Charles Schilling
Cincinnati Enquirer, Wednesday, 21 February 1900, page 6
DEATH COMES TO SCHILLING
Charles Schilling, Chief of Police of Newport, died at his desk
in the courthouse yesterday afternoon at 1:55 from a hemorrhage of the lungs.
His demise, while sudden, was not unexpected, for he has not been well for some
time. About a year ago he suffered severe hemorrhages, which broke down
his constitution and undermined his health.
During the latter part of last summer the Police and Fire Commissioners gave him a vacation which he spent in Indiana, and returned much invigorated. During the winter, however, he grew worse again and of late has had several hemorrhages.
Yesterday afternoon he walked out into the corridors of the courthouse to post a letter. Returning he began to cough up blood before he reached his desk. He called to John Disken and John Folliard to secure for him some table salt, which he used to stop the blood flow. Before their return the hemorrhage grew stronger, and Janitor Thomas Disken, standing near saw that the Chief was growing weak and extended his arms to support him. As he did so a perfect torrent of blood pouring from Schilling's mouth and with a choking gasp and a half articulate cry for a glass of water, he expired in Disken's arms.
Dr. Clark, who arrived just as Schilling breathed his last, notified Coroner Higgins and the latter viewed the remains. the now dead Chief, had he lived until October 1, 1900, would have been 33 years of age. He was born in Cincinnati, but moved to Newport when quite a boy. his father was a tailor and Charles adopted this trade in early years. He became interested in politics when he had arrived at his majority and being a consisten Republican, was admitted to the party councils as an influential worker.
When Mayor Biltz was elected Chief Schilling was one of the first to be appointed on the police force as Sergeant. In February 1898, he was made Lieutenant of Police, with the special grade of detective. When Chief Bennett resigned on January 30, 1899, he became the head of the entire department, which position he held at the time of death. Firm in discipline, but kind toward the men under him, he enjoyed the respect and friendship of every member of the force. He had a legion of friends to whom the news of his death brings keen sorrow.
He has a brother, Jacob Schilling Jr. and a father, Jacob Schilling who survive him. He also leaves a wife, but no children. Chief Schilling was at one time a member of the Republican Executive Committee, but resigned on account of his official position.
As soon as Mayor Nelson heard of his death, he sent for Night Chief Ed Smith and placed him in command of the department, as he is the logical successor to Chief Schilling and thoroughly posted on departmental affairs. Shortly after the death occurred Funeral Director Costigan was called and removed the remains to the family residence on Brighton street, where Mrs. Schilling went into a state of nervous collapse when the sorrowful news was broken to her.
Major R W Nelson and the various city officials will meet today in respect to the memory of Chief of Police Charles Schilling. The Board of Police and Fire Commission will also be called together. Mayor Nelson stated yesterday that this action would be taken. In all probability a new Chief will be selected tonight, although Acting Chief Ed Smith is entirely able to fill the office for a year, if necessary.
Acting Chief Ed Smith last night at roll call detailed Officers Hallam and Wilson to act as a guard of honor over Chief Schilling's remains until midnight, and from that hour until daylight Officers Jones and Steventon will watch over the body. When Night Chief Ed Smith last night received orders to take charge of the force he at once went home to prepare for day duty. Sergeant Meyer took charge of the night men and Officer Reilly took Meyer's place. The members of the Police Department will also meet at noon today and take action on the death of the Chief.