JANUARY - 1898


Jan 7

Henry T. Cassell died of consumption at the home of his venerable parents near Kise station December 4th, 1897 aged 37 years, 7 months and 4 days. He was the son of William and Cynthia Cassell, good, pious old people whom it looked hard indeed to have such a bitter trial in their old age. Henry T. had been sick one year. He joined the Methodist church two years ago but was not converted until eight days before his death. Three children have preceded him the better land. He found disease and death so hard and clung so fondly to life until he saw that he must meet his God, prepared or unprepared, then he prayed earnestly for divine grace to sustain through the ordeal of death, and for the salvation of his soul, and the good Lord who never turns any one away empty handed, heard his prayer and spake peace to his soul. Just a moment before his spirit took its flight he called his mother ( Mother! oh word that makes the home!). He clasped her hand and said : Farewell Ma; I’m going home!” and he was gone to our Father’s house where are bright mansions prepared for all who put their trust in Him.

Death but summons us to come,

To our Fathers home of love,

Just to close our eyes in sleep,

While our hearts our souls above.”

 

Then to join the heavenly throng

Of God’s angels bright and fair,

Safely anchored in His house

Freed from earthy woe and care”

 

Henry T. as we always called him, was born and lived all his life in this vicinity. He was a quiet citizen and was called by his brethren “a Good Old fellow,” and he died a good Christian, in the full triumphs of a living faith. Can we ask for more? His form and name have faded to a memory but when we say he is gone where the chilly winds of adversity will buffet him no more! Gone where there is no more sickness or sorrow, where he will never say, “I am tired! so tired!” anymore. Gone from all this is sad and sorrowful to the place where Jesus is; to the home of the soul, where all is good, and true, and beautiful.

His loved one can meet him as he asked them, in the home of the soul. For it is said: Look unto me, all ye ends of the earth, and be ye saved. What a glorious thought, that there is no death, only sleep, sweet sleep.

Oh how sweet it will be in that beautiful land,

So free from sorrow and pain,

With songs on our lips, with and harps in our hands,

To meet one another up there.

 

Busseyville: Died on the 30th instant, of consumption, Jeff Clarkson. He was a deserving young man. On New Year’s Day, he was buried on Pleasant ridge, in the old Strother Robert’s graveyard.

 

Buchanan: Vess Bryan, of Rove creek, died on the 3rd instant and was buried in the Cummings graveyard on the 5th. Mr. Bryan was one of our most useful and reliable citizens and his loss is deeply felt by all his friends and neighbors.

 

Charley: Born to W. M. Chapman and wife on the 30th Dec, an 8- pound girl, but the little jewel did not stay with its fond parents but a couple of days, when the Father called it to himself, for he has said: Suffer little children to come unto me, for such is the Kingdom of heaven.


Charley: Mrs. Rhode Spencer departed this life Dec 23rd. Deceased was the daughter of John Hays. She has been in bad health for the past two years. The disease was the dreadful consumption. The sympathies of the neighborhood are extended to the bereaved husband. So live kind husband that you may some day meet your kind wife and little daughter in that “ clime” from whence no traveler has ever yet returned.

 

Jennie- daughter of George T. and Angie Burgess was born March 16, 1879, was married to T. B. Layne, Dec 27, 1893. Lived together 3 years 11 months and 20 days. She died of consumption Dec 20th, 1897 and was laid to rest in the Borders graveyard Dec 22. Revs Hunt and Rice conducted the funeral services. She joined the M. E. Church South at Riverside four years ago but was not converted until about a week before her death. She was a girl of but few words and never said anything about her condition until she saw that she must die, when she earnestly sought her soul’s salvation. After her conversion she arranged her affairs with her husband and parents and requested that parents raise her seven months old baby. She selected her burial place, the preacher to conduct the funeral services and asked her husband to keep her wedding ring, and said, “Tom, I want you to try and live better and meet me in Heaven and would like for you to quit rail-roading, as you can take care of you and little Paul.” She called her family around her bed and talked to them separately and when she had finished she folded her wasted hands and raised her eyes towards Heaven and said, “Lord, come and take me Lord, come and take me this evening,” and in a few minutes she was asleep in the arms of Jesus.

All that loving hands could do for her was cheerfully done during her illness, but nothing could check the inroads of that dread consumption.

Her married life was like one bright summer day and like the sunshine and flowers. Though she was cut down in the beauty of her young womanhood and though it was hard to say, “Thy will be done,” we feel that our loss is Heaven’s gain, that death to her was a choice release from the gross environments of the flesh. We know that God knows best and that he is too good to do wrong, too wise to err and the doeth all things well and has power to comfort the parents and husband and help them to lift the veil of future and see the silver lining in the dark cloud.

This life is nothing but a passing breeze, a leaf upon the stream of time which is bearing it onward surely, silently to the great eternity. Death is but the summons to come up higher, just to pass beyond the veil to our home, where there is not thought of earthly strife just a closing of the eyes in sleep while our souls are being borne above on the wings of bright angels. Would we then call our Jennie back from Heaven to the trials and sorrows of this earth? No! a thousand times no!. She has entered into her rest, where, if we take God at his word and his faithful a few more days, the will greet us in the better world.

While we pity the parents, the little Paul left motherless, and the fond husband whose home is broken up, we can but say, be faithful a few more days and prepare for a grand reunion “over there” where it is one bright summer always and partings never come.

Only rightly let us live,

There we need no future fear

For the gracious Father’s love

E’er will hold our spirits dear.

Oh rejoicing think of home

Where our loved ones we shall meet,

In the realms of perfect love

Where our loved we shall greet.

 

 

John Hardin, Jr, who killed Geo. Mounts and wounded Scott Elllis, two prominent citizens of Mingo county, West Va., in September last, and who was sentenced in Buchanan county, Va., in October, paid the penalty of death recently by being hung by the neck until dead.

 

Sunday evening the wife of Reuben Rutherford burned to death. She was in front of the fire playing with a baby and her dress became ignited and she was burned so badly that she died in a few hours. Mr. Rutherford lives in Pike county, about two miles from this place ( Mingo Circulator)


Jan 14

Martha: died on the 5th, a little son of Harvey Lyons and his wife. The child was about four years of age and bright little boy. We extend sympathies.

 

Dan Dugan, who murdered Fielding Darby, at a dance near Ashland in July 1891, was arrested in Virginia last week and brought to Catlessburg and lodged in jail.

 

Jan 21

Skaggs: Mathias Kelly of Keatons Fork, died on the 8th and was buried in the Kelly graveyard. Mr. Kelly was one of the Keatons oldest citizens and his loss is deeply felt by all his relations and friends.

 

 

Jan 28

Beaver Pond: Died of measles, an infant child of Thos. Whitt and wife.

 

Lick Creek: Eva Bynard was called home from Thacker, W. Va., to attend the funeral of her sister Edna Diamond, who died Jan, 17. She has gone from this world of trouble to the sweet rest above.

 

Horrible: Fatality to an aged citizen of this county:

John Sammons, aged 76 years, met an awful death in an unusual manner at his home six miles south of Louisa last Monday evening.

He owned a vicious jackass which was usually kept tied in the stable. At this time if had broken loose and when Mr. Sammons went into the barn the animal plunged forward and caught him by the shoulder, tearing the entire sided of his coat away. It then struck him with its fore feet, knocking him down, after which it jumped on his body with his knees. The last act crushed the bones in the old gentleman’s breast. The jack was biting him savagely all the time and kept it up until the prostrate man’s wife arrived on the scene and plunged a pitchfork into the beast.

Mr. Sammons was carried to the house and lingered twelve hours of terrible suffering from broken bones and lacerated flesh, when death relieved him.

He was the father of John G. and “Doc”, and an uncle of Henry and Will of this place.

The jack is said to have injured one or two persons before this occurrence.

 

Mrs Jessie Kimble, aged 77, died in Catlessburg Saturday.

 


FEBRUARY - 1898


Feb 4

Annie Johns, colored, the 17 year-old daughter of Lewis Johns, died Tuesday.

 

Kenova, W. Va., Jan 31- Last night Engine No. 245, of the N. & W. exploded while pulling a heavy coal train just west of Welch. Engineer Dan O’Leary was landed a distance of 20 yards, and is badly injured that he will die. He has been unconscious since the occurrence, his body being mangled in a horrible manner. Will Jackson, colored, the fireman, was instantly killed, his remains being found several feet up a hillside. The engine was a total wreck, some parts of it being found almost a quarter of a mile from the scene, while the tender was blown over coal cars and landed fully 50 yards away. The supposition is that the boiler had become dry. The explosion was heard for fully ten miles.

 

Charley: Died, on the 28th Jan, Thomas, son of Rev. A. H. Miller, of Meads Branch. He was buried Sunday in his grandfather’s graveyard. Uncle John Chapman conducted the funeral exercises. ( see another article on this below)

 

Feb 11

Thompson Miller, son of A.H. Miller was born July 28.1880, died of consumption, Jan. 28, 1898, aged 17 years and 6 months, he was sick four months and was converted three months before his death. His suffering was almost intolerable. A few days before he died he asked his father to go and ask in secret prayer whey he was kept here but when his father returned Tom told him him the Lord had revealed the cause to him, and that the purpose to warn sinners. He then exhorted every one that came in the room as long as he lived and was the means of bringing several to repentance.

He called his father, brother, and sisters around his bed and kissed them all goodbye, his mother having preceded him to the better land, he said he saw angels and little children and seemed astonished that other could not see them. His last words were “I am just waiting for the good Lord to take me,”. Little Tom grew up among us and was a lively, friendly, intelligent boy. Given the advantage of of a good education in time he would have made his mark in the world but God willed it otherwise. But little Tom did not live in vain for , “it is said “Their works do follow them.” He will missed from his Sunday School, missed from his home and many friends but he has entered into Heaven where loved ones never part, anchored safe where the storms of life past.

 

Lowmansville: Died, on the night of the 29th of January, an infant child of Joseph Johnson.

 

Mrs. Cal Beaire, died at her home in Cassville Monday night, of consumption. The funeral took place on Tuesday, and on Thursday the body was interred in the Mt Vernon burial ground, near the Falls of Twelve Pole.

Deceased was 45 years of age, and had been a sufferer from consumption for a long time. Her death had been expected at almost any time for several months. She was a devout christian. He maiden name was Miss Jennie Workman, daughter of Alderson Workman. A husband survives her, but no children.

 

The four-year-old child of F. M. Stiltner, of Beech Fork, Wayne County, was burned to death last week.

 

Prestonsburg: C.C. Sullivan, aged twenty-one, an iron tank builder from Olean, N.Y., was drowned Saturday night in this county while crossing Beaver Creek. He was not missed until yesterday, when at 11. a.m. His remains were shipped to Olean.

 

Stephen Stone was killed on Middle Creek, Floyd county, by his son, Vinson Stone. The trouble was brought about by a woman of lewd character, who wanted to stay in Mr. Stone’s house. Mr. Stone objected and his son became offended. A row ensued, in which his father struck his son several times over the head with a revolver. Young Stone and the woman left the house followed by Mr. Stone, and after overtaking him another row ensued in which Vinson shot his father with a 38 cal. winchester. Vinson made his escape.

 

Feb 18

Paintsville: John Caudill, a mere boy, was arraigned yesterday before Judge Literal, charged with murdering his aunt. Mrs Nancy, wife of Chas. Fitzpatrick. he was held for manslaughter, and his bond fixed at $500. It was shown by the testimony that the boy’s aunt was reprimanding him for some past misbehavior and her husband overhead their talk and became excited and rushed in from his room and after some talk with the boy, attempted to wring his nose but missed his nose and pinched his check instead, then clasped the boy, pressed him to the jam, struck the back of his head against the chimney until his nose bled, slammed his face against the floor he snatched up a jug and struck at his uncle’s head with it but missed him and struck his aunt a severe blow, from the effects of which she died within five days. It also appeared from the testimony that from the beginning of the fight between the boy and his uncle, the aunt held to her husband and begged him to let the boy alone, and she told the boy after she was wounded that she did not believe he intended to hit her and that she did not want him punished for it.

 

2nd article:

In Johnson county last week John Caudill killed Mrs. Charles Fitzpatrick. During a fight between Caudill and the woman’s husband she ran in just as the former was in the act of striking Fitzpatrick with a jug, and the blow fell on her head, crushing the skull. Two important witnessed skipped out at once to avoid testifying.

 

 

The Jones boy, of Credo, who was shot by Nath Frazier’s boy, a few weeks ago, near the latter’s home a few miles from Cassville, died last week. The boys were playing and Frazier pointed a gun at Jones, and the load was accidentally discharged into his head.

 

In Elliott county “Virginia Bill” Friley, aged eighty and his wife, aged seventy were murdered Sunday night, and their house robbed of $800 to 1,200.

 

The grand jury of Magoffin county has indicted Mrs. Genoa Haley for willful murder. It is claimed that she killed her wealthy second husband, K. N. Fletcher, last summer, after being married about 3 months. Fletcher had only been dead a short time, when the charming young widow captured a wealthy Mr. Haley from Carter county. Both of her former husbands died suddenly. A bench warrant has been sent to Carter county for her arrest. Her father, T. S. Prater was indicted for false swearing and her brother Frank Prater, was also indicted for shooting and wounding. The Prater family is as well known and as highly respected as any in the county. T. S. Prater is a brother of the Hon. Frank Prater of Carter county.

 

Blaine: It becomes our painful duty to chronicle the death of Miss Alice Salyer, on of our best loved ladies. Allie as she was known to her many friends, was an example of christian life to all who knew her. She was sweet tempered, patient, kind and industrious. She has for 11 years made her home with Mrs. H. H. Gambill, and will be sadly missed in that home and by all who knew her. She died strong in the faith in which she lived. Her last breath told of her home beyond the skies, to which she was surely going. Among her last requests were “to be dressed like the angels in white.”

 

Feb 25

Died on the 6th, Uncle Fred Kelly, of Cat’s Fork, aged about eighty years. He was a good citizen, a devoted father, and a pleasant gentleman in every respect. He leaves children and many friends to lament their loss.

 

2nd article:

Deerfield: Died, on the 2nd of Feb, near here, Uncle Kelly, aged 71 years. He was stricken with paralysis about three years ago and has been confined to bed ever since. His remains were tenderly laid to rest on a beautiful knoll amid imposing ceremonies

 

Resolutions of Respect: Hall of Vinson Lodge No. 66:

Whereas the Almighty Father in His wisdom has seen fit to dispatch the death angel, and take from our midst our worthy and beloved brother, Issac M. Bois, who died Jan. 15th, 1898 at his home near Echo, W.Va., aged 60 years and one month.

 

Webbville: Died, near here, on the 17th after a long illness, Mrs Elizabeth Gallon. She leaves children and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her loss.

 

Mrs Wim. B. Spurlock, died at Wayne as a result of fright received during the recent big fire at that place.

 

The body of Robt. Dixon, the watchman who was on duty Tuesday morning, Feb 15th at the Ashland Fire Bricks-works when the plant was burned, has been found. His skull was crushed, left side of head smashed, both arms burned off and chest and legs also burned badly. An inquest jury decided that Dixon had been murdered. He was an old man and a pensioner and had received his check the day before. He had about $10 on his person the day before, but none when found. It is thought tramps killed him and set fire to the establishment to cover the crime.

 


March 1898


 

March 4

Busseyville; We regret to announce the death of George Fugitt. He was a worthy young man and is much regretted.

2nd article: Died of consumption, after a lingering illness, George Fugitt, son of the Widow Fugitt.

 

Edmonds Branch: The wife of Jacob Smith of the north fork of Cat, died last Friday and on Sunday here remains were brought here and interred by the side of her mother. We did not learn the cause of her death but we know she leaves a host of relatives and friends to mourn after her. To friend Jake we extend our profound sympathy.

 

Died at the home of her parents on Mill Creek, near Cassville, on February 26th, Mrs Alice Frazier Loar, wife of Edgar Loar and oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John W. Frazier. A more extended notice will appear in our next issue.

 

PLEASE NOTE APPARENT ERRORS IN date of birth and spelling of Frazier in first article and Frasher in 2nd article.

 

2nd article: Alice Frasher Loar, eldest daughter of John W. and Helen Frasher, born December 24th, 1897, joined the Baptist church at Cassville, Feb 26, 1898, was married to Edgar Loar Jan 13th, 1897, died at the home of her parents near Cassville, Feb 26 1898.

The above is a condense I sketch of one whose young and happy and innocent life, passed away at an age and under conditions that make is so sad, tender and yet so sweet to surviving relatives and friends. The eldest of a family of three girls and one boy, by her kind and gentle, winning ways she became at once a blessing to and the idol of her parents, the job, the delight, the support of her brothers and sisters and the universal favorite of all who her gentle and christianized life came in contact. Although young in years, she was old in the cause that brightens the couch of the dying, lights up the “valley of shadows,” and leads the happy soul to God who formed it. Mrs. Loar’s illness was comparatively brief. She died of that terrible human dread, quick consumption. But the dread hour found her calmly, smilingly awaiting the touch of that cold hand whose touch is death. She was fully conscious to the very last and talked, oh, so sweetly! to her weeping parent and all around her until too weak, then without a fear, without a single doubt, and with a smile of heavenly sweetness playing across her face, she passed into the, to her gentle sleep of death. How like a tired child going to sleep was the lovely Christian death.

The remains were laid to rest in the family graveyard, in the presence of many weeping friends. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Burwell.

 

Huntington, WV: Near Matean, Mingo County, today section hands on the the Norfolk and Western Railroad found the dead body of Robt. Hart of Ashland, Ky. Hart was employed by a timber company in that section. His friends allege foul play, but general belief is that he was struck by a train and killed.

 

Thos. Chilton Butler

 

The death changed comes,

Death is another life. We bow our heads

At going out, we think and enter straight

Another golden chamber of the King’s

Larger than this we leave, and lovelier.

And then in shadow glimpses of disconnect,

The story, flower- like, close thus its leaves.

The will of God is all in all. He makes,

Destroys, remakes, for His own pleasure all,”

 

Thomas Chilton Butler, after an illness of two years with consumption, passed into the lengthening shadows of the valley of death with the calmness and rest of a tired child seeking repose in sleep. His death was beautiful with the serenity of of a soul from which the sting of death had been expelled, and he met his God without a tremor, with no forebodings that ill from that benign hand betided him. In these days when some are continually applying their-atheistic snuffer to the bright tapers of a Christian faith, it were well for these dismal pessimists to witness a triumphant death like that of Brother Toms’. The writer is sure that their sophistries would have been swept aways like the mists before the bright evidence that shone resplendent from this young man’s face white the sun of his mortality was setting. The marks of the supernatural celled the new birth were plainly visible- love, joy, peace, gentleness, meekness, humility- the soul takes on no such graces naturally, such rare exotics do not grow from the barren soil of the natural heart, these are purely and simply fruits of the spirit whose life and nature are implanted in the soul, and the come ‘from above.” Oh, infinite miracles of grace- the birth of a soul from the chrysalis of sin and self into the life where every faculty has its appropriate latitude, and breathes a diviner breath.

Experiences such as these aside from the sanction of the Word of God, bring us again and again to the insistence of sudden conversions, and any one who may read these lines who doesn’t know joy and peace of this experience, we urge you to think of the example of this sketch, whom God ordered in this community as a monument to His truth. You dare not close your eyes to this modern miracle. Dear friend, believe God, and let him witness this truth to your heart.

I calling on Bro. Tom at Catlettsburg some weeks before his death, and instructed him in the way of God as expressed in the Word. He was an eager and attentive listener to these things of weighty concern, and made the definite promise that he would give himself to sincere thought upon the subject. This was not the first serious attention that he gave the matter, however, for I learn from one near of his kin that he wrote a letter two years ago during his illness in Pike, to his brother, in which, commenting on the bereavement of their sister’s death, he made the sentiment that he would be next, and intended to prepare himself for the summons, So that, when he came to Louisa from Catlettsburg a few weeks ago, he had made some advances in understanding what he “must do to be saved.” His decline was rapid, and, as his physical strength gave way, the lips moved in earnest prayer, and on Monday February 7th, 1898, while talking to friends about heaven, the spirit flooded his soul with joy, and he shouted God’s praises until he was exhausted. The glad news came over the wires to the writer who was at Ashland, “Tom is saved and wishes to see you.” Glorious message- it was known in heaven before it came to me! Prayers had been answered, burdens had been removed, and we could lay away the dust without regret.

On Wednesday, while the sun was setting in the west, I was hastily summoned to his bedside, and he requested baptism. I performed the solemn ordinance, and gave him the emblems of Christ’s body and blood in the sacrament. “Thank God,” sad he, “all is now ready, and I shall go in peace.” I shall never be called upon to perform a service of this kind under more touching circumstances. The natural sun flooded the room, the Sun of Righteousness shone in Tom’s face and family and friends were gathered at the bedside to bid a tearful farewell. “Draw back the curtains,” said the sufferer, “I want to see the sun set- my last evening on earth! But thank God, my sun is rising!”. God spoke through these lips to every friend and relative a note of warning-“ Prepare to meet God. Don’t delay repentance for a death-bed!” We hope to see the fruits of many promises made.

A word or so by way of biography might appropriately bring this tribute to a close. Tom was born Dec.3rd 1865 at what is know as Old Peach Orchard, in Lawrence County, Ky., and died Feb. 9th, 1989 10:30 p.m. at Louisa KY, aged 32 years, 2 months, and 6 days. He left the home place about the age of 20 years for Paris IL, and spend much of his childhood in the West. After several years in Western Kansas and Colorado, he returned about five years ago, to Catlessburg, and made that place his headquarters. He was well and favorably know the Big Sandy Valley as a young man of genial spirit, fond of his friends. Two years ago at Pikeville he was taken ill with typhoid fever, which left his system debilitated and consumption soon marked him as a a victim. His unusual robust strength stood off the hour of death for many a day, and he kept the genial glow of a warm hear and uncomplaining spirit throughout his extreme suffering. I have not been fulsome in my eulogy. I desired to express for the consolation of the family and tough some responses in the hearts of living young men who knew and loved Tom, some things that will keep his memory green and testify to the glory of God.

Nothing in his life, Became him like the leaving it”. ( Author DHR.)

 

Red Bush and Paintsville: Died, Feb 24th an infant child of Jack Estep

 

March 11

 

Uncle Jimmie Click of Beaver Creek, Floyd County, died last week at the extreme age of 112.

 

Lemuel A. Cross, thirty five years of age, an extensive timber dealer well know throughout Eastern Kentucky and West Virginia, died at Huntington.

 

John HInds, after a short illness died of pneumonia last Friday in Catlettsburg. Mr Hines stated he contracted the disease while in jail at Wayne, W.V, where he was lodged for assaulting Mr. J. M. Rice some time ago. He was about sixty years of age and leaves several grown children.

 

Burwell Spurlock was killed near Wayne, W. V. Wednesday by a tree falling on him. He was about 55 years of age, and was formerly a wealthy and prominent citizen.

 

The widow of Isaac Boies ( obit for husband Feb 25 name spelled Bois), living a felw miles from Cassville, was found dead in bed yesterday morning. Her husband died about three weeks ago.

 

Murdered a boy:

Tom Halbert is on trial here charged with the murder of Crit Wallen. Four witnessed have testified that Halbert and John Hunter, who stands indicted with him for the murder came to the house of Dr Porter, who is the …….of the deceased… Halbert began kicking the door of the drug store, where young Ben Porter, son of the doctor went out and asked him to quit; that Halbert drew a revolver on him and Porter backed from him and being pressed, struck him on the shoulder with a hatchett and then went into the house to get a revolver. John Wadden, the boys father, says he tried to get Halbert and Hunter away, and while doing so, they held a whispered conversation in the lane adjoining the house and then walked to the gate in front of the house; that he saw the little boy go into the porch and saw Halbert present a pistol; the he told Halbert not to shoot as he would kill some children; that Halbert shot the boy though the breast, killing him instantly; that young Porter then fired from the corner of the house at Halbert as he ran. The defense is endeavoring to prove that Porter, the boy’s uncle, shot Wallen from the corner of the house. Wallen was killed on his 15th birthday.

 

Grant, son of Albert Castle, was born Feb 27, 1879, died of la Grippe, March 2nd 1898, age 28 years and ten days. He was sick three weeks. Was converted a fews days before he died. A few nights before he died he said the he dreamed he saw his sister in heaven, she who has died about a year before. She said she was waiting for him. A few hours before his death, Bro. James Walker said him: “Grant, hot is it with your soul?”. The answer was, “I do not want to die ye a-while, but if I have to go I am fully prepared to meet my God.”

When 9 years of age he became afflicted with some kind of bone trouble which left him a cripple for life. Grant was loved by all that knew him

Friends, do not grieve but prepare to meet Grant in a world that has no end.

 

Cats Fork: William Church died at his home recently. He joined the M.E. Church and was baptized by Rev. Bartett. He left a wife and four children and hosts of relatives and friends. Weep no, dear children and mother, for he is standing on the ever green shore waiting for you to come.

 

Cats Fork: Died on the 26 of last month, at her home on Cats Fork, the wife of Jacob Smith. She leaves a husband and daughter and bids them in Christ follow her. Her remains were interred at the Rev. J. M. Riffe grave yard.

 

Obit: Julian Whitt, the wife of……..- unable to read obit- paper torn… except leaves behind a husband and six children and a host of friends to mourn her loss.

 

Died, Feb 28. 1898 at 8 o’clock, p.m. of consumption, John Woods, aged about 28 years. He leave a wife and four small children and host of friends to mourn his loss. We hope that our loss is Heaven’s gain.John had just lived long enough in this world to know the pleasures of a happy life with his little ones. May the bereaved wife so train the little ones that they may not make an undivided family around the thorn of glory. He had been sick about one year. His sister and mother had preceded him to the glory land. The family are gathering on the other side of the Jordan, and when this life is ending we trust that there will be a family reunion around God’s eternal throne.

 

March 18

 

Rich Knob: Died on the 7th, the infant of C. C. Mills

 

Rich Knob: Died near here on the 10th, the Widow Hughes. She leaves a host of relatives and and friends to mourn her loss.

2nd article:

Webbville: Died on the 11th instant, Mrs Hughes late widow of Mr. Noah Hughes. She leaves two small children and many friends to weep over her death, all of who have our sympathy.

 

Webbvile: Died on the 5th inst, Aunt Ilby Murphy. It is claimed that she was the oldest person in the community, she being nearly one hundred years old.

 

Martha: Death again visited our community and taook away Aunt Mary Hunter. She lived in Elliott county until a very old age when, with her husband she came to Lawrence where she lived the remainder of her days. She had been sick a long time, so when death came to call she was ready to go. She left a bright hope behind her and her life should be an example for all. She survived her husband about 5 years.

 

M.M. Magruder, who married a dauthter of Rev. Fletcher Medley, died at Catlessbur Wednesday after a brief illness.

 

Ethan Watts, 18 year-old son of Albert Watts, of Wayne County, W.V, had his leg cut off while trying to get on board a moving train, and bled to death before medical assistance could reach him.

 

March 25

 

Aunt Jemima Pack, Wife of Uncle Isaac Pack, died Feb 22, 1898, of rheumatism and neuralgia. She was about 82 years of age, and the mother of 15 children, 5 of who preceded her to that “clime” from whence no stranger has ever returned.

Everything possible was done for her to save her but all in vain. She leaves a kind husband, eighty five years old. She was always ready to help any in sickness or in trouble.

She was confined to her bed for nearly eleven years but bore her sickness with great pleasure and fortitude.

She was laid to rest in the home graveyard. Rev. Moses Wiley conducted the funeral exercises. She was a devoted member of the United Baptist Church of Georges creek for 61 years and died in the triumphs of the Christian religion.

May God’s all-sufficient grace strengthen and keep the kind husband and children in their day of grief, and may heaven bestow its richest blessings upon them in their bereavement, is our prayer.

 

Blaine: David Moore departed this life on the 8th and was buried in the J.S. Thompson graveyard. He left a wife and four small children to mourn his loss. He said, when the summons came, that he was ready.

 

Huntington W.V. Last November Rev. J. Wesley Webb, who for 40 years has been a minister in the M.E. Church, fell on the street here and sustained fatal injuries. He was 78 years old and had been a lifelong Democrat. Shortly before his death he asked that a monument be erected over his grave bearing this inscription: “ Here lies the body of J. Wesley Webb, a firm believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Methodist Church, and the Jeffersonian Democracy”. A subscription was put in circulation here to raise the necessary funds with which to purchase the monument.

 

Ivory Banks: Died on the 20th of March, an infant child of Mont Browning.

Mr. J. J. Alstone, who married Miss Emma Goff, formerly of Louisa KY, died of consumption in Ormond, FL and his remains were taken to Shellmound, Miss., and buried in the Goff Cemetery, March 14, 1898

 


APRIL - 1898 


 

April 1

 

Caney Fork: Died near here on the 22nd inst. Miss Laura McGuire of consumption. Also an infant child of Cam Carter’s.

 

Mary Hale-O’Dell-Johns, colored, wife of Charley Johns, died at this place Friday night and was buried Sunday.

 

Stephen Curnutte, one of the oldest and best citizens of Lawrence county, died suddently at his home nine miles below Louisa Wednesday morning. He was sitting in a chair on the porch in apparently as good health as usual when last seen. A short time afterward a member of the the family found him dead, in the same position. Death had been evidently sudden and without pain. He was 75 years old. A.J. and P.H. Loar were nephews of Mr. Curnutte.

 

Paintsville: A lynching party is after Everett Dyer, who shot and killed Charles Anderson, deputy sheriff at Magoffin county Saturday., while Anderson was attempting to arrest Dyer.

 

Peach Orchard: Died on the 16, Wesley Hinkle, of dropsy. He leaves many to mourn the loss of a father and friend.

Also on the 20th, small child of Lee Daniels died from a burn. It turned a boiler of hot coffee over on Friday and died on Sunday. We sympathize with the bereaved parents.

 

April 8

 

Memorial: Cosey, daughter of Wm. and Virginia Jones of Green Valley, died on the 29th of last month, of bold hives. Her sickness was of short duration. She was 17 months old. Weep not, my son and daughter! In heaven above no sin is found, and there is no weeping there. God has plucked little Cosie ( note different spelling of name from first sentence in article) from your embrace as a flower, as a jewel, as the idol of your heards. She is an angel; she is flitting around the throne of God with a golden harp and a palm in her hand and convoy of angels accompanying her with a glittering crown of gold to waft her spirit home and now she is basking with the angels around the throne of God and waiting for Mama and Papa and little Bessie to come and live with her forever. Her remains were interred on the home farm of Garred Short. Services by singing at the house and grave and also prayer by our pastor, Rev. H. Barrett, who also delivered a most beautiful admonition.

 

IRAD: Died, Saturday night Mrs. L. C. Carter. She leaves a husband and one child and a host of friend to mourn her loss. She was converted two weeks before her death. She was loved by all who knew her.

2nd article: Sulphur Spring: The remains of Mrs. L. C. Carter were brought here for burial Monday. We extend our heartfelt sympathy for the bereaved.

3rd article: The wife of Mr. L. C. Carter died at her home about twelve miles from this place on last Saturday evening. She was a victim of consumption. Her death had been expected for a few weeks previous. The body was brought to Louisa Sunday, and on Monday morning was taken by train to Buchanan. From there is was conveyed to the home of her father, Mr Phil Fannin, and interred in the family burial ground, whers the mother and several sisters of the deceased are buried. Rev. D.H. Reid, of this place, preached the funeral sermon. A number of friends and relatives from this vicinity attended the burial. An unusually large crowd was present.

Mrs. Carter was formerly Miss Minnie Fannin, a popular and intelligent member of one of Boyd county’s best families. She was only 22 years of age and have been married about two years. A particularly sad feature is the fact that she leaves a little son only two months old.

The sympathy for the husband, who is one of our most worthy and prominent young men, is profound and universal.

 

Paintsville: Lewis Blevins died suddenly last Tuesday with hemorrhage of the brain.

 

Blaine: Richard F. Morris died about a month ago.

 

Lewis Belcher, age eighty years, met a horrible death in Logan County. W. Va. last week. He was out alone burning brush, when in some manner he was knocked down and log rolled on his legs, holding him down in the fire until all of the flesh on his face, breast and arms were burned off. He was dead when found, and no one will ever know just how it occurred.

Elsie, little son of Robert and Elizabeth Miller was born June 6th 1891, died March 24th 1898, aged 6 years, 9 months and 18 days. He was sick only one week. Little Elsie had attended two terms of school and was a bright little pupil, attentive to his books, full of activity on the play ground and bid fair to became a bright and useful man; but God willed it otherwise, Christ said “Suffer little children to come unto me, for such is the kingdom of heaven.” Just think for a moment dear parents what a glorious thing it is to the be the father and mother or a little angel in heaven. It is indeed sad to part with our loved ones here on earth but what a glorious meeting it will be in heaven when parting comes no more.

Our little one, our Elsie dear,

The racking pain is o’er

Your angel spirit has left this world

And gone to a happier shore.”

 

Our little one, our Elsie dear,

You cannot return, ’tis true,

But nearer draws the happy day

When we shall go to you.”

And you dear Elsie, with a smile

And golden harp in hand,

Will be the first to welcome us

To that fair and happy land.”

 

April 15

 

Charley; Died on the 8th inst., of rheumatism, Uncle Peter Bartlett, of Mo. of Georges creek. He was about 85 years of age.

 

Cats Fork: F. L. Barrett and wife were summoned to the bed of his dying mother and later to the funeral. Charlie Shortride and family and Newton Shortridge attended the funeral.

 

April 22

 

Gallup: Died on the 16th, Ross, daughter of Joshua and Jane Crawford. This is the second death in this family inside of a month. Our sympathies are extended.

 

Lowmansville: 3 obits

Died, on the 9th, little child fo Jackson Castle, It died of measles.

Died, on the 11th, Caroline Miller of bronchitis,. She leaves a husband and five children to mourn her loss. We sympathize with the bereaved family.

Died, on the 14th, of measles, Charley, little son of Mart and Mary Borders. Our sympathy is with the bereaved parents, relatives and friends.

 

Buchanan: 2 obits

Shelby Adams, last week, whilst clearing land on Durbaqn, had a log roll over his head, causing fatal injury from which he has since died. Adams was single and 26 years old.

Calvin Fuller of near the Round Bottom, died last Friday and was buried in Round Bottom graveyard Saturday. He was 86 years old.

 

April 29

 

Busseyville: Wesley Thompson, of this place, died last week. He was a very old man and leaves a wife and children and a host of friends to mourn his loss.

 

Morgan Creek: Died, April 21, at her home in Lawrence county, Mrs. James Jordan. While on earth Mrs. Jordan meet both young and old with a pleasant smile. Her loss is deeply felt by relatives and friends. May they prepare to meet her where there will be no death, pain or parting, but a shout of hallelujah that will continue forever. We extended our sympathy to the family of the deceased.

 

Buchanan: An infant child of Fred Miller and Mrs. Wm. Cornwall, of Bear Creek, died on the 26h insta. Mrs. Cornwall was an old lady and the widow of Wm. Cornwall, who died some time ago.

 

Marlon Childers died at his home near Gallup Monday, of pneumonia. He was about 50 years of age and had been in poor health for some time.

 

A telegram arrived here Monday announcing the death of Mrs. Nichols, of Brooklyn NY. She was the oldest sister of Mrs. Mary Wallace and Mrs. C. C. Sullivan. Her age was 83 years.

 

Bushy: We are sorry to hear of the death of Harman Hayes. He was an intelligent young man and liked by all who knew him. We extend our sympathies.


MAY  - 1898 


May 6

 

Glenwood: 2 obits

Mrs. Alf Reeves, of Strait Creed who has lingered with consumption for a year, died Saturday morning, leaving a husband and seven children, the latter are nearly all grown. She was buried on her brothers farm, near Denton, followed to the grave by a large crowd of friends and relatives.

A little girl of Rev. Geo. Justice, aged 11 years, who has been ailing with ear trouble for some time, died last week. Her funeral was preached Tuesday at Palestine church by Rev. Wood, of Willard. A large crowd was in attendance. Immediately after the funeral services, Undertaker T. H. Burlington of Ashland, took charge of the remains and conveyed it to the family burial ground at the old Ross place on Bolts Fork and laid to rest.

 

Three deaths are reported from the vicinity of Charley, Charley Spencer, aged 72. Mrs. Jane Daniel, 85. Mrs Frank Austin.

 

Lowmansville: 2 obits

Died, April 28 of spinal disease, Johnie little 8 year-old son of Willis and Margaret Skaggs. Our sympathy is with the bereaved ones.

Died, April 29, Mintie, wife of Wm. Brown. She leaves a husband and ten children to mourn her loss. Mrs. Brown was a good Christian lady, liked by all who knew her. The burial took place Saturday in the family burial ground near the mouth of Lost Creek. A large concourse of people were in attendance wt the funeral which was conducted by Revs. Hatfield and Hunt.

 

Cat: Samuel, sone of Henry Wilson, died on the 27th of last month of lung trouble.Sam was a model young man and a christian and was honest in his dealings with his fellow man. He had been sick for a year or more and was 21 years old. He bad his friends and relatives all goodbye. Funeral conducted by Rev. Isaac Fannin.

 

Little Blaine: Hiram, son of Allen Hayes our creek, died on 26h ult. It was a very sudden death. He was taken ill on 22nd and died on the 26th, He was in his 19th year. At the time of his death his father was visiting his daughter in West Va. Hiram was most excellent young man and was respected by all that knew him.

 

May 13

 

Wallbridge: The body of Uncle Nathaniel Bates, who had been making his home with his son on Big Blaine for the last few years, was brought here for burial on the 2nd. He was over 80 years of age, and he was one of 3-miles earliest settlers. He was a good honest citizen. He had suffered for a long time.

 

News was received yesterday of the death in Indian Territory of William, better know as “Uncle Billy”, Martin, formerly a well known citizen of Louisa. He died of typhoid fever, and was about 75 years old. The bell in the cupola of the Baptist Church was the gift of Mr Martin.

 

Bad Accident

Lee Small, Formerly of this County, killed.

Thacker, W.Va., May 10

A most horrible accident occurred here today in which three were killed and six fatally injured. An electric car was on the truck of an incline, nearing the top of the hill, the cable suddenly snapped. The incline, like a flash of lightening, dashed to the bottom of the hill, reducing the truck and car to a mass of splinters. Seven passengers and the Motorman and conductor were on the car at the time of the accident. Leander Small, Joseph Morris and William Hardy were instantly killed. Six others were seriously injured.

Small was a miner who lived at Peach Orchard and Whitehouse for many years. He also lived in Louisa a good many years ao. He had a local reputation fo being a good snare drummer, having served through the war in that capacity. The body was taken to Peach Orchard for burial.

 

Busseyville: Miss Tennis Thompson died of consumption May 3rd. Sympathies are extended to friends.

2nd article: We are sorry to learn of the sad death of Miss Tennie Thompson, who has been ill for some time with consumption. She was about 18 years of age

 

May 20

 

Charley: Died, on May 14th, Taylor Borders, of Lowmansville, from rheumatism. Relatives of the deceased have the deepest sympathies of the community.

 

The wife of Jesse Nolea died near Louisa Tuesday. She leaves several children.

One of Reece Matney’s small children, colored, died a few days ago from convulsions.

 

Prestonsburg: May 16, Sam Stevens shot and killed Chester Massey of Raleigh county, W. Va., three miles from here yesterday. The killing was over a girl named Campbell, to who Massey was engaged. Stevens had been paying her attentions. This lead to a quarrel at church yesterday. Stevens went home and armed himself with a Winchester rifle. He meet Massey with several men and shot him dead. The ball entered the right chest and passed out the back. Stevens fled to the hills. Officers are in pursuit. A reward of $100 was offered at once by relatives of the victim, and it will be probably be increased. Stevens, who is twenty-two, belongs to a prominent family. He is armed and further trouble is apprehended.

 

Lowmansville: 2 obits

Died on the 7th inst., the little 4 year old daughter of Jamie and Nellie Chaffins. Our sympathies are with bereaved parents and relatives.

Died on the 13th Taylor Borders of Bright’s disease. He leaves 9 children to mourn his loss,, his wife and sone having preceded him two years. He was a good citizen and loved by all.

 

May 27

 

Paintsville. Died, May 22, George Walters, of this county from the effects of a gunshot wound inflicted by Lindsey Conley about two years ago. He was buried by the Knights of the Golden Eagle, of which he was a member in good standing.

 

Morgan’s Creek: On last Monday Burch Hewlett accidentally shot his brother, Dick, with a 38 pistol. Dick lived about 5 minutes after being shot. Died was one of our best Sunday School scholars and will be missed by many of his friends. Everyone that knew him liked him because he was good and kind to everyone. He was buried at the family graveyard at 9a.m. Tuesday. We extend our sympathies to family and friends.

2nd article: Buchanan: The many friends of Dick Hewlett were sorely grieved to hear of his untimely death. He taught school here last fall and was liked by all who knew him.

3rd article: A Young School Teacher Accidentally Killed: Richard Hewlett, age 22, son of Squire. H. B. Hewlett and F. K. Hewlett, was accidentally shot and almost killed instantly on Monday. The fatal shot came from a revolver which his brother Burch, was repairing. The latter is a blacksmith and 20 years of age.

Richard was a schoolteacher and a young man of high character. A singular coincidence is that he recently completed a term of school at Buchanan which was left unfinished by the tragic death of Jay Frasher.

4th article: Born Feb 1, 1875 and was killed May 23

 

A Good Life Ended:

 

On Wednesday of this week death came into the home of Mr. W. H. Waldeck, and ended the patient, peaceful watch for the messenger which had been kept for many months by his father, the venerable Nicholas C. Waldeck. He was in his 87th year. The burden of many years had rested heavily on him for some time past and he welcomed the call of the Death Angel. The end came peacefully and he passed away without a struggle. His oft-repeated prayer for this kind of a death was answered.

He died at 12:30 p.m May 25th, aged 86 years., just after having eaten with apparent relish, and his condition was thought to show improvement over several preceding days.

The funeral will take place Friday morning at 10 o’clock from the M.E. Church, South, and the interment in Pine Hill cemetery will follow immediately. The funeral will be preached by Rev. Reid and the Masonic Fraternity will conduct the burial services.

Deceased was born March 23rd, 18912 in Virginia, and became a citizen of this county in 1831. He was married twice. Mrs. Mary Bradley is the only survivor of the first marriage. Four sons and one daughter resulted from the second marriage and all of them are living and now here. The second wife died over 40 years ago.

Mr Waldeck was an honored Mason and a faithful member of the M.E. Church, South. A better citizen has never lived in this community. His character was spotless and his pure life will long exert a wholesome influence on those who have know him. The family feel keenly the loss of his sacred presence, and the sympathy of the community goes out to them.

2nd article: Nicholas Carpenter Waldeck was born March 22,1812, in Lewis County, Va. ( not West Va.) and died at the home of his son, Wm. Waldeck in Louisa Ky, May 25th aged 86 years, 2 months and 2 days. Death was due to old age and he suffered comparatively little during a dimunition of physical strength in recent months. He ate a hearty dinner a few moments before his demise, and remarked on feeling better that was his wont. A few moments beyond the noon hour the aged sire un-shouldered the burden of life, and passed to his account. Relatives and friends were near, and, though he tried to speak, he left no message but a calm and beautiful smile denoting the repose of content.

Henry Waldeck, father of Nicholas, was of that hardy industrious German stock who furnish a large percent of our farming and commercial industry, He settled in Lewis county, Va. , near what is now known as Weston, W. Va. before the Revolutionary war. Here he energetically played his trade, and trained his children to work. Nicholas, the younger of his two sons, in a family of three children, tiring of tilling the soil, went to the little town of Weston, where he was apprenticed to learn the lucrative trade of cabinet maker. He showed an aptitude for his calling and many are the pieces of his furniture in the houses of the neighbors which testify to his skill and cunning. His young manhood was remarked upon by all who knew him as most exemplary. Joining the church at the age of 16, he has the remarkable record to his credit on the books above never having a taken a drink of whiskey, swearing an oath or playing a game of cards. Leaving Lewis county, Bro. Waldeck came to Floyd County KY in 1834 where he spent 21 years of his young manhood. He followed his profession here, and , tin the most interesting times of the Big Sandy Valley, occupied himself in a way that often afforded him a keen relish when in a reminiscent mood.

He was jealous of the honor of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, in which he as an honored and trusted Steward for upwards of 60 years. He was regarded by everybody as an exceptionally clever man, and his business transactions were always above reproach.

July 30th, 1836 Bro. Waldeck married Miss Permelia Vest.. One daughter was born to them and the domestic happiness was cut short by the death of the wife and mother just four years later. He married Miss Maria Dunlap at Paintsville KY, Dec 30th 1841 and after a union of 14 years during which 4 boys and 1 girl were born, the wife died on Feb 17th 1855. After this sad experience he came to Louisa Ky, in the Spring of ’56, where has since lived.

Probably, Bro. Waldeck is more familiar to our poeple in the work of a Steward in the M. E. Church, South. For a number of years it was his duty to collect the “quarterage”, and all know how he took appointment from God, and was diligent in service. In recent years he had to forego all duties by reason of infirmities, but it was his delight to hold converse with his friends, and the theme about which he was most interested was the work of the church. He was especially fond of the ministry, and coveted visits from them. The pastor visited him a short time before his death, and, after a conversation and prayer, he seemed to be greatly refreshed in his spirit, and gave the sweetest evidence that his faith in God was strong and confident.

We kept his name on the Board of Stewards as an honorary member up to the time of his death, and now the church performs the sacred office of laying away his remains, conscious that the pure, white life that leaves no stain behind, will have its impress on all who knew him for good.

 

Killed by a Train: A Peach Orchard Miner Run Over: Sam Fitch, a miner working at Peach Orchard, this county, was run over by a train Tuesday evening and so badly injured that he died a short time afterward. He fell from a coal car while the train was moving and the cars caught him. He was a young man and unmarried.

 

Dr J. D. Kincaid, an aged physician of Catlessburg, died last Sunday.

 

Wallbridge: On last Sunday about 12 o’clock Jay Wellman departed this life. He had been a sufferer for over a year. He was 21 years of age, was a good obedient boy and told his friends before the left the shores of time that he was not afraid to die. He was buried near home at the Stafford burial ground. Rev. J. R Chapman conducted the services.

2nd article: Torch Light: Died, on the 22nd Jay, oldest son of Daniel Wellman


JUNE - 1898


June 3

 

Drs Gambill, Williams and Turner performed a surgical operation on Henry Jayne of Flat Gap, opening an abscess from teh mesenteric glands one day last week but he died Saturday night, and his funeral was preached Sunday by Revs. J. W. Vanhoose and Lewis Caudill.Doc Hager of this place and D. Mart Hager of Jennies Creek were at the funeral. Judge Jayne was a good citizen and his death causes a great loss to the community in which he lived and saddens the heart of his many relatives and friends.We extend our sympathy to his estimable family in this severe affliction.

 

June 10

 

Wallbridge: Died, near here on the thired of this month, Allen Caperton. He had been suffering from some time but his death was not expected so soon. He was a good citizen and liked by all. The bereaved wife and children have our heartfelt sympathy.

2nd Article: Allen Caperton, died Friday at his home about four miles above Louisa. He had been sick for several months with a disease of the stomach. He was about 45 years of age and leaves a family. The burial took place Saturday.

 

Mrs. Susan Clere, widow, of Robt. Clere, died Sunday at noon. She had been sick for some time and been unconscious fro about a week. The burial took place in the Pine Hill Cemetery.

 

June 17

 

Perry Cyrus, aged 27, died at his residence at White’s Creek, W. Va., Friday June 10th, afer an illness of three months, caused from a cancer of the stomach.

 

Guy Davis, a fireman on the C&O, was instantly killed Saturday. He was riding on the engine of a west-bound freight train No. 99. and leaning over at a hot box, while approaching the underground crossing at Geiger’s, his life was crushed out by his head striking the bridge. He leaves a wife and two children.

 

Locomotive Exploded: Ironton, OH

The Ironton Railway engine, John Campbell blew up this morning on the incline above the city. Engineer Rober Royer was killed. His body has not been found. Conductor Chas. Myers, head cut, seriously injured; Fireman Andy Reit, seriously scalded, will die; Brakemen Hobble fatally injured; Brakeman Tugla, cut and bruised serious. The front of the boiler was blow up over the river band and thorough a barn narrowly missing a dwelling. The engine was blown to atoms. The cause of the accident is unknown. All the men are residents of Ironton.

 

Paintsville:

Mrs. Burgess Randolph died on June 5th.

Wm. Bryant, an aged citizen of Tom’s creek, died last week.

 

Little Blaine: Died on June 5th, a daughter of Andy France.

 

Minnie, daughter of S.P. and Esther A. Bond, died at her home at Flat Gap, Johnson county, KY., on May 21st, of consumption, aged 19 years, 6 months and 27 days. She was converted 3 years before her death and was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. She stated a few weeks before her death that she kept for ready for another world everyday. She was delicate all of her life and during the past year her suffering was almost intolerable but she bore it with sweet christian patience. She was a home bird that rarely left the parents nest.

Her mind was usually bright and cheerful. She was always working and singing. A few nights before she died the sung this hymn while asleep:

Fight my soul to death

Shall bring thee to thy God.

He’ll take thee at the part’g breath

Up to His best abode.”

A few hours before her death she kissed her hand to her father as he passed the door. She was a dutiful daughter, a loving sister and a faithful friend, and a christian who lived a pure and stainless life. All that loving hears and hands could do for her was faithfully done, but nothing could stay the ravages of disease or ward off the angel of death. God willed that she must come up higher. May He give us grace to say, “Thy will be done, oh Lord, fro Thou Knowest what is best. We know that our loss is Heaven’s gain and the he cannot do wrong. that He is too wise to err, the He doethy all things well, and that death to our Minnie was but a choice relief from the burdens of the flesh. But it such a bitter trial to give up on our loved ones. How the parents of such a daughter are to be pitied, God only knows. Oh, how well she will be missed, for she was mother’s daughter and never left her. But God never takes one thing from earth but that he gives something else, and if he heareth the raven’s cry and see the sparrow fall, will he not help us to look up from the darkness and dust of the tomb? From that vacant chair and empty room, from earth, where all that’s bright must fade, to the place where Minnie is in the home of the soul, where all is immortal youth and eternal bloom. Where it is one bright summer always and storms do never come. And blighting winters frost or scorching noontide heat can wither our precious flowers transplanted by his hand. She is not dead but sleeping, she is happier than those who are left behind, her tired feet are rested now, the pain racked body is so easy, her soul is anchored safe with the vail, and she has escaped so many trials, burdens, and sorrows and has joy instead. Yes, a peace and joy that fadeth not away.

Life is but a passing breeze that passes away like a shadow on the threshold, a leaf on the stream that is bearing it onward to the great ocean of eternity. What is death but the summons to come up higher? Just to pass beyond the vail to our home where there is no thought fo earthly strife. Just a closing of the eyes in sleep, whole our souls are borne above by angels bright and fair. Would we the call our Minnie back from Heaven to the sorrows and trials of earth? No, a thousand times no! She has entered into her rest where, if we God at his word and are faithful for a few more days, she will greet us on the other shore. Though we must turn and take up life’s duties again, thought the world will not look as it used to do for a light has gone out in our home. Let us watch and wait and trust the Lord in all things, great and small, till our summer comes and be ready for a glorious reunion over there where no farewells are said; where we shall lay each burden down and have done with cares and tears; where we shall hear the angels sing and dwell with Jesus evermore.

That daughter of yours has bone over death’s river

You promised to meet hear as you knelt by her side

As the death sweat rolled down and dropped on her pillow.

Her memory still speaking, although she is dead.

You remember the kiss, the last word she uttered

The arms that embraced you are mouldering away.

As you stood by her grave and dropped tears on her coffin,

With a vow that you’d meet her, walked slowly away.

My brother, my sister, get ready to meet her,

The life that you now live is ebbing away.

But the life that’s to come last forever and ever,

May we meet ne’er to part on that Judgement Day.

( Her sister Vic Burgess)

 

 

June 24

 

Buchanan: A small boy of Seymour Chapman, of Durbin,. died Sunday and was buried at the Kavannaugh grave yard Monday. Rev. J. T. Johnson preached the sermon.

 

Jean: Died on the 17th, an infant of J. D. Perkins.

 

Caney Fork: Died of consumption, Mrs. Neal Webb. Her death is deeply felt by all who knew her.

 


JULY - 1898 


July 1

 

Prestonsburg, Ky: Partially damaged so not able to read completely: Explosion killed Henry Jones instantly.

 

July 8

 

Paintsville: Thomas Salyer, a good citizen of this county, who resided near Redbush, died of fever July 1. He was 50 years old.

 

Charley: Died, on the 1st, the infant daughter of W. M. Austin, of Peach Orchard.

 

Lem” Burgess, colored, died at the home of his daughter at this place, Monday morning at 3 o’clock. He was 87 years old, his death being due to old age. The body body was taken up to the old Burgess place ten miles above here for burial.

 

July 15

 

Lowmansville: Died. on the 8th, a small child of Mike Davis of cholera morbus.

 

Webbvile: Died, on the 10th inst., James Wright, age 84 years. He leaves alot of friends and relatives to mourn his loss.

 

Wm. Barry, of Ashland, age 32, suicided by jumping into the Ohio river Wednesday. He was crazed by drink.

 

John Laidley, an attorney, aged about 50, hung himself in the city prison at Huntington Tuesday. He had been imprisoned the night previous on a charge of drunkenness.

 

Paintsville: A murder occurred on Barnett’s creek, not far from Oil Springs, in this county, last Sunday. Sam Patrick shot and killed Halleek Rice, a young school teacher of this county. The trouble is said to come up over a love affair. Rice hit Patrick a few times with his fist and Patrick shot Rice three times. It is sad that Reuben Patrick, brother of the murder, directed Sam to shoot. Reuben has been arrested and has given bond, but up to this time, the man who fired the fatal shot is at large, although Sam King, our sheriff and a posse of men have scoured the woods in that vicinity in search of him.

 

 

July 22

 

Died on the Transport: Millard Kitchen, of this county, one fo the recruits who went with the first lot enlisted by Lieut. W. O. Johnson, died while on a transport vessel in route to Cuba. He had an attack of measles in camp and Tampa and had not entirely recovered when he went abroad. His body was wrapped in a blanket and dropped into the sea wiht the usual ceremonies attending a sea burial. Kitchen was well spoken of by his acquaintances and his untimely death is deeply regretted.

2nd article: He died Tuesday 28th and was buried Wednesday afternoon at 4 o’clock

 

Silvered: By the Frost of Years: The Head of Mr. H. S. Bussey Now Sleeps on the Dreamless Pillow of the Great Mother.

 

The nineteenth century was still in its infancy when Henry S Bussey came into this world. The century entered upon the march to eternity just a decade sooner than Mr. Bussey, but as human life flies even faster than years, he outstripped the old centenary a little over a a milestone and a half. He entered life’s arena a year later than Abraham Lincoln, Charles Darwin and William Ewart Gladstone. Lincoln passed away over twenty years ago, the great scientist has been dead sixteen years, and “The Grand Old Man” fell on sleep only a few weeks gone. Mr Bussey entered life in a historic period; God allowed him to leave it in the most historic era since “the morning stars sang together”.

It was in romantic “Ole Virginia” on the 19th of June 1810, that the silver curtain of existence was lifted and life flooded the “earthy tabernacle” of the goodly patriarch who has fallen by the way. The soil upon which the “Father of his Country” and the “Sage of Monticello” first planted their feet is renowned for its potency in producing length of life. So is Louisa. Mr Bussey was in the full vigor of manhood when he came to this place, being but thirty-two years of age. For more than half a century he resided here. He saw the little town when it was too young to boast of its beautiful shade trees. Before the evening shades closed about him, he enjoyed their comfort in sunshine and shadow. He saw them planted- perhaps planted many of them himself. As he leaned upon the staff of years, gradually descending into the quiet valley, the stretched froth their cool branches to shade the pathway. When the grim reaper came, he had the distinction of being the oldest citizen of our town. Fifty-six years is along period of life in itself, but Mr. Bussey lived in Louisa three score years minus four. He knew much of the history of the state and country, and could relate many interesting incidents concerning their primitive growth.

Mr Bussey was buried sixty years, one month and one day from the date of his marriage. On June 19th, 1838, he was married to Miss Christina Miller, who was boron in Wurtenburg, Germany, in 1815, and came to America at five years of age. Mrs Bussey is not in her eighty-third year. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bussey, two girls and five boys, the youngest of who is Dr. J. C. Bussey, of this place.

In 1846 Mr Bussey joined the Masonic Lodge, and was a member of the that august order until death. He was buried with Masonic honors by Apperson Lodge and few members of Vinson Lodge from which the M. E. Church, of which he was a member. The services at the church and grave were conducted by Revs. Davenport and Reid.

Considering the fact that they were born in different countries, that one came from beyond the sea, that they lived happily together for sixty long years, one naturally thinks of Mr. and Mrs. Bussey as he reads these musical lines from Robert Browning:

Two shall be born the whole wide world apart,

And speak in different tongues and have no thought

Each of the other’s being and no heed;

And these o’er unknown seas to unknown lands

Shall cross, escaping wreck, defying death;

And all unconsciously, shape every act

And bend each wandering footstep to this one end-

That one day; out of darkness they shall meet

And read life’s meaning in each other eyes.”

 

As her earthly days gradually lengthen into the dawn of the eternal morning, may she who once came to a distant country to meet hime also have the joy of meeting him in that still more distant country; where’s life’s meaning are interpreted by Him who said, “I am the way, the truth and the life.”

 

After an illness of about four weeks, Mr John M. Ferguson died at his home in this place last Tuesday night. Consumption of the bowels caused his death. He had been gradually growing weaker from day to day for the past several months, and the wasted frame was doubtless glad to be relieved from pain and suffering.

Mr Ferguson had been living in Louisa since last January, having removed her from Wayne County, W. Va. Up to a few weeks ago, when the fatal malady necessitated confinement to his room, he assisted his son and daugther in the publication of the News. He has been engaged in newpaper work for about thirty years, and during that long period became thoroughly acquainted with every phase of the editorial and mechanical departments of the busines. He was a man of such general information and was conversant on all current topics, a great reader, an apt scholar, and writer of considerable ability. A part of his life was devoted to school teaching.

Had he lived until the 22nd of next November, Mr. Ferguson would have been 51 years of age. Six children survive him.

Funeral services were conducted in the Cassville Methodist Church Thursday afternoon by Revs. Reid and Fitch. The remains were interred in the Frazier Hill Cemetery.

 

July 29

 

Martha: Old Uncle Bille Diles, who has been sick for some time, died July 12th.

 

Caney Fork: James Wright, born Feb. 6th, 1820, died July 10th, 1898, aged 78 years. A tender father, a loving husband and a true christian man has left the shores to answer the roll call up yonder.

Father Wright was truly converted in 1869 and since that time has been a faithful member of the United Baptist church. He had suffered many days upon the bed of affliction, but now his troubles are over and he is today walking the gold paved streets with the pure and the blest.

Father Wright left behind when he went to his happy home in heaven a dear wife, whose locks are silvering over with the frosts of many winters. He also leaves sons and daughters and many grandchildren to mourn his loss. Remember what he said before he died- that he wanted to meet all his children and friends in Heaven. We also extend our sympathies to the bereaved children, to the church, and to all who may weep at the loss of this good christian man.

The funeral services were attended by a large number of relatives and friends, and were conducted by Rev. Johnson of Webbville. At 5 o’clock p.m., on July 11, the remains of Father Wright were deposited in the cemetery near Webbville.

He has left his hand of sorrow

And gone to his home in the sky

He is now in Heaven with the angels,

But on that judgement morning

We all shall meet above.

So then we’ll walk together

In light and peace and love.

Record of An Aged Woman, Mrs. Wellman

Mrs Nancy Wellman died at the home of her son Clabe Wellman, near Cassville, last Saturday. She was in her 95th year. Mrs. S. F. Reynolds, of this place, is our of her daughters. Mrs. Wellma’s history is on the most remarkable we have ever known. She was the mother of sixteen children, eleven of whom lived to be married. She had 88 grandchildren, 192 great-grandchildren and 21 great-great-grandchildren. She also raised nine orphan children. She was married at the age of nineteen to James Wellman, who died a few years ago. Her parents were James and Sarah Wilson. Charles Wilson, who died at this place not long since, at the age of 96, was a brother of Mrs. Wellman. Within the past two months a son and a daugher of Mrs Wellman have died of old age, each of them being over 70 years.

The above figure refers only to the living grandchildren and are probably too small as they were counted as one of Mr’s Wellman’s daughters who was doubtful about being able to enumerate all the descendants. The entire number of great- grandchildren would doubtless go considerably over 200.

 

George Adkins, a deaf mute, of Wayne, W. Va., was struck by a train and killed.

 

Paintsville Masonic: That in the deaht of Bro. W. H. Connolly the lodge loses a worthy member.

 

Gallup: Died on the 15th, Mrs. Estep, an aged lady. She leaves a host of friends to mourn her loss.


AUGUST - 1898 


 

Aug 5

 

Frank Jones, Jr., died Thursday morning and will be buried today. His death had been expected for a long time. He had been a helpless invalid for several years, suffering terribly from a bad case of scrofula. It is remarkable that he lived so long. He had been praying for death to relieve him for quite a while, it is said. His age was 23 years. He was a son of F.A. Jones.

 

A little child of Mrs. Frank Diamond a few years ago and he was buried a few miles below Louisa.

 

George Frasher, son of James. C. Frasher, died Friday at his home up Tug River and was buried at the family burial ground below Louisa on Saturday. He leaves a wife and four children. Typhoid fever caused his death.

 

At Thacker last Monday James McDonald, a boy sixteen years old, was caught by a collision of two cars and so badly mashed that he lived only fifteen minutes.

 

Aug 12

 

Mud Lick Springs: Died, Monday, the infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis White. We extend our sympathy to the bereaved parents.

 

Lowmansville: Died, July 27th, Miss Tie Whitt of relapse of measles. Miss Whitt was a good christian girl and was liked by all who knew her.

 

Mrs. Sam Rose died at her home on Twin Branch Wednesday, after an illness of one month. She was a good woman and the family and neighborhood suffer a serious loss in her death.

 

Catlettsburg Post: Miss Mary Jackson, daughter of Capt. Dow Jackson, died Saturday morning about 3 o’clock, after a prolonged illness. She was a most excellent young lady, just in the bloom of womanhood and was a favorite with all who knew her. Our sympathies are extended to the bereaved family. The remains were interred in the Ashland cemetery.

This family formerly lived at Fort Gay.

 

The body of Uncle Jones Jordan was brought to this place and buried last Saturday. He did on Thursday evening at the home of his grandson, Lon ( hard to tell if Lon or Lom) Jones near Hardinsburg, Kentucky. HIs sickness extended over a period of five or six weeks. He was in his 79th year and had been in good health up this last illness.

Nearly all his life was spent in this community, where he was known as a good citizen and an honest man. His death occurred on the same day as that of his grandson, Frank Jones Jr. The funeral took place from the M. E. Church Saturday afternoon. Rev D. P Holt conducted the services.

 

A Sad Affair:

Our community was shocked Monday evening by news of the death of Mrs. Herbert Carr, which occurred at Cornwall-on-the- Hudson, New York, Sunday night. A telegram to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. G. M. Berry, a few hours previous was the first information to her illness. She was sick only a short time. Mr. Carr arrived here with the body Tuesday evening and the burial took place Wednesday morning in Pine Hill cemetery. The funeral was preached by Rev. D. H. Reid from the South Methodist church. A large and sympathetic were present.

Mr. and Mrs. Carr were married just four months previous to the day of her burial. Sh was a young woman of the highest worth, and her untimely death is a loss that cannot be replaced. Much sincere sympathy goes out to the bereaved.

2nd article: Nora Berry was born on Rich Creek Lawrence Co., Ky., July 17, 18880 and died on Aug 8th, 1898, aged 18 years and twenty six days. She was married to Herbert L. Carr. of New York, on March 30, 1898. The husband and wife left at one for their new home at Cornwall, on the Hudson, New York. After a little over four months of wedded life a telegram announcing her severe illness was received by her parents, to be followed late by the sad announcement of her death. The husband sent these affectionate and consoling words over the wires: “ We loved her. He Loved her more. Trust him. She died so happy. Herbert”

Miss Nora as a pupil in our public schools had won teachers and pupils by a kind and uniform courtesy, a bright, winsome manner entirely free from selfishness. Always modest and retiring in her demeanor, she yet possessed a strong mind and positive personal force in her character. School friends say she scorned to do a mean act, and ever met them with that same generous, open look that indicated she wished well to everybody. When she married and was removed from her circle of friends, not on entertained anything but the best wishes that the union would be sanctified of God in the highest joy. ON the 30th of March, a cold disagreeable day with downpour of rain, she left her little home a bride. On a similar day, with the rain beating a dismal tattoo on roof and street, the precious form came home in a casket. A little over four months had elapsed since she stood the picture of robust health beside the husband to whom she plighted faith. Father, mother and sister saw her happy then, but oh, now changed the homecoming.

Her mother wrote her a letter, in which she urged preparation for the summons of death, and the reply from from her child’s own hand was, “Mother, you need feel no alarm about me.”. She prayed incessantly during her illness, and as she was going she said, “oh, come to me; I’m going! I see my Savior!”

We used the offices of the Church in the Sabbath School of which she had been a faithful scholar, and remembered a heartfelt tribute to one of whom it may be said everyone loved- no one thought ill. ( Unable to read final sentence)

 

Aug 19

 

There was one our Johnson boys, a young man by the name of Vanhoose , died at Newport News and was buried on Toms creek last week.

2nd article: Paintsville: Verne Vanhoose, one of the soldier boys, and sons of Harry Vanhoose, of Mingo, this county, died at the hospital in Chickamauga on Wednesday morning and will brought home for burial. Verne was a bright boy and his death will be regretted very much by the people of this county. His brother Ernest is also sick with fever from which Verne died. Mr. Vanhoose has two other sones in the army

 

Potter: Died on the 13th Rebecca Ramsey near here.

 

Marium Daniels formerly a school teacher of this county, died on the 13th. near…. of consumption.

 

The death of Mrs. James Picklesimer ( last name hard to read so not 100% sure correct) occurred at her home in Louisa Wednesday night. She had been sick only a short time and her death was very unexpected to the public. Her dangerous condition was realized by the physicians and family, however for many hours previous to her demise. She. also, was conscious that the end was near, and made the preparations for meeting death. The funeral will take place at ten o’clock this morning and the burial immediately afterward in Pine Hill cemetery. Revs. Reid and Davenport will conduct the funeral services. at the M.E. Church South.

 

The babe of three summers of C. I. Blankenship was buried last week in the Oak View Cemetery.

 

Paintsville: Died Mrs Emma Caudill, wife of Henry Caudill, at Galep, of typhoid fever. She was the daughter of Isam Daniels.

 

Aug 26

 

Miss Ethel Stafford, daughter of Bud Stafford, one of the brightest and best young ladies of this place, died August 18th of spinal disease. She will be greatly missed at the school, Sunday school, church and special gatherings. Kind parents, loving brothers and sister and admiring friends are sad on account of her sudden death. We sympathize with the bereaved in their affliction.

A son of James R. Castle died ten miles above Louisa Wednesday. He was 23 years old and have been blind from birth.

 

On the 10th day of August, 1898, one of our beloved sisters, Mrs Ellen Rose, let the shores of tome to answer the roll call up yonder.

She left a husband and nine children and a host of friends to mourn her loss.

While it has pleased God to enter the home and take therefrom our beloved sister, we hope it will be the cause of the other preparing to meet sister Rose in heaven.

We feel that it is but a just tribute to the departed one to day that in regretting her transfer to her home above we mourn for one was true, womanly and noble, and in every way worthy of our sincere respects and highest regards.When she realized the the Death Angel had called she called Bro. Rose to her bedside and told him she was soon to go where her two dear daughters were sleeping in the Savior’s arms, and that she hoped they would all meet around the glittering throne of God.

 

No issues after August 26