Caroline Spriggs. She leaves a husband and a large family of children, all of whom are married. Big Sandy News, Jul 3, 1908

 

SKAGGS, Noah

A telegram to the NEWS says that Noah Scaggs, aged 17, a son of Henrietta Scaggs, was torn to pieces near Sanders, Ky by an L & N fast freight. He was stealing a ride and fell under the train. Big Sandy News, Jul 24, 1908

 

STROTHER, John Perry

John Perry Strother, one of the oldest and best known farmers of Boyd County, died at his home on Durbin, Monday. Mr. Strother had been in a feeble state of health for several years and his death was due to the infirmities of old age. Deceased was born Aug 4, 1829, and consequently in his 77th year at the time of his death. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, having joined Hampton Lodge, of this city, in 1865. He has spent his life in the Big Sandy Valley, and was widely known and had many friends through Lawrence and Boyd Counties. A number of his relatives are now residents of Catlettsburg, among them being, Mrs. Samantha Ford, Mrs. Cris Ewing, Mrs. Mont Jackson, Mrs. Tim Rich and Mrs. S. F. Strother—Catlettsburg Tribune. Big Sandy News, Jul 24, 1908

 

THOMPSON, Thomas S.

Judge T. S. Thompson and wife, Maria Waldeck Thompson, have again been compelled to pass through one of the saddest ordeals of this life—the giving up of their only child. On last Saturday morning, July 25th, little Thomas S. Thompson, age 15 months, closed his eyes in death after an illness of only a week’s duration. It had been apparent for 2 or 3 days to some of those who had watched by his bedside that his chances for recovery were very slight. The brain became involved and all efforts to restore the little fellow to health were of no avail. The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon from the residence, under the direction of Rev. O. F. Williams, of the M. E. Church, South. The body was laid to rest in the Pine Hill Cemetery. Less than 3 years ago these parents passed through a very similar experience. Another little son, 22 months of age, died in much the same manner as did this one. Little Thomas has gone to join Clyde in that Eternal city. Big Sandy news, Jul 31, 1908

 

THOMPSON, Samuel

Samuel Thompson died at his home on Little Blaine, after a long illness. He was the father of Mrs. George Picklesimer and Mrs. John Thompson of Louisa. He was a good citizen and will be missed by the people of his community. Big Sandy News, Jul 17, 1908

 

Uncle Sam Thompson was buried Tuesday of last week in the old Thomson graveyard on the farm of his boyhood days. He was about 82 years old, had lived a long and useful life, had been one of the best citizens of the entire country. With one exception he was the oldest of the entire Thompson family in this country. Had been a sober, industrious man and served his country well. He lived a Christian life 50 or 60 years. He leaves a wife, several children and hosts of friends and relatives to mourn their loss. Big Sandy News, Jul 24, 1908

 

WELLMAN, Hermia Irane

Hermia Irane, daughter of Frank and Hattie Wellman, was born Dec 9, 1904, died Jun `16, 1908. Hermia was a sweet little girl of rare beauty, and very intelligent. She was the light and joy of the home. Only lived a few hours after an attack of membranous croup. All was done that loving hands could do. We all loved her, but God loved her best, at 7:15 o’clock the sweet spirit winged it way to the House not built by hands, where she joined the society of the pure and blessed. A special dispensation was granted the Big Sandy Lodge of I.O.O.F. who went in full regalia to help in the burial of the precious child, who was laid to rest in the cemetery at Zelda. Misses Judie Turman, Ruth Wellman, Ethel Thompson and Nola Estep were pall bearers. Big Sandy News, Jul 3, 1908

 

WELLMAN, Joseph

Walbridge--V. B. Wellman received the sad news of the death of his brother, Joseph, who lived in Wise County, VA. Joseph Wellman was formerly a citizen of this neighborhood and of Louisa. He was here about a year ago on a visit to his many relatives and friends. V. B. is the only one now living out of 6 children. Joseph was 70 years of age. He leaves one daughter in Virginia and one son in this county. Big Sandy News, Jul 31, 1908

 


 

AUGUST 1908

 


 

ABSHER, James

In the death of James Absher, who died near Torchlight last Thursday, the community and county in which he lived an honorable life, suffer a loss. He was a man in humble life, but he had so lived that his influence was all for good, and when the final summons came it found him prepared for the life beyond. He was honest, moral, industrious and nothing but words of regret at his untimely decease and praise for the man are uttered by those who knew him best. His wife is a sister of Frank Pigg, of Louisa, and he was about 40 years of age and the father of 13 children. The cause of his death was peritonitis. Big Sandy News, Aug 21, 1908

 

ARNETT

Last Saturday evening a phone message received from Prestonsburg by Mayor  Snyder, saying that a young man named Arnett had been killed by a man named Wireman, and asking that his father, Green Arnett, be informed of the tragedy. Green Arnett is an employee of Col. Jay H. Northup and lives on the Eloise farm. As soon as possible he was told of the tragic occurrence and he left at one for the scene of the homicide. Big Sandy News, Aug 21, 1908

 

BAKER, Samuel

Samuel Baker, formerly of Ft. Gay, but recently of Huntington, died last Thursday at Fort Gay, where Mr. and Mrs. Baker, were visiting their son, Lindsey Baker. Last Saturday Mr. and Mrs. Baker left for a visit to their son, and the former was as well then as ever. His death evidently was quite sudden as no previous word had been received here of his being ill. Mr. Baker was about 65 years of age, was a veteran of the Civil War, and had resided in Huntington about 5 years. He (as well as all his family) was a member of the Baptist Church, and was a man who won and retained the friendship of all whose acquaintanceship he formed.. Big Sandy News, Aug 28, 1908

 

BLANKENSHIP

A little child of Arthur Blankenship, who lives at the old Walter Carter place, died last Friday of diphtheria. Big Sandy News, Aug 21, 1908

 

CAMPBELL, Fairfax

Fairfax Campbell, of Racine, WV, died very suddenly at his home last Monday. This was communicated by long distance phone to his uncle, Mr. A. M. Campbell, of this city, who left Tuesday to attend the burial of his nephew. Young Mr. Campbell visited his uncle here last winter. He was 19 years old. Big Sandy News, Aug 14, 1908

 

CARR, Eugene

A little child of John Carr, who lives in Louisa, died last Thursday. It had injured its foot in some way and gangrene ensued. Blood poisoning followed, and from this the child died. It was about 16 months old. Big Sandy News, Aug 28, 1908

 

Death again visited our community on Aug 20, 1908, and took from the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Carr, their darling little boy—Eugene—age 1 year 4 months and 13 days. The home has lost a sparkling jewel but God needed another little angel amidst His shining band. Big Sandy News, Aug 28, 1908

 

CARROWAY

Two sons of William Carroway, who lives on Toms Creek about 2 miles from Wayne were killed in the mines at Red Jacket last week, and the father seriously injured in the same accident. The three, who are miners, were making the descent from the mines when the rope broke precipitating the car to the bottom. The bodies of the young men were brought to Wayne on Sunday and interred in the burying ground of the farm of Mr. Carroway. Big Sandy News, Aug 21,1908

 

CLAY, Mrs. Loyd (Lizzie Preston)

Mrs. Loyd Clay, of Paintsville, who went to Cincinnati last week for treatment, did not survive the operation which was thought to be her only chance for recovery. The body was taken to Paintsville for burial. Mrs. Clay’s maiden name was Miss Lizzie Preston and she was a member of the Methodist Church. Besides her many friends she leaves a husband and 2 little girls, one 5 and the baby, only a few weeks old, to mourn their loss. But she was a constant devout Christian. Big Sandy News, Aug 14, 1908

 

COMPTON, Shannon

Shannon Compton, whose death by drowning is noted in the West Virginia Column of the News is well known in this county. He is a relative of Squire John Compton, of Hulette, and Jake Compton of Buchanan. His body was recovered Tuesday and the funeral took place at his home at Falls Mills Wednesday. Big Sandy News, Aug 28,1908

 

ELKINS, Nannie

Polly’s  Chapel—Died, Jul 31st, Nannie Elkins, wife of J. W. Elkins. Cancer was the cause of her death. She leaves a husband, 3 children and a host of friends to mourn their loss. She was the widow of Willard Webb, son of A. L. Webb, who died some years ago. Her married life with Mr. Elkins had been of but short duration. The Lord called Nannie away from him. She was a good Christian and was baptized a few Sundays ago. She was ready to meet her blessed Jesus at any moment and she is now sweetly resting in the arms of her dear Savior and has gained a home in heaven. She was laid to rest in Elkins Cemetery, funeral services were conducted by Revs. Cassady and Hulette. Big Sandy News, Aug 7, 1908

 

GAMBILL, Billie

Skaggs—Uncle Billie Gambill died last Saturday morning. He was nearing his 4 score and 10 years and was the father of the late H H. Gambill, of Blaine. He was laid to rest Sunday in the family graveyard near his home. Big Sandy News, Aug 14, 1908

 

GRAHAM, Cynthia

The funeral of Mrs. Cynthia Graham, whose death was noted in Tuesday’s issue will take place form the Presbyterian Church at Hanging Rock, Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Graham was the widow of R. B. Graham, with whom she resided in Ironton for many years, removing to Hanging Rock in 1881. She was born in Floyd County, KY, Sep 10, 1840. Mrs. Graham was a sincere Christian woman, possessed of many noble attributes. Her death leaves a great vacancy in the community in which she resided. She leaves 2 sons, Henry and Clancy, and a daughter, Kate. Ironton Register. Big Sandy News, Aug 28, 1908

 

HONAKER, Mrs. Robert

Mrs. Robert Honaker, of Pikeville, passed away Friday afternoon. She leaves a husband and a little girl, Levon; father and mother, 3 sisters and one brother, and a host of friends to mourn their loss. She was a faithful wife and mother, a good neighbor, and an ardent supporter and worker of the Methodist Church. Big Sandy News, Aug 21, 1908

 

LOWE, George

George Lowe, a car repairer, was killed while at work Saturday morning in the local yards at Williamson. An engine was about to take a string of cars to the repair shop, and Lowe, who was standing between two cars was caught between the couplings. The unfortunate man was so badly crushed that he lived but 45 minutes. Big Sandy News, Aug 21, 1908

 

LYONS, Walter

Ulysses—Death entered the home of H. B. Lyons and wife some 2 or 3 weeks ago and took from them their little son Walter, aged 7 years. Big Sandy News, Aug 7, 1908

 

SPENCER, Mrs. Thomas

Mrs. Thomas Spencer, who lived not far from Charley, this county died very suddenly last Monday afternoon. She was in good health, and was picking beans in the garden near her house when, without warning, she dropped to the ground, dead. She was about (?30 or 80?) of age and was an estimable woman. She leaves a husband and children to mourn the loss of a good wife and mother. Big Sandy News, Aug 28, 1908

 

STEWART

Mrs. Stewart, mother of Hon. J. F. Stewart, of Ashland, died at her home in Carter County Sunday afternoon, and the funeral occurred at the old homestead on Bolt’s Fork this county. Big Sandy News, Aug 21, 1908

 

STRATTON, Mrs. Richard

Mrs. Richard Stratton died quite suddenly at her home below Harold, early Saturday morning. She leaves a husband and 4 little children. She was formerly Miss Hester Williamson, daughter of Taylor Williamson. The interment took place Saturday evening owing to the swollen and discolored condition of the body. Big Sandy News, Aug 7, 1908

 

WELLMAN, Frank

Uncle Frank Wellman, one of our oldest citizens, departed this life Jul 21, 1908, aged 76 years. His death was the result of a surgical operation he had undergone a few days previous, he being too far advanced in years and worn by disease to overcome the same. He was a member of the Christian Church and his last expressions, given while struggling with the last enemy, were most convincing evidence of his acceptance with God. But few men enjoyed the kind regards of so many of their acquaintances or felt the malice of so few as did he, hence, his death, although at so mature an age, has thrown a mantel of sadness over many hearts. He was living at the home of his son, Noah, at the time of his death. He leaves 3 sons and one daughter, his wife having preceded him to the “Home of the Blessed” about 4 years. He was laid to rest in the Wellman Cemetery, the funeral services were conducted by the M. P. S. of which he had been a member for years. Big Sandy News, Aug 14, 1908

 


SEPTEMBER 1908

 


 

ADKINS

Yatesville—Died, on the 17th, inst. a 10 months old child of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Adkins. It was their only child. Big Sandy News, Sep 25, 1908

 

ALLEN, Gussie (Brown)

Ulysses—Sunday morning, Sep 6, Mrs. Gussie Allen, of this place departed this place for the one far beyond. She has been very low with consumption for quite a while. She is survived by her husband, Frank Allen, and a little daughter about 4 years old, and a son about 2 and half years old. She was the daughter of Frank Brown, of Paintsville, and came here the bride of Mr. Frank Allen, perhaps 5 years ago. She has made many friends since she came her and will be sadly missed. She was taken back to her old home at Davisville for burial. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

BOGGS, Arthur

Olive Hill, KY, Sep 6—The mangled remains of Arthur Boggs, of near here, were found on the railroad track at E. K. Junction this morning. Some suspect that he was murdered and his body placed on the track. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

BRADLEY, Violet

Violet, little daughter of W. M. and Martha Bradley, was born Dec 10, 1906, died Aug 1, 1908. She was sick only 2 weeks. She died with spinal trouble. The Lord had called and little Violet had to answer. She leaves to mourn her loss a father, mother, 4 brothers and 4 sisters. One little sister having preceded her to the Spirit Land. Her funeral was preached at her home by the writer of this sketch. Then her body was taken to the Bradley Chapel, at Yatesville, KY and buried on the green hillside. S. H. Warrell, Poca, WV. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

CARTMELL, Lane

On Aug 29 Lane Cartmell departed this life. Mr. Cartmell was formerly a citizen of this county but for the past 12 or 18 years he had lived in Boyd County. Mr. Cartmell’s health had been bad for a good many years. He had come here to visit relatives and many friends when he was taken down and could not return home. He was a member of the Christian church. He was laid to rest in the Summit burying ground beside his first wife and  daughters. Mr. Cartmell leaves 2 brothers, one sister yet living. William Cartmell of Williamson and Thomas Cartmell of Buchanan, and Mrs. ?? Fortner. His funeral was preached by Revs. Fraley and Rickey of Torchlight. Big Sandy News, Sep 4, 1908

 

CASTLE, Teddie

Ulysses—On Aug 31st, Millard Castle arrived here with his little son, Teddie, who died of diphtheria at the home of his aunt, Mrs. Marion Castle, of Cincinnati. Mrs. Castle accompanied her little nephew’s remains back here, where they laid him to rest Sep 1st. The burial services were conducted by Rev. Milt Allen. Mr. Castle returned to Cincinnati to the home of his sister in law, last Saturday, who had charge of his only surviving child, a little girl of 6 years old. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

CHURCH, Deney

Long Branch—The death angel visited our community on Sep 14, 1908 and took from Mr. and Mrs. George Church, their darling little boy, Deney, aged 9 years 10 months and 14 days. Big Sandy News, Sep 25, 1908

 

COMPTON, Sarah (Dingess)

Walbridge—The wife of  Karl Compton died on Aug 20 her soul took its flight back to the God which gave it. She had been a sufferer ever since she had lived in our neighborhood. Karl Compton married Mrs. Sarah Dingess, of Dingess, WV about a year ago they moved to their farm here on Three-Mile last spring where they intended to make their future home. On the date above mentioned she bid farewell to her earthly friends. She was loved by all who became acquainted with her during her short stay among us. The cause of her death was consumption. She was fully prepared to go. She leaves a husband and a little baby just a month old and a host of friends to mourn their loss. Her body now rests in the Summit graveyard. Big Sandy News, Sep 4, 1908

 

COOPER

ROASTED ALIVE

TWO CHILDREN IN FIRE BELIVED TO HAVE BEEN STARTED BY INCENDIARY

Charles Cooper and wife, the parents, also badly burned—two arrests made

The horrible crime, the foulest and the most appalling tragedy this part of the State, probably in the history of Kentucky, threw its shadow over Lawrence County Friday night. A thrill of ?? chills every heart, and a ??? of hot and righteous wrath ahs ??? over this section, such as it has never felt before. A feeling that ???ment, swift, sure and condig?? Must follow this act of supreme atrocity pervades this county and with this feeling is united the declared sentiment that if there is the slightest hesitation in mettting out stern, unfaltering justice to the guilty wretch and his accomplices, Judge Lynch backed by the dominant sentiment of the people, will summon his jury and appoint his willing executioners. What was it that has so stirred and moved the quiet, orderly, law-abiding people of staid old Lawrence? Murder, murder in its most cruel, most horrible form. The midnight assassin chose no quickly acting bullet, no death-dealing bludgeon, no keen edged knife. He chose the torch with its cruel flame, its consuming breath, the awful agony of its innocent victims and their death—death in its most horrible, cruelest form. To satisfy the hate of some miserable wretch and his equally miserable and equally guilty accomplice, 2 innocent young lives went oun in a hell of writhing, seething flame, a fond father and mother linger in agony between tortured life and probable death, and the home which comfortably sheltered these helpless victims of a demon’s hate is only ashes, whirled hither and yon by the gentle September breeze.

 

Some 15 miles from Louisa is the mouth of Cherokee Creek, a tributary of Big Blaine. Two miles up this creek you find the mouth of one of its branches called by most people Abb’s Creek. Near its mouth there stood before midnight Friday, Aug 28, an old-fashioned double log house. Int his house, their home, bought and paid for, lived Charles Cooper, his wife and 5 children. Cooper was known far and near as an honest, sober, industrious law-abiding man. On this fateful Friday he had gone to Webbville, distant about 9 miles, with his team. He left there about 6 o’clock. It was late when he arrived home,a nd too tired to await the preparation of a hot meal he ate a cold supper and all who had ??? already retired, wnt to bed. Soon ?? were asleep, some, alas, to sleep no more on earth. Somewhere near midnight Mrs. Cooper was awakened by the roar of flames. She jumped out of bed and opened the dining room door. Here she was met by the leaping flames. She dashed through a furnace of blaze and smoke and reached her twin babies and started to the outside. She had nearly reached the door when she fainted. Mr. Cooper found her and succeeded in getting her to the yard and hurried back to save his children. He had gone only a few feet, when he too, succumbed to the heat and fell to the floor. Sleepingin a room on the porch was a young man named Griffith who lived with the family. Griffith had been awakened, and in trying to escape he stumble over Mr. Cooper. He got him outside where he found the oldest girl unharmed by the fire. She had saved herself and one of her little sisters. As Griffith was dragging Cooper outside he grabbed one of the twins and carried it to safety. He entered the house again in a sublimely heroic effort to save the other twin sister, but was compelled to retreat from the roaring flames. The four year old girl perished in its bed. Both Mr. Cooper and his wife are horribly burned. Mrs. Cooper’s hands, back and limbs are a mass of deep burns, while Mr. Cooper’s head, face and chest are, in many places, completely charred. The twin girl who met such an awful death was only 8 months old. Her sister whose tender body fed the flames kindled by the hand of hate was 4 years old. When day dawned upon the scene of this sad tragedy nothing was left of these helpless children save a few charred bones. Mutely they appeal, not far vengeance at the hands of self-appointed judges and self-chosen executioners, but, they appeal for diligent, tireless search for the real offenders and for speedy trial, for inflexible justice, and for punishment adequate and sure.

 

It did not take long in the thickly settled region for news of this dread transaction to spread. The glare of the burning house attracted many, and these were the first to arrive. These did what they could for the relief of the injured and stricken ones, and through them the pitiful story was spread until hundreds, some living many miles away, were on the scene, shocked and appalled by the horrible event. Who did this dreadful thing? What monster in the guise of man applied the torch to this peaceful home and sent 2 little children to eternity? “We don’ know,” said they, “but let’s get the dong.” A message was hastily sent to Bill Mullins, at Webbville, to come with his bloodhounds.

 

It was while they were waiting for the dogs that the news of the direful tragedy reached Louisa, and this entire community was thrilled with a feeling of horror because of the awful crime which had been committed, and of pity for those who survived. It was not long after the first news came before it was told us that “they had caught John Sprouse and was bringing him to Louisa.” “Why,” said one, “what had John Sprouse to do with it?” While we were waiting and listening to every ring of the phone Bill Mullins and his dogs had come. All the way from Dry Fork to Cherokee they had met or passed crowds of people and paid not the slightest attention to anybody. The scene of the holocaust was crowded with all sorts and conditions of men, yet not one of them attracted the notice of the sagacious brutes. Suddenly they give a yelp, and straining on their leash, they dash away. For a  mile and a half they go, not once faltering. The house of John Sprouse was reached. They darted through the open door, not noticing the woman and children, but they, jumped at Sprouse, and Mullins said, “Here’s your man.” Then followed the protestations of innocence and denials of guilt, but, somehow, the large majority of the crowd, some of those present being his relatives, accented the unspoken testimony of the dogs as strong evidence of Sprouse’s guilt. Many of them were cognizant of matters to be alluded further along in this story. This knowledge, coupled with the fact, that, although he must have known of the great excitement in the country and its cause, Sprouse had not been down to proffer aid or sympathy. All this made so strong an impression on the crowd that very little time was wasted before Squire Boggs issued a warrant charging Sprouse with arson and murder. Upon this warrant he was arrested by Deputy Sheriff G. M. Sparks, who, with a large number of guards, started for Louisa.

 

(Note this next section was partly cut off )

Deep interest in the ???  fested in this city, ????ing of the officer and his??? Anxiously awaited. “Pho?? Were received from various??? Along the route and ??? addied greatly to the ????But if any had the idea of ??? and unlawful justice being meted out to the accused nobody???. Yet, such was the abhorrence of the citizens of the crime and their righteous anger and just indignation of ist committal, the NEWS believes ??? whiole one of our people advocate ?? a session of Judge Lynch none save the officers of the law would have raised a finger in behalf of the trembling man if those who came with him had sought his life in explation of the crime of which they believed him guilty. Preceded and followed by large crowds Sprouse was taken to the Court House and the warrant returned to /county Judge Thompson. Neither prisoner nor Commonwealth was ready for the examination and the court set Thursday September 3rd for a hearing and the defendant was committed to jail.

 

Judge Thompson had a long talk with those who brought Sprouse to Louisa, concerning the sentiment of the Cherokee people regarding the accused. Opinions differed. Some of those questioned were firm in their opinion that a mob was sure to come; others that he would not be molested. The Judge carefully weighed all he heard and concluded to allow the prisoner to remain in the custody of the Jailer until he heard something conclusive. The “something conclusive” was heard Monday , when County Attorney Savage phoned from the Blaine Country to look out for a mob. Acting upon this information the Judge made out commitment papers sending Sprouse to the Boyd County jail, to which place he was taken by Sheriff Slone that afternoon. This was a wise action on the part of the authorities, for that night, between 11 and 12 o’clock, 200 determined and incensed men came into Louisa on horseback and went straight to the county jail and demanded that Sprouse be delivered into their hands. About 200 men turned back from Busseyville when the report reached them that Sprouse had been removed to Catlettsburg. Those who came on to Louisa believed the report to be untrue.

 

They aroused the jailer and insisted upon going through the jail, and were permitted to do so to satisfy themselves that the man was not here. They claimed that their intentions was not to harm Sprouse, but to make him tell whether Frank Kelley had any connection with the crime. It is hardly necessary to tell the people of Lawrence County who frank Kelley is, neither will the News say much about him, except that he served a term in the Frankfort penitentiary for shooting and crippling his own son so that he suffered the loss of one leg. He is also an uncle of John Sprouse.

 

Cooper bought the farm on which he lived from the mother of Frank Kelley and her daughter, America Castle and daughter. Sprouse had lived in the Cooper house and was probably living in it when Cooper bought it. At any rate he claimed a part of the place, and also some lumber which was in or about the house. A citizen of Louisa who knows the “whole shooting match” says that he told Cooper once that he (Cooper) had moved into a hell of a place and advised him to buy out Sprouse and get him to leave, and the citizen further said that he understood that this was done. There was a rumor which is given for whit it is worth that Sprouse had carried off some property belonging to the farm because, as he contended, he had not been paid for his lumber. There had also been suits between Cooper and Mrs. Castle and Sprouse, but it is said that these had all been settled. There were hints more or  less plain when the Cherokee people were in the Court House last Saturday night to the effect that there “was something behind all this burning.” Frank Kelley’s name was mentioned more than once so our people were in no wise surprised, when the news came Tuesday morning that he had been arrested and would be taken to Louisa. About 2 o’clock that afternoon Deputy Sheriff Mel Sparks and a single guard appeared at the Court House with Frank Kelley, a prisoner and a much frightened man. By the advice of his attorney, so we are told, he waived an examination. He was held without bail, charged with being an accessory before the fact to the murder of the Cooper children and the burning of his house. He was more than willing to leave a country which is getting too hot to hold him, and he heaved a big sigh of relief when he was taken aboard the afternoon train, bound for Mt. Sterling, to which place he has been committed for safe keeping, pending the action of the grand jury at the next term of the Lawrence Circuit Court. He was in the custody of Sheriff Stone.. Sprouse has also waived a preliminary hearing and will remain in the Boyd County jail, waiting the order of the Lawrence Circuit Court. Big Sandy News, Sep 4, 1908 (Note: there is more in the Sep 11 issue of the newspaper but it is partly unreadable and hard to make sense of. )

 

DAVIS, Levina

Wednesday evening of last week, Mrs. Levina Davis, wife of Joseph Davis, died at her home near Meek Station, Johnson County, from the infirmities of old age. Mrs. Davis was quite well known here and both sister in law and aunt of Rev. Z. Meek. She belonged to one of the most prominent families in the Sandy Valley. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

JOHNSON, Squire M.

Squire M. Johnson, one of the best known men in that section, died at his home in Ceredo Sunday evening. Death was due to complication of diseases and old age. At the time of his death he was 65 years old. The funeral services took place at Ceredo Monday morning in the Baptist Church. The services were conducted by the members of the Masons, Odd Fellow and Modern Woodmen, of which he was a prominent and valuable member. After the services the interment took place at White’s Creek. Big Sandy News, Sep 25, 1908

 

JORDAN, Mary

Little Blaine—Died, on Sep 13th, Mrs. Mary Jordan. Big Sandy News, Sep 18, 1908

 

MILLER, Mary

Ulysses—The death angel has certainly swept through this neighborhood with its relentless hand during the last week, for the passing of Aunt Mary Miller, Sep 7, is the third victim of the grim monster during the last week. Aunt Mary, as she was called, has long been suffering with dropsy and this morning, Sep 7, closed her eyes to the scenes of earth and suffering. The deceased was nearly 70 years of age. Her funeral was preached by Rev. Albert Miller, after which she was laid to ret beside her late husband, Rev. Mark Miller. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

MINOTTI, Lee

The dead body of Lee Minotti was found about a mile above Fort Gay early Sunday morning alongside the N & W railroad track. The legs were cut off and the body badly mangled. No one saw the accident. One of the crew on passenger No. 3 saw the body and notified the agent at Fort Gay. The boy had been employed at Kermit recently, but had come home to attend school. On Saturday he returned to Kermit to collect the balance due him for work. He got aboard a freight train Saturday night to come home. It is supposed he was riding on the bumpers and in some way was thrown off when within a mile of his home. He was a son of Mrs. Belle Minotti, and a grandson of Mr. I. H. Harris of Fort Gay. He was a bright and industrious boy and his widowed mother will feel the loss very heavily. His age was 16 years. The body was laid to rest Monday evening in the S. C. Beaire ground. Big Sandy News, Sep 18,1908

 

NORRIS, William

An accident with fatal results occurred near Fort Gay last Wednesday afternoon. William Norris, married, living on Mill Creek, about 4 miles from town, had started to his home. He was driving a spirited horse attached to a delivery wagon, and had started down the hill from the old Beaire and Billups store. Some part of the harness or the wagon broke and the horse suddenly stopped. This threw Norris forward and he fell under the animal’s heels, Before he could be extricated he received from the horse’s heels injuries which at the time did not appear serious. He rapidly grew worse, however, until death ensued about midnight of Sunday. Mr. Norris suffered intensely, and at one time an operation for his relief was proposed. A slight change for the better caused a postponement of the operation. He soon began to sink and died of peritonitis. The funeral occurred last Tuesday morning near the home and was largely attended by relatives and friends. The distant relatives who were present were his 3 brothers, George and Lager of Fallsburg, and Claude, of Huntington and his sisters, Mrs. York of Catlettsburg and Mrs. Ella Crank of Williamson and Mrs. Claude Norris and son Fred of Huntington. Mr. Norris was born in Ohio. He was 56 years of age and leaves a widow, but no children. Mrs. Norris is a daughter of Warren Robinson, a well known farmer and stock man of Wayne County. William Norris was the second brother to meet death by accident. “Doc” Norris having been accidentally killed in Ironton several years ago. Big Sandy News, Sep 25, 1908

 

RUPERT, Frank

An accident occurred in the Middle Creek mines in Floyd county last Monday, resulting in the death of Frank Rupert. A fall of slate caught the man and crushed him so badly that he died soon afterward. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908

 

RUTHERFORD, Will

The NEWS is indebted to the Mingo Republican for most of the facts of this bloody story.

Last week Will Rutherford, who was born and reared in Pike County, was shot and killed in a revolver battle with policemen at Richwood, Richie County. According to reports, 2 policemen at Richwood and placed Harve Elliott, also from this section under arrest and Rutherford, who was his son in law, interfered in his behalf. It is said that Rutherford was drinking and demanded of the police that they release Elliott. A few hot words were exchanged and Rutherford drew his revolver and began firing. The chief of police was shot in the right arm and another policeman was so badly wounded that he has since died. One of the balls from Rutherford’s revolver also struck his father in law and inflicted a serious wound.

 

Reports sent out from Richwood say that the chief of police fired the shot which killed Rutherford. After being wounded in the right arm he drew his revolver with his left and fired, the ball striking Rutherford in the forehead. Elliott tells that the shot was fired by some unknown man who was a witness to the affair. With the death of Will Rutherford the last scene enacted in the tragic history of a Kentucky family.

 

At the farm house on Pond Creek the friends and relatives have gathered around the remains of the father, Joe Rutherford, and his 2 sons, John and Will, all three of whom were victims of the deadly revolver. A third son is now in an asylum, his mind demented and his sight gone. Mrs. Joe Rutherford, the mother of John and Will, died some years before her husband was killed. About 25 years ago Joe Rutherford was shot and killed by Bill Adkins, of Martin County, KY. The shooting occurred at the mouth of Sycamore Creek, now the eastern limits of Williamson. The 2 men were riding along the county road and engaged in a dispute over politics. Adkins, it is charged, but  with very slight provocation, drew his revolver and shot Rutherford dead. He succeeded in making his escape from the country and has not since been heard of.

 

About 6 years ago John Rutherford was shot and killed in Kentucky by Ephraim Hatfield. It will be recalled that Rutherford and Harry Watts went to the home of Thomps Hatfield, father of “Bad Eph” on Blackberry Creek in Pike County, for the purpose of arresting him. It is said that the 2 men rushed into the Hatfield home, drawn revolvers in hand, while old man Hatfield and his family were sitting around the fire place. Eph was lying on the bed but raised with his trusty revolver in hand, when the 2 men rushed into the room. John Rutherford it is said fired the first shot, killed old man Hatfield, who raised form his chair in front of his son. Watts began firing and although mortally wounded, Eph did not err in his aim. Rutherford was shot dead. Fatally wounded Watts ran from the house and was found a few hours later in a sitting position in a fence corner dead. Eph was a young man who frequently got into trouble but old man Thomps was a law abiding and peaceful citizen.

 

Joe Rutherford was considered one of the best citizens of this section and it is said that his murder was cold blooded and uncalled for. John and Will Rutherford were of wild disposition and were considered dangerous when under the influence of whiskey and it is told that they of- ?? their father, “with their boots on.” Will, it is said, had killed 4 men in his wanderings in West Virginia. Big Sandy News, Sep 25, 1908

 

WARD, Bud

Ironton is sure enough going dry, for Bud Ward is dead. The gallant hero of many a booze fight has closed his eyes o this world to face another. The passing of bud is a correct illustration of that song, “If You Don’t Change Your Way of Living, That’s the Way You’ll Die”. Bud was nearly always drunk and that’s the way he died. Although he was harmless, he had spent many years of service with the State, in the penitentiaries, jails, work houses and asylums. He was overcome by gas, almost burned to death and even struck and almost killed by a train during his career in Ironton But it took Ironton imitation whisky to administer the coup de grace. But was the worst degenerate Louisa  or any other town ever produced. Big Sandy News, Sep 25, 1908

 

WOODS, Eunice

Eunice, daughter of J. H. Woods, of Vessie, died Wednesday morning of diphtheria, after an illness of only 36 hours. She was 11 years old and was Mr. Wood’s second daughter. The disease which carried her off in such a short time was of the most malignant type. There have been several cases of diphtheria in that neighborhood recently, but this is the first death. Deceased was an unusually bright girl and her death has cast a gloom over the entire neighborhood. Less than a year has passed since death took another child from Mr. and Mrs. Woods. Big Sandy News, Sep 18, 1908

 

WRIGHT, Carrie

Overda—Died, Sep 4th, Carrie wright, the infant child of William and Minnie Wright, age 7 months and 4 days. Carrie was a sweet little baby.  Little Carrie was laid to rest in the Wright cemetery. Big Sandy News, Sep 11, 1908


 

OCTOBER 1908

 


 

BLANKENSHIP

Yatesville—Died, on the 5th, inst, the one year old child of William Blankenship and wife. Big Sandy News, Oct 16, 1908

 

BOOTHE, Charley

Yatesville—Died, on Oct 1st Charley Boothe, one of our best citizens leaving a wife and many other relatives to mourn their loss. His funeral and burial services were conducted by the Rev. R. F. Rice and the Junior Order of your place, of which he was a member. His remains were laid to rest in the Bradley graveyard. Charley was a good boy and will be badly missed in this neighborhood. Big Sandy News, Oct 9,1908

 

BROWN

Ulysses—An infant child of Babe Brown and wife died Sep 14. It had been very low for some time with spinal trouble. Big Sandy News, Oct 16, 1908

 

COCHRAN, Tony

Pond Creek, KY, was the scene of an ugly shooting affair last Thursday when Tony Cockran age 15, was shot and killed by his brother, Millard Cochran, who was 2 years his senior. All kinds of reports have been circulated since the shooting and it has been a difficult matter to get the straight of it, but the following appears to be about the facts in the case:

It  seems that on last Thursday the 2 brothers together with another brother whose name is George were out hunting and as they were returning home late in the afternoon Millard and Tony got into a quarrel. One word brought on another and finally Millard drew his gun on his younger brother, Tony, aiming at his young brother. The other brother George, seeing his brother’s deadly intent knocked the gun down just as it fired and the shot entered the thigh near the hip of the unfortunate boy. Doctors were immediately summoned, and on reaching there found him in a critical condition. An attempt was made to save his life by amputating his leg, but the wound proved a fatal one and nothing could save him and on Friday shortly after the noon hour he passed away. Millard Cochran at the examining trial before Squire Reynolds stated the shooting was accidental, although a number of other persons heard the dying brother’s statement that the shooting was the result of a quarrel. George Cochran’s testimony was rather in favor of his brother Millard, but it is thought by many that he did this to save his brother from the gallows or the state penitentiary for life, at least. Squire Reynolds held the prisoner for $500 bond and being unable to give it was sent to Pikeville jail on Sunday to await the action of the grand jury. Big Sandy News, Oct 9, 1908

 

COCKRILL, Tom

The noted Tom Cockrill was recently killed by a train in Louisville and the body taken to Jackson for interment.. His brother Town Marshal James Cockrill, who was assassinated in Jackson, it is alleged, by the Hargis gang, and who died in a hospital in Lexington and was buried in the old Cockrill burying ground in Breathitt County, and Tom expressed the desire, should he meet with sudden death, no matter in what part of the country, to be brought back and buried beside his brother. The wish was expressed to his uncle, Sam Jett, of Winchester, who is instrumental in carrying it out. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908

 

DANIEL

At Paintsville Mr. and Mrs. Fon Daniel have lost 2 infant sons by death due to diphtheria. The report has reached here that the claim is made that the outbreak of diphtheria is due to the fact that an excavation was made under the Daniel house and on the former site of a house  where 50 years ago diphtheria prevailed for a time. At the time mentioned Marion Preston lost a number of his children on account of diphtheria. The building then occupied by him was torn down and the Daniel building erected on the site. A few weeks ago, Mr. Daniel, while making some improvements on his house, had a basement dug and it is the claim of the physicians that the diphtheria germs which had lain dormant for 50 years again made their appearance thus causing the death of the Daniel children. Only 2 deaths have occurred so far, and it is not thought there will be a further spread of the disease. Herald. Big Sandy News, Oct 30, 1908

 

DAVIS

Ulysses—An infant child of Henry Davis and wife died Sep 13th. This being the fifth child which they  have given up in infancy. Big Sandy News, Oct 16, 1908

 

HORTON, Willis

Willis Horton, an iron bridge worker whose home was at Hubbardstown, WV, 7 miles below Louisa, lost his life at Columbus, OH, the 20th. He was employed in constructing a steel building and fell from the third story. Both legs and both arms were broken, and there were other injuries. He lived 8 hours. Horton helped to construct the Louisa and Fort Gay Bridge. He married Miss Lutie Massie of Hubbardstown. Big Sandy News, Oct 30, 1908

 

JONES, John W.

John W. Jones was born in the town of Prestonsburg in April 1833. He died in Louisa, KY, about midnight of Monday Oct 26, 1908, aged 75 years and a few months. His funeral was held in the M. E. Church, South on the afternoon of Wednesday, Oct 28 and at its close his mortal remains were carried to the Jones burial ground where so many of his kindred rest in their last sleep and were there interred. He is survived by 6 children and one sister, Mrs. Launa Mead, Mrs. Almas Fowler, Mrs. Mary Chapman, all of Mingo County, WV, Mrs. Amanda West of Florida, Mrs. R. S. Stone and Miss Addie Jones and Mrs. Emily Medley, the surviving sister, of Catlettsburg. Of these all save Mrs. West were present at the last earthly scene. Mr. Jones was married twice. His first wife was a sister of the late Judge John M. Rice. She died many years ago. His second marriage was with a daughter of the late Col. William Smith. Her death occurred only a few years since.

 

It is a sad duty to record the death of a man like John W. Jones, but it is an easy task to speak of him. There is no searching for words and phrases with which to say something, and that something not too little nor too much. Nearly his entire life was passed in Louisa, where his life was an open book and read of all men, and in all these many years there was no stain upon his record, no blot upon his ??ntainmess escutcheon. He was a member of the church through whose portals his body was gently borne, and to its laws and creed he was ever faithful and true. He was a Free and Accepted Mason, and his loyalty and devotion were notable and in the highest degree worthy of emulation. And when in the alternate cloud and sunshine of that October afternoon his brethren of the mystic tie dropped upon his coffined form the “spring of acacia,” emblem of a fadeless immortality, they paid homage to one who never by word or deed brought reproach upon the Order which he so much loved. Big Sandy News, Oct 30, 1908

 

LESTER, Isaac

Seebert, WV, Oct 13—W. H. Adams, Louisa, KY—Isaac Lester was shot and killed dead and corpse will be at Louisa Wednesday, the 14th. Have carriage to carry corpse to his home. W. M. Lester.

The above telegram to a Louisa friend of the Lesters conveyed the sorrowful intelligence that one of the most highly respected and worthy citizens of this county had met his death. The circumstances connected with the untimely fate of Mr. Lester are the most distressing character. Following a custom of years Mr. Lester went to Seebert, in the mountains of West Virginia about 2 weeks ago to take his annual hunt. While there he made his headquarters with 2 of his sons, William and Lanford. On Monday last, he in company with Lanford, a man about 45 years of age, went to hunt squirrels Lanford shot a squirrel in a tree and the little animal fell. He thought it was not killed and had gone to a lower limb, and fired again at what he supposed was the squirrel. His father unknown to the son, was hidden from sight behind another tree, but just enough of his gray coal was visible to cause his son to fire at it, thinking it was the squirrel he had shot a moment before. The load entered Mr. Lester’s shoulder and neck and caused his death shortly afterward.

 

Accompanied by his 2 sons the body of Mr. Lester arrived in Louisa Wednesday morning and was immediately taken to the old home of the deceased near Wilbur, this county. The interment occurred yesterday at the home place of the dead man and was largely attended. Mr. Lester was a Mason in good standing, and the burial was conducted by the lodge of which he was a faithful member. Besides the sons named deceased leaves another child, a grown daughter, single. A widow survived to mourn the loss of a good husband, while the community and the county regret the loss of a good citizen and kind neighbor and a most excellent man. Mr. Lester was as nearly as can be learned about 70 years of age. Mr. Lester was one of the old time hunters For several years previous to 5 years ago he went to the Sewell Mountains in West Virginia and killed deer and an occasional bear, bringing home considerable quantities of these choice meats. Big Sandy News, Oct 16, 1908

 

MAY, Willie

Marvin-- death angel has again visited our community and claimed for its victim, Willie, the bright little son of Mr. and Mrs. Harve May. His disease was croup. The home has lost a sparkling jewel. Little Willie was laid to rest in the Cooksey Cemetery to await the judgment morn. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908

 

PREWITT, Elijah

Elijah Prewitt, a well known resident of the Tug side of the Point, died very suddenly last Saturday morning. He was in his usual health early in the day, and the news of his death came to his son, James, while the latter was in Louisa attending the barbecue. Mr. Prewitt was about 84 years of age. The family lived near the mouth of Rockcastle. Big Sandy News, Oct 23, 1908

 

SAVAGE, John L.

On Friday last John L. Savage, an old and well known citizen of Lawrence County, died at the residence of his son Chris on East Fork. Mr. Savage had an attack of pneumonia and being already weak with the infirmities of old age it resulted fatally. Mr. Savage was 88 years and one month old. He was the father of County Attorney William Savage. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908

 

SHIPMAN, Alexander J.

Alexander J. Shipman, for several years a resident of this city, died at the home of his son, W. F. Shipman, of Ashland, early last Monday morning. After a short service at the house the body, accompanied by his son and his grandson, G. A. Nash of Louisa, was taken to Petersboro, NY for interment. The deceased was born in Petersboro, Madison County, NY, in the year 1828, and in early life he married Miss Annie Travis, also of the Empire State. Mrs. Shipman’s death occurred more than 10 years ago, and since that time the husband had made his home with his son. Mr. Shipman came to this city several years ago and soon became a familiar figure on our streets. He was a man of marked individuality, pronounced and positive in his opinions, but his genial, friendly ways made him a general favorite with our people, and the kindly old man will be greatly missed and his death generally regretted. On the 13th of December last, while still a resident of Louisa, Mr. Shipman celebrated the 79th anniversary of his birth. His relatives with whom he lived and who were devotedly attached to him had prepared a sumptuous dinner for him and to this feast were bidden many of “Daddy’s “ friends, all men of mature years. The old gentleman was greatly surprised and affected by this mark of love and esteem and never tired of speaking of it in appreciative terms. Mr. Shipman was a soldier of the Civil War, surviving its perils and living to a  ripe old age, tenderly cared for by his kinspeople and dying peacefully among those whom he loved and who loved him dearly. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908

 

SHORT, Mrs. Eldridge

Mrs. Eldridge Short died in Catlettsburg a few days ago of consumption. The body was taken to the old home where it was buried last Tuesday. Mrs. Short was the daughter of Charles Jones, formerly of Cat’s Fork, and who died suddenly in Catlettsburg a year ago. Big Sandy News, Oct 23, 1908

 

SPEARS, Ruthie

Lowmansville Sunday School

Sep 20, 1908—Another seat is vacant in our Sunday school this morning. Little Ruthie Spears is not here. She is dead. How these words sent sorrow to all our hearts and as we assemble in Sunday school this morning, our heads bowed and hearts burdened with grief, we known that her sweet, smiling face will not again gladden our hearts. We followed her to the grave with our prayers and though dead she still lives in the love in which her memory is enshrined in our hearts. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908

 

STAFFORD, George and family

Sunday night about 10 o’clock, while many of our citizens were just retiring for sleep, and many more resting in peaceful slumber, the stillness was suddenly broken by the alarm of fire and the scene of quietude and rest was turned immediately into one of excitement and grief. Citizens rushed into the streets to behold what was truly the saddest affair ever witnessed in the town of Paintsville The angry flames rushed heavenward, carrying with them the shrieks of helpless sufferers, making a spectacle not soon to be forgotten by our people.

 

The fire was in the old dwelling at the corner of East and First Streets near the M. E. Church, South, occupied by Mr. George Stafford and family and an invalid lady named Mrs. Liza Lavender. It seems to have had its origin in the kitchen, but no one knows definitely. The family was asleep and when they awoke they found their escape cut off by the flames as they leaped from room to room and up the stairway to the second floor The stairway led up from the rear of the building, and when once on fire escape was impossible. The father, one son and 2 daughters (young women) rushed to a half window in front of the building, but failed to leap, whether from excitement or suffocations, will never be known. Side by side they met death in the most horrible form imaginable The sisters, when their bodies were discovered, were found to have died clasped in each other’s arms. Mrs. Stafford in a leap for life, leaped to death from a second story window and of a family of 7 only two (sons) survive, who in some miraculous manner escaped the awful fate.

 

Mrs. Lavender, the aged invalid lady, whose room was on the first floor, had not yet retired and discovered the fire just in time to attempt to make her escape through the front window of her room. By this time help had arrived and she was assisted to safety, aside from the excitement, was uninjured.  The scene was awful. Women and children wringing their hands and crying and rushing through the streets. The roar of the flames, the grief of the sons who escaped, their words “We alone are left,” was almost unbearable. The tears in the eyes of strong men burst through and ran down their cheeks. The old time truth was vividly impressed, “Life is uncertain and death is sure.”

 

The son who perished in the flames was a member of the public school and one of the girls having passed the grade of the public school was enrolled in the Sandy Valley Seminary. To show their respect and heartfelt sympathies, both schools adjourned Monday and proclaimed a day of mourning.

 

The dead are George Stafford, age 60, Fannie Stafford, age 18, Neva Stafford, aged 16, Charles Stafford, aged 8, Mrs. George Stafford aged 59. The rescued are Ballard Stafford aged 22, Frank Stafford aged 15, Liza Lavender, an old lady.

 

George Stafford, was known to many people. He was a brother of Frank Stafford of Catlettsburg and was a well known and highly esteemed citizen of Johnson County and Paintsville. The horrible catastrophe has cast a pall of gloom over Paintsville and the surrounding country, and is the sole topic of conversation. Business for the greater par of the day was well nigh suspended. Mr. Stafford was a son of James Stafford, a blind man who sometimes visits in Louisa. Big Sandy News, Oct 23, 1908

 

In 1860 James Stafford, the father of George Stafford, sustained the loss of his home and almost upon the same spot where George Stafford and his family lost their lives.  George Stafford, then a boy, had a narrow escape from death.  The few charred remains of George Stafford, his wife and three children, victims of the Paintsville holocaust, were buried in one large casket.  It is said that the funeral was attended by about 400 people. Big Sandy News, Oct 30, 1908

 

WADSWORTH, W. H.

Mr. W. H. Wadsworth, as eminent lawyer of Maysville, died at his residence in that city last Monday after a long and painful illness. He had been sick about 2 years, having been in a hospital a great deal of that time, and having submitted to more than one serious operation. Mr. Wadsworth was a lawyer of great ability. For many years he had been one of the principal attorneys for the C & O railway, and was quite well known here. He left a widow, and a daughter, Miss Florence, who is well known in Louisa as a fine vocalist and pianist. Mr. Wadsworth was about 56 years of age. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908

 

WHITTAKER, John

An Affray, unfortunate and lamentable in every respect and tragic in its ending, occurred on C & O passenger train No. 38 last Sunday evening. It was the last of the Big Sandy excursions from Pikeville to Ashland and the train of 4 or 5 coaches had gone down in the morning crowded to the limit. A large number of passengers from Louisa had gone to Buchanan, attracted by the dedication of the new Odd Fellows hall at that place. The train in charge of Conductor Frank Blevins, left Ashland about 6 p.m. and no disturbance occurred until the train was not far from Zelda. Conductor Blevins was passing through the coach next to the baggage car when he was accosted by a man named John Whittaker. Whittaker, who had evidently been drinking told Blevins, he wanted a seat. The conductor pointed to a couple of vacant seats close by and told the man to take one of them. Whittaker said he wanted another seat, and Blevins asked him how many seats he wanted. Whittaker said he wanted 6 0r 7. The conductor then told him to “??? It out” and sit down and be quiet and passed on through the coach. Upon entering the coach again shortly afterward a passenger told him that Whittaker had a handful of cartridges and had been talking in a threatening manner and that it would be well to watch him The conductor also heard that he had a pistol.

 

Dr. Fred Marcum, Marshal of Louisa, was on the train, returning to Louisa from Catlettsburg with some prisoners. The conductor went to the Marshal and told him there was a man on board whom he wanted arrested and put off the train at Louisa, expressing the belief that he had a pistol. He described the man as wearing a white hat, etc. Dr. Marcum had occasion to go into the car where Whittaker was, and in passing through he noticed a man wearing a white hat and leaning over the back of a seat. The impression of a revolver in a rear pocket was seen by the marshal and he promptly arrested the man and told him the conductor had requested him to do so. The man protested that he was not the one indicated by the conductor, and said he had taken the pistol away from Whittaker. Marcum sent for the conductor and he said the man under arrest was not the disorderly one, and proceeded to find Whittaker. He was found in a seat with 2 companions. The marshal told Whittaker to go with him into the next car (where the other prisoners were). Whittaker refused and Marcum took hold of him. Quick as a flash a terrific blow was landed on Marcum’s face. Another man struck him almost at the same time. Then followed a rain of blows that landed the marshal against the smoking room wall in the end of the coach. The conductor went to Marcum’s assistance and was promptly knocked down in the corner. The fight raged fast and furious with 4 men against 2. The conductor and marshal were hampered in their defense by being up against the end of the car. One witness says Marcum was struck with a whisky bottle, as well as with fists. Another says a branding hammer inflicted the wound on his forehead. Finally Marcum drew his revolver and began to use it as a club, but after striking two blows, one of his assailants got hold of the pistol and almost succeeded in wrenching it from him, tearing the flesh from Marcum’s finger. By an extra effort he recovered the pistol, and fired one shot as the blows continued to fall upon him. Blevins was just crawling up from the floor when the shot was fired. The fight ceased and Whittaker began to pray. He gave Blevins his hand and said, “I want you to forgive me for what I have done, I have nothing against you.” Blevins had no pistol or weapon of any kind.

 

The greatest excitement ensued. One woman fainted upon hearing that a man had been shot, and others were on the verge of hysteria. The wounded man was carried into the baggage car and placed upon a cot and made as comfortable as possible Upon the arrival of the train at Louisa C & O Surgeon Wroten was hastily sent for. He quickly arrived, but the unfortunate young man was dead upon his arrival.

 

The bullet entered the chest between the 8th and 9th ribs, and 2 inches to the right of the breastbone. Ranging downward the ball passed entirely through the body, coming out between the 10th and 11th ribs, about 2 inches to the right of the spinal column. Whittaker lived probably 25 or 30 minutes after he was shot. The bullet passed through the stomach and right lobe of the liver, causing death from hemorrhage and shock. The body was carried into the ladies sitting room of the depot and Police Judge O’Brien impaneled a jury and held an inquest over the remains. After hearing all the available testimony the jury rendered a verdict to the effect that the deceased came to his death from a gunshot wound inflicted by F. D. Marcum. The body was prepared for burial and placed in a casket and sent to East Point, KY, near which place his parents lived. Two of his brothers were on the train and witnessed his tragic and untimely death. Their grief was pitiful.

 

Whittaker was 26 years old, a son of James Whittaker, who has raised a family of 21 children. John has 2 children. His wife died last spring. When the train arrived at Louisa, Dr. Marcum went to the hospital where the cuts on his head and hands were dressed. He surrendered himself to County Judge T. S. Thompson and neither side being ready, Dr. Marcum was released on bail of one thousand dollars, furnished by E. E. Shannon and R. F. Vinson, to answer a charge of manslaughter. The examining trial is set for Friday, Oct 9.

 

Conductor Blevins was on the floor when the shot which killed Whittaker was fired, having fallen or been knocked down by a blow. Whittaker had struck him once with the branding iron and this may have felled him. Big Sandy News, Oct 2, 1908


NOVEMBER 1908

 


BREWER, Isaac

Isaac Brewer, a well known citizen of Warfield, died at his home on Saturday, Oct 28, 1908, after a short illness. The following notice was handed to the News for publication:

Isaac Brewer was born Nov 17, 1847, died Oct 24, 1908. He was married to Alcy Spaulding Feb 12, 1872. They had 4 children, 3 of whom preceded him to the glory world. He united with the Methodist Church under the ministry of Dr. J. W. Glover, 20 years ago, and renewed his affiliation with the church about a year ago. He was a good hus band, an indulgent father and a kind neighbor. Big Sandy News, Nov 6, 1908

 

CRUM, Nathan

Nathan Crum, one of the most prominent men in Martin County and well known in this city died at his home at Inez early last Wednesday morning. He had been an invalid for many years, suffering from frequent and profuse hemorrhage from the nose. To be relieved of this trouble Mr. Crum consulted many physicians and surgeons, spending a large sum of money to secure permanent relief, but all his efforts were in vain. He spent some weeks here at the hospital last summer and the rest and treatment seemed to help him very much, but he had very little hope of lasting benefit. Mr. Crum was 56 years of age. He leaves a widow and 2 children—Mrs. John Strosnider, of Williamson, and Medley, a young man who for a time was a pupil at K. N. C. Big Sandy News, Nov 20, 1908

 

DANIELS, Claudie

Death has again been in our midst and taken from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Faris Daniels their darling little son, Claudie, aged 5 years. The home has lost a sparkling jewel but he has gone to shine around God’s bright throne. They did all that loving hand could do, but God knew best and took him home to rest. Big Sandy News, Nov 13, 1908

 

DIAMOND, Opal

It seems sad to us to write the news of the death of our little darling Opal, who was so bright flower just budded. To part with our little darling is hard but Jesus said: “Suffer little children to come unto Me, forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven”. She died on Tuesday and was buried Wednesday in the Charles Evan’s graveyard. Rev. Birch Hulette conducted the services. She was only 3 years old and a sweet little girl. Georgie Diamond. Big Sandy News, Nov 20, 1908

 

KIRK, Mrs. B.

Brooding over ill health caused Mrs. B. Kirk, of Pocahontas County, WV to go into the rear of her house and with a  revolver kill herself. For some time Mrs. Kirk had been in ill health and this is the only assignable reason for the deed. She was the wife of B. Kirk, a prominent timber dealer on the Greenbrier river. She also left 3 small boys and 2 little girls. The body of Mrs. Kirk arrived here Sunday morning and was at the York house part of the day. It was taken to Grassland in the afternoon for interment. With the corpse were only the husband an children and some near relatives of Mr. Kirk. Catlettsburg Tribune. Mrs. Kirk had relatives on Gardner, in Boyd County. Big Sandy News, Nov 13, 1908

 

MALCOLM, James

James Malcolm, a painter engaged in painting the Ohio Valley Electric Railway bridge across Big Sandy river came in contact with a high tension wire carrying 12,000 volts and was hurled to the water 96 feet below, never knowing what hurt him. Malcolm and 5 other men were at work on the last span on the West Virginia side of the river. They were on the highest portion of the frame work of the bridge, and Malcolm and another painter were at the time engaged in moving the scaffold upon which they were at work. The high tension wires are suspended about 4 feet above the top of the bridge and Malcolm’s head came in contact with one of them.

 

The unfortunate man was hurled far out from the structure striking nothing in his descent until he plunged into the chilly waters of the river.. Hastening as quickly as possible Contractor Ed Shelton and the other workman rushed to the spot and found the body at the bottom of the stream where it had first struck the water. It never rose to the surface. The water was only about 3 feet deep, however, and they had no difficulty in recovering it, taking it to the shore. Contractor Shelton obtained permission of Squire J. S. Crosen, of Kenova to remove the remains to Huntington, which he did on the afternoon freight car.

 

No inquest was considered necessary and the body was removed without an examination, but persons who handled it stated that it seemed every bone in it was broken, so limp did it appear. Three was a horrible burn on the face and the flesh was turning black all over the body. Malcolm was a single man having no parents. He has a sister residing in Guyandotte, with whom he boarded. He had been working for Mr. Shelton on this bridge since early in September, and the job would have been completed Monday at noon. Catlettsburg Tribune. Big Sandy News, Nov 13, 1908

 

MARCUM, Taylor

Taylor Marcum, of Charleston, died in that city last Wednesday after a long spell of typhoid fever. He was a son of Lace Marcum, of Huntington, and was married. The body was carried to Huntington for interment. The funeral occurred yesterday. Dr. F. D. Marcum, of this place, was with his relative during the last week of his sickness and C. C. Hill attended the funeral. Big Sandy News, Nov 20, 1908

 

MAYNARD, Mrs. Barbara

Mrs. Barbara Maynard died Sunday morning at the home of her son in East Williamson, of heart failure, after an illness of but a few hours. Mrs. Maynard was a resident of Pike county, KY and came here on Tuesday to visit her son. She was taken sick on Sunday and died on Sunday morning. The remains were taken to Kentucky Monday for interment in the family burying ground near Pikeville. The funeral was conducted by Rev. James Thompson, of Williamson. Big Sandy News, Nov 20, 1908

 

RAY, Goldie

A sickening tragedy occurred at Cross Roads, a few miles south of Huntington last Friday, when Goldie Ray, the 2 year old child of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Ray, was burned to death and her 5 year old brother received terrible burns trying to rescue his little sister. The father was a way at his work and the mother had gone to the home of a neighbor on an errand, leaving the children in the home. The baby was playing about the room and the boy did not notice her until he was attracted by her screams. She had torn a scrap of paper from the wall and lighted it in the fire place and the flames had reached its clothing. The brave boy showing unusual courage and forethought for one of his age rushed to her assistance, and was doing all he could to extinguish the fire when the mother burst into the room attracted by the cries of the children. She found the little ones both badly burned and the physician whom she called immediately pronounced the little girl fatally so. She died an hour later. The boy will live, although, his injuries are very painful. Big Sandy News, Nov 27,1908

 

REECE, Matilda

Pikeville--Mrs. Matilda Reece, of Kenova, WV, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Tackett, of Ratcliff’s Creek died in a Roanoke, VA hospital Tuesday, and was brought here for burial Wednesday evening. She was buried in the Dills graveyard Thursday at 1 p.m. by Rev. M. C. Reynolds. The deceased leaves a husband and several relatives to mourn her loss. Big Sandy News, Nov 13, 1908

 

THOMPSON, Georgie

Death has again been in our midst and taken from the home of Mr. and Mrs. David Thompson, their little daughter, Georgie, aged 3 years. Big Sandy News, Nov 6, 1908

 

WARD, John

The Barboursville correspondent to the Huntington Herald thus notes the death of a Big Sandy young man:

John Ward, age 22, whose home was near Whitehouse, Johnson County, KY, but who had been visiting his mother at West Hamlin, Mrs. Captain Ricketts, died early Wednesday morning at the latter place, of quick consumption. The deceased had been at Goldfield, NV, until recently, when he contracted lung trouble. The remains were shipped to Whitehouse last evening by way of Huntington. A number of the employees of the steam shovel crew, with Captain Ricketts, accompanied the body. The young man was a general favorite with everyone who knew him. Big Sandy News, Nov 6, 1908

 

WHITE, John

John White, a young man about 18 years of age met death in Ironton Saturday in one of the worst horrible forms:

Young White, who recently came here from Kentucky, was employed here at the Superior Cement Plant and at about 9:30 o’clock this morning he got his foot caught in the conveyor which carries the cement away from the machine. His cries brought his fellow workmen to him, but before he could be extricated from the machine, his leg was ground off above the knee. He died the same night. Big Sandy News, Nov 13, 1908

 


DECEMBER 1908

 


BARTRAM, Cerilda (See)

After a protracted illness of nearly 6 months, Mrs. J. B. Bartram died about noon yesterday. While it had been known for some time that she was in a critical condition, yet the news of her death came as a shock to her many friends. Mrs. Bartram before marriage was Miss Cerilda See, and she was born in Lawrence County, KY, Apr 25, 1859. She was united in marriage in 1882 to Dr. J. B. Bartram. Dr. Bartram and wife came to this city about 7 years ago and since they have resided here they have made scores of warm friends. Ashland Independent. Big Sandy News. Dec 4, 1908

 

After a protracted illness of nearly 6 months Mrs. J. B. Bartram died about noon yesterday. While it had been known for some time that she was in critical condition, yet the news of her death came as a shock to her many friends. Mrs. Bartram before marriage was Miss Cerilda See, and she was born in Lawrence County, KY, Apr 25, 1859. She was united in marriage in 1882 to Dr. J. B. Bartram. Dr. Bartram and wife came to this city about 7 years ago and since they have resided here they have made scores of warm friends. The deceased was a consistent member of the M. E. Church, and she was a most excellent woman, a devoted wife, and a kind neighbor. Mrs. Bartram was also a member of the Degree of Honor and the Woodmen’s Circle. Besides her husband, Mrs. Bartram is survived by her mother and 2 sisters, Mrs. Jennie Vinson, of Lawrence County, and Mrs. Maggie Peck of Oklahoma. Also 2 brothers, Samuel and J. Crit See, both of whom reside in Lawrence County. While Dr. and Mrs. Bartram had no children of their own, they had 2 adopted daughters,, Thelma and Garnett Chafin, both of  whom they loved as devotedly as though they were their own. The funeral services occurred from the residence, on East Carter Avenue. The remains were carried to the Ashland Cemetery and laid to rest. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

BLANKENSHIP, Eva

Pleasant Ridge—The death angel has again been in our community and taken from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Rache Blankenship their infant daughter, Eva. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

The infant child of Raische Blankenship, who lived on Greenbrier, near this city, died at Greenup last Sunday. It had been taken there by its grandmother, Mrs. Gambill, she hoping by that means to improve its health. The body was brought to Louisa and on Sunday it was taken to Greenbrier for burial. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

GEARHEART

The saddest occurrence that ever happened in the town of Blaine occurred Monday at 11 o’clock. The house of Woodson Gearheart caught fire either from the grate or a defective flue in the kitchen and when discovered was beyond control. A little girl about 2 years old was asleep in the house and could not be rescued. The body was taken from the burning debris before it was cremated. Mrs. Gearheart had gone only a short distance to see a sick woman, Mrs. Chaffin and had left her house in charge of her 13 year old daughter. The girl had put the baby to sleep and had gone out with the other children to play. She had gone only about 40 or 50 feet from the house but failed to discover the fire until it was too late to save the child or anything from the house. It was recess time at the school and the school boys were about the first to be on the scene. Jesse Cyrus, who lived only a few feet away, was perhaps the first to discover the fire and tried to force his way into the house to save the child, but the flames drove him back. Mrs. Gearheart was on his way to Louisa with his team, but was notified by telephone and returned home heart broken. The work of the school boys and others deserve credit for their heroic efforts in saving the houses of Mrs. Roberts and Jesse Cyrus. They worked like trained fireman and it seems like an act of providence that the fire was contained to one house. Water had to be carried a great distance but was done with great dispatch. Teacher. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

HONAKER, Samuel M.

The people of Fort Gay were shocked last Monday evening to learn of the death of Samuel M. Honaker, which occurred at 2:30 p.m. Mr. Honaker had been complaining for several days, but it was not thought his trouble was serious, until Friday, when he suddenly grew worse, and continued to sink until the end came. Mrs. Honaker left with the body on No. 15 yesterday for Varoqua where the funeral will take place on arrival. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

LITTERAL, Wiley

William Vinson, Sr. and Wiley Litteral were killed last Saturday morning on Tug River, 15 miles southeast of Louisa. The stories given out by the two opposing sides are so much at variance that the NEWS can not reconcile them into one statement, and the only fair thing let for us is to publish both stories.

 

The  Officers Story

The following statement is based upon the story of the officers:

In a fierce encounter between United States Revenue officers and relatives of a man for whom they had warrants, 2 men were instantly killed near the mouth of Coon Creek, Tug River, at an early hour last Saturday morning. Coon Creek empties into Tug River on the West Virginia side, about 15 miles above Louisa. For many months that region, on both sides of the river, has been the scene of repeated violations of the law, both Federal and State. The violators were bold and defiant, and the arrest of the violators was a very difficult matter. On this account captures were few, and it has occurred that prisoners had been taken from the arresting officers by force of arms. About a month ago it is said that Bill Vinson, Sr., his son, Fillmore Vinson, and Morris Bates overpowered Constable Ro. Sammons and Wiley Litteral, a special deputy, and took from them Joe Vinson, whom they had under arrest. This was on the Kentucky side of the river. In this encounter somebody fired a shot at Sammons which cut a lock of hair from his head.

 

Sheriff Richard Stone had a warrant for the arrest of these parties, charged with rescuing a prisoner, and Deputy United States Marshal Dan Cunningham, of West Virginia, had a warrant for the arrest of Joe Vinson and others charged with illegally selling whiskey and removing goods from a storehouse after they had been seized by a United States officer. This atter offense, is, by the Government, made a felony. The difficulty in effecting an arrest, the dangerous character of the offenders and the possibility of a rescue induced the United States officers and the civil authorities on the Kentucky side of the river to plan a raid. Sheriff Stone’s posse consisted of himself, Marshal Fred Marcum, J. C. and Henry Johns, Rol. Sammons and 2 brothers and Wiley Litteral. The posse from West Virginia consisted of Deputy Marshal Dan Cunningham, Sam Davis, T. G. Cochran and 9 other men from Huntington and Charleston.

 

It had been agreed that the raid should not be made until after daylight, and up to a certain point the plans as perfected were carried out. Most of the party went up on the N and W Friday night. Sheriff Stone and one or two others went up the Point on the Kentucky side during the night. The riding party divided into 3 squads, one, consisting of Sheriff Stone, Henry Johns and Constable Sammons was to watch the house of Joe Vinson, which is on the Kentucky side. Another headed by Marshal Fred Marcum watched the shanty boat of Morris Bates, while a third consisting of United States Marshals Cunningham, Davis and Cochran, and Wiley Litteral as a special deputy, watched the house of Bill Vinson, SR., It is not exactly known what caused it, but the plan of attack changed. While Stone and his party were still on the Kentucky side of the river the Government party closed in on the Vinson house to effect an arrest. Dan Cunningham posted Litteral, Davis and Cochran about the house, while he went to the front door and demanded entrance. It was partly opened and instantly shut again. It was forced open, and the battle was on. Litteral fell almost immediately, exclaiming, “They have killed me.” Shot after shot rang out on the frosty air, bringing the other posses to the scene of action. The presence of these officers put an end to the battle. Sitting on the ground, his back against a fence, Wiley Litteral breathed his last. Bill Vinson, bareheaded, and in his sock feet, lay upon the ground, shot and stabbed to death.

 

These were the fatalities. Joe  Vinson, who lived on this side of the river, ran out of the house, only to be stopped at the mouth of a Winchester and arrested and ironed.

 

Wiley Litteral’s body was pierced by 4 or 5 bullets, and the left side of his neck was open from ear to chin by a stab from a knife. Two or three bullets entered near his hear, and one on the left side passed clear out on the right side and going through his right arm. But one shot had hit Bill Vinson. This passed through the left side of his body, near the arm, but he had also received several stabs in the back, just behind the heart, which must have penetrated the vital organ. A dirk with a spring blade 7 inches long and covered with blood was found in the house, and it is supposed that this weapon made the wounds in the old man’s body.

 

The news of this tragedy reached Louisa early on Saturday morning and caused much excitement. All the parties were well known, Stone, Marcum and Litteral being residents of this city. It was known that Litteral had been killed and rumor had wounded Stone and Marcum. A train on the N & W arrived from Webb about 9 o’clock brining the body of Litteral. The Government officers had in custody, Joe, young Bill and “Painter” Vinson and Morris Bates, who were taken to Huntington for trial. They also brought along 25 full cases of bottled whiskey, 2 dozen bottles in each case, which they had captured in a building near Vinson’s house. Litteral’s body was taken to the Dotson hotel in Fort Gay where it was dressed, placed in a casket and brought to his home at this place. On Sunday afternoon the body was interred in the cemetery, after a funeral service at the M. E. Church, of which he was a member. The service was conducted by the pastor, the Rev. Dr. Hanford, assisted by Rev. Garland Riggan, of the Baptist Church. Litteral was about 45 years of age and a native of Johnson County. He left a son about 15 years of age, a child by his former wife. He had “done time” in the penitentiary for crimes committed in Carter County.

 

The parties who were taken to Huntington were brought before United States Commissioner Graham in Huntington and the preliminary hearing set for Saturday. Meanwhile they were released on their own recognizance. William Vinson was somewhat addicted to drink in his younger days, but for 8 or 10 years has been living a correct life and was aa local Baptist preacher. During the past month he had been considerably wrought up over the troubles of his son. He was regarded as absolutely fearless. The Vinson relatives do not uphold Joe Vinson, who has been violating the law for some time, but they are incensed over the killing of his father, William Vinson. Joe came to Louisa and surrendered to the officers the first of this week and gave bond for his appearance to answer the charges against him on this side of the river. Painter and Bill Vinson, Jr., are 18 and 20 years old.

 

AS Told By The Family

The following statement given out by the Vinson family is reprinted from the Fort Gay Leader:

“On this fatal Saturday morning a posse of some 18 men, armed to the hilt, with blood hounds at their heels, marched upon the house of William Vinson and the following is the story of the tragedy enacted there as told by members of the family who were present and saw it all

 

While Mrs. Vinson, wife of William Vinson, was in the kitchen preparing breakfast, and his little boy was building a fire in the grate, a hello was heard from the outside. The boy answered the call and Mr. Vinson was called for. He told the boy to invite them in, and said they made some excuse, but said they wanted to see Mr. Vinson, and he told them that he would be out as soon as he could get up and dress. The boy told his father that there was a great crowd of men and by the time Mr. Vinson could draw on his trousers and socks, he heard them surrounding the house. He then walked to the back door where a pistol was hanging, and reached up to get it, as he did so 2 men of the gang pushed open the front door and without a word of halt, surrender or consider yourself under arrest, they both fired at Vinson shooting him in the back. Almost at the same instant Wiley Litteral shoved open the door where Vinson was standing and was shot down by Vinson. Litteral fell on the floor and Vinson pitched over him, both mortally wounded. One of the men who had shot Vinson then came in and drawing a big knife began stabbing Vinson in the back. By this time Fillmore, another son of William Vinson, who was sleeping upstairs came down shooting, and the man with the knife fled leaving the knife sticking in Vinson’s back. The whole posse then fled, and Mrs. Vinson persuaded Fillmore to leave, fearing that they would come back and kill him, which he did, taking with him Litteral’s gun, which had not been fired. Some 30 minutes after this, Sheriff Dick Stone of Louisa, with some deputies, who had gone up the river some little distance and arrested Joe Vinson and Morris Bates and coming down on the Kentucky side heard the shooting, crossed with their prisoners to the West Virginia side at the scene of the tragedy, and upon their arrival the fleeing officers returned to the house where Vinson and Litteral lay dead.

 

After their return the conduct of some of the Deputy Marshal was indeed horrible. It is claimed that one of them kicked Mrs. Vinson’s little girl and made her go upstairs and light matches for him that he might see if any one else was there. That he struck Mrs. Vinson over the head with a gun, ransacked the house, kicked open a truck, scattered its contents over the floor, and carried off $250 in money which was in the trunk and burst open a small cabinet hanging on the wall in which Mr. Vinson kept his valuable papers and scattered its contents all over the floor, and showed themselves to be anything else, rather than a competent officer of the law.” Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

LESTER, Sarah

Skaggs—The death angel visited the home of Jeff Lester last week and took there from his wife, Sarah. Big Sandy News, Dec 4, 1908

 

NICKELL, Henry

Henry Nickell, son of Bud Nickell, a farmer of Morgan County, was probably fatally shot by the Ratliff boys, his neighbors. Nickell was in the filed shucking corn when 3 of the Ratliff boys came upon him suddenly and began firing. Nickell was shot in the neck and arm and it is thought he will die. Two of the Ratliff’s were arrested and are now in jail at West Liberty to await trial. A family feud has existed from some time between the Nickell and Ratliff families. Big Sandy News, Dec 18, 1908

 

PACK, Dan

Ulysses—After a very brief illness, Uncle Dan Pack, as he was usually called, died Nov 18. He was about 73 years old. Big Sandy News, Dec 4, 1908

 

PRICHARD, Clyde

Clyde Prichard, extra conductor on the N and W died of heart failure at Portsmouth last Monday morning. Mr. Prichard was the son of Bud Prichard of Buchanan, KY and had been a trusted employee of the railroad company for 6 years. The deceased leaved a wife and one child. Funeral will be held at Huntington today. Big Sandy News, Dec 18, 1908

 

RATLIFF, Mildred (Cooksey)

We are pained at the task before us of chronicling the death of Mrs. Mildred, the estimable wife of our friend, James Ratliff, which occurred at her late home, this city, on Friday, Nov 20. Mrs. Ratliff was a Miss Cooksey, formerly of Johnson County. She leaves a devoted husband than whom there is no better citizen in Pike County, and 2 little boys—Rush and Charley—aged, respectively, 15 and 11, to mourn the loss of a good Christian mother. Pikeville Plain Dealer. Big Sandy News, Dec 4, 1908

 

SHEPPARD, John

A violent death is the fate of little John Sheppard, the bad man from Floyd County, who for years has been a terror to the people of this section. Near Catlettsburg Monday a street car ran over Sheppard, injuring him so fatally that he died before reaching the Huntington hospital. Sheppard has figured in a number of pistol duels in this section, was  gambler and general bad man, and his untimely taking away will not be mourned by the good citizens of this section. Paintsville Herald. Big Sandy News, Dec 25, 1908

 

SMITH, John

Last Sunday a week ago Joe Sammons was arrested on a charge of murder and was brought to Louisa and lodged in jail. Later in the week, a deputy  sheriff came from Wayne with the proper papers and carried Sammons to Wayne and placed him in jail there. Sammons, as was chronicled in this paper, is the man who figured last spring in the brutal and cowardly murder of young John Smith, son of the well known Pike County farmer of that name, living at Canada, on the road from Williamson to Pike. Young Smith was hoboing on a west bound freight with Salmons as a companion. The latter found that Smith had some money, and near, Webb, he shot his companion, threw him from the train, leaped after him and rifled his pockets of the few dollars they contained before making his escape to the mountains of Kentucky, where he has been in hiding until his capture on Sunday. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

SPENCER, Julia

Adams—The news reached here last Thursday of the death of Aunt Julia Spencer, of Ashland. She was a good woman and liked by all who knew her. The remains were taken to Charley on the 10th for burial. Big Sandy News, Dec 18, 1908

 

SPRADLIN, Johnnie

It has pleased the Great Ruler of all things to visit the home of W. H. and Martha Spradlin and take from their embrace their little son, Johnnie, on the morning of Nov 27th, 1908 leaving a sad and lonely home. The little fellow was 7 years old the 28th of September. He had always been sickly and was a family pet. Everything had been done for his relief and to make him happy, and in spite of this sufferings he grew to be of average size and was bright minded and of lovely disposition. On 26th day of November, he was laid to rest in the Conley graveyard on Abbott Creek, where his sister and brother are buried. Big Sandy News, Dec 18, 1908

 

VANHORN, Mrs. George

Mrs. George (Cuff) Vanhorn, died in Ashland Monday after a short illness. George is a C & O brakeman on this division and has many friends along the line who regret to hear of his sorrow. Mrs. Vanhorn leaves 3 small children. Big Sandy News, Dec 18, 1908

 

VINSON, William—see under Wiley Litteral

 

WALKER, Elizabeth

Paintsville—Mrs. Elizabeth Walker, relict of the late George Walker, and mother of Rev. William Walker, of this city, died at her home on Tom’s Creek Sunday. The funeral was conducted by the Rev. A. H. Davis of Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Dec 11, 1908

 

WRIGHT, Mrs. W MM.