McKean-Elk County PA Archives News.....July-December 1920 Deaths in McKean Democrat Newspaper
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McKean Democrat 1920
DEATHS IN MCKEAN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA JULY-DECEMBER 1920
THE MCKEAN DEMOCRAT NEWSPAPER, (SMETHPORT)
The following death notices appeared in the McKean Democrat from July thru
December during the year of 1920. The date of publication is shown prior to
the item(s). There is no implication that this is all that may have been
published in these editions since some editions may be missing and many of the
pages or portions thereof are unreadable.
Transcribed by Ronald J. Reid, 2010
July 1, 1920.
Page 3.
Patrick Cavanaugh, Civil war veteran of No. 63 State street, died yesterday
morning in the Bradford hospital. Mr. Cavanaugh, who was 80 years old, had
lived in Bradford for seven years. He has no surviving relatives. Mr.
Cavanaugh was a member of Scranton Post, G.A.R.
Private funeral services will take place in Koch's undertaking chapel
tomorrow afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, Rev. Henry I. Lynds will officiate.
Burial will be made in the Soldiers Plot, Oak Hill cemetery. Bradford Era,
Thursday.
Page 4.
The death of Harry I. Walker of Rew City, and one of the most highly
respected young men of this section occurred this morning at 1:25 o'clock at
the Bradford hospital, where he had been a patient since June 7. Death has
removed early in life a young man of worth, and his sorrowing relatives have
the sympathy of hosts of friends in their bereavement.
Harry I. Walker was born at Tuna Pa., 33 years ago. He moved with his
parents Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Walker, to Rew City. Fifteen years ago the young
man came to Bradford and became identified with the Commercial National Bank.
Later he was affiliated with the offices of the late senator Myron Matson for
several years, then going to Philadelphia, where he was connected with the
Atlantic Seaboard Construction company.
Harry I. Walker is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ruth Walker, and one son,
Jack; also by his mother, Mrs. Isaac Walker of Rew City, and two sisters, Mrs.
Bruce H. Matson and Mrs. S.P. Kennedy, and three brothers, Fred, Blaine and
George Walker, all of Bradford. Bradford Star-Record, Friday.
Page 4.
Mrs. N.L. Shannon of Derrick City died at the West Penn hospital Pittsburg
Thursday. She is survived by her husband and one sister.
July 8, 1920.
Page 1.
Mrs. Catherine A. Currier passed away at her home on West Main St. last
Thursday, following a long illness. Mrs. Currier had been in poor health
during the past eight months, and had been confined to her bed since the fore
part of March.
The departed was born in Jackson, Me., July 31, 1849. She was united in
marriage to Albert E. Currier in 1866. For many years she resided in the
vicinity of Boston, coming to Olean, N.Y., to make her home with her son,
Edward E. Currier, the well known chemist, in 1907. In 1915 her son became
one of the staff of chemical experts of the Quinn laboratories and in the fall
of that year Mrs. Currier moved to Smethport where she has since resided,
being held in the highest esteem by a wide circle of friends.
Mrs. Currier was a woman of lively traits of character, who endeared herself
to all with whom she came in contact. She was active in church circles and
during the war was an indefatigable worker in Red Cross soldier aid
activities. She was active in literary circles, being a member of the
Smethport Travelers' Club. The demise of this splendid lady will be sincerely
mourned by a wide circle of friends.
Mrs. Currier is survived by two sons, Edward, E. of Smethport, and Richard
J. of Brockton, Mass.
The funeral was held at the family residence Saturday afternoon at 2:00
o'clock. Rev. Dr. Haines of Atlanta, Ga., who is supplying the pulpit of the
First Methodist church officiating. Interment was made in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 1.
Mrs. Jessie Brooke, a former well known Smethport lady, died at her home in
Pittsburgh Saturday, following a stroke of paralysis. The Brooke family were
natives of England, coming to the United States a number of years ago and
locating in Smethport. For ten years this estimable family resided here,
moving to Pittsburgh about one year ago. Mrs. Brooke was a lady who by her
true womanly qualities endeared herself to a wide circle of friends. She is
survived by her husband, Ernest Brooke of Pittsburgh, two sons, John of
Cleveland, and Luther, a prominent metallurgist of Pittsburgh; also a daughter
living in England. The body, accompanied by members of the family, was
brought to Smethport Tuesday afternoon and the funeral was held at St. Luke's
Episcopal church at 5:30 o'clock, Rev. W.E. Van Dyke officiating. Interment
was made in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 3.
Jas. McDade, aged 78 years a prominent Kane resident died at his home in
that city on Wednesday of last week. Deceased was a veteran of the civil war
and was a pioneer oil operator who possessed wide financial interests. He is
survived by his wife, a step-son, one daughter and four sons.
Page 3.
The Bradford Star-Record of June 30 says.
The death of William L. Wells, for years one of Bradford's most honored
citizens, occurred at 7 o'clock last evening at his home, No. 213 Jackson
avenue. Death has removed from our midst a valuable citizen who was dearly
loved by both old and young. His death follows, however, a long illness.
W.L. Wells was born 65 years ago in Dunkirk, the son of W.R. and Ann
Lippencott Wells. When a lad he studied telegraphy and in 1872 entered the
employ of the Atlantic & Pacific Telegraph company at Dunkirk. IN 1877 he
became employed by the Erie railroad and remained with that company for nearly
40 years, until failing health forced him to retire. During the greater part
of that time he was Erie ticket agent in this city. He performed his duties
carefully and conscientiously and was highly regarded by the officials of the
company.
Mr. Wells suffered a stroke of paralysis six years ago which obliged him to
retire from the position which he had held for so many years. Since June 4 he
had been critically ill and not conscious since June 20. Mr. Wells is
survived by his wife, Grace L. Wells and three children, Hugh Wells of
Philadelphia, and Miss Doris Wells and Charles Wells of Bradford.
July 15, 1920.
Page 1.
Mrs. Mary E. Winslow of Crosby died Saturday night after a long illness.
She was 63 years of age, a woman beloved by all who knew her. She is survived
by four sons and three daughters: William of Maston, Pa., Selbrun, George and
Kermit of Crosby. Mrs. John Natello of Buffalo. Grace and Gretchen of
Crosby. The funeral was held Wednesday, the Rev. Mr. Edmunds officiating and
burial was in Colegrove cemetery.
Page 1.
Henry A. Chilcote, of No. 724 East Main street, died at his home at 5
o'clock Monday afternoon, aged 67 years,. He is survived by his wife, two
brothers, six daughters, Mrs. Serianni, Richwood, W.Va.; Mrs. Iva Neice, Mount
Union, Pa.; Mrs. Leo Digel, Smethport; Mrs. Will Blake, Utica, Ohio; Mrs.
Zelma Ballard, Warren, Ohio; and Miss Freda Chilcote of Bradford; three sons,
Clay of Utica, Ohio, and Dewey and Bruce of Bradford.
Mr. Chilcote who resided Bradford for more than eight years had been ill for
almost a year.
Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home. The
Rev. P.N. Osborne officiated. Mrs. Victor Digel and Wayne Hamilton sang
appropriate selections. The pall bearers were Thomas Harlow, Frank Titus, A.S.
McDaniels, P.C. Freeman, Plumer Perry and W.P. Lewis. The burial took place
in Oak Hill cemetery. Those from away in attendance at the obsequies were Mr.
and Mrs. Leo Digel of Smethport; Mr. and Mrs. Roy Ripple, Mt. Alton; Mrs. L.
Ripple, Mt. Union, Pa.; Mrs. Harvey Ballard, Warren, O.; Miss Iva Niece,
Mapelton, Pa.; Mr. and Mrs. James Serianni, Richwood, Va.; William Ripple and
daughter, Mrs. Fox of Brookville, Oliver Chilcote and Howard Chilcote of Mt.
Union, Pa., and Clay Chilcote of Utica, O. Bradford Sunday Herald.
Page 8.
Coryville: One of our oldest residents, Mr. Volney Washburn, died at his home
Friday night. He was an old soldier, a man of sterling character and his
demise will be mourned by a wide circle. Mr. Washburn was 82 years of age.
The funeral was held Monday.
Page 8.
Port Allegany: Clarence Selden son of Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Selden of this place,
died at Warren, Saturday P.M., and was brought here for burial. He leaves a
wife and two children.
July 22, 1920.
Page 1.
The death of Michael Fay an esteemed resident of Keating township occurred
Wednesday morning, heart disease being the cause. He was 67 years of age.
Mr. Fay came to Keating township with his parents 55 years ago and settled
upon the old homestead on Open Brook. At the time of his marriage he
purchased the farm in Gifford Hollow and resided there for the remainder of
his life, developing the farm into one of the best in the county, and becoming
one of Keating township's substantial citizens.
He was an industrious man, a good farmer, such as form the backbone of rural
communities and his death brings sincere regret.
His wife died more than twenty years ago and three daughters and a son
survive, namely Miss Katherine Fay who lives on the farm; Miss Anna Fay of
Cleveland Ohio, Mrs. Agnes Hanley of Olean and Urban Fay who also resides on
the farm.
The funeral was held at St. Elizabeth's church Friday morning, the Rev. P.J.
Donahue officiating, and burial was in St. Elizabeth's cemetery.
Page 1.
The death of Mrs. Eliza Sherer of East street occurred Thursday morning with
startling suddenness. Although she had been in poor health for a long time
her condition when she arose Thursday morning was apparently as good as it had
been for several weeks past. She ate breakfast and then within a few minutes
turned to her son, Asa, and said she felt badly. He assisted her to bed and
immediately summoned her sister, Mrs. Byron Badger, who lives next door. Mrs.
Badger responded immediately and reached her sister's side a few minutes
before the end came. When a physician arrived Mrs. Sherer was beyond earthy
aid. Heart disease was the cause of death.
Mrs. Sherer was a home-loving woman, devoted to her children, who found her
life work and enjoyment in the family circle, although ever ready to lend a
helping hand wherever needed in the community. Her helpful and kindly
personality endeared her to many friends and much sincere sorrow was expressed
when the news of her sudden ending became known.
She was born Feb. 23, 1857, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Asa Darwin Hamlin,
who resided in the old Hamlin homestead, just three doors from the house in
which Mrs. Sherer died. She was married in Olean, Dec. 14, 1874 to Christian
Sherer, who preceded her to the Great Beyond a number of years ago. Three
sons, Clarence, Asa and Fred, and one daughter, Elsie, survive to mourn the
loss of a mother whose every thought was for their welfare and they have the
community's sympathy in their bereavement. Three sisters also are left, Mrs.
Flora Backus and Mrs. Byron Badger of Smethport and Mrs. S.C. Townsend of
Lancaster, Ohio.
The funeral was held at All Saints' Episcopal chapel, East Smethport, Sunday
afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. W.E. VanDyke officiating. The final
obsequies were attended by a large concourse of friends of the departed. The
remains were laid at rest in the family plot in Rose Hill cemetery. Many
beautiful floral tributes paid a silent testimonial to the regard in which
this good woman was held.
Page 3.
The Bradford Sunday Herald says: The death of Clarence Selden of New York,
formerly of Bradford, and son of Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Selden of Port Allegany,
Pa., occurred at the Warren hospital. Funeral services were held at the home
of his parents in Port Allegany at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning. Deceased,
while a resident of this city lived with his family on Mechanic St. He was a
graduate of the Bradford High School and a former member of Company C., 16th
regiment. He was an electrical engineer by profession, and for a number of
years was in the employ of the New York Edison company with which he held a
splendid position.
Page 5.
Infection caused by picking a pimple on her lip nine days before caused the
death of Mary Shaffer, 17 years old, in the Olean hospital, Friday. She was a
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Shaffer of that city and it is understood the
family formerly resided at Norwich.
July 29. 1920.
Page 1.
Bradford Star-Record Tuesday: Running across the street to secure his toy
aeroplane, yesterday afternoon at about 4o'clock, Gerald McIntyre, the 7-year-
old son of Mr. and Mrs. William D. McIntyre, of No. 237 South avenue, was
struck by a passing automobile, sustaining fatal injuries. He was taken at
once to the hospital but was breathing his last when he reached that
institution.
Page 4.
Mrs. William Kolbe passed away at her home in Bradford, at 3 o'clock,
yesterday morning after a long illness pneumonia developing causing her
death. Some time ago she suffered a stroke and had been unconscious much of
the time since.
She was a woman who devoted much of her life to hard work, and up till the
past two years, had lived in West Eldred, on a farm which thy recently sold
before moving to Bradford. She was 51 years of age, and leaves her husband,
two boys William Jr., and Fritz Kolbe of Bradford, and two daughters, Miss
Lena Kolbe of Bradford and Mrs. Fred Robinson of Prentissvale. Also surviving
are three sisters, Mrs. Mary Washburn, of Newark, N.J., Mrs. Emma Prosser of
Indian Creek and Mrs. Minnie Strait of Eldred and two brothers, George Warner
of Smethport and William Armbuster, Arcade, N.Y., and step-father Andrew
Armbuster of Eldred.
The funeral will be held from the Baptist church here tomorrow at 1 o'clock,
Rev. Fairweather, of the M.E. church officiating and interment will be made in
Oak Hill. Eldred Eagle.
August 5, 1920.
Page 1.
Bela C. Gallup, one of Port Allegany's most prominent citizens and a man
widely known around the county died at a Buffalo hospital last Thursday
following an operation for kidney trouble with which Mr. Gallup had been a
sufferer for the past three years. He was about 74 years of age and during
his life was identified closely with Port Allegany's business history. He
established the Gallup hardware store in 1867, the first of its kind in the
town, and it continues to flourish the business now being carried on by Mr.
Straker. Mr. Gallup had been interested in the banking business in Port
Allegany as well as in other lines of public usefulness.
He was an upright man and a valuable citizen, one whose loss will be keenly
felt. He is survived by his wife and the following brothers and sisters; Mrs.
Ghordis Burdick, Mrs. Lewis Raymer, Mrs. Chester Rice, Leander, Dorten and
Delos Gallup.
The funeral was held in Port Allegany Sunday.
Among those in attendance at the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Chester Rice of
Cohocton, N.Y. and Mr. and Mrs. Delos Gallup of Avoca, N.Y.
Those who attended from Smethport and nearby places were, Mr. and Mrs. Frank
Gallup, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Gallup, Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Gallup, Mr. and Mrs. J.W.
Bouton, Mrs. U.D. Fischer, Mr. Warley Gifford, Mr. C.M. Colegrove, Mr. and
Mrs. Lewis Raymer, Mr. and Mrs. Ward Raymer, Miss Octavia Raymer, Mr. and Mrs.
J.V. Gallup, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ross, Mr. and Mrs. Wellington Burdick, Mr. and
Mrs. Scott Walker, Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Oviatt, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wilson, Mr.
and Mrs. Fred D. Gallup, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Hull,
Mr. and Mrs. John J. Abbey, Mrs. Sarah O. Armstrong and others.
Page 3.
The body found in the Allegany river at Salamanca, Thursday, was identified
Friday as that of Miss Bridget Carroll of Bradford, who was employed for many
years in the Bay State Hotel in that city. There seems to be no question that
her death was accidental; that she lost her way while bound for the home of
relatives; wandered to the river bank and fell in. She had only partially
recovered from a severe illness and it is believed a fainting spell caused her
fatal fall into the water.
Page 8.
Mrs. C.M. Slack an esteemed woman of Eldred, died Tuesday afternoon after an
illness of long duration. She was 70 years of age and is survived by several
children, one of them being Mrs. B.G. McFall, wife of the editor of the Eldred
Eagle.
August 12, 1920.
Page 3.
Joseph McGavisk, son of William McGavisk, of Eldred township, died at
Okmulgee, Okla., Monday night, from the result of burns received on July 23,
when a portion of a boiler blew out throwing a stream of scalding water upon
the back of the young man. His father had gotten as far as St. Louis when
advised of his son's death.
Deceased was a young man who had a legion of friends and his sad death has
been a blow to all. The remains were brought to Eldred yesterday and the
funeral will be held from St. Raphael's church tomorrow at 9 o'clock,
interment to be made at Sartwell. Surviving are his parents, two brothers,
Paul of Okmulgee, Okla., and James at home; and one sister Kathryn, at home.
Joseph McGavisk was born at Nelson Run, Pa., November 23, 1897. He was in
the 616th aerial squadron in the war. The following accompanied the remains
home from Oklahoma; James and Thos. McMann, Paul McGavisk, Tim Phalon, Mrs.
Frank McMann and two children, L. Phalen, Mrs. Chas. Berquist and child and
Mrs. Arthur Elsert and two children. Eldred Eagle.
August 19, 1920.
Page 6.
Hon. Mortimer F. Elliott passed away at his home in Mansfield Thursday,
August 5, at 9 p.m., following an illness of several years. He was born Sept.
24, 1839, in Cherry Flats, the son of Col. Nathaniel A. and Anna Myra Hart
Elliott, who came to this county with his father, Nathaniel Elliott, and his
brother Oliver in 1808, from Penobscot, Maine. They settled at Convington and
later moved to Cherry flats.
Mortimer F. Elliott was born and reared on the farm of his father in Cherry
Flats, being educated in the country schools of this county. He attended
Alfred University, but did not graduate. Early in life he began to show a
liking for law and at his first opportunity he went to Wellsboro, the county
seat, to study law with Judge Stephen F. Wilson, who is said by the older
generation to be the best Judge Tioga county ever had. Admitted to the bar
June 2, 1862, he opened an office in Wellsboro. Here his remarkable love for
the law, his huge capacity for work and his integrity and earnestness in any
case brought to him a large practice.
(Obituary is quite lengthy about his involvement in law and politics and is
not included here)
Mr. Elliott is survived by his brother, Dr. F.G. Elliott, of this boro, and
sister, Mrs. T.O. Whitnall, of Syracuse, N.Y. His wife, Sarah J. Merrick,
sister of Major Merrick of Wellsboro, died several years ago. Two nephews,
Charles M., of Wellsboro, and Harry E. Elliott, of Sinnemahoning survive.
Aside from most liberal bequests to all his surviving relatives, Mr. Elliott
gave the sum of $50,000 to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital,
proposed to be built at Wellsboro. The bequest in the will was made with the
following comment:
This bequest is entirely voluntary on my part and not on the solicitation
of any person of persons whatsoever. I have the highest regard and admiration
of the soldiers and sailors and marines who risked their lives and gave up
their business and parted form their families and friends to save their
country and I deem this a fitting occasion to do something that will be of
material benefit to them.
August 26, 1920.
Page 1.
The death of George A. Wescott of 99 Seward avenue, occurred Thurs. morning
at 3:10 o'clock at the Kane Summit hospital of Bright's disease, of which he
had been a sufferer for some time. Deceased had resided in this city for the
past 30 years and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. For several years
he was employed as foreman of the job printing plant in connection with the
Evening Record. He also followed the farming industry conducting
the Beechwood farm at Belvidere, N.Y. He was a member of the Bradford
Typographical Union No. 185, and of the Pressmen's Union at Akron, O.
Mr. Wescott was born in Smethport 61 years ago. He is survived by his wife
and three brothers, Arthur Wescott of Middleport, N.Y., William Wescott of
Corrollton O., and Clayton Wescott of Oil City. Bradford Star-Record.
Page 5.
Anna Sawaya, aged 9, of Olean was struck by a car driven by Charles Price,
Erie railroad detective, at Olean, Wednesday night and instantly killed.
Authorities are investigating the accident.
Page 5.
Louise Wilson, aged 13 years, was drowned in Cuba Lake Wednesday evening,
before the eyes of girl companions not skillful enough in the water to save
her. The little girl with her mother and uncle were visiting the lake and had
rented a cottage.
September 2, 1920.
Page 6.
Warren, Pa., Aug. 28. Two killed and three injured is the toll of an
automobile accident which occurred yesterday afternoon at 3:40 o'clock at
Deadman's crossing at Saybrook, a small town 12 miles from here. The
unfortunate car was struck by a Pennsylvania passenger train. All of the
occupants lived in Kane, Pa.
The dead are Mrs. Winslow Russell, aged 45; Harriet, a daughter, aged 9; the
injured are Miss Edith Bodine, arm fractured and contusions about the body.
Winslow Russell, husband of the killed woman, right ear split open and general
lacerations of the face, Harold Russell, abrasions of the face and head.
The Russell family and Miss Bodine were driving from Chautauqua lake to
their home in Kane.
According to an eye witness the car had nearly cleared the track when the
train struck the rear end of the machine. Mrs. Russell and her daughter were
thrown forty feet. Miss Bodine was thrown twenty feet clear of the wreckage.
The two woman and girl were riding in the back seat, while the men, who
escaped with only injuries were riding in the front of the car which was not
demolished in the least. The mother and daughter were killed instantly as the
train crew and passengers reached their side as soon as the train stopped on
emergency brakes, but no sign of life was apparent. The mother was battered
so hard that there was scarcely a bone in her body that was not broken.
The bodies were placed in the baggage car and taken to their home in Kane.
At Sheffield, Dr. Pryor boarded the train and administered to the injured.
Mr. Russell is superintendent of the Kane Water Works and a director of the
Union Petroleum Oil Company of Buffalo.
The crossing at which the accident occurred is the same one at which Dr.
Kalbfus of the State Game Commission met death in a similar accident about a
year ago.
Page 6.
Thomas Gaines of No. 135 Main St. this city, was instantly killed and Police
Chief John Howe and J.G. Troutman, an agent of the internal revenue
department, were injured late Sunday afternoon when the chief's car turned
turtle near Steamburg, N.Y., says the Bradford Era. The accident was caused,
it is said, by the criminal carelessness of the driver of another automobile
who crowed Chief Howe's car into the ditch. The identity of this driver is
unknown, as he proceeded to speed away, without pausing to aid the victims of
his recklessness. His car bore a New York license.
The accident occurred at about 5:30 o'clock at a point on the highway about
one mile from Steamburg in the direction of Corydon. Mr. Howe was driving at
the rate of about 25 miles an hour on the right side of the road when he met a
car driven at a reckless rate of speed on the wrong side. This car was going
between 50 and 60 miles an hour, the chief said, and the driver had one arm
around a girl. Seeing that a collision was imminent the chief turned sharply
to the edge of the road. One of his wheels went into the ditch and broke.
The car turned completely over, rolled across the road and then righted itself.
Chief Howe was tightly wedged in the wreckage of the driver's seat, this
fact probably saving his life. Mr. Gaines, who was seated beside the chief,
was hurled to the ground and pinned under the car. Mr. Troutman, who was in
the back seat, was thrown out, suffering a gash on his head, and an injured
back. He did not lose consciousness, however, and extricated Chief Howe from
the interior of the car. Then both of them proceeded to get Mr. Gaines from
under the car. They found him dead, however, his head being crushed and one
arm almost severed.
Mr. Gaines body was taken to Salamanca, N.Y., and the coroner notified Mr.
Troutman, whose home is in Pittsburgh, received treatment for his severe
injuries in Salamanca. Chief Howe who was quite badly bruised returned to
Bradford before having his injuries dressed.
Mr. Gaines, the victim of the fatality, was well known and deservedly
popular in Bradford. He was 60 years old, and is survived by his wife and two
daughters, Mrs. Daniel Keonan of Parkersburg, W.Va. and Miss Wilma Gaines.
Mr. Gaines had been agent and collector for the Bradford Brewing Company for
the last five years. He had made many friends both in Bradford and in the
various towns to which his business took him.
September 9, 1920.
Page 3.
John R. Cooper of Degolia, prominent manufacturer, died at 8:20 o'clock
Friday morning in the Bradford hospital where he recently underwent a serious
surgical operation. Mr. Cooper had been ill for only one week. He was
admitted to the hospital on Tuesday and underwent an operation there that
afternoon.
Mr. Cooper was born in Bullycastle, County Antrim, Ireland, 65 years ago,
and came to the United States when 19 years old. Hr lived for some time in
Hornell, moving from that city to Degolia 23 years ago. Mr. Cooper was in the
chemical manufacturing business, being part owner of the Newton Chemical
Company at Degolia, his associates being his son, John A. Cooper and John Troy
of Olean.
Mr. Cooper's character and personality won him a high place in the esteem
and affection of residents of this vicinity. In his business relations he was
respected as a man of sterling integrity and marked ability.
He is survived by his wife, three sons, Daniel M. Cooper of Westline, John
A. Cooper of Backus, and Edward Cooper of Degolia; three brothers, Davis and
James Cooper of Ambridge, Pa., and Robert Cooper of Smethport and one sister,
Miss Mary Cooper of Degolia.
Mr. Cooper was a member of the First Presbyterian church, Bradford, and of
the Masonic orders of that city.
The funeral took place at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at the home in Degolia,
Rev. F. Dean Miller, Ph.D., pastor of the First Presbyterian church
officiated. The services were under the auspices of Trinity Commandry Knights
Templar. Burial was in Oak Hill cemetery. Bradford Era.
Page 3.
John Norman MacLean, 15-year-old son of Mrs. Josephine MacLean died suddenly
of heart disease at his home in Bradford Friday morning. The boy was stricken
while in the bath room and was found in a critical condition by his mother. A
physician was summoned but the boy was dead when he arrived. He is survived
by his mother and a brother, William. The family moved to Bradford from
Kushequa about two years ago.
Page 3.
The death of Mrs. Grace M. Edgar, wife of Edward G. Edgar of Hazelhurst
occurred at the Kane Summit hospital yesterday afternoon following a month's
complications after the birth of a fine baby boy. Mrs. Edgar was 23 years old
and besides her husband leave two small children. Her sad death has cast a
gloom over her many friends, the husband and children having the sympathy of
all in their sad bereavement. Kane Republican, Thursday.
Page 5.
Private funeral services for Mrs. William Wallace Brown took place at the
family home in Bradford, Tuesday morning. Burial was at Alfred, N.Y. Among
those from out of town who attended the funeral was F.W. Brownell of
Smethport. This estimable lady died Sunday morning after an illness of five
years. She was 80 years of age and is survived by her husband, W.W. Brown,
Esq., and one daughter, Mrs. F.P. Schoonmaker of Bradford.
September 16, 1920.
Page 1.
George W. Hackett of 74 Foreman street, Bradford, for years a well known and
respected resident of Smethport, died suddenly Saturday night.
Mr. Hackett was of the pioneer stock of this part of the country and for a
number of years was a farmer in Keating township, afterward moving to
Smethport where he ran a restaurant for a time and was also engaged in other
business. Nine years ago he went to Bradford and entered the employ of
Bovnird and Seyfang and was a faithful and popular employe of that plant
during his residence in Bradford. The news of Mr. Hackett's sudden death was
received with sincere sorrow in Smethport and the bereaved family have the
sympathy of the community.
Mr. Hackett is survived by his wife Ormanda Hackett, three sons, James N.
Hackett of Smethport, J.B. Hackett of Detroit, and Leon L. Hackett of
Bradford; a daughter, Mrs. Effie James of Bradford; and one brother, Judson
Hackett of Smethport.
Mr. Hackett was a member of the P.H.C. and of Local No. 700, International
Order of Boilermakers.
The funeral was held at his late home in Bradford at 10 a.m. Wednesday, the
Rev. Mr. Collins of the Bradford M.E. church, officiating. The remains were
brought to Smethport and laid at rest in Rose Hill cemetery.
September 23, 1920.
Page 1.
CHARLES GEARY DEAD
M. S. Geary was called to Bradford Monday by the death of his brother, Charles
C. Geary of Mt. Alton, formerly of Smethport, which occurred at the hospital
in that city at 10 o'clock Monday morning.
Mr. Geary was seized with illness last spring, while working in Bradford. He
returned to Mt. Alton where he made his home with his mother. As his case did
not yield to treatment he was taken to the Bradford hospital several weeks
ago, where little could be done for him. He suffered greatly during the last
weeks of his Illness, being unable to receive any nourishment, even water, for
days. He started to fail in health, following the amputation of a leg several
years ago.
Mr. Geary was 45 years of age. During his residence in Smethport he was
employed on the Kushequa railroad.
He made many friends all of whom will deeply regret the news of his demise. He
is survived by his Mother, Mrs. Chas. Geary of Mt. Alton; two sisters, Mrs.
Frank Schreiber of Johnsonburg, Mrs. T. C. McCarthy of Salamanca and 3
brothers, M. S. Geary, Smethport; John Geary, Salamanca and M. P. Geary of
home.
The body was brought to Smethport Tuesday morning and taken to the home of Mr.
and Mrs. Geary.
Funeral services were conducted at St. Elizabeth's church Wednesday at 9:00 a.
m., Rev. Donohue officiating. Interment was made in St. Elizabeth's cemetery.
Page 1.
Florence May Walker Wiles of buffalo, entered into rest after a brief
illness, Friday, Sept. 17. She was born in East Smethport about 25 years ago,
graduated from the schools there and attended Smethport High School for two
years, going from here to Buffalo, where in 1915 she graduated from the State
Hospital as a trained nurse. In May 1917, she married Linn Wiles of that city
who survives her, with a daughter, Florence, one week old. Her parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Samuel Walker are also left to mourn the loss of a daughter who was
one of this vicinity's most beautiful girls and a devout church worker. The
following brothers and sisters also survive: Earl Walker and Mrs. James
Rieley of Buffalo; Nell, Lloyd, Ruth and Howard of East Smethport.
Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. W.E. Van Dyke at All Saints
chapel on Monday, and the remains were laid at rest in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 5.
Milton Melvin, aged 45, of Bradford, founder of Bon Air Sanitorium, died
Sunday, after an illness of several years. He was one of Bradford's best
beloved citizens and his loss is greatly deplored. He died at the sanitorium
which he founded 14 years ago. He is survived by a wife and son Milton and
three brothers, John P., Thomas J., and Chas.C. Melvin, all of Bradford.
Page 6.
Funeral services for the late Miss Nettie Duntley of Keating township were
held last Thursday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock at her late home, Rev. N.I. Mack
of the Baptist church officiating. Interment was in Rose Hill cemetery.
Miss Nettie Duntley passed away Monday afternoon Sept. 13, 1920, at her home
in East Smethport. She had been in ill health for some time from a
complication of diseases and while it was known she could not recover the end
came unexpectedly.
Miss Duntley was born Sept. 1st, 1860. She was the youngest daughter of
John and Jane Duntley. Three sisters survive to mourn her loss, Mrs. G.T.
Tweed of East Butler, Pa.; Mrs. Chas. Hartmayer, of Buffalo, N.Y., and Mrs.
Chas. Curtis of East Smethport.
Miss Duntley was a life long member of the Baptist church. The record of
her life is the record of one of the most consistent, devoted and beautiful
Christian characters that graced earth and blessed humanity. Her life was
truly one spent for others, kind and generous to all and the world is better
for her having lived in it. The many floral tributes showed the high esteem
in which she was held by those who knew her, for to know her was to love her.
September 30, 1920.
Page 1.
The death of Mrs. Ann Eliza Stull, widow of the late James H. Stull,
occurred at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Grace Haskins in Angelica, N.Y., on
Sept. 22, pneumonia being the cause.
Ann Eliza Terry was born in the village of Greene, Broome county, N.Y.,
nearly 80 years ago. At the age of nine her mother died and she came to
Smethport to live with her uncle, Monty Rose on the farm which is now occupied
by Rose Hill cemetery. IN 1859 she married Melvin Keyes of Eldred and three
children were born to them, all of whom are deceased. March 8, 1870, she
married James H. Stull of Eldred. About 36 years ago they came to Smethport.
Four children were born to them; Mrs. George Howard, deceased; Mrs. Fred H.
Nourse of Keating township, Mrs. Grace Haskins of Angelica, N.Y., and Mrs.
Clayton Wales of Bolivar, N.Y. Since the death of Mr. Stull March 6, 1919,
she has visited with her daughters. She was a member of the Smethport lodge,
L.O.T.M.
The funeral was held at the home of the deceased in East Smethport, Saturday
afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. N.I. Mack of the Baptist church officiating.
Interment was in Rose Hill cemetery.
Out of town relatives in attendance at the funeral were; Mr. and Mrs.
Clarence Miller, Nathan Miller, Earl and Ernest Miller, Mrs. Elma Whitney and
Mr. and Mrs. B. Frazer of Centerville, N.Y., Mr. and Mrs. Howard Haymer of
Fillmore, N.Y.; Mrs. Sam Young of Canaden, N.Y.; Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Haskins
and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Haskins of Angelica, N.Y.; Mr. and Mrs. Mack Windsor
Olean, N.Y., and Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Moses of Port Allegany.
October 7, 1920.
Page 3.
After resting in the cemetery at Tours, France, for almost two years the
remains of Forrest Small have been exhumed, shipped to America, are now in New
York and will be brought to Kane and given burial with military honors in
Forest Lawn cemetery. The Intelligence that the body of this Kane hero had
arrived in New York was flashed here today in a telegram from the government
to the boy's mother, Mrs. Katherine Small.
Forrest Small was a first class sergeant of the 414th telegraph battalion.
He died October 5, 1918, in the hospital at Tours, a victim of flu and
complications. Kane Republican.
The body of Sergeant Small arrived in Kane Monday and the funeral was held
Tuesday.
The body of Corporal W.W. Crawford, another Kane soldier who died in France,
is also on the way home and it is expected that both bodies will arrive at the
same time and the two funerals held the same day.
Page 3.
Robert Lewis McLean, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. McLean of Betula, died at
the Olean General hospital, where he had been a patient last Thursday
afternoon. Funeral services were held in Colegrove Saturday. Burial was in
the Colegrove cemetery.
Page 3.
Sheffield, Pa., Oct. 4. To scare away boys who were annoying her, Mrs.
Harry Hall, of Barnes, a village just south of here, discharged a revolver
through the doorway of her room Saturday night and in doing so shot and
fatally wounded 15-year-olc John Alling. The boy died at 4 o'clock Sunday
morning.
Page 5.
Bradford Star-Record of Tuesday gives the following additional details of
the death of W.W. walker, brief mention of which was made in the Democrat last
week; The death of William W. Walker, for 30 years a resident of Bradford,
occurred at the McKean County Home at Smethport, Sept. 28, of ailments
incident to old age. Deceased was 74 years of age and a native of London,
England, where he received a liberal education. He came to this country 34
years ago. Deceased is survived by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Frances
Houck Stewart and five grandchildren. Arrangements are being made for
obsequies to be held in Bradford.
Page 5.
Daniel W. Derby of Farmers Valley died at the Bradford hospital at 5:30
o'clock Tuesday morning where he had been a medical patient for about 10
days. Deceased was born November 22, 1842, at Marilla, N.Y., and had lived at
Farmers Valley between 35 and 40 years. Mr. Derby was a member of the
Smethport Odd Fellows lodge for nearly 40 years. Funeral announcement
later. The services will be held at his late home and will be conducted by
the Odd Fellows. Deceased is survived by his wife, Mrs. Hortense King Derby.
Bradford Star-Record.
Mr. Derby was a gentleman who was held in the highest esteem by a wide
circle of acquaintances throughout this section. News of his demise comes as
a great shock to his many friends.
October 14, 1920.
Page 1.
Glen Blair Stilson, 7-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernie Stilson of East
Smethport, was fatally injured at 5:30 o'clock by being struck by an
automobile driven by Claude Heinlein of Smethport. The accident occurred in
front of the residence of Irvin Coon, across the street from the little boy's
home.
The child was carried quickly to the house and Dr. Robert Hamilton and Dr.
Burg Chadwick were summoned who found that the boy was so badly injured as to
be beyond medical skill. His skull was fractured and his jaw broken as well
as other injuries. He died about 3 o'clock Saturday morning.
(Article continues at length concerning inquest and accident so only portions
are included here.)
The automobile was coasting down the grade from Kings Corners when the
little boy darted suddenly into the street directly in the path of the car
which was moving at a rate of between 15 and 25 miles per hour.
The child appeared so quickly and was so close to the car that it was
impossible to avoid striking him. The driver turned to the left as a group of
children on the right barred a chance in that direction.
Little Glen became became confused and darted in the same direction as the
car was turning. It was shown that Claude Heinlein made every effort to avoid
the child, ran his car over the sidewalk and brought it to a stop in the yard
of the Tanner residence on the left side of the street.
The stricken parents are receiving the sympathy of the entire community.
Glen was a bright, lovable little boy, who would have been eight years old in
January.
Funeral services, which were largely attended were held at the late home of
the little victim Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Noble I. Mack of the Baptist church
officiating. Burial was in the Rose Hill cemetery.
Funeral services for the little victim were held at the Union church, East
Smethport, Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, Rev. Mr. Pang and Rev. Noble I.
Mack officiating. The church was filled with sorrowing relatives and friends,
notably the boy's schoolmates and Sunday school class. The casket and alter
were covered with beautiful floral tributes. Interment was in Rose Hill
cemetery.
Page 1.
Smethport people heard with regret of the death of Guy H. Gifford, son of
Z.D. Gifford of Union street, which occurred at the Higgins Memorial hospital
in Olean, Thursday, Oct. 7, 1920, following a short illness. The remains were
brought to his father's home here Thursday night and the funeral was held at 2
o'clock, Saturday afternoon, the Rev. W.E. Van Dyke officiating. The remains
were laid at rest in Rose Hill cemetery, a delegation from the Olean lodge,
Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen acting as bearers.
He was born in Emporium, December 17, 1871, and when a young boy came to
Smethport with his parents. He attended school here and worked in the sawmill
owned by his uncle, S.J. Gifford for a number of years.
About 15 years ago he went to Olean and entered the employ of the
Pennsylvania railroad company and remained with that company until his death.
He was a quiet, industrious man and a good citizen whose death is greatly
regretted.
Besides his father he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. H.H. Weaver of Davis,
W.Va., and Mrs. L.H. Dickinson of Smethport.
Page 3.
Bradford Era, Friday: - John N. Brown, nonagenarian and widely known pioneer
resident of Bradford township, was instantly killed at 9:15 o'clock yesterday
morning when he was struck by a W.N.Y.&P. work car in front of his home in
Browntown, halfway between Custer City and Lewis Run.
The fatality occurred as Mr. Brown was walking down the driveway leading
from his house to the road. This driveway is crossed by the W.N.Y.&P. tracks.
According to a statement made to the Era by a member of Mr. Brown's family,
the work car suddenly began to back up as Mr. Brown was crossing the tracks.
It is said that there was no one on the rear of the car. Naturally, Motorman
Daniel Reidy, who was at his post on the front platform, was unable to see
whether the track behind the car was clear. Accordingly, with no one on the
rear platform to give warning, Mr. Brown is said to have had no way of knowing
that the car was about to move.
The aged man was knocked down and crushed beneath the wheels which passed
over his chest. Death was instantaneous. The car had moved for several feet,
before Motorman Reidy was aware of the accident. He then stopped the car and
to his horror, found Mr. Brown's body beneath the wheels.
The body was taken to Custer City and thence to Koch's undertaking
establishment in this city where it was prepared for burial. The funeral will
take place at the home in Browntown at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon.
Mr. Brown was born in Blandford, Hampton county, Massachusetts, June 15,
1830. He came to McKean county with his father in 1844. For a time he was
engaged in the lumber business. In 1885 Mr. Brown moved to his farm in
Browntown and lived there until his death.
In 1849, Mr. Brown was married to Samantha L. Davis of Bradford township.
To this union was born three sons and one daughter, all of whom survive their
father. They are F.A. Brown of Bradford and Harry and L.E. Brown of Lewis
Run; and Mrs. L.H. Kreiner of Bradford. Twelve grandchildren and 13 great
grandchildren also survive.
Mr. Brown had held various township offices including that of auditor. In
early life he was a Whig in politics, later becoming a Democrat. He cast his
first presidential ballot in 1852, when Franklin Pierce, Democrat, was
selected over General Winfield Scott, Whig. Mr. Brown had voted in every
presidential election since that time, making a total of 17 presidential
ballots which he had cast.
Page 5.
Funeral services for the late D.W. Derby, who died at the Bradford hospital
on Monday of last week were held at the family residence at Farmer Valley last
Thursday afternoon. Services were conducted by Smethport Lodge, I.O.O.F. of
which the deceased was a member, a large number of members of that order from
Smethport and vicinity being in attendance. Prayer was conducted by Rev. Pang
of the Farmers Valley church. The body was taken to Marilla, N.Y. for
interment.
October 28, 1920.
Page 1.
Samuel Schoolmaster, well known Smethport young man and world war veteran,
passed away at his home on West Main street Sunday afternoon of peritonitis,
following a short illness. He was taken sick just a week prior to his death
and from the first his condition was realized to be serious and failed to
respond to treatment.
The young man served during the great war with C. company, 112th inf.,
Keystone Division, participating with that organization in its stirring
campaigns from Chateau Thierry to the Vesle and in the Argonne. His record of
service was a splendid one. He also served with Company C. of Bradford on the
Mexican border in 1916. He was a member of the reorganized Co. C., at the
time of death, holding the rank of corporal in the organization. He was a
member of Bucktail Post, American Legion, Smethport, the Smethport Camp,
Modern Woodmen of America and the local lodge P.H.C.
Prayer services in which local service men and fraternal organizations
participated were held at the family home at 9:30 this Wednesday morning, Rev.
Gregson of the M.E. church officiating. Following this service the remains
were taken to Bradford being accompanied by a large delegation of veterans.
The funeral will be held at the armory of Co. C., N.G.P., that city at noon
today and burial will be in Oak Hill cemetery there. Funeral and burial will
be with full military honors.
Samuel Schoolmaster was born in Bradford 28 years ago, the family moving to
Smethport when he was a small lad. He was an unassuming young man with a high
sense of patriotic duty as his valiant military record attests.
He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Schoolmaster, two sisters,
Mrs. Irene Sheldon of Smethport, and Mrs. Ellen M. Bestwick of Bradford; two
brothers, Walter L. and Frank Schoolmaster, Jr., and his grandfather, Samuel
French of Smethport.
Page 1. (The following week is was published that this information was in
error and that the parents requested that their son be allowed to rest
undisturbed, with his comrade, peacefully sleeping under the hallowed soil on
which they valiantly made the supreme sacrifice in France)
The body of Sergeant Robert Cleveland of Crosby who fell while leading a
platoon of the famous 5th Marines in action at Chateau Thierry, is being
brought to the United States from France. When the body is expected the
Democrat has been unable to ascertain. This is the first body of the several
war victims from this vicinity to be brought home.
The record of Sergeant Cleveland is one to cause a thrill of pride to the
wide circle of friends and acquaintances in this section. Enlisting in the
Marines he was assigned to the 5th regiment which had just been recalled from
Haiti, on the eve of its departure for France. Although a recruit among
seasoned veterans, promotion came rapidly to the Crosby young man and at the
historic Chateau Thierry and Belleau smash of the Marines he was a sergeant
and played an important part in leading a platoon which distinguished itself,
and fell before the hail of enemy fire. He was cited and awarded the Croix de
Guerre for conspicuous bravery in leading his men. Norman Simkins of
Smethport was with Robert Cleveland in that engagement.
Page 3.
Mt. Jewett, Pa., Oct. Miss Gertrude E. Vreeland was found dead in bed
early in the morning of October 11th at Ocean Grove, N.J., where she had gone
with her father in search of health. Miss Vreeland had made her home with her
aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Williams of this place for the past three
years and was a member of the Methodist church in Mt. Jewett. For several
years she had been a sufferer from cardiac trouble and had made many friends
by her sunny disposition and optimism. Burial was made in the family plot in
Evergreen cemetery at Elizabeth, N.J. Bradford Era.
Page 3.
Death gleaned from the home of her parents, Miss Josephine, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. J.B .Shea, at 2:45 o'clock Wednesday afternoon. The only consolation
in the sad event being the knowledge that relief after a long illness, has
come to her.
Deceased was born in Eldred, Oct. 21, 1899, and passed away but one day
prior to her 21st birthday. She was a graduate of the Eldred High School, a
charming young girl who made friends easily, popular with all, and to have her
taken away while but upon the threshold of life, is a great blow to not only
her relatives but to legion of young friends.
She was not a strong girl, and after finishing her school here, her health
became a serious matter of consideration to her parents and in spite of every
effort that was possible to do to ward off the threatening consumption, she
gradually weakened, and last Sunday had a severe relapse. Her brothers who
were away hastened home, and during the fore part of the week she recovered
somewhat. Buoyed up by thoughts of her coming birthday, and by her brothers'
presence, encouraged a false hope and when the reaction came, Wednesday, her
weakened frame could not withstand the strain and Death closed her eyes to the
pain and suffering of this world.
The relatives surviving are her parents, five brothers, Martin, Joan,
Francis, Emmett and Edmund Shea, and one sister, Mrs. J.H. Hagans of Hornell,
N.Y., and they have the sincere sympathy of the whole community in their great
bereavement.
The funeral will be held from St. Raphael's Catholic church, tomorrow
morning at 9 o'clock, interment in St. Raphael's cemetery. Eldred Eagle.
November 4, 1920.
Page 1.
Wednesday morning at 4:30 o'clock at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Robert
Hamilton, occurred the death of Mrs. Katheryn Taylor one of Smethport's most
highly esteemed residents.
Mrs. Taylor had been suffering for a number of months with diabetes and
Brights disease, and during the past two weeks her condition became steadily
worse until the end came.
She was born in Smethport, Nov. 4, 1857, a daughter of the late Dr. S.D. and
Mrs. Lucretia Freeman. In 1876 she married Frank N. Taylor, who died about 8
years ago. One child was born to them, Bessie, now the wife of Dr. Robert
Hamilton of Smethport. Mrs. Taylor lived for a number of years in Buffalo,
N.Y., and in Los Angeles, Calif. And returned to Smethport about two years ago
and resided at her home on Rose Hill avenue until two weeks ago when she went
to the home of her daughter.
She was a woman well beloved by those who knew her and her death is the
occasion of sincere sadness. Besides her daughter, Mrs. Robert Hamilton, she
is survived by one sister, Mrs. H.C. Wills of Smethport.
The funeral services will be held at the home of her daughter, Friday
afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. W.E. Van Dyke officiating. Interment in Rose
Hill cemetery.
Page 1.
William Irons, an aged and highly respected resident of this section died at
3:30 Saturday afternoon, following a brief illness, of infirmities attendant
with old age. He would have been 86 years of age his next birthday.
Mr. Irons, who was unusually vigorous and active for one of his years, lived
alone on the Andrew Campbell farm on Marvin creek, near the county farm. On
Friday he was seized with a sudden attack of illness and Dr. Ostrander and his
son C.E. Irons of this borough were summoned to his bedside. Saturday morning
the patient showed no signs of improvement and was taken to the county home
nearby where he could receive expert nurse attendance. However, his death
occurred later in the day. The body was brought to Smethport Saturday evening
and to the home of C.E. Irons on E. Main St.
William Irons was one of nine children of Gideon and Miama Stark Irons
pioneer residents of this section. The father came to this section from Rhode
Island early in the 19th century. Of this large family two brothers now
survive, George and Steve, both of Keating township.
Mr. Irons was born in this vicinity and his long and busy life was spent
hereabouts where he successfully followed the vocation of farmer.
He is survived by the following children: Mrs. Jud Hackett of Keating
township and C.E. and Clayton Irons of this borough.
The funeral was held at the Irons' home Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock,
Rev. W.E. Van Dyke of St. Luke's church officiating. Interment was in Rose
Hill cemetery.
Page 4.
William J. Healy, who had been identified with the Consolidated Window Glass
company for a number of years, died suddenly at his boarding house in that
place Saturday morning. He was 52 years of age and unmarried. Heart disease
from which he had been a sufferer for a year or more caused his death. The
funeral and burial took place in Bradford Tuesday morning.
Page 6.
The death of Mrs. Alice Carter took place Wednesday, October 20th, at her
home in Jamestown, following a very brief illness of acute indigestion. Mrs.
Carter was 69 years of age. She was born at Port Allegany, and lived in this
vicinity until about ten years ago, making her home for many years on Comes
Creek. About ten years ago she moved to the state of Washington, where she
made her home with her son until his death about five years ago when she moved
to Jamestown where she had lived with her daughter since. Mrs. Carter was a
very estimable woman, and her death comes as a shock to many friends in this
section.
She is survived by two daughters, Maud Carter of Hattiesburg, Miss., and
Mrs. Flora Burns of Jamestown. She also leaves three brothers, A.L. Holden
and A.C. Holden of this place and C.C. Holden of Davenport, Ia., and one
sister, Mrs. Flora Dunn, Hattiesburg, Miss.
The funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at two o'clock at the home
of A.C, Holden on Chestnut street, Rev. A.E. French officiating. Interment
was made at the Fairview Cemetery.
Page 6.
Bradford Era, Thursday: Bradford and Smethport service men and other
citizens of the two communities joined yesterday in paying final tribute to
Corporal Samuel C. Schoolmaster of Company C. The young Smethport soldier's
funeral took place at noon in this city, with full military honors, Company C
and Bucktail Post American Legion of Smethport, participating in the
ceremonies.
The rites were carried out in accordance with Corporal Schoolmaster's own
wishes under the direction of Company C., the organization in which he served
on the Mexican border and in France, and in which he re-enlisted last spring.
There was a funeral service at Smethport in the morning after which Corporal
Schoolmaster's body was brought to the armory in this city where it lay in
state until 12 o'clock. At that hour a simple but impressive service took
place, with Rev. Mr. Gregson of the Smethport Methodist church officiating.
At the conclusion of this service the military funeral procession was formed
with Company C., Bucktail Post, American Legion, and John C. Roche Post,
Veterans of Foreign Wars, forming the escort. Col. F.P. Schoonmaker, former
commander of Company C., was among those in line.
The pall bearers were Irvin McCarthy, Thomas Clark, Jr., William Nellis,
Axel Vanblad, Paul Denning and Joseph Feury, all service men of Smethport.
The firing squad was made up of the following members of Company C: Corporal
Clyde McCann, Cyril Newton, Elmer Middleborough, George Brink, Arthur Adamson
David Lee, Francis Wade and George Anderson. Taps were sounded at the
graveside in Oak Hill cemetery by Buglers Guy Hughey and Jack Edmonds with
Bugler Elton Cormey sounding the echo. The color bearers were Alfred Franklin
and M.R. Bain of John C. Roche Post.
Among the floral offerings were those from Bucktail Post, Company C., the
non-commissioned officers of that company, and John C. Roche Post. Bucktail
Post furnished the automobiles for the funeral cortege.
November 11, 1920.
Page 1.
Mrs. Celeste Hyde, age 71 years, a former well known and highly respected
Smethport resident, passed away at her home in Saskatchewan, Canada, where she
had resided for several years, last Thursday.
The deceased is survived by two sons both former well known residents of
this place; George H. and J.C. Hyde of Buffalo.
The body was brought to Smethport and the funeral was held at St. Luke's
Episcopal church Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, the Rev. W.E. VanDyke
officiating. Interment was in Farmers Valley cemetery.
Page 1.
Dr. W.R. Palmer, of Johnson burg, one of the best known surgeons in this
section of the state and surgeon-in-chief at the Ridgway hospital, died
Wednesday morning while on the way to the Ridgway hospital, following an auto
accident on the new state road between Johnsonburg and Ridgway.
The accident happened shortly after seven o'clock while Dr. Palmer and Gust
Florin, also of Johnsonburg, were on their way to Ridgway. The latter is in
the hospital seriously injured.
It is the general belief that something went wrong with the steering
apparatus of the car. The accident happened near the Cummings Run Bridge at
the foot of a hill. The car skidded into the ditch on the left side of the
road. The front end of the car sunk into the soft earth and the rear end was
thrown forward over the end of the culvert, the machine almost standing on its
front end.
M.J. Hall of Ridgway was the first to discover the accident but being unable
to do much he hurried to the brick plant near Johnsonburg, for aid and on his
return found the truck of the Ridgway Electric Light company on the scene.
Both men were placed on the truck and hurried to the hospital, but Dr. Palmer
passed away before the institution was reached without regaining consciousness.
He is survived by his wife, one daughter and two sons. St. Marys Gazette.
November 18, 1920.
Page 1.
The sad tidings reached here Monday of the sudden death of Sherwood R.
Chase, which occurred at Tulsa, Oklahoma, Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock. Mr.
Chase was taken ill Friday with tonsillitis and Sunday afternoon underwent an
operation at the Tulsa hospital, but his condition was unable to stand the
ordeal and he died upon the operating table.
Sherwood Rightmyer Chase was born in Emporium, Pa., Feb 25, 1874, eldest son
of Mr. and Mrs. O.T Chase. In 1889 the family moved to Smethport and Sherwood
worked in the Democrat and Miner offices and other places in this town until
1896, when he went to the oil fields of West Virginia and became an oil well
shooter. He followed the oil developments westward and for years followed
the dangerous occupation in the Oklahoma and other oil fields. He became an
expert in the handling of high explosives. His industry and skill was
rewarded with well merited promotion until he became superintendent of the
Illinois Torpedo Co., with headquarters at Tulsa, which position he held at
the time of his death. Mr. Chase was acknowledged to be one of the most
reliable authorities in the United States on matters regarding the use of high
explosives in oil fields and his advice and counsel were indispensable at the
national meetings of manufacturers.
On July 15, 1920, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Alma Collins Porter in
Kansas City, Mo., and they visited his family here upon their honeymoon
journey. At that time Mr. Chase informed the writer that he had reached a
position in life where he could enjoy himself and that within a few more years
he would be entirely on easy street. His ending seems sadly incongruous,
that after flirting with death for years in the handling of high explosives,
winning himself a position of lucrative trust where his duties were performed
in comfort and safety, that his death should ensue from a comparatively
trifling ailment.
Sherwood Chase was a man's man. His unswerving loyalty to his friends was
the keynote of a beautiful character. Genial companion, sympathetic adviser,
sensible citizen and kind friend, who won his way strictly by his own
endeavors from the bottom to the top of his chosen calling. Sherwood Chase
will live long in the memory of those who knew him best.
Aside from his wife, a bride of a few months, he is survived by his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. O.T. Chase of this place and three brothers: G.O. Chase of Olean,
Roy Chase of Smethport, and Earl Chase of Wichita Falls, Texas.
Mr. Chase was a member of the F.&A.M. and also of the B.F.O.E.
The remains are expected to arrive in Smethport Thursday evening and the
funeral will be held under Masonic auspices, Friday. It is impossible at this
writing to give the exact hour.
Page 1.
The remains of Mrs. Olaf Larson, who passed away at the home of her son,
Frank Larson of Drumright, Oklahoma, were brought to Smethport and funeral
services will be held at the home of her son, C.O. Larson of Rose Hill avenue,
at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon, the Rev. C.S. Larson of Port Allegany
officiating; afterward services will be held in the Swedish Lutheran church.
Mrs. Larson was a highly esteemed woman who with her husband who died here
five years ago, had been residents of Smethport and vicinity for many years.
She was aged about 78 years.
Surviving to mourn the loss of a loving mother are two daughters, Mrs.
Charlotte Peterson of New Orleans, La., and Mrs. Emma Shelander of Jamestown,
N.Y. Four sons also survive, Lars Larson of Stillwater, Minnesota; Frank
Larson of Drumright, Oklahoma; and Charles and Albert Larson of Smethport.
Another daughter, Mrs. Roy McLeod of Drumright, died about one year ago.
Page 4.
Mrs. William Phelan died at her home at Newell creek, Friday Nov. 15th.
Deceased was born in County Tipperary, Ireland in 1837 and with her parents
came to America in 1852. Two years later she was united in marriage to
William Phelan at Cuba, N.Y. They went to Newell creek and established a home
in the wilderness being among the pioneer residents in that section.
Mrs. Phelan was a woman of sterling character, a devout Christian who was
highly esteemed and respected by all who knew her. She is survived by three
sons, James and John of Newell creek, and Michael, of Robinson, Ill., four
daughters, Mrs. P. McDermott, of Olean, Mrs. Patrick McCabe of Eldred, Mrs.
Edw. McCarthy and Miss Ella Phelan of Kane, also one brother, James Russell,
of Shinglehouse.
The funeral was held from St. Mary's church at Sartwell at 9:30 Monday
morning, Rev. Father Fisher officiating at the requiem High Mass. Interment
was made in the Sartwell cemetery.
Among those who attended the funeral were James Russell, John and Rose
Russell and Mrs. Florence Walters, of Shinglehouse, Mr. and Mrs. Edward
Hungerford, of Bolivar; Mrs. Kathryn Sullivan, of Smethport; Mr. and Mrs.
Patrick Dunn, Mrs. Agnes Lang, Mr. and Mrs. John Lane, Mr. and Mrs. John
Flain, Mrs. Thomas Moran and J.C. Fitzsimmons of Olean; Mrs. Kathryn
Fitzsimmons, of Port Allegany, and Mrs. Anna Howel of Eldred. Eldred Eagle.
Page 4.
Frank W. Davis, one of the most prominent citizens of Bradford, died at
12:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon, at his home, No. 111 Jackson avenue. He
had been in poor health for several years but became critically ill only about
two weeks ago.
Mr. Davis was born in Bradford, June 8, 1844 and spent his entire life
here. Accordingly he was one of the city's oldest residents. He was a widely
respected and highly successful business man and a veteran of the Civil War,
retiring with the rank of first lieutenant.
Mr. Davis is survived by his wife, Mrs. Albina L. Davis, one daughter Mrs.
E.L. Adams, two granddaughters, Mabel and Elizabeth Adams; one sister, Mrs.
Frederick White of Chicago; and one brother, Fred. G. Davis of this city.
Bradford Era, Friday.
Page 4.
Bradford, Nov. 11. Mrs. Louise Blair, of 19 West Washington street is dead
as a result of a fractured skull received last evening when she was struck by
an automobile driven by Charles Fox, 18, of Derrick City. The accident
occurred on the Mechanic street bridge and the unfortunate woman lived but a
few minutes after being struck, dying on the way to the hospital.
Page 6.
Yesterday morning at 8 o'clock at his home on Kennedy street, John Haggerty
passed from the ranks of the living. Mr. Haggerty had been in poor health
since last spring, but had only been confined to his bed since last Sunday.
Deceased was born on August 8, 1840, at Iroquois, Canada. Mr. Haggerty and
family moved to Bradford from Corry, Pa., I 1878 and have since resided here.
Mr. Haggerty was manager of the Journal Oil company, of this city.
There was no more kindlier, no more sympathetic man in Bradford than Mr.
Haggerty. His heart was touched by every pitiful story, and he was always
ready to listen to the troubles of others and help in any way he could.
Always ready with a merry, kindly greeting he will be missed in this community.
Deceased is survived by his wife and four children, Mrs. C.E. Judd, Miss
Alice Haggerty, Harvey J. Haggerty and Arthur J. Haggerty, all of Bradford,
and one granddaughter, Miss Margaret Judd, also of this city.
Funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock at the home,
the Rev. S.A. Keen officiating. The burial will take place in Oak Hill
cemetery. Bradford Sunday Herald.
Page 6.
The body of Lieut. Daniel McCarthy, who died in France in October, recently
brought to the States and to his old home in Bradford, where the funeral and
burial occurred with impressive military rites Tuesday. Lieut. McCarthy
enlisted in the sanitary detachment, 112th Inf., later graduating from an
officers' training camp I this country and was sent to France where his useful
service was terminated by death.
November 25, 1920.
Page 1.
The remains of Henry King, aged 79, who died at Highland Park, Mich.,
Saturday , arrived in Smethport Tuesday and were taken to the home of Mr. and
Mrs. W.S. Palmer on Main street, formerly the home of his brother, the late
Robert King. Henry King was a lawyer, and 60 years ago was located in
Smethport, leaving here for Bradford, where he resided for a number of years
and moved from that city to Gulfport, Miss., and from that city went to
Detroit, Mich. He was born at Leadbury, England.
He is survived by his wife, one son, Andrus King and by three grandchildren;
two nieces, Miss Lallie King and Mrs. W.S. Palmer reside in Smethport.
The funeral was held this Wednesday, afternoon at 2 o'clock at the house,
the Rev. W.E. VanDyke officiating. Burial was in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 1.
Mrs. Almira E. Whitely, an old and prominent resident of Bradford, died at 3
o'clock yesterday afternoon at her home, No. 519 East Main street. She had
been in ill health for about a year.
Mrs. Whitely was born in Smethport 76 years ago, and had lived in Bradford
since 1876. During her long residence here, she won the respect and esteem of
all who knew her. Mrs. Whitely was the wife of Richard E. Whitely well known
as the former editor of the Bradford Record and former county official.
Mrs. Whitely is survived by her husband who has been ill for the past three
years, and by on e brother, C.S. King of Port Allegany. Bradford Era, Friday.
Mrs. Whitely was known by many of the older residents of Smethport and was
highly esteemed by all. News of her death came as a shock to her friends here.
Funeral services were held at the late home in Bradford at 8:00 o'clock
Saturday morning and the body was afterwards brought to Smethport where
interment was made in the family plot in Rose Hill cemetery.
Page 1.
Ghordis A. Burdick, pioneer citizen of Norwich township, passed away at his
home last Thursday morning form ills incidental to old age, as the years of
his life numbered ninety. He was the youngest of the eight children of
Rowland and Alvira (Webb) Burdick, who came to Norwich township in 1815 and
hewed themselves a home out of the wilderness. They were a sturdy family of
men and women who did their part as have their descendants in developing this
section of McKean county. This family is truly remarkable for longevity,
Ghordis have reached 90 years of age, while his brother, George was 93 at the
time of his death and Ransome Burdick 103 years old when he passed away.
Ghordis Burdick was a farmer and a life long resident of Norwich township
where he was held in high esteem by his neighbors and had many friends
throughout the county. On Aug. 12, 1855 he married Viletta Gallup and six
children were born to them: Clarence Burdick, whose present location is
unknown; Elbert C. Burdick of Moorehead, Kentucky; Wellington L. Burdick of
East Smethport and Mrs. Alice Wilson, with their mother survive, while O.J.
Burdick and Mrs. Nina Fulkrod have passed away. Also surviving is a sister,
Mrs. Emily Chapin of Weedsport, N.Y. The funeral was held at Colegrove,
Sunday afternoon, the Rev. Arthur Gregson of the Smethport M.E. church
officiating. Burial was in the Colegrove cemetery.
Page 1.
The funeral of Sherwood R. chase, who died in Tulsa, Okla., Sunday, Nov. 14,
was held at St. Luke's church, Saturday afternoon, at 2:30 o'clock, the Rev.
W.E. Van Dyke officiating. The funeral was under Masonic auspices, deceased
having been a member of the Tulsa lodge, F.&A.M. There was a profusion of
most beautiful flowers, more than 200 lbs. of set pieces, bouquets, etc.,
having been shipped from Tulsa. While many friends here sent flowers,
including local Elks, as deceased was also a member of the B.P.O.E. The
remains were laid at rest in Rose Hill cemetery.
Those from out-of-town in attendance at the funeral included: Mrs. Sherwood
R. Chase of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and daughter, Mrs. Nadine Lucus of El Paso,
Texas; Mrs. Irma Toureene of Denver, Colo; Earl Chase of Wichita Falls, Texas,
and Mr. and Mrs. Glenn O. Chase of Olean.
Page 1.
The death of Henry Green, for many years a highly respected resident of
Smethport who left here 18 years ago and located in Seattle, Washington,
occurred last Thursday. Many friends of this family in this vicinity
expressed sincere regret at news of his death.
Surviving are his wife and two daughters, Mrs. Ed. Kraft and Miss Ruby Green
of Seattle and three grandchildren. Also surviving are the following brothers
and sisters: Eben, John and Montford Green, Mrs. Emmett Miller and Mrs. Orson
Kimball of Seattle; Samuel Green and Mrs. G.H. Denning of Smethport. The
funeral was held in Seattle Sunday.
Page 1.
Scipio Young, colored, died last night at 10:30 at his home 112 Greeves
street after an illness of nearly three weeks. He was 107 years of age the
fourth day of August last and had been a resident of this city since 1866.
The story of his life is an interesting one.
He was born in slavery in Essex county, Virginia, and in the early days of
the Civil War ran away with a number of other slaves and joined the army at
Fredericksburg, where he was made body servant Lieut. Wilkinson, whom he
followed for several months and was left in Washington, D.C. From there he
went in search of work and in October, 1862, fell in with General Thos. L.
Kane, whose servant he continued to be for many years. He came with General
Kane to this locality when this entire section was a dense forest.
Later he returned to Washington with the determination of joining his family
in Virginia, General Kane lost track of him and inserted an advertisement in a
Washington paper. An acquaintance of Mr. Young saw the ad and informed the
latter and as a result he again entered the employment of General Kane. In
1866 he moved his family to this city and was employed as a servant for
General Kane; worked in his mill and performed such other duties as befell the
lot of pioneers.
He was engaged in the barbering business for a number of years, but during
the last quarter century had followed no special line of employment. He is
survived by seven children as follows: Henry, Grant, Mrs. William Vann and
Margaret of this city, Edward, of Cleveland, Ohio and Thos. J. of Smethport.
Five grandchildren also survive. Kane Republican, Friday.
The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, at the First Baptist
church, the Rev. D.L. Woods officiating. The services were very largely
attended and many followed the remains of this venerable man to their final
resting place in the Kane cemetery.
The Democrat understands that this thrifty colored citizen left an estate
valued at $50,000, which will be divided equally among the seven children.
Page 3.
Wellsboro, Nov. 18. Oscar Aikens, aged 17 years, went hunting alone last
Wednesday and was not found until Monday afternoon when the body was
discovered in the woods by a searching party. His dog returned home Thursday,
but no trace of the young man was found, although parties scoured the woods
daily for miles around in search of him. About 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon
Glen Avery and William Wilkins found young Aikens' body beside a stump three
or four feet high. Everything pointed to the lad's death being due to a
hunting accident.
Page 3.
Kane, Pa. Nov. 18. John Wichman, 38, a driller, was crushed to death at
9:30 o'clock today when he slipped while thawing snow and ice from a belt at a
drilling rig one and a half miles from James City. He was standing close to
the running engine when he slipped and fell across the belt, which caught the
lower part of his head, neck and the upper part of his chest. He was whirled
around the pulley and the engine almost stopped, but continued to run
sufficiently long to throw out the body of the unfortunate man.
Mr. Wichman is survived by a wife and four small children. He was employed
by H.J. Stroup of Bradford.
Page 3.
Asher B. Wares of Rew City died suddenly at his home about 10 o'clock last
night. Mr. Wares, who was an oil well worker, was well known and popular in
Rew and its environs. His death came as a great shock to his family and
friends.
Mr. Wares was 39 years old, and is survived by his wife, Mrs. Daisy Wares; a
two-year-old son, Gerald, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.L. Wares of Wright's
Corners. He was a member of Rew City lodge of Odd Fellows. Bradford Era
Friday.
Page 6.
John J. McCarten, 76 years of age, died Saturday afternoon about 3 o'clock
at his home in Mt. Alton. He had been a resident of that place for fifty
years. He is survived by his wife, three sons, John of DuBois; Frank of
Bradford and Cletus of Akron, Ohio; two daughters, Mrs. A.J. Yates of Mt.
Alton and Mrs. J.F. Gannon of Buffalo, and two brothers, William of Niagara,
Ontario, and Peter of Olean, N.Y.
December 2, 1920.
Page 1.
The death of James J. O'Connell of Mt. Alton, occurred Saturday morning at
1:00 o'clock at his home. Deceased was a member of the A.O.H. and C. M.S.A.,
Branch No. 53. For many years he was a merchant of Mt. Alton and had served
as justice of the peace. Funeral services were held at St. Joseph's church
Monday morning at 9:30 o'clock. The body was taken to Bradford and was taken
to St. Bernard's cemetery for burial. Deceased is survived by his wife, four
daughter; Misses Jennie, Martha, and Margaret O'Connell of Mt. Alton and Mrs.
F.J McCarten of Bradford; five sons, Frank, James M., and J.J. Jr., William
and Matthew O'Connell, all of Mt. Alton; two sisters, Miss Theresa O'Connell
of Smethport and Mrs. James Kilmurry of Johnsonburg, and one brother, Thomas
O'Connell, of Tampico, Mexico.
Page 1.
James Reed, of Keating township, father, and Lester Reed of East Smethport,
brother of Jabe Reed, who died at the Bradford hospital on Tuesday of last
week from gunshot wounds inflicted by George Derkis in Lewis Run Monday night,
Nov. 28, went to Bradford and Lewis Run last week on receipt of news of the
tragedy. They drove from Bradford to Smethport with the body and to the late
home in Keating township, where the funeral was held Thursday, Rev. Pang of
Farmers Valley officiating. Interment was made in Farmers Valley cemetery.
(Many articles published on the shooting and trial during this time)
Page 1.
Bradford Star-Record: Nov. 29: - Word was received in Bradford yesterday of
the sudden death of George M. Gaffney of Brookline, Mass., which occurred in
New York yesterday at the Imperial hotel, where he had taken a room on
Saturday. Deceased who was a well known chemical man, formerly resided in
Kushequa. His brothers, W.S. Gaffney and H.E. Gaffney of this city, left last
evening for New York.
It is understood here that George M. Gaffney arrived in New York on Saturday
from his homecity and that he went to a hotel and registered. He did not feel
well on Saturday and when he did not make an appearance on Sunday an
investigation was made when it was found that he was dead in his room. Heart
trouble is believed to have been the cause of his death. The late Mr. Gaffney
was married. He was well known in this section where for many years he was
engaged in the chemical business. Many friends will be shocked to hear of his
sudden demise. R.J. Gaffney of Los Angeles Calif., and Gus Gaffney of Kane
are also brothers of the deceased.
Page 3.
Bradford residents were shocked today to learn of the death of Charles C.
Melvin, 2nd, owner of the Lyceum theater, which occurred at 12:10 o'clock this
morning, following an illness of very short duration. Very few knew of the
illness of Mr. Melvin and the news of this death caused considerable grief
among the citizenry of this city, where the deceased had resided from
childhood and was beloved by both young and old. Death has removed a most
worthy citizen who for years has been prominent in the affairs of McKean
county, and who enjoyed the respect of all who knew him.
(Obituary is quite lengthy so only portions are included here)
Mr. Melvin's death was caused by pneumonia, which followed a cold, and
developed on Monday afternoon.
Charles C. Melvin 2nd, was born in Limestone on June 10, 1872, the son of
Thomas J. and Marion B. Melvin. He received his early education in the
Bradford high school and later attended the Bethlehem preparatory school and
Lehigh university. After completing his term as county treasurer, Mr. Melvin
purchased the Lyceum theatre in Bradford and has since successfully engaged in
the motion picture business. Deceased was a member of the Bradford lodge of
Elks and the college fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta.
Deceased is survived by two brothers, John P. and Thomas J. Melvin; two
nephews, Parker L. and Milton F. Melvin; and an aunt, Mrs. W.E. Morgan, of
Chicago. Another brother Milton F. Melvin died about two months ago.
Bradford Star-Record, Nov. 24.
The funeral was held Friday afternoon, at 2:00 o'clock at the home of Earl
C. Emery, Bradford, a cousin.
The remains were laid to rest in Oak Hill cemetery, that city. A number of
Smethport friends were in attendance at the final obsequies.
Page 1.
Mrs. Margaret Hoover, aged 78 years died at the home of her sister, Mrs.
Byron Hinman, at Bullis Mills, at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, after a long
illness from a tumor in the stomach and heart trouble. She was a resident of
Olean, and had come up to visit her sister but the day before death came.
Deceased was a highly respected woman, her husband, a veteran having died
several years ago, and her children mourn the loss of a good mother. She was
born I Hamburg, N.Y. Three sons, George and Charles, of Olean, and Jacob, of
New York City, and one daughter, Mrs. Mary Kuhn, of Norfolk, Va., survive
besides the sister Mrs. Hinman.
The remains were taken to Olean and the funeral held from St. Marys church,
Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock interment being made at Allegany. Eldred Eagle.
Page 5.
William Hardie, one of the most widely known and popular citizens of DuBois
and a resident of Smethport many years ago died at his home in DuBois Monday,
Nov. 22, of bronchitis. He was born in Scotland and came to America when 17
years old. He is survived by his wife and son, George, who is a conductor on
the B.R.&P. railroad and now in a hospital recovering from injuries received
in a wreck. Also surviving is his sister, Mrs. John Hewitt of Smethport. A
niece, Mrs. Laura Van Dusen of Smethport attended the funeral which was held
under Masonic auspices at DuBois last Thursday. Mr. Hardie having become a
Mason before leaving Scotland.
Page 1.
Comrade Thomas Harrington is dead. No more will master word pictures from
his brilliant pen appear to light the reading public and no one delight the
reading public and none will miss him more than the writer. The end came
peacefully at the home of his sister in Coudersport, following a brief
illness, Saturday night at midnight. Following an attack of influenza a year
ago, his health had failed rapidly, although he had been up and about until a
few days before his death. Mr. Harrington was 75 years of age.
During his long and useful life he gave much, took little. Running away
from home at the age of 14 he enlisted in the Union navy and served throughout
the Civil war, participating in a number of stirring engagements, was wounded
and cited for gallantry in action. Following the Civil conflict he enlisted
in the regular army and saw extensive service on the Indian frontier. He was
with the relief expedition which arrived on the Custer battlefield soon after
the massacre. He improved the lonely days at isolated frontier garrisons to
splendid advantage and provided himself with an education as complete as a
college could offer.
(Obituary is quite lengthy and only portions are included here.)
Following the Indian Wars Mr. Harrington returned to Potter county and
followed the newspaper business, being conducted in an editorial capacity at
one time or another with the Coudersport papers and for a time edited a
newspaper in Johnsonburg.
At the outbreak of the Spanish-American war, although well along in years,
Mr. Harrington again managed to get into the army and saw extensive action in
the Philippines.
He never married, preferring the lot of the true soldier of fortune. He was
an extensive traveler, having visited all countries of the globe and all
sections of the United States.
As a vivid writer he was without a peer, whether in an editorial or news
sense his work bore the mark of genius and his poems which from time to time
have appeared in leading publications were soul-born and rank high as serious
contributions to literature.
Thos. Harrington was born in Ireland, Dec. 24, 1846. He came to this
country when 9 years old, making the trip alone. He is survived by a sister,
Mrs. Fickler of Coudersport, with whom he had resided for some time; one
brother, John Harrington of Washington, D.C., and one half-brother, Wm. Glavin
of Smethport.
The funeral was held in Coudersport Tuesday morning and in accordance with
Comrade Harrington's expressed wish interment will be made in the national
cemetery at Arlington.
Mr. Harrington was member of the Arch Jones Post G.A.R. Coudersport, in the
affairs of which organization he took an active part.
(A tribute to him was also published in the December 16, issue on page 1)
Page 1.
Dr. John R. Biggins, aged 42, was found dead sitting in a chair at his offices
over No. 9 Mechanic street, about 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon. Dr. Biggins
and his mother came to Bradford from Duke Center about one year ago. They
formerly lived here. Dr. Biggins is survived by his mother and four sisters,
Mrs. Frank of Kane, Miss May and Miss Julia Biggins of Atlantic City and
another sister who lives in the far west. Bradford Era.
Dr. Biggins had many friends in Smethport who were shocked at the news of
his sudden death.
The funeral was held at St. Bernard's church, Bradford, Tuesday morning.
The remains were taken to Eldred for interment.
Page 3.
Fred L. Abbott, aged 31 years and a life-long resident of this city, was
found dead in the bath room of his home, No. 5 East Corydon street about 8
o'clock Wednesday morning.
Mr. Abbott had been in poor health for a year or more and was subject to
heart attacks. It is probable that he was stricken with one of these attacks
while in the bath room some time during the night.
Deceased was a son of the late Calvin Abbott of the Bennett Brook road.
For some time past or until his health gave out, he was employed by Louis E.
Koch and was a very efficient employe.
Deceased was a member of the Moose lodge, the Knights of Pythias and of Ben
Hur.
Surviving are his wife and two sons Gail and Max Abbott; his mother, Mrs.
Elizabeth Abbott of the Bennett Brook road, and five brothers, Charles Abbott
of Watkins, N.Y., and Abraham Calvin, Harry and Thomas Abbott, all of
Bradford; six sisters, Mrs. A.A. Tibbitts, Mrs. John Wilcox, Mrs. Henry
Colley, Mrs. Ray Chamberlain, Mrs. Chauncey Askey and Miss Stella Abott all of
Bradford.
Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the First
Baptist church The body was laid to rest in Oak Hill cemetery. Bradford
Sunday Herald.
December 9, 1920.
Page 8.
Kane Republican, Monday: - Frank Collins of Renovo, Pennsylvania Ry.
engineer, died suddenly in camp near Keating Saturday afternoon. He had been
in camp with a party of deer hunters and had just come in from a hunt. He
took a chew of tobacco and accidentally swallowed it. He became very sick at
the stomach and before medical assistance reached him he passed away, death
being due to heart failure brought on by fatigue from the hunt, aggravated by
the tobacco. He was 60 years of age.
December 16, 1920.
Page 3.
Henry Harrison Locke, aged 79, a well known resident of this city, died, at
his home, No. 103 South Kendall avenue, at 7:15 o'clock yesterday morning.
Mr. Locke had been ill for a year past form diabetes, although his improved
condition during the past few days caused his death yesterday to come as a
shock.
For many years Mr. Locke had been a highly respected resident of this city
and a prominent manufacturer. He was born in Littleton, Vt., and came to
Bradford in 1887?. He founded the Locke Machine Works at that time which he
and his son conducted up the present date.
Mr. Locke was a veteran of the civil war, having seen four years and six
months of active service. He was a member of Company K, 7th Kansas cavalry,
and during service was offered a commission as lieutenant, which, however, he
declined. He was a member of the Union Veteran Legion, Encampment No. 7 and
John S, Melvin Post, G.A.R.; also of Tuna Lodge, 411, I.O.O.F.
Mr. Locke is survived by his son, Guy H. Locke of this city; two sisters,
Mrs. Sarah Logan of Lexington, KY., and Mrs. Mary Truxall of Chattanooga,
Tenn., and one brother, Stephen Locke of Titusville. Bradford Era, Saturday.
Page 3.
Bolivar, Dec. 10. Mrs. A.C. McDonnell, a widow, whose home was in Bolivar,
was run over by an automobile in this village early today and so badly injured
that she died a few hours later at her home.
The car was driven by Neil Crandall, 21 years old. The authorities held him
to be blameless. She leaves one son, Brannan McDonnell.
December 23, 1920.
Page 1.
Charles Pratt, a well known and highly esteemed resident of East Smethport,
died at his home there Thursday, very suddenly. Mr. Pratt was field
superintendent for the Camp Glass company's gas leases, and started out
Thursday morning as usual to look after affairs at the well. He commenced to
feel badly when a short distance from home and returned, and a physician was
summoned, but Mr. Pratt died within a few hours, heart disease being the cause.
Charles H. Pratt, son of William and Sylvia Pratt, was born July 23, 1859,
in Keating township on what is now known as the Glavin farm. He was a life-
long resident of this vicinity, an industrious worker and good citizen, who by
his pleasing personality endeared himself to many friends who were sadly
shocked by news of his sudden death. He was married August 20, 1895, to Miss
Rosa Callen of East Smethport.
He is survived by his wife, one sister, Mrs. Mary A. Abbey, of East
Smethport, and a brother, Fred Pratt of Eldred, Pa. Keith, the only son of
Mr. and Mrs. Pratt, died of pneumonia, while in the service of the U.S. during
the world war.
The funeral was held at the house Saturday afternoon, the Rev. W.E. Van Dyke
of St. Luke's church officiating. Interment was in Rose Hill cemetery. Among
out-of-town relatives in attendance at the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Fred
Pratt and daughter, Bessie, of Eldred; Mrs. A.M. Thamm of Bradford; Mr. and
Mrs. Gardner Callen and children, Claude Elizabeth, Harold and Essie of Akron,
Ohio.
Page 3.
Bradford Era, Saturday. Dr. Oscar F. Kunkel, resident physician at the Bon
Air Sanatorium for the past ten years, succumbed last evening to the dread
disease which he had spent the best years of his life in fighting. Dr. Kunkel
first went to Bon Air when the sanatorium virtually consisted of one shack.
Throughout the growth and development of the institution he was its medical
director, and played a prominent part in making Bon Air a potent influence in
the fight against the Great White Plague.
Through a tragic coincidence, Dr. Kunkel's death follows, by only a few
months, the death of Milton F. Melvin, founder of Bon Air, who also laid down
his life in the struggle to eradicate the scourge of turberculosis.
Dr. Kunkel's researches at Bon Air gave him a national reputation as an
authority on tuberculosis. He was a frequent contributor to scientific
publications and his opinions carried much weight in medical circles. Dr.
Kunkel's recent experiments with the equipment donated to Bon Air by Mrs.
Hamsher, including X-Ray apparatus and the Alpine lamp, have added materially
to scientific knowledge of tuberculosis. For the present, Dr. Kunkel's
assistant, Dr. Kneiss will carry on his work.
Dr. Kunkel was only 40 years old. He is survived by his wife and two sons,
Alton and Lester Kunkel. Funeral services will take place at the home at Bon
Air, tomorrow afternoon at 3 o'clock, with Rev. Dr. John Richelsen
officiating. A special car will leave Bradford at 2:30 o'clock for the
convenience of friends who wish to attend the services.
Dr. Kunkel's body will be taken on Tuesday to Reading, his former home, for
burial.
Page 6.
Mrs. Mary James George, wife of James George, Esq., one of Bradford's most
prominent and highly esteemed residents, died at the family home in that city
early Tuesday morning, following a three months' illness. Mrs. George is
survived by her husband and one son, Ralph George.
Page 6.
Alvin Jordan of East Smethport went to Galeton Monday morning, being called
there by the death of his brother, Callen, aged 86 years.
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