McKean County PA Archives News.....Deaths in the Newspaper 1908
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McKean County Miner 1908
DEATHS IN MCKEAN COUNTY 1908
From
THE MCKEAN COUNTY MINER NEWSPAPER
Transcribed by Ronald J. Reid, 2009
The dates shown prior to each item or group of items is the date of
publication. This can only be considered a partial list as many pages of the
paper are unreadable and some may have been missed. All items were found on
page 1 of the paper unless specifically noted otherwise.
Some notices from "Ancient History" appear with year in [ ].
INDEX of Names
==============
Arthur F. Allen
John C. Anderson
Fred Axelson
Philip Bacon
Dr. Charles C. Baker
Mrs. William Bannon
John Leslie Barrett
Josephine C. Bartle
Henry W. Bates
Ransom Beckwith
Barney Benson
John Murry Blake
James Bowes, Sr.
Gotleib Bratz
William Henry Brittain
Israel R. Burt, Sr.
Walter J. Butler, Jr.
William Butts
Rev. Thomas Cardus
Charles A Carlson
Wayne Carpenter
Dr. Thomas H. Carroll [1888]
Anna E. (Peavey) Colegrove
J.H. Corry
Warren Hayden Cowls
Lewis Crumbie
Timothy Daly
Albert DeGolier
Mrs. Cora DeHay
George A Denning
H. Eliza (Barrett) Dennis
Mrs. James Doyle
William E. Doyle
Judson G. Eaton
George Elmore
Anne Essensa
Mrs. Milo Evans
Charles A. Foster
Nancy H. Gallup [1888]
Margaret (Johnson) Gilligan
Thomas Goodwin
Mrs. L.A. Grimes
Harriet Hamlin
William Hand
Anna K. Heinlein
Joseph Henderson, Esq. [1888?]
Sarah Housier [year not given, likely 1888]
John Huckenburg
son of James Kittell
Byron L. Knapp
Mrs. Albert Lamm
John Nels Larson
John B. Lee
Mrs. Stephen B. Lee
Frank Lehman
____ Lindsey
Mrs. W. Ludwig
Paul Lyons
W.T. Mann
Lenora (Roeder) Martin
Joseph M. McClure
J.E. McEvey
John McMahon
Mrs. L.T. Medbury
Clara Elizabeth (Hungerford) Miller
Mrs. Harvey Montgomery
Harry McKee Moore
Mrs. Matilda Morrell
James Murray
Joseph Daniel Neipling
M. O'Connor
Mary Oleson
Phillis Loretta Ordway
Eliza Wood Ormsby
George T. Otto
Milo W. Peterson
Chas. Pitner
Ruth (Russel) Foreman Prosser
Desire G. (White) Provin
Fred Purtle
James Queen
A.S. Ransom
James Ray
John Miller Rees
Bessie Rice
Hon. Thomas F. Richmond
Mrs. Bridget Riley
Adelbert E. Rose
Charles Samuelson
John Scherer
Patrick Sheehan [1888]
Bert Shurtz
B.F. Sisley
Blanche Smith [1888]
Henry Smith
Mrs. Phileeta Smith
Cress Stiver
Carl Stronburg
John S. Swanson
John Henry Tew
Mittie A. Townsend
Abram S. VanDyke
Mary E. (Heacock) Warfle
Alexander Watson
David Weatherby
Mrs. David Weatherby
daughter Weatherby
Fred Ray Wendell
Mrs. Charles H. Whaley
Fred S. White
Dugald Cameron Winship
==============
Jan 2, 1908:
Barney Benson, aged about 33 years, died at the home of his grandmother in
Colegrove Monday evening, the cause of his death being typhoid fever. The
deceased had been working in the Robinson, Ill. Oil fields, but came home a
short time ago because he was not feeling well. His trouble was walking
typhoid and he was up and around for several days after returning home. He
was taken suddenly worse while calling on his grandmother and it was
impossible to move him to the home of his parents.
He was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. C.M. Benson of Colegrove and was a
young man who possessed those admirable qualities which made him a host of
friends among a large circle of acquaintances. He is survived by is parents
and several brothers and sisters who will have the heartfelt sympathy of many
friends in this their time of great bereavement.
The funeral services are to be held at Colegrove at 1 o'clock today and his
remains will be laid at rest in the Colegrove cemetery.
William Butts, son of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Butts of Clermont, died at the
Ridgway hospital last Thursday night, the cause of his death being
appendicitis. He was aged about 26 years.
The deceased was born in Clermont and had always resided there. He was a
young man of excellent habits, a kind jovial disposition, and one who made
many friends among those who knew him.
Besides his parents he is survived by one brother, Fred of Clermont, and two
sisters, Mrs. W.P. Mulhurn of St. Marys, Pa., and Miss Katheryn, who resides
at Clermont, who deeply feel the loss off a kind and loving son and brother.
Page 3.
Mrs. William Bannon of Knapps Creek died suddenly at the Olean hospital
Saturday morning. She had not been feeling well for several days and was in
Olean on a shopping expedition when she became so seriously ill that she was
taken to the hospital. Despite every effort made to relieve her condition
death ensued, pneumonia being the direct cause. Mrs. Bannon was 27 years of
age. She was a daughter-in-law of Hon. A.F. Bannon of Bradford. The sympathy
of many friends is extended to the bereaved husband, who is well known in
Smethport.
Jan 9, 1908:
Tuesday morning at 6 o'clock at her home on West Main street occurred the
death of Mrs. Harriet Hamlin, widow of the late Hon. B.D. Hamlin, who passed
away only a few months ago. Her death was due to a complication of ailments
from which she has long suffered, having been a confirmed invalid for the past
several years. By a remarkable coincidence her demise occurred upon her
birthday, as she was 82 years old January 7, 1908.
(the article continues at length but is difficult to read)
Mrs. Harriet Hamlin was born on January 2, 1826 (don't know why the dates
don't match the text) She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Holmes of
Smethport. In 1846 she married Byron D. Hamlin, which was the same year that
he was admitted to the bar of McKean county. They were blessed with three
children - one son D_ _ _ r., who died May 30, 1894, leaving a widow and two
children Paul D. Hamlin of Chicago and a daughter, Jenette, who married W.L.
Hammar, and now reside at Lynch Station, Va. Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin have an
infant daughter.
(Article continues with list of children)
The funeral will be held this afternoon at 2 o'clock at St. Luke's church,
the Rev. W.E. VanDyke of Kane officiating. The remains will be laid at rest
in the family mausoleum in rose Hill cemetery.
Jan 16, 1908:
Tuesday morning at 12:20, January 14, 1908, at his home on West Main street
in this borough occurred the death of Hon. Thomas F. Richmond, one of the
ablest lawyers of northern Pennsylvania and one of Smethport's most prominent
and best beloved residents.
(Obituary continues at extreme length and only parts are excerpted here)
Thomas F. Richmond was born in Smethport, May 17, 1860. He passed his boyhood
in this town and attended the public schools. When 17 years of age he became
a student at Lawrence (Kansas) College where he graduated in 1884.
The funeral services were held at the late home of the deceased this
afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. W.E. VanDyke of Kane officiating. A large
concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends were present, many of whom
followed the remains to their final resting place in Rose Hill cemetery.
Died at her home in East Smethport, Thursday afternoon, Jan. 9, 1908, at 5
o'clock, Desire G., wife of A.L. Provin.
She was ever a devout Christian; was a member of the United Brethren church,
and in her church and home duties was a true and earnest worker. Her many
good qualities and refined, pleasant manner endeared her to many friends and
acquaintances. Her generous and self-sacrificing personality, her readiness
to care for the sick and aid the weary, will long be remembered by those who
are left behind. She was a thoroughly good woman and her death will long be
mourned.
Mrs. Provin's maiden name was White. She was born in Riceville, Pa., Dec.
17, 1842, consequently was over 65 years of age at the time of her death. In
1862 she was married to Edwin Betta of Corry, Pa., and resided there until his
death, which was caused by consumption in 1884. On April 19, 1886, she was
united in marriage with Alfred L. Provin of Keating township, who survives
her. She also leaves two step-sisters and two step-brothers Mrs. Horace
Rice of Union City, Pa., and Mrs. B.J. Holcomb of Carrington, North Dakota;
Charles and Herman, who reside in the state of Washington.
The funeral services were held at the home of the deceased Saturday
afternoon at 1 o'clock, the Rev. W.A. Harris of Smethport, assisted by the
Rev. Jerome smith of Farmers Valley, officiating. Burial was in Smith
cemetery at Farmers Valley.
George Elmore, aged 28 years, died at the Bradford hospital shortly after 1
o'clock yesterday afternoon from injuries which he sustained while at work for
the B.R.&P. railroad company near Mt. Jewett, on Monday, Dec. 23. Mr. Elmore
while engaged on the top of a box car as a brakeman, was thrown in the ground,
dislocating the spine at the base of the back. Another injury was a cut on
the top of the head and one hand was crushed by the car wheels making
amputation of a part of that member necessary. Since the accident the young
man has been at the hospital, entirely helpless on account of the injury to
the spine and although given the best of care and medical attention, his death
occurred yesterday afternoon.
Deceased is survived by his widow and two stepsons at East Salamanca, his
mother who lives at Tidoute and three brothers and a sister. The remains were
taken in charge by Undertaker Koch and today will be shipped to Salamanca for
interment. Deceased belonged to the Brotherhood of Trainmen. Today's Era.
Mrs. Ruth Prosser was born in London, England, June 1, 1819, died Jan. 8,
1908, being eighty-eight years seven months and six days old and having been a
resident of Smethport for over 26 years.
She came to this country when 12 years of age, being the daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Thomas Russel, who located in Cleveland, Ohio, then only a village, Ruth
having gathered chestnuts where the public square of that city is now located.
On Jan 12, 1839, she married James P. Foreman of Cleveland, who died Feb. 4,
18?5. the result of this union being five children; Mary J., now Mrs. J.V.
Herriman of Oconto, Wis., and Geo. T. Foreman of Cisco, Texas; Sarah F., wife
of John McDowell, now deceased, Adelaide A. who died in childhood, and
Josephine M., wife of W.H. Knight of this borough, with whom she had made her
home for the past twenty seven years.
In Cleveland, on Nov. 11, 1865, she became the wife of Henry Prosser, who
died Nov. 27, 1880. She was grandmother to ten children, great-grandmother to
twenty-eight and great-great-grandmother to seven. She had been a great-great-
grandmother for nearly nine years.
Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. W.A. Harris, at her late home on
East Main street, last Friday afternoon. Interment in Rose Hill cemetery.
Those from out of town who were present at the funeral were A.A. Herriman
and little daughter, Mary of Galeton, Penn.
Page 3.
On Sunday the lifeless body of Gotleib Bratz was found at the bottom of a
forty foot embankment near Germania. The unfortunate man was 85 years of age
and a veteran of the Civil war. He resided two miles from Germania and on
Saturday he had gone into town to get his pension. Quite late in the
afternoon he had started to walk home but was overtaken by a neighbor and rode
with him a portion of the way. When leaving the wagon he was but a short
distance from his home but must have been confused ass to his location for he
went in the opposite direction. It must have been dark when he reached Indian
Creek and in helplessness wandered to the very edge of the embankment and by a
misstep went rolling to the bottom. When found one shoe was tightly grasped
in his hand, his face and body were badly scratched and bruised form the
fall. The money and his watch were intact in his pocket, which would seem to
show that it was an accident and not foul play. It is a very pathetic and
tragic incident and shocking to the entire community, that this helpless old
man should thus have perished. Potter enterprise.
Page 5.
Early Tuesday morning Milo W. Peterson, brakeman on the Pennsylvania, was
killed while switching in the yard at north Olean. His foot was caught in a
frog; cars passing over one leg and part of his side. His death followed in
about two hours at the hospital. He was 28 years of age.
Jan 23, 1908:
On Thursday, January 16, 1908, at her home in Farmers Valley, occurred the
death of Mrs. Anne Essensa, wife of Andrew Essensa, after a severe illness of
pneumonia and heart trouble.
Mrs. Essensa was a good Christian woman, who enjoyed the warm regard of the
community in which she resided. Her loss is keenly felt as she was ever an
earnest worker in kind and charitable proceedings. During her residence in
Farmers Valley she endeared herself to the people far more than mere words can
express, and during her last illness was the recipient of such loving and
tender care from her friends and neighbors, that earned the heartfelt
gratitude of the bereaved husband and children. She was a faithful and loving
wife and mother, and the people of Farmers Valley will most sincerely join
with the MINER in extending sympathy to the loved ones in this, their period
of greatest sorrow.
Mrs. Essensa was born in Harvey Station, Canada, July 12, 1856. She was
married May 16, 1883. About nine years ago Mr. and Mrs. Essensa and family
located at Farmers Valley, where the family have since resided, although for
the past two years Mr. Essensa's business interests have kept him in North
Carolina most of the time. The death of this estimable woman means the
breaking up of the home as Mr. Essensa will return to the South this week
taking his two sons, Wessley and Hodley, with him. They are the youngest
children. Two daughters also are left, Miss Mabel, who teaches the Conies
school in Keating township, and miss Rachel employed in a millinery store in
Smethport. Mrs. Essensa also leaves five brothers and one sister, none of
whom reside in this part of the country.
The funeral services were held Sunday at the U.B. church in farmers Valley,
the Rev. Jerome Smith officiating, and the remains were laid at rest in Smith
cemetery.
Bradford Star Albert DeGolier died at his home No. 26 Kennedy street, at 4
o'clock Sunday morning, aged 76 years, 7 months and 15 days. He was stricken
with apoplexy on Thursday, January ?, and death was the outcome of that
attack. The end came peacefully.
Mr. DeGolier was born in Keating township, McKean county, June 4, 1831. He
became a resident of the Tuna valley at an early age, and lived here ever
since, save for six years spent in Iowa in the sixties. He received his
education in the district schools of the valley, and although their facilities
for imparting knowledge were limited he made the most of them, and by study
and reading and observation he became a well educated man in the broad sense.
When a young man he became a school teacher and followed that calling for
years Throughout his life he was much interested in the public school system
and its advancement, and was for many years a member of the Bradford school
board. In the early days of Bradford he kept a store. He was thrifty and
invested his money in land which in later years became valuable city
property. After oil was discovered in the valley he embarked, to some extent,
in that business. He was also interested in the manufacture of glass bottles,
but gave this up several years ago and retired from business. Up to the day
of his illness he was a remarkably well preserved man, physically and mentally.
Mr. DeGolier was married in October, 1853 to Elinor Hutchinson, a member of
the pioneer family in the valley. He is survived by his wife and the
following children; Mrs. S.E. Barrett, of Bradford, C. Fremont DeGolier of
Cambridge, O; Mrs. W.H. Smart of Philadelphia; Spencer M. DeGolier, of
Bradford; Mrs. Herbert A. Lampell of Boston, Mass., and Mrs. J.C. Davis of
Bradford.
The death of Abram S. VanDyke, aged 62 years, occurred at the family home,
No 19 Congress street, at 3:15 o'clock Friday afternoon, after an extended
illness. Mr. VanDyke was a well known resident of Bradford and vicinity
having been employed in the local oil field for many years. Until recently he
acted as foreman of tankage for the National Transit company, which position
his impaired health compelled him to resign. He is survived by his widow,
four sons, Rev. W.E. VanDyke of Kane; F.G. VanDyke of Lawrenceville, Ill; L.M.
VanDyke and W.A. VanDyke, of Bradford; also one daughter, Mrs. H.M. Campbell,
of Tunesesso, N.Y., and a brother and sister, William VanDyke of Irvine, pa.,
and Mrs. F.E. Heinmain, of Petrolia, pa. the funeral was held at the house at
2 o'clock Sunday afternoon, when service were conducted by Rev. W.E. VanDyke,
a son of the deceased. Burial in Oak Hill cemetery. Bradford Record.
Ancient History:
A terrible and most distressing casualty by which Timothy Daly of Keating
township was literally ground to death, occurred in Olean on Friday afternoon,
Feb. 24, 1888. He was walking along the track of the W.N.Y.P. railroad going
east, near the freight depot, when an engine which was backing up in the same
direction, overtook him and the wheels passed over his body almost severing it
in twain.
(Article continues at length both portions are excerpted here)
Mr. Daly was the son of James Daly, Esq., one of the oldest and most highly
esteemed citizens of Keating township. The manner of his death was a great
shock to all his friends in this vicinity large numbers of whom followed his
remains to the grave on Tuesday last.
After an illness of about one week, Mrs. Milo Evans of Annin Creek died of
pneumonia and heart trouble, Jan. 10. Mrs. Evans was 26 years old. The
funeral was held in the M.E. church, of which she was a member, the Rev.
Miller of Turtle Point officiating. Mrs. Evans leaves a husband and two
children a girl, 8 years old, and a boy, aged 4 years; also a mother, sister
and brother, to mourn the loss of one, who we believe has gone to a better
world than this.
Page 3.
James Bowes, Sr., died at his home in Eldred Friday last, aged ?? years. He
had been ill for several months and his death was caused by Bright's disease.
He is survived by one son, James of Eldred, and two daughters, Mrs. A.H.
Kidder of Smethport and Mrs. Samuel Ellis of Andover, N.Y.
Page 5.
Fred S. White, aged 26 years, whose home is in Bradford, killed himself at
his boarding place in Olean Tuesday night. He shot himself with a revolver
and when occupants of the house rushed to his room they found him dead. He
had been employed since last may as a brakeman on the Pennsylvania railroad.
The cause of the tragedy is unknown. White's wife and two children live in
Bradford and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William w. White are also residents of
that city.
Feb 6, 1908:
Bradford Era: James Ray of Custer City, employed by the B.R.&P. railroad for
the past 20 years, was instantly killed near Degolia at an early hour Monday
morning by being struck by pusher engine No. 130 in charge of Engineer
Buchanan and Fireman Douglas. The accident happened while Mr. Ray was walking
on the tracks on his way to work from his home.
The pusher had been up the hill and was returning toward Bradford, backing
down on the south bound track. On account of the cold weather, Mr. Ray had a
handkerchief tied over his ears and for this reason did not hear the
approaching locomotive. The snow was blowing and it was with difficulty that
the engine crew saw any distance ahead.
A short time after the accident the passenger train, which was late, came
along and the body was brought to the station and taken in charge by the
coroner. Later the corpse was taken to Still's undertaking rooms and prepared
for burial.
Death must have been instantaneous as the victim's neck was broken, the
right jaw was shattered and the left arm and leg fractured. He was otherwise
injured.
Deceased was about 60 years of age and was a highly respected resident of
Custer City. His surviving family consists of a widow, four sons, Thomas, now
in Panama, James, a conductor on the Middle division of the B.R.&P., John and
Arthur Ray of Custer, and three daughters, Mrs. J.J. O'Connor of Bradford and
two others who live at home.
Henry W. Bates, aged 52 years, died at the County Home on Monday, from heart
trouble. The deceased was a Free Methodist minister and his home was in some
small town in New York state. He had been holding some meetings for about two
weeks when he was taken ill and admitted to the Home on Saturday last. As he
had only been in that institution two days previous to his death little could
be learned of his past life. His remains were shipped to Turtle Point
Tuesday, where he had a cousin named Mr. Tubbs, who attended to the burial.
Ancient History:
At the residence of Mrs. L.T. Medbury in this place on Sunday, April 22,
1889, at 9:30 a.m., Mrs. M.J., wife of M.J. Miller of Rixford, aged 40 years.
Mrs. Miller came to this place on the 3rd inst., to be treated for Bright's
disease by Dr. Freeman, and remained under the tender care of her husband and
Mrs. Medbury until her death. Everything that love and medical skill could
afford was done to prolong her life, but her disease was far advanced when she
came and notwithstanding all that could be done, the disease terminated
fatally. The deceased was a resigned and patient sufferer, leaving to her
loved ones the precious testimony that she passed away sweetly trusting in her
Saviour. At the time of her death her husband and three eldest children were
with her and after a brief service read by rev. W.H. Willaham, they went with
the remains to their home. The bereaved and sorrowing husband, children,
relatives and friends have the tender sympathy of the people of Smethport,
especially of the members of the Baptist church and the royal Templars, of
which organization both Mr. and Mrs. Miller had become members in their own
locality.
Ancient History:
A freight brakeman on the B.B.& K. railroad, by the name of Patrick Sheehan,
was fatally injured while performing his duties at Kinzua Junction, on
Wednesday afternoon, May 9, 1888. It appears that there was some switching to
be done at the junction and he and the crew began the work. In some manner
the young man became the cars, which were coming together with great force,
and before he could free himself he was caught by the bumpers crushing his
right leg at the thigh. He was immediately taken to Bradford where he died at
about 8 p.m. Deceased was about 21 years of age and the only one upon which a
widowed mother depended for assistance. The remains wife taken to Wellsville,
his home, for burial. The railroad bore the expenses of the funeral.
Ancient History.
Henderson At his home at Crosby Station, a few miles south of this
borough, on Monday night May 7, 1898, of pneumonia, Charles, only son of
Joseph Henderson, Esq., in the 20th year of his age. Deceased was a young man
of good habits and had, for the past year, been employed in smith and Newerf's
mill. About the first of May he contracted a severe cold which developed into
pneumonia to which he finally succumbed. He was highly esteemed by his
employers and fellow men, and in fact all who knew him. Funeral services were
held at Union church, Colegrove, Rev. J.H. Hawkins officiating, and were
attended by a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends. The remains
were interred in the Colegrove cemetery.
Ancient History:
The community was shocked on Monday evening, may 7, 1888, to learn that our
well known citizen, J.G. Eaton, had died suddenly of heart disease at his
residence on Mechanic street. He was engaged at the hotel of B.F. Wright in a
chemical capacity, and after having eaten his supper complained of not feeling
well and of a severe pain in his chest. His son-in-law, Mr. Frank Rumsey,
happened to drop into the hotel about that time and heard him speak of the
pain he was suffering and persuaded him to go home, the distance of a square
from the Wright House. Upon reaching his residence he laid down upon a
lounge, at the same time acquainting Mrs. Eaton of his feelings but insisting
that she should not call a physician, which she proposed to do as he thought
he would fee better in a few moments. Within forty-five minutes (at 8 p.m.)
from the time of entering his house he breathed his last. Judson G. Eaton was
born at Springville, Erie county, New York, on the 19th day of August, 1823.
He was a son of Sylvester Eaton and a grandson of Rufus Eaton, the first
settler of Springville. Deceased came to Smethport in 1850 and engaged in the
grocery business with Elon Eaton. He afterwards followed the tin and hardware
business for many years and was undoubtedly the most skilled workman as a
tinner of any man who ever resided in this place. He was married on the 4th
day of September, 1856, to Sarah E. Bennett, a daughter of the late Oshea R.
Bennett and a sister of Mrs. B.F. Wright and Mrs. E.F. Richmond. He leaves
besides his wife, three daughters, Nina L., wife of Frank Rumsey, Lucy C.,
wife of our well known attorney, Sheridan Gorton and Geneva the youngest
daughter, aged about 19 years. Mr. Eaton has been a sufferer from an affection
of the heart for many years and his family were expecting that his death would
be sudden whenever it occurred. He was a man of marked characteristics, of
strong prejudices but strictly honorable in business transactions. The
funeral services were held at the family residence on Wednesday, at 4 p.m. and
were conducted by Rev. Willaham of the Baptist church. A large concourse of
relatives and friends were in attendance, and followed the remains of the
deceased to their last resting place in Rose Hill cemetery.
Ancient History:
Died, at the residence of Robert King, Esq., in this borough, on Tuesday
morning, May 22nd, at 4 o'clock Miss Sarah Housier, aged 69(??) years. Miss
Housier was the daughter of Adam Housier, one of the first settlers of this
county. At 12 years of age she commenced living with the family of the late
Orlo J. Hamlin of this place, and she remained with that family until the
death of Mrs. Hamlin which occurred in 1881. Mr. Hamlin having died the year
before. Since then with the exception of the year that she was with the
family of J.C. Hamlin, Esq., she has resided with the King family, Mrs. King
being the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Orlo J. Hamlin. For several years past she
has been confined to her room owing to paralysis. The first stroke occurred
eight years ago and the last, four months. The funeral services were held at
the King residence on Main street on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev.
J.H. McCandless officiating. The remains were buried in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 3.
John C. Anderson, who resides at 100 A _ _ street, and who was burned in a
fire which destroyed the rooming house where he boarded while working in
Buffalo died in the emergency hospital of Buffalo yesterday afternoon at 5
o'clock. Mrs. Anderson was apprised of her husband's condition late Friday
evening and she departed early yesterday morning for Buffalo and was at his
bedside when the end came. Bradford Sunday Herald.
Page 3.
Rev. Thomas Cardus, presiding elder of the Olean district of the Methodist
Episcopal church, died at his residence in Olean at 7;30 o'clock Friday
evening. The end was very sudden and unexpected. Dr. Cardus was in his usual
health during the day and was upon the street during the afternoon. This
evening he ate his supper as usual. Within a few minutes he complained of
severe pains in his chest and his breathing was difficult. Drs. Cowell and
Morris were summoned to the bedside of the _ _ _ _ and did all in their power
to save him. The end came at about 7:30 o'clock. Death was due to congestion
and heart failure. Deceased was one of the best known church workers in this
country. He was instrumental in the establishment of a number of churches in
the _ _ _ _ towns of this vicinity as well as some of the larger ones. Dr.
Cardus is survived by his widow one son, Arthur Cardus of New York and two
daughters, Misses Gertrude and Marion Cardus of Olean.
Page 3.
Charles A Carlson, a woodsman contractor, shot and killed himself in the
LaMont hotel at Kane last Wednesday. He was a middle aged man quite well
known in Kane, and vicinity and no reason is known why he should have wished
to end his life. He leaves a widow and two children.
Page 5.
Fireman J.H. Corry of Salamanon was killed and Engineer M. O'Connor of
Hornell seriously injured in a collision on the Erie road near Cuba Summit,
Monday night.
Feb 13, 1908:
Ancient History:
Sunday morning June 17, 1888, the people of this place (Colgrove) were
shocked and grieved by the sad announcement that Mrs. A.W. Colegrove, who only
twenty four hours before was apparently in usual health, was dead. On
Saturday morning she walked a distance of nearly half a mile to care for a
sick friend and neighbor and soon after reaching her house complained of
feeling ill and remarked that she should have to return home at once or she
feared she would never get there. She walked back again, are her dinner with
the family as usual and was up part of the time until about three o'clock in
the afternoon when the rheumatic pains in her head and shoulders became so
violent that she sent for her husband, who was at work some distance away. On
his arrival he immediately telegraphed for Dr. Freeman of Smethport who was
not able to reach Colegrove until six o'clock and could then give her no
relief. At ten o'clock it was evident that the disease was going to her
heart, and soon after eleven p.m. she breathed her last. She had often
expressed a desire to be buried in the cemetery near her former home at
Sardinia, N.Y., and on Monday morning, after a brief service at his residence,
her husband with her two little boys, one seven and the other not yet ten
years of age, with the remains of the dead wife and mother, took the early
train for that place. They were accompanied from Colegrove by Mr. Colegrove's
brother, Clarence and Mrs. J. Colegrove, with Messrs. Asher Tuttle, F.G.
Lindholm, J.W. Jolly, Robert Wilson, James Scanlon, and Seth McGee as
bearers. At Smethport they were joined by Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Colegrove and at
Larabee by Mr. Colegrove's two sisters, Mrs. Hattie Sanders and Mrs. Lydia
Ross, of Coudersport. Previous arrangements for the funereal had been made by
telegraph and at four o'clock in the afternoon, on the lawn in front of the
home of her bereaved father and mother, in the shade of the trees under which
she had played in her childhood, and in the presence of the companions of her
girlhood, who brought her beautiful floral offerings in token of their esteem
and remembrance, the solemn and impressive services were held. The address of
the pastor, though a comparative stranger to her, was feeling and appropriate,
the selections and singing by the choir were expressive of sympathy and sorrow
and all the appointments seemed to be just what she would have wished them to
be. She was born at Sandusky, N.Y., April 6, 1950, her maiden name was Anna
E. Peavey, and she was married to A.W. Colegrove, eldest son of W.J.
Colegrove, January 16, 1873. She was a devoted wife, and mother, a true,
sympathetic and helpful _ _ _ _ (article continues in tribute)
Page 3.
Mrs. W. Ludwig, who lived between Austin and Sizerville, died one week ago
last Thursday, and the body had to remain in the house for a week because it
was impossible to get a sleigh or hearse to the place on account of the great
snow drifts.
Mar 5, 1908:
Page 3.
John M. Swanson is in jail in Warren, charged with having murdered his
employer Charles Samuelson, aged 85 years, a resident of Chandlers Valley.
Swanson became enraged at Samuelson while they were engaged in hauling wood
and struck down the aged man with an ax. Swanson then literally cut his
victim to pieces and fled with his watch and money. The murderer was captured
soon after by a posse. Samuelson's mangled body was found in the woods by his
daughter.
Mar 19, 1908:
An Oil city special in Tuesday's Era says: Charles A. Foster committed
suicide by shooting himself through the head early this afternoon with a 38
calibre revolver. He suffered a fracture of the scull while working as a
trainman on the Pennsylvania railroad six years ago and since then his right
side has been paralyzed. Recently he lost his job at the Pennsylvania
roundhouse and was prepared to move to Salamanca. His goods were attached at
the station for debts and his suicide in the house he had vacated this morning
followed. He was 20 years of age. He is survived by his wife and four
children, the oldest four years and the youngest two months. Mrs. George
Eckart, of Bradford is a sister. His parents live in Salamanca and the body
will be taken there Tuesday afternoon.
Ancient History:
Gallup At her residence in this borough, on Tuesday morning, August 28,
1888, at 3 a.m., Mrs. Nancy H. Gallup, widow of the late Orrin Gallup, aged 77
years. Mrs. Gallup has not been a well woman for years, owning to heart
difficulty, but since her husband's death, which occurred on September 6th,
last year, she has been confined to her bed most of the time. She leaves four
sons and four daughters and a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn
her death. The funeral services were held on Thursday at 1 o'clock and were
conducted y Rev. Willaham of the Baptist church, of which Mrs. Gallup was a
constant member for years. The remains were taken to thee Colegrove cemetery
for burial.
Ancient History:
Our community was startled Tuesday afternoon Aug. 28, 1888, by the
intelligence of the sudden death of Dr. Thomas H. Carroll, who died at 2:15
o'clock aged 38 year 3 months and 10 days. The immediate cause of his death
was sudden congestion of the lungs with heart failure. Dr. Carroll came to
this place nearly a year ago, and while here met Miss Ida Earon, whom he
married June 30, 1888. While among us he enjoyed a large practice and won
many friends professionally. A man of wonderful ability; he was looked upon
by his profession as one of the most brilliant. At college he graduated first
in his class and the several places he has practiced his professional career
was one of success. The bereaved wife has heartfelt sympathy in her loss.
The funeral of the deceased physician was held in Lock Haven, at the house of
Mrs. Carroll's parents on Sunday and the remains were buried in Dunston
cemetery. Austin Autograph.
Mar 26, 1908:
Byron L. Knapp died at his home on King street, this borough, on Monday
morning at 4:10 o'clock, the cause of death being paralysis. About six
o'clock on Wednesday evening of last week he was stricken and he never
regained consciousness, his life slowly and peacefully ebbing away until the
end came.
Byron Levermore Knapp was born in Mexico, Oxford county, Maine, January 12,
1830. He was a direct descendant of the earliest white settlers of that
state. His maternal grandfather was Oana Farnham, who married Dorcus
Wheeler. Together they made a journey of hundreds of miles from New Hampshire
into Maine to create for themselves a new home, and covered much of this
distance on snow shoes.
(This obituary continues at length. Only parts are excerpted here)
On May 1, 1857, he was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Dorrington of
Boston, Mass. They lived there for a time and then resided in Oxford county,
Maine, for a number of years. In August, 1867, Mr. Knapp in company with
other home seekers from Maine came to McKean county, Pennsylvania, and located
in Crosby where he was joined by the family in November of the same year. He
ahd since been a resident of Smethport and vicinity. He was a carpenter by
trade and for may years followed that occupation. Nearly thirty years ago he
was appointed court crier and had since held that position, one term of court
last summer, which he was unable to attend on account of illness, being the
only time during those years when he was not present attending to his duties.
Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Knap as follows: Mrs Ivall E. Lewis
of Rochester, N.Y.; N. Harry Knapp of Smethport; Mrs. Lee A. Gibson of
Rochester, N.Y.; Mrs. Sadie G. Brasted, who died about 11 years ago; Ray, who
died 34 yeas ago, and Ross K. of Smethport. Thus two daughters and two sons
survive with the widow to mourn the loss of this good man.
The funeral services were held at St. Luke's church yesterday afternoon at 2
o'clock, the Rev. J.H. McCandless officiating, and his remains were laid at
rest in the family plot in Rose Hill cemetery. The funeral was largely
attended, the Smethport Fire Department and Protected Home Circle attending in
a body and escorting the remains to the grave. A large delegation from the
Traveler's club of which Mrs. Knapp is a member, was also in attendance. His
comrades of the Fire Department turned out 53 strong which shows the high
esteem in which he was held by that organization.
Page 3:
Mrs. Cora DeHay died Thursday of last week, funeral at the house Saturday
The remains were taken to Rixford for interment She leaves a family of ten
children. One daughter married, another living in Buffalo and a son in
Bradford. The remaining seven are at home, of which the eldest is but
fourteen years of age.
Page 5.
William Hand, age 71 years, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. S.M.
Smith, last Thursday afternoon. The deceased was a native of New Jersey and
had only been a resident here a short time. He is survived by two sons,
Arthur Furman of New Jersey, and one daughter, Mrs. Smith. Rev. W.A. H _ _
_ , pastor of the M.E. church held brief services at the house last Friday
morning, after which his remains were taken to his former home for burial.
Page 5.
Arthur F. Allen was found in a dying condition in a room on the third story
of a building at the corner of Main and Congress streets, Bradford, on
Monday. He was taken to the Bradford hospital and given treatment, where he
died on Tuesday. He was about 6 years of age and was a well known character
in that city.
Apr 9, 1908:
Died at his home in Eldred, Tuesday, April 7, 1908, at 2:30 p.m. John Murry
Blake, after a day's illness following an attack of heart disease. He was
nearly 69 years of age.
Mr. Blake was a kind and genial man quite well known in Smethport, where he
frequently visited at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J.C. Backus. Those who
became acquainted with Mr. Blake on such occasions feel that in his death they
have sustained a personal loss, as he had a pleasant faculty of quickly making
friends and returning their warm regard. He was a loving and indulgent
husband and father and the bereaved wife and children have the sincere
sympathy of this sympathy of this community in their loss.
Mr. Blake was born in New Brunswick, Canada, April 15, 1839. On March 1,
1860, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Wilson at Demosell Creek,
Canada, and during their long married life nine children blessed their union,
seven of whom are living, David, aged 1 year and John, aged 10 years, having
passed away a number of years ago. Those who survive with their mother to
mourn the loss of this estimable man are Mrs. Mary Dickerson of Eldred, Mrs.
Ella Bowen of Bradford, Mrs. Bessie John of Buffalo, Mrs. Lucy Backus of
Smethport. Robert Blake of Bradford and William and Margaret Blake of Eldred.
About 26 years ago Mr. Blake located in Eldred where he engaged in the
blacksmithing business. He was a skilled workman and enjoyed a flourishing
business up to a few years ago when failing health compelled him to give up
the heavier work of his occupation. He was of an inventive turn of mind and
was the maker of several clever devices, some of which are patented and on the
market at the present time.
Last Monday he was enjoying his usual health and was around town and his
home carrying out his usual duties. During the afternoon he had a sudden
collapse and his condition became so alarming that all the children were
called to his bedside. He apparently rallied from the worst of the attack
and the final summons came without warning and entirely unexpected by the
family Tuesday afternoon.
The funeral will be held in Eldred this afternoon and interment will be made
in the cemetery at the place.
Ancient History:
The funeral of Blanche Smith, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H.A. Smith, who
lives on lower Main street, occurred Sunday October 7, 1888, at half past one
p.m.
Page 3.
A deplorable accident happened at Portland Mills, Elk county, last Tuesday
afternoon. John Huckenburg, night watchman at the kindling wood factory was
cleaning his revolver, when the weapon was accidentally discharged and the
bullet struck his 5 year old daughter near the heart killing her almost
instantly.
Page 5.
Thomas Goodwin, formerly a well known Bradford resident and hotelman, died
at the home of his son, Thomas Goodwin, Jr., in Dallas, Texas, a few days
ago. He was 84 years of age.
Page 5.
J.E. McEvey, aged 58 years, one of the best known citizens of Bradford, died
at his home in that city Monday morning. He is survived by his widow and five
children.
Apr 23, 1908:
Page 5.
Alexander Watson, one of Bradford's best known and most highly esteemed
citizens, died at his home on Hilton street in that city, Tuesday morning.
Deceased was about 66 years of age and is survived by his widow, two sons and
one daughter.
Apr 30, 1908:
Page 3.
Mrs. James Kittell's little son, aged, 3 months, died Monday morning at
Coudersport. The father, James Kittel, accidentally shot and killed himself a
few weeks before the little one was born. The funeral was held Tuesday from
the home of Mrs. Kittell's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Baldwin. Mrs. Kittell
has the sympathy of all in her time of trouble.
Page 5.
One day recently Wayne Carpenter and a number of other boys were amusing
themselves with a bon-fire at C _ _ _ . Wayne had a quantity of powder loose
in his pocket which he drew forth and threw on the flames. In doing so a
flash enveloped him in a mass of flames. The boys with him helped put out the
fire and with the assistance of F.S. Fry, who heard the boy's screams, removed
him to his uncle's home. Medical aid was summoned but there was no hope of
saving his life, he passed away the following day.
Page 5.
A terrible tragedy occurred at Centerville, Crawford county, Friday morning
last, in which an entire family was burned to death. The fire was discovered
in the home of David Weatherby about two o'clock in the morning and by the
time the neighbors reached the scene the occupants were beyond aid. Albert
Lamm was the only one to escape from the burning building and he, in a dying
condition , is unable to tell how the fire originated. The dead are David
Weatherby, aged 70 years; Mrs. David Weatherby, aged 80; a daughter aged 50
years and Mrs. Albert Lamm.
May 14, 1908:
When word was received last Thursday of the death of Lenora Martin at Los
Angeles, Cal., it seemed too sad to be true, but we must abide by the
inevitable. Her relatives had been receiving unfavorable reports fro her
friends there for some time, but hoped for her ultimate recovery.
Lenora M. Roeder was born in Tutona, now Clermont, in 1844, and was the
oldest child of the late Phillip and Julia Roeder. At the age of seven years
she was taken into the family of the late Nathaniel Robins of Colegrove, where
she made her home until her marriage to Peter Martin in 1869, after which they
lived in Sergeant township until Mr. Martin's death in 1888. Ten children
were born to them, but only the youngest one is living, Bertha, of Gloudera,
Cal., the others all died young.
(Obituary continues at length)
Besides her daughter, she leaves one sister, Mrs. Gustie Moody of Coryville,
and one brother, Henry W. Roeder of Farmers Valley, who have the sympathy of
all in their bereavement.
George T. Otto, in his 70th year of age, died at his home in Farmers Valley
Friday afternoon, May 8, 1908, at 2 o'clock.
Mr. Otto enlisted at the U.S. Service at Keating, Pa., August 18, 1862, in
Company G, 150 Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Horatio
Bell and Colonel Landhorne Wister, to serve three years. The regiment was
assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 5th Corps, Army of the Potomac. Mr. Otto
participated in engagements at 2nd Bull Run, Harper's Ferry, Antietam,
Fredricksburg, Chancellorsville, Winchester, Gettysburg, Mannasses, Gap, Wine
Run, Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Bermuda Hundred, North Anna, Petersburg, Weldam
B.R., Hatcher's Run, and Dabney's Mill. The regiment was then ordered to
Elmira where it performed guard duty at the prison camp. Mr. Otto was
honorably discharged June 23, 1865.
He was a loving husband and a kind and indulgent father, a good neighbor and
will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He leaves to mourn his death a
widow and four children, Mrs. Lottie George of Angie Sea, Mrs. Jennie
Heminanger of Roulette, Mrs. Lulu Doyle of Port Allegany and Wm. Otto whose
whereabouts is unknown. He also leaves one step-daughter Mrs. Lena Spencer of
Hazelhurst, one brother, Henry D. Otto, and one sister, Mrs. Charity Kent of
Marietta, Ohio.
The funeral services were held at the church at Farmers Valley Sunday at 2
o'clock, Rev. Jerome Smith of the United Brethren church officiating. The
remains were laid at rest in Smith's cemetery.
John B. Lee died at the family home in Hazelhurst Wednesday, May 6th of
heart trouble from which he had suffered for some time.
The deceased was a native of England and came to this country in 1846, when
but 5 years of age. On January 6th, 1872, he was united in marriage with Miss
Anna Kendrick at Covington, Pa., and together they established a home at Fall
Brook, Pa., where the husband followed the occupation of miner. Sometime
after their marriage they moved to the state of Indiana where they remained
for a short period, and in 1875 located at Clermont, this county; after five
years they moved from there to Union county, Pa., and from there to Covington,
and in turn to Fall Brook, and Morris Run, thence again to Clermont, and about
10 years ago to Hazelhurst, where they have since resided.
The deceased is survived by his widow and four children; Mrs. John Latshaw
of Elyria, Ohio, William Lee of Homer City, Ind., James Lee of Seattle, Wash.,
and Samuel J. Lee of Hazelhurst. Mt. Jewett Herald.
A large delegation of Odd Fellows from this place were in attendance at the
funeral services which were held at M.E. church of Hazelhurst at 2 p.m. Sunday
after which the remains were brought to Smethport on a special P., S.&N. train
and interred in Rose Hill cemetery. He was a member of Smethport Lodge and
Clermont Encampment.
On Thursday January 9, 1889, Lewis, the three-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs.
J.M. Crumbie, of Colegrove, swallowed a cartridge, and though medical aid was
immediately summoned the child was taken with gripping pains and died on
Sunday.
May 21, 1908:
Chas. Pitner, a Ridgway young man, met his death at Mt. Jewett last Sunday
evening in a most horrible manner, by falling under a B.R.&P. freight train
which he with two other companions were attempting to board. Both legs were
cut off, his body was nearly severed at the abdomen and there was a horrible
gash in his head.
Pitner, who was about 23 years old, came over from Ridgway with his
companions to spend the day at Mt. Jewett. Instead of waiting for the late
passenger train they decided to catch a freight and the party went out near
the overhead bridge for that purpose. When the freight came along they
attempted to get on and all were successful except Pitner. He missed his hold
and fell back against the bank and could not recover himself in time to
prevent his going under the wheels.
His companions saw him fall and got off to give him assistance but when they
reached him he was beyond earthly aid. Coroner Sherman was notified but
decided that no inquest was necessary. His remains were taken to Ridgway for
burial.
The unfortunate young man is spoken of as a quiet, sober and upright boy who
was highly respected. He is survived by his parents.
John Nels Larson, an aged Two Mile farmer who was stricken with heart
disease while chopping wood last Monday, died at his home on the Two Mile,
near the Holmes farm. He was seventy-two years and two months old, a well
known and much respected citizen. He leaves an aged wife and three children
to mourn his sudden going away. The funeral was held from the Two Mile
Mission church on Wednesday and the interment made in the Fairview cemetery.
The children are Mrs. Lean Anderson of Smethport, Mrs. Tilda Bergren and Mrs.
Hebna Johnson of this city and Oscar of the Two Mile. As an evidence of how
well Mr. Larson stood in the community in which he lived is cited the long
procession that followed his remains to their last resting place in the
cemetery in Port Allegany. The little church in the vicinity of his home was
packed to overflowing with neighbors and relatives assembled to pay the last
respects and rites to a deceased neighbor and good citizen Port Allegany
Reporter.
The death of Israel R. Burt, Sr., took place Wednesday evening, May 18th, at
12 o'clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Lydia Deming of Sartwell Creek.
Death was due to old age, he being 96 years of age. Mr. Burt was one of the
pioneers of this region having been born in Potter county and having lived in
this vicinity all his life. In fact, up to the time of his death he was the
oldest man living in Potter county. His wife died about twenty years ago and
he has been living with his daughter for a number of years. He is survived by
two sons and five daughters, Ranson Burt of Sartwell Creek, Asher Burt of Port
Allegany, Mrs. Lyda Deming of sartwell Creek, Mrs. D.M. Manning of Lillibridge
Creek, Mrs. George Hackett of Smethport, Mrs. Philo Dezonia of Carlton county,
Minnesota and Mrs. Hebert of Honeye Center, _ _ _ county. The funeral will
take place (remainder of paper is torn)
Page 5.
The body of Paul Lyons of Olean was found in the Allegheny river near the
bridge at Salamanca on Saturday. He was drowned Tuesday, May 5th, by the over
turning of a canoe while out with Miss Florence Norton and Miss Edith
Colegrove. His remains were taken home on Sunday and the funeral was held
Monday morning from St. Mary's church.
Page 5,
During a severe electrical storm Saturday evening at 6 o'clock, John
Scherer, a resident of Morrison, located four miles from Kinzua, was shocked
and cremated in a fire which consumed his barn. When taken from the debris he
was burned beyond recognition. He is survived by his wife and son, Leon, also
a brother, Joseph Scherer of Warren, and a sister, Mrs. John Gross of Warren.
Deceased was 60 years of age and a well known and respected citizen. Two
horses and four cows also perished in the fire.
Page 5.
Mrs. James Doyle died at Ambridge, Pa., last evening at 7 o'clock. The
funeral will be held at Wellsville N.Y., on Saturday. Mrs. Doyle was one of
the old residents of this county and a suitable notice will be published next
week.
Jun 4, 1908:
James Murray met with a terrible accident shortly after one o'clock on
Tuesday while in the discharge of his duties at the Heinemann chemical Factory
at Crosby which cost him his life. He slipped and fell under a moving box car
which ran over his right leg below the knee and then ran up to his body
crushing the pelvic bone, where the car stopped and held him in this awful
position.
Mr. Murray was assisting in placing some cars on the switch of the company
when the accident happened. Two or more cars were being let down the switch
by gravity and daring the operation he stepped in between the cars for some
purpose. He either caught his foot or slipped throwing him under the car,
with the above result.
An alarm was given and the men about the factory came to his aid
immediately. The car was shoved back and he was taken out and removed to his
home. Medical aid was summoned from Smethport but he was past all human aid
and he expired a short time after the doctors arrived. He was resigned to his
fate and shortly before he died he said he was going home and was happy.
Mr. Murray was about 45 years of age and is survived by a loving wife and
several children. He was a member of the gospel workers and took and active
interest in the work of his religious belief. He has been a resident of
Norwich township the greater part of his life, and his first wife preceded him
to the Great Beyond.
The funeral services are being held this afternoon and his remains will be
laid at rest in the Colegrove cemetery.
This morning's Bradford Era says; Carl, the 9 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. A.
Stronburg, of Degolia, was killed abut 7 o'clock last evening in a most
distressing manner. The father of the boy is employed on the farm of Miss Ida
Drake, which adjoins the poor farm. Some time ago the manufacturers of a
manure spreader shipped a machine to Superintendant Clark at the poor farm and
recently Miss Drake purchased the farm implement for use on her farm.
Last evening Mr. Stronburg went to the poor farm with a team to get the
machine. His boy and a number of others went along and rode back on the
spreader. As Mr. Stronburg was driving into the yard, the spreader was given
a sudden jolt and Carl was thrown between the brake and the wheel. Before the
father noticed his position, the lad had been terribly crushed about the right
side.
Drs. McCallum and Walker of this city were summoned, but the boy died from
his injuries before the doctors reached the farm. It is thought he lived
about 30 minutes after the accident.
Coroner Sherman of this city was notified, but upon learning the particulars
deemed an inquest unnecessary.
Carl was an exceedingly bright boy and his parents will have the sympathy of
the community. Besides his parents he leaves two brothers and a sister.
Jul 9, 1908:
Frank Lehman met with a terrible accident near Port Allegany at about 10
o'clock Saturday night which resulted in his death a few hours afterward.
Mr. Lehman, whose home is at Coleman's Mill, about three or four miles above
Port Allegany, came down to spend the Fourth in town. Shortly before 10
o'clock he started to walk home on the tracks of Coudersport & Port Allegany
Railroad. He ahd only gone a short distance when he was run down by a
passenger train and both legs were cut off above the knees. He was picked up
and taken back to the Sartwell House and give medical aid but his injuries
were so severe that he died about midnight.
At the point where he was injured the Pennsylvania and Coudersport & Port
Allegany tracks are very close together and he probably thought the
approaching train was on the other track and paid no attention to it.
The unfortunate man was about 35 years of age and is survived by a wife and
one child.
Page 5.
Miss Mary Oleson, aged 17 years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Odel Oleson, was
fatally burned about 5 o'clock Saturday afternoon at DuBois. A small boy
threw a fire cracker under her skirts igniting her clothing. She died at the
hospital at midnight.
Page 5.
Three people were killed in a severe electrical storm in Clarion last
Sunday. The dead are Mrs. Harvey Montgomery of Lawson, aged 45 years, who was
struck and instantly killed while in a small outbuilding near her home. She
leaves a husband and large family of children. James Queen, aged 16 years,
and a young man named Lindsey, aged 21 years, both of East Brady, were killed
while in bathing. It is not known whether the lightning killed them out-right
or were merely stunned by it and drowned. Their bodies were found in 20
inches of water. Lindsey was a druggist and both were popular young men.
Jul 23, 1908:
A telegram was received here shortly before noon last Friday stating that a
young man supposed to be Fred Purtle had been killed by the cars in Chicago
early that morning and asking what should be done with the body. The message
stated that a Union Musicians card and other papers had been found on his
person which made his identity almost certain. T.H. Purtle, father of the
unfortunate young man immediately wired instructions for having the body
properly prepared and shipped here, which arrived here Monday morning.
(Obituary continues at length and only portions are excerpted here)
Fred Purtle is the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Purtle and was
born in Smethport on November 18, 1885, being at the time of his death in his
23rd years. He received a fairly good high school education and in the
meantime took up band music, being a member of the Smethport Band and High
School Orchestra when quite a young boy.
He is survived by his father and mother, one brother, Frank, and one sister
by adoption, Miss Marie, who deeply mourn the loss of a kind, obedient and
affectionate son and brother.
The funeral services were held at St. Elizabeth's church Tuesday morning at
10:30 o'clock, high mass being said by Rev. J.F. Dugan, and his remains were
laid at rest in St. Elizabeth's cemetery.
Philip Bacon, a former well known resident of this borough, died at the
Allegany House, Port Allegany, fast Monday, after a short illness of typhoid
fever. He was aged 44 yeears and about 11 months.
The deceased was the younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Bacon, both
deceased, and was born at the old homestead on Prospect hill, August 14,
1864. He spent his boyhood days on the farm of his parents and received a
common school education. For a number of vents he assisted his brother,
Daniel Bacon, in the management of the Hotel Imperial in this place and for
several years past he had devoted his time to lumbering in Potter county,
leaving there and coming to Port Allegany for treatment when he was stricken
with his last illness.
He is survived by one sister, Miss Mary Bacon, and one brother, Daniel Bacon
of DuBois, Pa., who deeply mourn his demise.
The funeral services were held at St. Gabriel's church, Port Allegany, Rev.
Father Becker officiating and the remains were brought to Smethport on
Wednesday for interment in St. Elizabeth's cemetery.
A dispatch from Duke Center to the Bradford Era, Monday night, says: A
shocking fatality occurred this evening at Tram Hollow, near here, on the farm
of J.D. Jones. B.F. Sisley was the victim. He was driving a team and hauling
hay from a field to the barn. A whiffletree broke and one of the horses being
thereby suddenly relieved of its part of the load, plunged forward. Sisley
held the reins and not expecting such an accident, was easily thrown off his
balance and pulled to the ground from the load of hay on the wagon. He struck
on his head and when he was reached by his companions was unconscious. A
physician was quickly summoned but nothing could be done for the man. He was
fatally injured and his death occurred within 20 minutes after his fall. His
neck was broken is believed.
The deceased formerly lived in Bradford and his burial will be in the Sisley
family plot at Oak Hill cemetery. He was an old soldier aged 66 years and
leaves a widow and two daughters, Miss Lucretia Sisley at home; Mrs. C.M.
McFarland of East Liverpool, O.; one son, Theodore K. Sisley of Wellsville,
O.; a brother, J.O. Sisley of Groenville, Pa., and a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth
Walmer of Pittsburg. Deceased belonged to the K.O.T.M. and was a man of most
estimable qualities.
Page 5.
W.T. Mann died at Lindley, N.Y., on Sunday last aged 69 years. Burial took
place on Monday at Mansfield, Pa., of which place he was a resident for many
years. He leaves besides his widow, one daughter, Mrs. R.E. Burdick of this
place.
George A Denning, the popular Main street barber, received a message
yesterday stating that his mother, Mrs. George Denning, died at her home in
Odessa, N.Y., that morning. She was aged about 70 years.
Jul 30, 1908:
Fred Ray Wendell died at the home of his parents on Water street, this
borough, at 3 o'clock Saturday afternoon, July 25, 1908, aged 22 years and
eleven months. The cause of his death was typhoid fever, which he contracted
while working at Folsom, W.Va.
On May 14 he went to Folsom and on July 1st he was taken ill. After
receiving medical treatment there for several days his physician advised him
to go to
Wheeling to the hospital. When he reached Wheeling he decided to come on to
Pittsburg and when he reached the latter place he concluded he would be better
off to come on home, reaching here July 8th. Upon reaching home he was in
such a weakened condition and the fever had such start that his excellent
constitution could not withstand its ravages and he finally succumbed.
Fred Wendell was born in Norwich township, where he spent his childhood. At
the age of fourteen he moved with his parents to this borough where he has
since resided, with the exception of the summer of 1906which he spent in
Folsom.
He was a young man of excellent habits and a kind living and genial
disposition which won him many friends among all who knew him. He was
industrious and a willing worker and a young man who had bright prospects for
the future.
He is survived by his parents, two sisters, Gertrude and Mamie, and two
brothers, Cordy and Leo, who deeply mourn the loss of an affectionate and
obedient son and brother.
The funeral services were held at the Methodist Episcopal church on Monday
at 2:30 p.m., Rev. W.A. Harris, officiating, and the Smethport Hose Co., of
which he was a an honored member, attending in uniform. His remains were laid
at rest in Rose Hill cemetery. The many floral tributes in a weak way showed
the high esteem in which he was held in this place.
The out of town relatives who attended the funeral were, Mrs. M.S.
Dotterwich, Olean; Mrs. John McConeghy and son Paul, Coudersport; Mrs. John
Wendell, Batavia, N.Y., and Miss Jessie Ray, Colegrove.
Page 3.
Mrs. Josephine C., wife of Harry G. Bartle, died at Port Allegany on Tuesday
of last week, aged 31 years. She is survived by a loving husband and a
daughter aged 5 years.
Aug 13, 1908:
Page 4.
Mrs. Margaret Gilligan, wife of Dennis Gilligan of Olean, N.Y., who had been
a patient in the Bon Air sanitarium, _ _ _ _ died at that place Saturday
evening at eight o'clock. The body was taken to Olean Sunday morning and the
funeral was held at the Episcopal church at three o'clock Monday afternoon.
Mrs. Gilligan had been a sufferer from tuberculosis for the past year. She
leaves to mourn her taking away a husband and one daughter, Catherine. Mrs.
Gilligan are? Margaret Johnson, was well known in this place where she was
highly esteemed by all that were fortunate enough to have met her. To the
bereaved family the MINER extends it sincere sympathy.
Aug 20, 1908:
Henry Smith, aged about 45 years, was found dead in bed in a room t the
Washington House on Webster street, at 12 o'clock last night. The discovery
was made by thee proprietor, H.G. Solt.
Deceased had been employed at the hotel for the past 18 months as a porter.
He was about the house for his usual health up to 3 o'clock yesterday
afternoon. At supper time last night he was missed, but no special
significance was attached to his absence.
At midnight Mr. Solt decided to go to Smith's room and see if the porter was
there. It was then that the body was found. The man had evidently lain down
upon the bed and there had expired. He was dressed in his working clothes.
Coroner E.R. Sherman was notified and after viewing the remains gave
instruction to have the body taken to Sloan's undertaking rooms and prepared
for burial. The coroner will not conduct an inquest as there was every
indication of death from natural causes.
The deceased is survived by a widow and five children, three sons and two
daughters. They live on Clarion street, says yesterday's Bradford Era.
Page 5.
Here is a little story that comes from Coudersport. It is worth
reading; Yesterday morning the lifeless body of Miss Bessie Rice was found in
the creek in the Germania neighborhood. The young girl was 16 years of age
and was the adopted daughter of the late William Rice. There seems to be no
doubt that she destroyed her life as the result of _ _ _ insanity. On Sunday
she seemed to be in her usual health and taught her Sunday school class, being
a member of the Christian church and an active worker. Her mother believes
that her insanity was the result of incessant novel reading.
Aug 27, 1908:
Mrs. Anna K. Heinlein, relict of the late Frederick Heinlein, died at the
home of her son, N. W. Heinlein on Cemetery street this borough on Thursday
Aug 20, at the advanced age of 82 years. The cause of her death was heart
trouble and she had only been sick a very short time.
Miss Anna K. Dealet(?) was born in Germany in 1826 and in 1848 came to
Pittsburg, soon after, marrying her late husband. To them were born five
children, three of whom survive to mourn her loss, namely, M.W. Heinlein of
this borough, Mrs. Jennie Stark and Mrs. Mary Tubbs, both of Olean. In 1879
the deceased moved with her family to Farmers Valley where they settled and
resided until the death of her husband Since that time she has lived with her
son a greater portion of the time.
Mrs. Heinlein was a woman who had a great many friends who will join with
her children in mourning her demise. She was always kind and gentle in her
manner and a true friend to her friends.
The funeral services were held on Sunday at the Farmers Valley church, Rev.
Smith officiating and her remains were laid at rest in the Smith cemetery.
Mary E. Warfle, widow of Ira Warfle, died at the family home on Marvin Creek
at 8 p.m. Monday, August 17th, after an illness of about two months duration
of bowel troubles, in her 70th year.
The funeral was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday when after services at the
residence, the Rev. A.S.M. Hopkins, of the Hazelhurst M.E. church,
officiating, the remains were laid to rest beside those of her husband in the
Kasson cemetery.
The deceased was the daughter of James and Huldah Heacock, and was a native
of Steuban county, N.Y. On June 18th, 1854, she was united in marriage with
Ira Warfle, with whom she established a home at Woodhull, N.Y., where they
resided for about three years when they located on the farm which has sine
been their home and from which they have both embarked on that journey which
knows of no return the husband dying May 23d of the present year.
The deceased is survived by the following children; Mrs. George Richards of
Kasson; Mrs. Phoebe Hensler, Norman H Warfle and Mrs. Mckinzie of Hazelhurst.
In the death of Mrs. Warfle the valley loses another of its oldest and most
highly respected residents, and a woman beloved by all who had the pleasure of
her acquaintance. Mt. Jewett Herald.
Page 5.
Joseph Daniel Neipling died at his home in Port Allegany on Monday of last
week, after a long illness from cancer of the stomach. He was age d57 years,
having been born in Badstowe, N.Y. March 17, 1851. He was a glass worker by
trade and lived in Smethport for a time during the earlier days of the
industry here. He is survived by two sons Jerome H. and Bert E. of Port
Allegany two brothers, James H. of Bradford and Charles of Bridgeton, N.J.,
and one sister, Mrs. Harriet Pratt of Waterford, N.J. The funeral was held
from his late home on Wednesday and his remains were taken to Clayton, N.J.
for interment beside his wife whose death occurred last February.
Sep 10, 1908:
The funeral of John Leslie Barrett, who was choked to death and robbed in
this borough on Tuesday night, Sept. 1, was held on Friday last at 2 p.m. from
the Grimes church, near Port Allegany, Rev. Peter Bowers officiating, and his
remains were laid at rest in the Grimes cemetery.
He is survived by a loving wife and nine children, an aged mother three
sisters and four brothers namely Mrs. Mary Realey of Warsaw, Mrs. Anna Lane,
Rochester, Mrs. Nora Pattison of Nigara Falls, James Barrett, who is in the
U.S. Navy, William Robert and Frank Barrett of Warsaw, N.Y., all of whom
deeply mourn his loss.
Those who knew him best, say that he was a honest, hardworking man who was
always kind and loving to his family and respected by those whom he became
well acquainted. He was a man who seldom drank anything to speak of, as the
report of the autopsy proves, and it is not generally believed by his friends
that he was visibly intoxicated when he met his untimely death.
The taking away of John Barrett in this manner is extremely sad and his
sorrowing family has the sincere sympathy of all who know the circumstances.
A letter from Harry L. Wilson conveyed the sad intelligence that Mittie A.,
relict of the late Joseph R. Townsend died at her home in Bridgeton, N.J., on
Tuesday Sept. 1, and that the funeral was to be held from her late home on
Friday, Sept. 4.
Upwards of twenty-years ago Mr. and Mrs. Townsend resided at Clermont for a
long time and during this time they made many firm friends here. Mrs.
Townsend was the possessor of that charm which drew all who knew her to her
and one of those pure, sweet and lovable dispositions which made her
acquaintances faithful loving friends. She often visited Smethport and a host
of friends will join with her relatives in deeply mourning the loss of a
thoroughly good woman. She is survived by one son.
Dr. Charles C. Baker died on Sunday afternoon at the residence of his son,
Dr. E.R. Baker, at the age of 83 years and about ten months.
He was born near Farmers Valley, Jefferson county, November 21st in the year
1824. When he was young he took up the study of medicine and practiced as a
regular physician for about fifty years. He first practiced at Farmers Valley
and then for 25 years at Clarington after which he practiced at Sigel.
Dr. Baker was a strong character and one of those heroic men of the early
days who did so much to advance the well being of society intellectually,
professionally and religiously. He was well read and abreast of the thought
of the day until very near the close of his life. He was a member of the
Methodist Episcopal church and the religious spirit pervaded his whole life
and did much to enhance the value of the qualities which he possessed by
nature. His interest in religious work was shown in the fact that for a
number of years he was a local preacher.
His residence in this place covered only the past twelve years while he made
his home with his son. Besides his wife he leaves four children; Mrs. Delta
Truman of Brookville, Mrs. Emma Platt of Franklin, Dr. W.A Baker of Kane and
Dr. E.R. Baker of this place.
The funeral services were held on Monday afternoon at four o'clock and were
in charge of the Rev. W.A. Harris. On Tuesday morning the body was taken to
Clarington for burial.
Sep 17, 1908:
William Henry Brittain, died at the home of his son-in-law, Walter Daly on
Mechanic street, this borough, on Friday night, September 11, aged nearly 76
years.
His death was the result of injuries he received on the morning of August
25, when he was struck by a P.S.&N. engine near the creamery. His skull was
fractured and one foot was crushed, but for a time it was thought that he
would recover. Later gangrene set in which caused his death.
The subject of this sketch was born in St. Martins, New Brunswick, ,Canada
on December 3, 1832. On December 17, 18?? He was united in marriage to Miss
Sarah B. Tabor, and this union was blessed by eight children, five of whom are
living namely; Mrs. Levi Sherwood of Fort Fairfield, Maine, Mrs. H.W. Tabor of
Waltham, Mass. Stephen _ _ _ of T _ _ _, Pa. Mrs. F.D. C _ _ _ _ of
Springville, N.Y. and Mrs. _ _ _ Daly of this place.
The deceased was a shoemaker by trade in which business he followed at St.
M_ _ _ until 189, when he moved to Massachusetts in 1892 he came to McKean
county and engaged in the lumber business, near Smethport.
In the sixteen years Mr. Brittain has resided in this vicinity he has made
many friends who will unite with the sorrowing family in mourning the loss of
a kind and indulgent father and a true friend.
The funeral services were held at the home of Walter Daly on Monday at 2
p.m., Rev. W.A. Harris pastor of the M.E. church, officiating, and his remains
were laid at rest in Rose Hill cemetery.
Sep 24, 1908:
Page 5.
Mrs. Stephen B. Lee was instantly killed and her husband probably fatally
injured in an automobile accident in Buffalo last Sunday evening. They were
driving along Delaware avenue and while crossing the Lackawana tracks were
struck by a freight engine. Mrs. Lee was horribly mangles and Mr. Lee's skull
was fractured and he received numerous other injuries. Mrs. Lee was a
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. K. Healy of Bradford and is survived by her
father, who is an invalid, her mother who is at the Bradford hospital
suffering with typhoid fever and could not be told of her daughter's death,
and two brothers, William J. and Norman. Mrs. Lee was 36 years of age.
Oct 8, 1908:
A dispatch from Kane Tuesday night to the Bradford Era says;
John Henry Tew, aged 50 years and a well known citizen of this borough
committed suicide by hanging himself at his home about 6 o'clock this
evening. When he failed to appear at the supper table a search was instituted
and Carl Tew, the oldest son, found the body of his father dangling from a
rafter in the attic. A small window rope had been used in the commission of
the self destruction.
The body was cut down and Coroner Sherman was notified. He will visit Kane
tomorrow and investigate the case.
Members of the family are unable to ascribe a motive for the suicide. While
Mr. Tew's health had not been the best of late, he being a suffer from
catarrh, he had not complained of that affliction.
Deceased came to Kane with his family from Rew City 18 years ago. While a
resident of Rew, Mr. Tew was employed on a lease of G.W. Scofield of
Bradford. He was well and favorably known throughout the Bradford oil field.
For the just several years Mr. Tew had been engaged as a drayman in this
city.
Three years ago he was elected a Councilman from the First ward of the
borough and was considered one of the best informed members of the municipal
government.
Deceased is survived by his widow, and seven children as follows; carl H.,
Mrs. Daisy Ware, Percy H., Miss Sa_ _ _ _ , Nellie L., John D. and Geo. W.
Tew, all of Kane. He also leaves one brother George J. Tew of ?atallton,
N.Y.; three sisters, Mrs. John Hyland and Mrs. Frank Brown of West Eaton,
N.Y. He also leaves his aged father, John Tew of Georgetown, N.J.
John Miller Rees, aged 82 years, died at his home in Costello on Sept,
29thth, 1908. He and his wife had just returned from a visit with their
daughter at Port Allegany and had been home but three hours when he received
the summons which called his spirit home.
He leaves to mourn his sudden demise a widow and seven children and many
other relatives and friends His children are; Rosie Tuttle of Virginia;
Christopher of Coudersport; Vina of Port Allegany; Wm Miller, Allen, Alvin and
Bird, the four latter living near Costello, and Jane, who died several years
ago. He was a loving father, a kind neighbor and friend. Mr. Rees had held
many offices of trust, among which were justice of the peace and deacon of the
church. He was liberal in his contributions to every good cause and was
always for advancement. Besides his one hundred acre farm he made in his
youth, he purchased seven hundred acres more in his later years for his family.
The deceased was one of the early pioneers of Potter county, who in 1830
settled near the headwaters of the Sinnemahoning. They were eleven in number,
the father, mother and nine children. They came overland in an emigrant wagon
from Philadelphia by way of the State road, through a dense forest and
finished the latter part of their journey by canoe, laying out their course by
blazing trees. They took up a large tract of land, selling at one dollar per
acre, built a saw mill at the south branch of the Sinnemahoning, sawed their
lumber, built a log house a school house, also need for a church, and a
blacksmith shop and proceeded to clear up the forest. The nearest market was
24 miles distant and was reached only by foot paths marked by blazed trees, or
by canoe. They were persevering and industrious and success crowned their
labor.
Eli Rees, a brother of the deceased, built the first court house in
Coudersport and was a resident of that town. His sons also resided there for
many years his eldest son, Orlando being the burgess of that town up the time
of his demise.
The little party of emigrants now have all passed away. They rest form
their labors and their works do follow them. The Rees family descendants
number over three hundred scattered from north to south and east to west over
the United States.
Oct 15, 1908:
John S. Swanson, aged nearly 32 years, met with a horrible accident last
Saturday afternoon on a log train near Fassett, Canada, in which his life was
instantly crushed out under the wheels of the train.
Mr. Swanson who had been working in the lumber woods about ten miles from
Fassett, went down to that place on a log train Saturday evening with a friend
who was sick and waited to see a doctor. They attended to their mission and
started back on the empty train in the afternoon. They were riding on a
bolster when the car on which they were jumped the track. The shock threw
Swanson off his balance and he fell under the wheels where his life was
instantly crushed out.
His companion picked up his remains and took them back for Fasset where they
were prepared for burial. His brother, Oscar Swanson, who was working at the
same place, was notified of the sad accident and he came out of the woods and
made arrangements to have the body brought home.
They arrived here Tuesday evening and were taken to the home of his parents
in Kasson.
John and Oscar Swanson left here on July 2, to go to work on the above named
job and had_ _ _ _ since, and the news of his sudden and awful death was a
terrible shock to his parents.
John S. Swanson was born in Sweden on December 4th, 1876, and when about
three years of age came to this country with his parents, who some few years
later _ _ _ on the farm near Kasson on which they now reside, where the
deceased has always made his home when not at work in the woods.
He received a common school education and has followed the lumber business
as a vocation since he grew to manhood. He was a good honest, hard working
young man who had many friends in this vicinity who will unite with his
parents, five brothers and three sisters in mourning his demise.
The funeral services will be held of the home of his parents at 2 o'clock
this afternoon and his remains will be laid at rest in the Kasson cemetery.
Oct 22, 1908:
Clara Elizabeth Hungerford was born at Smethport, McKean county, pa.,
December 7, 1872, and, passed her life in this place with the exception of a
few years in New York, where death claimed her early Monday morning, Oct. 19,
1908.
She was united in marriage to William H. Miller of New York, at St.
Elizabeth's church in this place September 5, 1899, and the result of this
union is two children, William, ages seven and Lucile, aged four years. She
was a faithful, indulgent and affectionate mother and the little one have lost
in her the best friend that they will ever know on earth.
She is survived by her husband and two children of New York; six brothers,
Maurice of Rixford, Edward and John of Bolivar, N.Y., Michael, Thames; and
William; and one sister, Mrs. Mary Bussey, of this place, who have the
heartfelt sympathy of all in the loss of their loved one.
(Obitury continues at length)
Joseph M. McClure, one of the best known attorneys of the McKean county bar,
died at his home in Bradford Tuesday morning, the cause of his death being
heart disease. He had been in poor health for several months, but had been
able to attend to his duties for some time past.
The deceased was well and favorably known throughout the county and had many
warm friends who deeply mourn his sudden death.
Joseph M. McClure was born in Perry county, Pennsylvania, December 28, 1838,
the sixth of ten children of James and Rachel Oliver Patterson McClure, who
were natives of the State of Scotch-Irish descent.
He was married in Philadelphia November 27, 1867(?) to Alice Hamersly,
daughter of George W. Hamersly.
(Obituary continues at length and only portions excerpted here)
William E. Doyle died at his home in St. Marys, W.Va., on Saturday October
17, 1908, the cause of his death being pneumonia. He was aged about 47 years.
The deceased was born in Annin township where he spent his boyhood days.
About twenty-five years ago he came to Smethport where he studied law at the
office of _ _ _
Fifteen years ago he was united in marriage to Miss Julia Mullin of Annin
township and this union was blessed with one child, Clara, a girl now fourteen
years of age who reside with her grandparents in Sartwell. Ten years ago his
first wife died and about five years ago he was married to Miss Edna Stewart
of St. Marys, W. Va., and to the union one child was born, a bright little
girl now three years of age named Virginia who with is wife, three brothers,
John O., A.D. and Arthur and one sister, Mrs. T.H. butler of Mt. Jewett,
survive to mourn his loss.
His remains were brought to his boy-hood home in Sartwell on Monday and the
funeral was held at the Catholic church there Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock,
Rev. P. Donohue officiating. His remains were laid at rest in the Sartwell
cemetery.
(Obituary continues at length and only portions excerpted here)
An awfully sad event occurred at Colesburg in Allegany township Wednesday
afternoon about 2 o'clock.
Little Phillis Loretta Ordway, daughter of Mrs. Edith Ordway, was horribly
burned in the morning of the same day and died of her injuries after hours of
indescribable suffering.
Immediately after breakfast about eight o'clock in the morning, Mrs. Ordway
who lives at the home of Henry Cornelias, left her children to go to
neighbor's for some milk. After she had gone little Phillis climbed upon the
table and got hold of some matches. In some way she ignited her clothing and
enveloped in flames she ran out to _ _ _ her mother. The _ _ _ fanned the
blaze and by the time her mother reached her and removed her burning clothes
the little victim was fatally burned. Dr. R.B. Knight was sent for and
everything possible done to save the dear little life but all effort was of no
avail.
After five or six hours of terrible pain and agony the precious innocent
soul was wafed to the world of angels.
Little Phillis was a pretty, interesting child and only two years old. The
mother is heartbroken. Coudersport Enterprise.
Oct 29, 1908:
Page 3.
Mrs. Matilda Morrell, aged 96 years, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs.
L.V. Daggett, in Bradford Monday afternoon. She was highly esteemed by many
friends in that city and vicinity.
Page 3.
Mrs. Phileeta Smith died at her home in Farmers Valley Saturday night, Oct.
24. She was 65 years of age and the cause of her death was pneumonia. Mrs.
Smith is survived by two sons, Frank Smith of Bradford and O.N. Smith of
Farmers Valley; the funeral was held at the church in that place on Monday
afternoon, Rev. Culbertson officiating.
Page 5.
In New York, on Sunday, Oct. 18, 1908, of tuberculosis, Major Warren Hayden
Cowls, U.S.A., only son of the late Capt. Warren Cowles of the 58th Regt.
Penne. Vol, and Nancy Hayden his wife.
Major Cowles was a native of Smethport, having been born here forty-eight
years ago. He received his military education at West Point where he
graduated with honors. He served in the war with Spain, both in Cuba and in
the Philippines, but was retired through disability four years ago. He was
interred at West Point, Oct. 20th, with military honors.
Many of our townspeople still remember the bright and agile _ _ _ and the
brave intelligent youth who spent his childhood among us, but went early out
into the world to assume its cares and responsibilities.
His intellectual attainments were of a high order, and his inherent nobility
of character did not desert him when he knew himself face to face with the
last enemy. He faced the foe as a soldier should, and passed quietly and
bravely onward. He leaves one sister, Helen, wife of E.E. Crocker of
Pittsburg.
Page 3.
After lingering eight days with a bullet hole the entire length of his right
lung, Harry McKee Moore, 9 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. E.L. Moore of Young
township, died Monday night at 10 o'clock in Grabe hospital, Punxsutawney.
The unfortunate boy was accidentally shot by its 12 year old brother, while
examination it new gun.
Page 5.
Fred Axelson died at Hecktoo, Minn., on Thursday, Oct. 29. He had lived at
that place for the past eight years and previous to that time he resided in
this vicinity for some time. Mr. Axelson was a hard working, industrious
farmer who was highly esteemed in the community where he lived. He is
survived by a wife and one son aged about 6 years, his father and mother and
two sisters who live in Sweden and three brothers, Charles John and Lawrence
of Smethport. John and Lawrence left on Saturday to attend the funeral.
Nov 19, 1908:
Adelbert E. Rose, aged 16 years, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick D. Rose,
living in the vicinity of Klondyke, ,this county, was accidentally killed
about noon on Sunday while he and a companion named Harry Cordner were in the
woods hunting for rabbits.
(The article continues at length)
Besides his parents young Rose leaves one brother, Elmer Rose, and four
sisters Lillian, Nellie, Luella and Viola Rose, all of whom live at home.
Page 3.
Mrs. Eliza Wood Ormsby of Smith Mills, N.Y.,, died at her home in that place
at 2 p.m., Thursday, November 12th, after an extended illness, aged 78 years.
The deceased is survived by eight sons and one daughter, ass follows; Richard
C. of Mt. Jewett, R.J. and J.D. of Bradford; G.W. of Jersey Shore; William, of
Buffalo, N.Y., L.N. Thomas and Edward Ormsby of Smiths Mills; Miss Mary Ormsby
of Smiths Mills. Mt Jewett Herald.
Page 5.
Mrs. G.T. Dennis died at the home of a daughter at Port Allegany Sunday.
Her remains were taken to Eldred Tuesday morning where the services were held
at the Methodist church of that place and the body was laid at rest in the
cemetery at Rixford. George T. Dennis and Mrs. H. Eliza Barrett both of
Eldred, were married at the home of the bride on Edson street, January 1,
18??, the ceremony being (unreadable)
Nov 26, 1908:
Ransom Beckwith, one of the pioneers of McKean county and the oldest man in
Smethport borough met with a horrible accident last Thursday afternoon, which
resulted in his death about 24 hours later.
The old gentleman, who would have been ninety-one years of age had he lived
until the the 7th day of December next, was working _ _ _ on the Brennan farm,
south of town, blasting out rock with sticks of dynamite at the time the
accident (unreadable)
They were standing about one hundred yards from where Mr. Beckwith was
working when suddenly they heard an explosion and as the old gentleman had not
given the usual warning before setting fire to the fuse they give it more than
ordinary attention. As they looked to ascertain the cause they saw Mr.
Beckwith lying on the ground apparently calling for assistance.
Both men rushed to his side and Mr. Summersgill reaching him first found him
in a semi conscious condition, his right hand blown entirely of an inch or two
above the wrist with only a few shreds of flesh from the hand remaining, the
right side of his face from the roots of the hair to the upper jaw blown away
the right eye blown out in such a manner that one could see the _ _ _ of his
brain and the left side of his face lacerated and swollen so that the eye was
closed.
When Mr. Summersgill spoke to him he apparently recognized his voice and
asked about the missing hand. Summersgill strippeed off a blouse he was
wearing and tied up the injured arm as best he could and bound a handkerchief
about his head. In the meantime McGaviah brought the team and wagon he was
using and the unfortunate man was lifted onto the wagon as carefully as
possible and taken to his home on Mechanic street, about a quarter of a mile
from the scene of the accident.
A telephone message was sent for medical assistance and Doctors Clark and
Hamilton promptly responded. They found him in such a weak condition that no
amputation of the arm was attempted. They dressed his wounds temporarily and
did everything in their power to relieve his suffering, but his injuries were
so severe that there was no chance of his recovery and he lingered in a semi-
conscious condition until about 3:30 Friday afternoon, when he expired,
without fully realizing the awful injuries he had received.
(Article continues with suggested cause of accident)
Ransom Beckwith was born in Sergeant township near what is known as, the
Bunker Hill farm about two and a half miles from where Clermont is now
located, on December 7th, 1817, and would have been 91 years of age next
month. He was the eldest of a family of thirteen children, all of whom he
outlived with the exception of four, namely, Joel Beckwith of Wilcox, Pa.,
Mrs. Amanda Lucore of Bradford, Pa., Folsom Beckwith of Penfield, Pa., and
Daniel Beckwith who resides in Neleigh, Nebraska.
(Article continues at length and some parts difficult to read)
The funeral, which was largely attended was held from the family residence
at two o'clock Sunday afternoon, Rev. W.A. Harris, pastor of the Methodist
Episcopal church officiating and his remains were laid at rest in the family
plot in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 5.
A.S. Ransom, a prosperous farmer residing near Youngville, committed suicide
onm Saturday, by shooting himself. Deceased was aged about 78 years, and was
an old soldier. It is thought the deed was due to ill health and to the loss
of a son by death during the past summer. Kane Republican.
Page 5.
Mrs. Bridget Riley, aged over 70 years, died at Newell creek Tuesday, She
had been a sufferer from asthma for a long time. She leaves seven children to
mourn her death. Mrs. Elizabeth Breman of Mt. Alton; Mrs. Hannah Bly,
Titusville; Mrs. Kate Kelley, Kushequa; Mrs. Winnifred Mayhew, of British
Columbia, and a daughter in Pittsburg, and two sons, Henry of Open Brook, and
James at home. The funeral was held yesterday, interment being made at
Sartwell. Eldred Eagle.
Dec 3, 1908:
John McMahon, a wellknown resident of this locality, died at the home of
George Anderson at Kasson at 1 a.m. today (Friday) November 27th, after a
week's illness of bowel trouble, in his 62nd year.
The deceased was the son, of Edward and Hannah McMahon, and a native of this
county having been born at Sartwell, pa. He is survived by five sisters and
two brothers; Sister Patricia of Mount Mercy Hospital, Buffalo; Mrs. Kate
Baker of Sartwell, Pa., Mrs. Edward Brooder of Kane; Thomas F. and Daniel
McMahon of Mt. Jewett; Mrs. Margaret McGraw of Falls Creek and Mrs. R.J.
McConnell of Buffalo.
John McMahon was a man of exceptionally retiring disposition, traveling his
own way through life, asking nor expecting much from the other fellow beyond
what he earned by the sweat of his brow.
Funeral will be held Monday morning when after services at St. Joseph's
Catholic church; Mt. Jewett, at 7 a.m. the remains will be taken to Kane for
interment. Mt. Jewett Herald.
Page 3.
Mrs. L.A. Grimes, aged 40 years, died at her home in Liberty township on
Monday, Nov. 23. She is survived by her husband and one son.
Dec 10, 1908:
Friends of Bert Shurtz were shocked yesterday afternoon when they heard that
he had been taken very ill and was not expected to live, and were later
saddened by the news of his death, which took place at nearly eight o'clock in
the evening. He had gone to his work at the depot Thursday morning apparently
as well as ever, and the first indication of anything wrong occurred between
ten and eleven o'clock, when B.E. Royce found him sitting beside the track,
having apparently just had a fall, Mr. Royce asked him what was the matter,
and Mr. Shurtz stated that he had fallen and had landed on his hip. He was
apparently severely hurt and doctors were summoned. He was taken home in a
carriage and apparently recovered somewhat. He stated that he was feeling
better and went into the bathroom locking the door after him. A second attack
came upon him there and he fell head foremost into the bathtub. Others in the
house heard him fall and broke open the door. Bert was unconscious when
picked up by his father and never regained consciousness up to the time of his
death, which took place a few minutes to eight o'clock.
Thinking that his condition might be due to concussion of the brain or other
bodily injury the physicians made a careful examination, but found no injuries
that could cause his condition. Accordingly they came to the conclusion that
death was caused by cerebral hemorrhage which was also the cause of his
falling both times.
Bert Shurtz was a young man of steady habits, who had employment about the
depot. His work there made him many friends and acquaintances, by all of whom
he was well liked on (unreadable)
His sudden death has cast a gloom of sadness over all his friends and his
family have the sympathy of everyone in their bereavement. He is survived by
his parents and four brothers, Charles, Manly, Erving and Floyd. Port
Allegany Argus.
Page 5.
Walter J. Butler, Jr., aged 21 years, of Sartwell died in Olean on Wednesday
of last week. The cause of his death was heart disease brought on by a recent
attack of typhoid fever.
Dec 17, 1908:
Cress Stiver, a young man aged about 20 years, and his cousin, Hilda Stiver,
aged about 19 years, were killed on a B.R&P. railroad crossing last Sunday
afternoon at Big Run, near DuBois. The young couple were out sleigh riding
and were attempting to cross the tracks when a north bound locomotive attached
to a freight train bore down upon them.
Both young people were killed instantly. The horse died a short time
afterwards from injuries and the cutter was badly demolished. The young man
and lady were well known and popular residents of Big Run.
Dec 24, 1908:
At his home at Annin Creek, Pa., on Dec. 18th, 1908, after two years illness
from paralysis, occurred the death of Dugald Cameron Winship. He was born in
the town of Jerusalem, Yates county, N.Y., Oct. 30, 1822. He was the last
surviving member of a family of ten, the children of Nehetumh(?) and Mary
Stone Winship.
When a child his parents removed to Steubon county, N.Y., where when about
five years old his father died and his was sent to live with his Uncle John
in _ _ N.Y., which was his home until twenty years of age. At about 16 years
of age he was apprenticed to a _ _ _ _ and learned the trade, but never
followed that as a business. At the age of _ _ _ he returned to Steubon
county _ _ _ in 1840 he was married to M _ _ _ Kinney. In 1855 he moved to
Annin Creek, McKean county, Pa.,
In August, 1862, he enlisted in Co. G. _ _ _ Regt. Pa. Volunteers where he
served unitl the close of the war, having never lost a day's service during
that time. Since reaching his majority he has followed the occupation of
lumberman and farmer.
He is survived by two sons and one daughter; F.K. Winship of P_ _ _ N.Y. and
L.H. Winship and Mrs. J.A. Cooper of Annin, Pa. His wife died in 1893(?)
Burial was made in Annin Creek cemetery. Rev. William Tubbs preached a very
impressive sermon from the 91st Psalm and paid a high tribute to the memory of
the deceased, having known him all his life. He was assisted in the services
by Rev. Miller, rev. D_ _ _ and Rev. W.W. tubs, who was a tent-mate in the
war, and he related several experience on the battle field. The choir
rendered very finely several beautiful selections. A number of old veterans
marched at the head of the procession.
Page 3.
Last Wednesday Mrs. Charles H. Whaley of Grand Valley, Warren county,
committed suicide by cutting her throat. Mrs. Whaley had been ill for some
time and it is thought she was temporarily demented. Her son George R.
Whaley, saw his mother kill herself. Mrs. Whaley is survived by her husband,
a prominent lumberman and three children.
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