The Columbus Journal, January 5, 1881
BIRTHS
BAKER--Born, Jan. 1, 1881, to Mrs. O.L. Baker, a daughter. Otta smileth and is happy.
The Columbus Journal, January 12, 1881
BIRTHS
RASMUSSEN--The Journal is a little late in offering its congratulations to Julius Rasmussen on becoming "dad" to a bouncing boy. But Julius is to blame, his modesty preventing him from giving the item to our reporter when opportunity offered.MARRIED
NICHOLS-WESTCOTT--On the 5th inst., at the residence of the bride's parents near this city, Eugene Nichols, Esq., to Miss E.D. Westcott.
Shortly after the ceremony the happy pair took their departure to their future home in La Salle Co., Ill., where a reception was tendered them by their friends.DIED
EMRICK--Jan. 4, 1881, in this city, after an illness of eleven days, Mrs. Alice A. Emrick. The deceased would have been 28 years of age the present month.BYRNE--John Joseph, infant son of B.A. and A.M. Byrne, died Jan. 6th, at Duncan, aged eleven days.
TYLOAN--The colored man, Chas. Tyloan, that a short time ago was bound over to the district court to answer the charge of theft, an account of which was in the Journal at the time, died at the county jail Sunday night. A coroner's inquest was called and a jury summoned to investigate at 4 o'clock Tuesday afternoon--too late for particulars this week.
The Columbus Journal, January 19, 1881
BIRTHS
SAGE--Born, to Mrs. E.A. Sage, of Creston, Platte county, January 6th, a son.DIED
SYLVIAN--When the Journal went to press last week an inquest was being held over the remains of Henry Sylvian, colored, who died while confined in the county jail. The following communication will answer the rumors that were afloat at that time as to the cause of his death:
"Ed. Journal: Since many reports are afloat as to how the colored prisoner, Henry Sylvian, who was confined in our county jail, came to his death, I, as one of the jurors called to make the investigation, feel it my duty to state that the reports had gone abroad that the prisoner had been neglected and had actually frozen to death. Mr. Chas A. Speice and myself lodged a complaint with the coroner and demanded that he hold an inquest on the body that the people might give the matter a full and thorough investigation. I asked in behalf of the jury that Mr. Chas. A. Speice be invited to attend the examination to aid us in the questioning of witnesses, thus to further insure a fair and impartial conduct of the examination, and would state that the investigation was thorough and complete and that it fully exonerated the officer in charge of the jail, (Mr. Chas. Wake). The jury found that the prisoner came to his death of disease of the throat and lungs from a cold contracted last summer, as stated by the county physician, Dr. Hohen, who had been in attendance for several days prior to the prisoner's death. We are satisfied that the unfortunate man received every care that could be given him in our jail.--A.J. Arnold."
To account for the probable cause of the rumor that the prisoner had frozen to death we will state that a Journal reporter was informed by Mr. Arnold that the prisoner was in no way saving of the coal that was furnished him, allowing the stove full draft at all times, thus consuming more fuel than was necessary, and when expostulated with on the matter, complaining that he was not furnished enough coal to keep him from freezing. And this at a time when coal was so hard to get, and everybody was forced to economize more or less. Also, that more covering was furnished for his bed than was actually used. These facts were shown at the investigation.
The Columbus Journal, January 26, 1881
BIRTHS
SAGE--The family of Mr. A.E. Sage was recently augmented by one--a bran new son having made his appearance, which, in the course of human events, is an ordinary occurence; but that the neighbors, each one on his or her own individual motion, should on the 12th day after the birth, call for the purpose of offering congratulations, etc., is not so ordinary, and was certainly a very pleasing tribute to the popularity of the family among their neighbors.JUDDS--The dispute was settled, and they all pronounced it a girl at Jacob Judds. Born Jan. 9th '81, weight 8 pounds, and mother and child doing well last week.
The Columbus Journal, February 2, 1881
DIED
YOAKUM--At Genoa, Jan. 27th, of congestion of the brain, Fannie, daughter of Benjamin F., and Sarah L. Yaokum, aged 12 years and 4 months.SCHMITZ--Friday, January 28th, of diphtheria and lung disease, Anna K., daughter of P.J. and Anna K. Schmitz, aged 2 years, 21 days. The funeral took place at the cemetery near the Monastery, Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock.
BAKER--The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. O.L. Baker died at Omaha on the 26th ult. The remains were brought to this city and interred.
The Columbus Journal, February 9, 1881
MARRIED
CHAPIN-WOOD--January 1st, in this city, by Elder H.J. Hudson, Mr. Charles E. Chapin to Miss Jennie Wood.DIED
BECKER--In Columbus, February 3, 1881, of diphtheria, Carrie R. Becker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Becker, aged 4 years, 10 months and 25 days.
[...and...]
Death, in the form of diphtheria, visited the family of Mayor Becker Thursday last, taking the oldest daughter, little Carrie, who was drawing close to the end of her fifth year. We are sorry to announce that the younger little girl, Minnie, and the only child left the bereaved father and mother is very ill with the same disease.CANNON--The Cadiz, Ohio, Sentinel, announces the death of Moses Cannon, who died at the residence of his sister, Mrs. Dickerson, in Athens, Harrison county, Ohio, Tuesday morning, Jan. 25th, of consumption. He leaves a wife and one child.
SPOERRY--Dr. Spoerry, living in Utah, was killed by a snow-slide in that locality recently. The unfortunate man was a brother of H.T. Spoerry of this county. [See article of March 2, 1881]
The Columbus Journal, February 16, 1881
BIRTHS
WELSH--Born, to Mrs. Michael Welsh, Feb. 15th, a son, weight 11 1/2 pounds. Mother and child doing well.
The Columbus Journal, February 23, 1881
BIRTHS
DARRY--Born, to Mr. and Mrs. Annie Darry on the 11th of Feb., a daughter weighing 11 1/2 pounds.MARRIED
BROWN-WELLS-On Friday, Feb. 20th, by Rev. E.L. Sherman, George W. Brown, of Platte Centre, Neb., and Miss Eva A. Wells, of Berrien, Mich.DIED
BROWN--A daughter of Captain Brown, living near Richland, Colfax county, died last Friday, funeral taking place on Sunday.
The Columbus Journal, March 2, 1881
BIRTHS
LAWRENCE--Born, to Mrs. W.H. Lawrence, of this city, on the morning of the 23d ult., a bouncing boy baby. Will thinks he can soon learn the pump business.WOODS--Born, Saturday afternoon last to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Woods, an 8 pound girl baby. "Fatty" is the happiest man in all the land.
MARRIED
BROWN-??--Again one of our citizens joined the bonds of matrimony Mr. George Brown, his amiable wife being a lady from the east. [Platte Center.]CLARK-SHEADY--Mike Clark of Shell Creek, has lately married Miss Mary Sheady of Columbus. We wish them a smooth sea and a long and happy voyage. [Shell Creek.]
DIED
SPOERRY--It was reported and published in the newspapers of recent date that Dr. G. Spoerry of Utah, during the great snow storm was smothered to death by the roof of his house falling in and the snow drift burying him under the ruins. H.T. Spoerry a resident of this county, and brother of Dr. Spoerry, received a letter last week from the Doctor, stating that he was still living, but had a narrow escape for his life, having been buried ten hours under the snow drift, and must have died had not his Chinaman cook dug him out. One man died under the same drift before he could be reached.DEGAN--John and Pat. Degan of Shell creek were informed by telegram Sunday that their only sister had died at Omaha, which place she had made her home for some time past.
The Columbus Journal, March 9, 1881
MARRIED
NEWMAN-WENRICK--February 15th, by C.G. Hullhorst, at the residence of C.A. Newman, Mr. E.M. Newman to Miss Ella Wenrick, all of Platte County.DIED
MORSE--In this city, March 3d, 1881, of diptheretic croup, Jennie J., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Morse, aged 2 years and 9 months.
Thus another life has gone to the great unknown beyond. Jennie June was a beautiful and interesting child, and we can but wonder why the fairest flower was plucked? But He who doeth all things well has taken her. Our home is lonely and our hearts are crushed and bleeding. May He who careth for all give us strength to pray, "Thy will, not ours, be done."FOX--A.C. Fox, an old man living some distance northwest of Albion, who had been snow-bound at home, got out of provisions, started one day last week on foot to Albion, reached there and laid in a supply and started for home with the heavy load but never reached it, having frozen to death by the way.
The Columbus Journal, March 16, 1881
MARRIED
BOYLE-GOGAN--Married, on the 28th ult., at Shell Creek church, by Rev. Father Flood, James Boyle of Columbus and Miss Annie Gogan of Shell Creek. They are passing the honeymoon among their friends in the valley. [Shell Creek.]REAGAN-RYAN--Daniel Reagan and Miss Kittie Ryan were married March 1st by Rev. Father Flood. [Shell Creek.]
DIED
LYONS--Saturday morning, March 12, of diphtheria, William, infant son of Thos. Lyons, aged 4 months.KNAPP--In this city, March 12, 1881, of scarlet fever and dropsy, Nellie M., daughter of William R. and Mary C. Knapp, aged 4 years and 12 days.
HAYS--Wednesday morning, March 9th, of scarlet fever, Josie P., son of Mr. and Mrs. P. Hays, aged 2 years, 8 months and 24 days.
WAITE--On Sunday last Dr. M.D. Thurston and wife and sister-in-law left the city for Kearney to attend the funeral of Miss Cordelia Waite, daughter of J.B. Waite of that city, and a sister of Mrs. Thurston.
The deceased was a young lady 22 years of age, and came to her death on Friday last in a manner particularly sad, which will make her loss all the more distressing to her relatives and friends. It appears that she was engaged in teaching school about 14 miles from Elm Creek, and that her sleeping apartment at her boarding place was a sod addition to a frame building, the roof of which gave way some time during the night after she had retired to bed, crushing her to death. The accident was not discovered until the next morning, when the corpse of the poor girl was found among the debris with one of the heavy timbers of the roof lying across her chest.
The Columbus Journal, March 23, 1881
DIED
DUNLAP--At Omaha, on Thursday March 17th, Harold Dunlap, aged 15 yrs.
The deceased was a nephew of Mrs. J.H. Reed of this vicinity.GIBSON--In Columbus, March 17th, 1881, after an illness of two days, Alexander Henry Gibson, aged 45 years and 10 months.
Mr. Gibson was born in Scotland. He had lived in the neighborhood of Columbus for the past ten years, gaining the esteem of all who became acquainted with him. Faithful and upright in all the relations of life, whether as husband, father, neighbor or citizen, all will mourn his loss. Mr. Gibson had for years been afflicted with lung disease, and the writer hereof, who saw him when he came to Nebraska, heard him express himself as doubtful of living through the succeeding winter, his affliction had then so strong a hold upon him. His life, however, was prolonged ten years, and he was able in that time to do much work, being an industrious man, and very energetic for one so afflicted. Peace to his memory.REAGAN--On the 11th of Feb., 1881, Mr. John Reagan, of Platte Co., Neb. Mr. Reagan had been unwell since last harvest but about two weeks before his death he took a severe cold which settled upon his lungs and ended his life. Mr. R. leaves a wife and five small children to mourn his loss.
LEE--The last Boone County Argus gives an account of a woman by the name of Mrs. John Lee perishing in a recent snow storm. It has been thought for some time that she was insane, and in one of her irrational moods, that she left her home with her children. Robert Patterson and Robert Roberts were passing about half a mile from the house, when they heard cries of distress from children, and on going in the direction whence the sounds proceeded, found Mrs. Lee and her children out in the storm. The men divested themselves of their overcoats, wrapped them around the freezing children and took them to a haystack in the immediate vicinity for shelter. When they returned for the mother, they found her dead.
The Columbus Journal, March 30, 1881
MARRIED
ROOD-PLANT--March 13th, by C.H. Bucher, J.P., John Rood and Miss Julia Plant, both of Lookingglass, Platte Co., Nebr.DIED
HAYS--Saturday, March 26th, Edward, oldest son of Patrick and Mary Hays, aged 8 years.HANEY--On Friday, March 25th, Michael, son of James Haney, aged 13 years.
HANEY--On Sunday, March 27th, of diphtheria, Mary, daughter of James Haney, aged 10 years.
KNAPP--March 26th, of scarlet fever Sheldon Burton, son of Wm. and Mary Knapp, aged 6 years, 4 months and 26 days.
MEEDEL--Monday, March 28th, 11 p.m., Mrs. Lena B., wife of C. Meedel, aged 32 years.
The deceased was an estimable lady and leaves a fond husband and seven children to mourn her loss.
The Columbus Journal, April 6, 1881
DIED
HANEY--Saturday, April 2d, of diptheria, Lizzie, daughter of Jas. Haney, aged five years. This is the fourth child from the family within a few days.BULLARD--The Nance County Journal of March 31st, says:
"Yesterday morning our energetic and respected citizen, Mr. R.T. Bullard, in company with H. Wirick, proceeded to the sand bank near the Loupe to get a load of sand. Mr. Bullard dug under the bank and threw the sand to Mr. W., who in his turn loaded it into the wagon. They had proceeded in this matter for some time, when, without a moment's warning, the overhanging bank, weighing many tons, fell upon Mr. Bullard as he stood in a stooping posture, crushing him to the ground. He called on Mr. Wirick to clear the sand from his face, which request was complied with as rapidly as the frozen earth would permit. After letting air to his face, Wirick dispatched a boy, who happened to be near at hand, with all speed on a horse to town for help. Mr. Spackman, who was out hunting, at this moment came upon the scene, and the two men set vigorously at work, but, with the united efforts of two loads from town, it was some twenty minutes before the already lifeless body of the unfortunate man could be released.
The sad news was broken as easily as possible to the bereaved wife and children, and then he who but an hour before had left his home in vigorous health was brought back as lifeless as the earth which ended his existence.
'Ah, helpless man ! a blind fatality sports with thy destiny.'"GEORGE--The remains of Mrs. F. George, who lately died at Clarksville, were interred in the Columbus cemetery Sunday last, followed by a large family of mourners, and many friends. Mrs. George was the mother of Mrs. George Hulst and Mrs. D.T. Martyn. She has left a family of two sons and six daughters to mourn her loss.
The Columbus Journal, April 13, 1881
MARRIED
IRWIN-ELSTON--On the 6th day of April, at the residence of the bride's parents in this city by Judge J.G. Higgins, Mr. Samuel J.G. Irwin and Miss Sarah A. Elston.DIED
KAVANAUGH--Dan. C. Kavanaugh returned Monday from Milwaukee, where he had been called by the illness of his brother Ed. Before arriving there he received word of his death. The deceased was fifteen years old and at the time of his death was one of the messenger boys of the Wisconsin assembly. At the adjournment, the Speaker referred to the deceased as "our very amiable little messenger boy, whose efficient services have been so much missed."--Eddie was well known here, by many of our young folks who became acquainted with him last summer, and who will be sorry to hear that he has been cut down in the flower of his youth.WENTWORTH--Charles Wentworth, son of Z. Wentworth, and formerly one of the proprietors of the Courant of Plattsmouth, and the Democrat of this place, died at Racine, Wis., last week. We sympathise with the young wife, and with the aged father in his declining years, who naturally leaned on his son for succor and comfort.
The Columbus Journal, April 20, 1881
MARRIED
MEAD-KILBORN--April 6th, Mr. Walter Mead and Miss Lillie Ilborn, both of Boone county.TAZWELL-HARRIS--In this city, April 18th, by Rev. M.V.B. Bristol, Mr. Frank Tazwell and Miss Sarah Harris, both of Boone county.
SULLIVAN-LANDERS--In this city, at the residence of the bride's mother, by Judge J.G. Higgins, John J. Sullivan, Esq., and Miss Kate Landers, all of Columbus.
DIED
CLARK--W.O. Clark, father of D.I. and A.W. Clark of this county, died at his home in La Salle, co., Ill., April 11th aged 72 years. He had been sick only about three weeks.
The Columbus Democrat, April 23, 1881
MARRIED
IRWIN-ELSTON--On Wednesday, April 6th, 1881, by Judge John G. Higgins, Samuel J.G. Irwin and Sarah A. Elston.SULLIVAN-LANDERS--At the home of the bride on Sunday April 17th, 1881, by Judge J.G. Higgins, John J. Sullivan and Miss Kittie Landers.
The Columbus Journal, April 27, 1881
DIED
KIPHUS--From one of our officials we learn the following particulars. About two weeks ago John Kiphus, a Polander living between Platte Center and Humphrey, was missing. The last seen of him, he had passed on ahead of three companions named Briggs, Scross and Gotez, all of whom had been at Platte Center and were returning home. They said he, being pretty full of liquor, had probably fallen through the bridge over Elm creek. The officer tells us that two sons of the missing man, aged 17 and 22, drove their mother from the dwelling-house, and themselves took possession. Certain other men, who were known not to have any money before this affair, had several dollars to spend, which fact attracted suspicion to them.
Later (Tuesday morning), we hear that the missing body was found Monday evening in the bed of Elm creek, and that the acting coroner would hold an inquest immediately, when we suppose the facts will be adduced.
The Columbus Democrat, April 30, 1881
DIED
??--The body of an unknown Polander was found floating in Shell Creek a few days since. The affair is so surrounded with mystery that we are able only to get the most meager accounts. The supposition however is that his drowning was accidental, and not the result of foul play.
The Columbus Journal, May 4, 1881
MARRIAGE INVITATIONS
EYLER-GEER--Invitations are out for a wedding to-night in the city, the contract parties being Mr. B.J.P. Eyler and Miss Fannie A., daughter of Judge W.S. Geer. Long life and much happiness.MARRIED
RESLER-FERRIES--April 20th, by Rev. A. Henrich at his residence, John Henry Resler and Miss Eliza Leona Ferries, all of Platte county.
The Columbus Democrat, May 7, 1881
MARRIED
EILER-GEER--On Wednesday evening Mr. B.J.P. Eiler and Miss Fannie Geer, were married by Rev. C.N. Cate, at the residence of Judge W.S. Geer. The invitations to attend the ceremony were restricted to a few intimate friends. The ceremony passed off satisfactorily to all, and Mr. and Mrs. Eiler were the recipients of many congratulations and well wishes, to which we add those of the Democrat.DIED
REAGAN--On Sunday, May 1st, 1881, Patrick, son of Thomas Reagan, aged 2 years and 7 months.KEISER--On Sunday, May 1st, 1881, Henry Keiser, aged 75 years.
The Columbus Journal, May 11, 1881
BIRTHS
SCHUPBACH--Born, Sunday, May 8th to Mrs. David Schupbach, a son.HENGGLER--Born, Monday, May 9th to Mrs. Joseph Henggler, a son.
BRODFEUHER--Born, Monday, May 9th, to Mrs. F. Brodfeuher, a son.
MARRIAGE INVITATIONS
STAAB-MUELLER--Invitations were out for the marriage Saturday last of Carl Staab and Miss Annie Mueller.MARRIED
CONARD-RAPPOLD--May 4th, in this city, by Judge J.G. Higgins, Mr. David L. Conard of Platte Co., and Miss Anna M. Rappold of Philadelphia, Pa.EYLER-GEER--May 4th, at the residence of the bride's parents in this city by Rev. C.N. Cate, Mr. B.J.P. Eyler and Miss Fannie A., daughter of Judge W.S. Geer of this city.
In this case the printers of the Journal force were complimented with a large supply of the wedding cakes, for which they return thanks. May they live long and happily, with that affection which now makes them man and wife, and which will be more and more precious to them, as the years glide over them.DIED
DONNELLY--Friday, May 6th, of scarlet fever, John James, son of Jeremiah Donnelly, aged 2 years.CHAMBERS--In this city, Sunday morning, May 8th, Maggie E., wife of C.M. Chambers, aged 26 years.
Mrs. Chambers was a very estimable lady and leaves a husband and four children, the youngest of whom is a babe one year old, to mourn her decease. The remains were taken Monday to Table Rock, this state, where her relatives reside, for interment.ANGEL--May 4th, of croup, Minnie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A.P. Angel, aged 3 years, 9 months and 4 days.
The Columbus Democrat, May 14, 1881
MARRIED
CONARD-RAPPOLD--On May 4th 1881, by Judge J.G. Higgins, David L. Conard of Platte County, to Miss Annie M. Rappold, of Philadelphia, Penn.DIED
CHAMBERS--Sunday morning, May 8th, Maggie E., wife [of] C.M. Chambers, aged 26 years.
Mrs. Chambers was a lady of whom universal commendation is heard, and the husband receives great sympathy in his sad bereavement.KEIPHUS--Last week we gave the facts then known in regard to the disappearance of one John Keiphus, a Polander living near Humphrey. Since then additional facts have come to light that go to prove that his death was purely accidental. On Tuesday of last week, the Sheriff, acting as Coroner, taking Louis Schwarz of this place as interpreter, proceeded to hold an inquest upon the body of the dead man, which had been found in the water in Elm creek, by a son of David Murphy. We only give now such additional facts as have not heretofore been published. Brick and Starsetz, two of the Polanders who had been in company with Kiphus, testified that after walking some distance out from Platte Center, they, with Kosol, sat down to rest, lighting their pipes and asking Kiphus to stay with them, which he refused to do, but went forward along the road. This was about 9 o'clock on the night of the 25th of March, and was the last time the unfortunate man was seen alive. As he had to cross two bridges before reaching home, and as the water of Elm creek was ten to twelve feet deep, it was not strange that his neighbors should conclude that he had fallen from one of the bridges. Such appears to be the undoubted fact, for the body was found down stream about a mile and a half, without a single mark of violence upon it, well preserved, and in the clothes $19.10 in money--paper, gold and silver. Relatives and friends had no trouble, whatever, in identifying the body as that of John Keiphus. [Platte Center Items.]
The Columbus Journal, May 18, 1881
BIRTHS
HOLDEN--There is a new-comer in our neighborhood at Mr. Tom Holden's. His wife lately presented him with a bouncing boy. Long life to the little fellow. [Walker Precinct.]MARRIED
EIMERS-MAUSBACH--At Humphrey, Tuesday, May 10th, by Rev. Meinolfus, Henry Eimers and Agnes Mausbach, both of this county.DIED
CHAMBERS--The funeral of Mrs. C.M. Chambers at Table Rock, Nebr., was attended by a large concourse of sympathizing friends. The services were held immediately upon the arrival of the body from this place, accompanied by Mr. Chambers, his four children, Mrs. Chambers' sister, Mr. John Huber and Mrs. N.E. Small, at the Presbyterian church. Mr. Chambers's children were left with their grand-mother, near Table Rock.
The Columbus Democrat, May 21, 1881
MARRIED
HEADLUND-NEWMAN--By J.G. Higgins, May 18th, 1881, Mr. Lewis Headlund, of Platte county, to Miss Maggie Newman, of Polk county. The ceremony was performed at the Hammond House.NEKOLICHAK-FRANKE--Anton Nekolichak, of Platte county, to Wilhelmina Franke, of Polk county, May 18th, 1881, by Judge J.G. Higgins.
[...and...]
About three weeks since the wife of Mr. Nekolichak died, and the old man's heart was rent with grief. For a week he manfully endured his tribulation, and then his loneliness growing insufferable, he came to town, and when he returned home, he was accompanied by Wilhelmina Franke. All now would have been as serene as a "May Morning," but for the fact that Nekolichak, had a son who objected to the example his father was setting to his younger brothers, and ended the "old man's dream" by having the woman arrested for living in fornication with his father. Immediately after the womans arrest, she and Nekolichak were married. Her trial is set for Monday morning.DIED
McINTIRE--On May 18th, 1881, Robt. B. McIntire, aged 43 years, 4 months and 17 days. Was buried Thursday at 3 o'clock.
[...and...]
Charles McIntire, brother of Robert B. McIntire, deceased, arrived here on Thursday evening, but too late for the funeral of his brother.JONES--On May 18th, James Jones, aged 61 years.
DUNLAP--On May 17th, Mrs. Sarah. Dunlap, aged 40 years.
SCHELLER--The same old story. Charles Scheller, of Gage county, undertook to take his shot gun from the wagon with the muzzle toward him. The hammer caught on some object and the entire contents entered the stomach of the young man, killing him instantly.
The Columbus Journal, May 25, 1881
MARRIED
HEADLUND-NEWMAN--May 18, at the Hammond House, Columbus, by Judge J.G. Higgins, Lewis Headlund of Platte county, and MIss Maggie Newman of Polk county.NEOLICHAK-FRANKE--May 18, by the same, Anton Nekolichak of Platte, and Wilhelmina Frank of Polk county.
DIED
McINTIRE--May 18, Robert B. McIntire, in the 44th year of his age.
[...and...] Chas. McIntire is in the city, arriving too late to attend his brother's funeral.JONES--Tuesday evening, March [sic] 17, James Jones.
The deceased was born at Bannockburn, Scotland, in June, 1812; he came to Nebraska in 1861.DUNLAP--May 17th, Mrs. Sarah M. Dunlap, in the 40th year of her age.
Mrs. Dunlap came to this place two years ago, leaving a home, which, thro' no fault of hers, was made wretched beyond endurance, and seeking rest and refuge in the home of her sister. She was in poor health, having suffered much from malaria. Rapidly recovering in this climate, she at once set about earning a livelihood and a home for herself and children. Last fall she went with her young son to Omaha, where she expected to be engaged as a nurse, whilst her son was fitting for business. Failing health prevented her, and she was beginning to lean on her son who had unusual tact, for support. On the 17th of March, without a word of preparation, a friend came into her room and said "I bring you bad news. Harold is dead." She had seen him but the day before, apparently in the best of health. Though completely prostrated, she bowed submissive, having, she said, fully learned the beautiful lesson of submitting to the will of God. With characteristic unselfishness, she could even rejoice that her dear boy, deprived of a home and a father's care here, had gone to the Father's house, where there are many mansions. Her last hours were of intense suffering, and partial unconsciousness but she had committed her case to the Lord and had but one regret in dying, that she must leave her little girl.
The remarks at the funeral service (which was conducted by the Rev. Mr. Cate) were unusually able and appropriate.KALB--A boy by the name of Kalb was drowned on Wednesday of last week in a slough near Herman Pieper's. The little lad had been herding. During the storm he had been at the house of a neighbor, who urged him to stay, but could not prevail upon him to do so. No more was known of him until Saturday last when his corpse was found in the slough as above stated.
The Columbus Journal, June 1, 1881
BIRTHS
Born, yesterday morning, to Mrs. F. Scheck, a son.MARRIED
HANEY-MAPLE--May 25th, at St. John's Catholic Church, this city, by Rev. J.M. Ryan, James J., son of John Haney, and Miss Mary, daughter of Jacob Maple.ROSSITER-McCAFFREY--Wednesday, June 1st, 10 a.m., at St. John's Catholic Church, Columbus, by Rev. J.M. Ryan, Mr. R.L. Rossiter and Miss Alice A.M. McCaffrey. Mr. Peter McCaffrey and John Rossiter acted as groomsmen, and Miss Fannie and Rosan Brady as bridesmaids. There were a great many friends of the contracting parties present, and after the ceremony the happy pair were followed to the residence of the bride's parents, where they partook of a bountiful and sumptuous repast, prepared to celebrate the joyous event.
DIED
COGSWELL--At her father's residence at Kalamazoo, Madison county, Neb., May 25th, 1881, Mrs. Nellie Cogswell, wife of F.A. Cogswell and daughter of Levi and Julia Jenkins, aged 28 years and 1 month.
She was very highly esteemed in the community where she resided, and was followed to her final resting place by a large concourse of friends, including a large number of persons from Madison. Peace to her memory.LAWSON--Monday morning about 9 o'clock the city was horrified by the news that John Lawson had shot himself at his residence in the western part of the city. It proved to be only too true, and the unfortunate man lingered unconscious till a quarter after eleven, when he breathed his last.
He had not been home since Saturday last, and his wife and two daughters had spent the night with their friend Mrs. Griffin, the grandmother of the children. Monday morning about seven, Carrie, the oldest daughter, went to Mr. Hill's for milk, and while there spoke with her father, who told her they had better not come home for breakfast, but eat at their grandmother's. After breakfast at Mrs. Griffin's the family went home. They knocked at the front door, which was locked, and Carrie called her father. Immediately they heard the sound of a pistol. They then went to a side door, and entered the house, but could not get into the room where the unfortunate man had imprisoned himself. Calling in one of the neighbors, the door was forced open, and Mr. Lawson was found lying on the bed, in the agonies of death, a Colt's pistol and a razor lying near him. He, evidently, had deliberately planned the deed, though we have failed to learn of any intimation that he had it in contemplation, or anything going to show that he ever before exhibited signs of insanity. He had probably returned home very late Sunday night or early Monday morning, after a night of losses at the gaming table, excited, remorseful, and, brooding over his troubles, became mad. Letters, written evidently at this time, to acquaintances in the city, reveal his feelings and his thoughts. In these he says nothing of a determination to kill himself, but of his troubles having driven him mad. Having provided himself with two effective instruments of death, a Colt's revolver and a sharp razor, he sat upon the bed, took the pistol in his right hand, held it to his head, and fired the fatal ball which crashed through the skull and brain, rendering him unconscious and causing death, as before stated.
The letters referred to were dated May 30th, and directed to J.P. Becker, C.A. Speice and Capt. Hammond, containing directions as to his personal effects, the disposition of his children, &c. He gives the names of persons by whom he lost money at gambling, and tells where the "dens" were kept, and where also some watches may be found that he is supposed to have pawned for money.
He accuses himself of having been a bad man, asks his old friends to forgive him for his wrong acts involving them in loss, begs of his children to remember his kindness to them, and asks to be buried by the side of his wife who is dead. He also says that if the business of gambling is not stopped in this city there will be more men go the same road.
The letters are private property, and of their contents we have not the privilege of publishing more than appears above.
The deceased was born in Ohio and was about 38 years old when he died. He was in the service during the Rebellion, and, as a member of Capt. Eagan's company of the regular army, did duty in the western country, and is said to have been a good soldier.
He left the service several years ago, farmed awhile in the western part of this county, moved to the city, engaged in the sewing machine business, lost money and was compelled to quit business. About two years ago he lost his wife, and about one year ago married a very estimable lady of Butler county, now his widow, whose money in considerable quantity he squandered at cards. Latterly he has been doing no work, earning nothing, providing nothing for his family, and on Saturday last sold a horse for $75, losing probably all of it, except the (twenty-five cents found on his person,) at the gaming-table Saturday night, Sunday and Sunday night.
It is not known that there was any taint of insanity in Mr. Lawson's family, but a friend suggests that he was once, while in the service of his country, injured in the head and had the operation of trepanning performed, and that the wound might have been the cause of insanity developing now.
Sheriff Spielman, acting as coroner, summoned a jury Monday consisting of Wm. Burgess, C.H. Young, H.J. Hudson, J. Rickly, M. Schram, jr., and H. Hughes, who rendered a verdict that the deceased had died by his own hand.
The funeral took place yesterday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the Congregational church, Rev. E.L. Sherman officiating.
The deceased leaves a widow, and two children by his first wife, daughters Carrie and Annie, aged, respectively, 12 and 7.
The Columbus Democrat, June 11, 1881
BIRTHS
BECKER--A big, bouncing boy born on Sunday night, is what makes J.P. Becker look so happy.MARRIED
ROSSITER-McCAFFREY--A grand dance to-night in honor of our friend Dick Rossiter's marriage to Miss Alice McCaffrey. Many invitations were given, and no doubt a good time will be the order of the evening. Congratulations have been pouring in for days, and I am informed, still they come. Heartily we wish them all the happiness they anticipate, and a little more. [Platte Centre Items.]
The Columbus Journal, June 15, 1881
MARRIED
MITCHELL-SMITH--June 5th, by Rev. J.A. Hood, at his residence in Schuyler, Mr. John Mitchell and Miss Emma Smith, all of Colfax Co.BUMP-BLORE--Nelson Bump, son of J.J., and Miss Benita Blore were recently married at Genoa.
The Columbus Democrat, June 18, 1881
DIED
PAXTON--A young man about eighteen years old by the name of Paxton, living north of St. Paul, was murdered last Wednesday. He went out on his claim to plow and when found he had a bullet hole through his head. Suspicion pointed to a young german named Tebher, who was arrested, and he subsequently confessed the crime but assigned no reason.
The Columbus Journal, June 22, 1881
BIRTHS
YOUNG--Born, to Mrs. C.H. Young, June 17th, a daughter.MARRIED
DOWNS-BINGHAM--June 13th, by Rev. C.N. Cate, Mr. E.A. Downs and Miss Ida J. Bingham.HARRIS-REYNOLDS--Saturday, June 18th, by Rev. E.H.E. Jameson of Omaha, Mr. John Harris and Miss Martha Reynolds, both of Columbus
DIED
RUSSELL--Saturday, June 16th, 6 a.m., of typhoid fever, Ora Mary, daughter of George Russell, of this city, aged 4 years and 1 month.
The Columbus Democrat, June 25, 1881
MARRIED
DOWNS-BINGHAM--Monday June 13th, at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev. Charles N. Cate, Mr. Edwin Downs and Miss Ada Bingham.HARRIS-REYNOLDS--Saturday June 18th, by Rev. E.H.E. Jameson of Omaha, Mr. John Harris and Miss Martha G. Reynolds.
DIED
RUSSELL--Saturday, June 18th, Ora May Russell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Russell, aged 4 years and 1 month.DORR--A most distressing accident befell an emigrant family from Missouri named Dorr, near Potter, Neb. The wagon occupied by Dorr's family, followed close to another wagon in which was suspended a shot-gun loaded with buckshot. The gun struck against a wagon bow and was discharged. The contents of the gun struck a little girl twelve years old, who died instantly, a baby which died within a half hour, and wounded another child in the hand. The mother received two of the shots in her left breast, but is not dangerously hurt. Conductor Phillips took the unfortunate and sorrowful parents, with the two dead children, on board his train at Potter and brought them to Sidney. Many citizens showed the unfortunates every attention and gave the little ones as respectable a burial as was possible.
The Columbus Journal, June 29, 1881
DIED
DUBRA--At the residence of M.K. Turner, June 21st, of inflammation of the bowels, Frank Dubra, aged 28 years.