Clay County MO Archives News.....Deaths in Newspaper 1868
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The Liberty Tribune 1868
DEATHS IN THE LIBERTY TRIBUNE, CLAY COUNTY, MISSOURI

The following death notices appeared in The Liberty Tribune, Liberty, Clay 
County, Missouri during the year of 1868.  Some the deaths did not occur in 
Clay County.  The date of publication is shown prior to the item(s).

Jan 10, 1868:
Died – near Liberty Landing, Clay county, Mo., on the morning of the 20th of 
December, (ultimo) of pulmonary consumption, Mrs. Martha R. Garrett, wife of 
Jesse B. Garrett, and only surviving daughter of Governor William Walker, of 
Wyandott, Kansas, aged 41 years.

At the residence of T.R. Dale, in this county, on the 31st ult., MR. Wm. Tapp, 
aged 65 years.

Dr. David T. Morton, (brother of our esteemed fellow citizen Dr. Wm. A. Morton) 
died at his residence in Lexington, Ky., on the 28th ult., in the 53d year of 
his age.  He was a man of commanding influence, and his death will be lamented 
by all who knew him.

Tow Pioneers Gone. – Jesse Clark, aged 98, and Travis Finley, aged 84, died at 
their residences in this county, several weeks ago.  They were both excellent 
citizens and had resided in this county for a great number of years.

It is with regret that we announce the death of our worthy Assessor, R.A. Ball, 
Esq., at his residence in Westport, of typhoid fever, on the night of the 
27th.  He was one of our best citizens, as well and favorable known perhaps as 
any other man in the county.  Kind and accommodating to all, he had surrounded 
himself with a host of friends who will find it hard to supply his place.  He 
was a high toned gentleman, and for many years a consistent member of the 
Presbyterian church.  In Mr. Ball’s death our county has lost a good citizen 
and one we could ill afford to lose. – Kansas City Advertiser.

Jan 17, 1868:
Died, on the 3d of January, Edgar Mosby, only son of John H. and Sallie Mosby, 
aged 12 years and 2 days.

Jan 24, 1868:
Died on the 17th January, 1868, Clayton Tillery, Esq., aged 67 years, 7 mos. 
and 14 days.  Mr. Tillery had been a citizen of this county for about 45 years, 
and no man stood higher in public estimation than he did.  Peace to his ashes.

In Pike county on the 7th inst., Mrs. Parthenia Mellon, wife of Major John S. 
Mellon, aged 42 years.

Died, January 18th, 1868, Hattie May, infant daughter of wm. and Angeline 
Wymore, aged 8 months and 13 days.

William W. Nelson.
The subject of this obituary was born October 7thm, 1844, near Jacksonville, 
Illinois, emigrated with his father, Colonel Nelson, of Kansas City, to this 
State some years ago.  The first of my acquaintance with Willie, as he was 
familiarly called, was at Camden, Ray county, Mo., but a short time before his 
marriage to Miss Laura Mason, now his bereaved wife.  their marriage took place 
November 6th, 1865.  Since that time I have had the pleasure of enjoying his 
kind hospitality at his house.  Willie was an affectionate husband – a warm 
hearted friend – courteous and kind to all.  His, seeming, untimely death is a 
sad bereavement to his friends; but more especially to his wife.  The 
circumstances which led to his death are about these, as given me by Sister 
Nelson:  On the 26th of November last Willie, accompanied by a friend, went to 
Lee’s Summitt, in Jackson county, Mo., o n business appertaining to his 
building and moving, for this place was soon to be the home of the separated 
ones.  When the business was accomplished, and they were leaving the Summitt, 
his friend asked him to hand his gun to him, for they had taken their guns with 
them, Willie being on his horse seems to have just reached down into an old 
wagon bed and took hold of the muzzle of the gun, and as he pulled it to him, 
the lock was brought in contact with something which caused the discharge of 
the whole load into his arm, breaking and mangling his arm terribly.  He was 
taken to the house of Mr. David Nelson at the Summit, where every attention was 
given him.  But, alas! he had received the fatal wound.  His wife reached him 
from Camden at 10 o’clock. P.M., Friday, before his death on Sunday, December 
1st, 1867.  He was informed of his approaching death, which he seemed more to 
regret on the account of his “dear wife.”  He had told his wife that he 
intended attaching himself to some church just as soon as they moved and that 
would have taken place the next week.  He spoke frequently of leading a new 
life, &c., which shows very conclusively that he was pondering the interests 
that belong to the soul.  No doubt but that you have the sympathy of your 
community, but He who created all things for His glory, will be a husband for 
the widow.  And may He give you grace to bear your loss with Christian 
fortitude!
D.M. Proctor
Missouri City, Jan. 14, 1868.

Mr. Richard Clark, died at his residence near Columbia, Mo.,  on the 14th 
inst., aged 72 years.  He was one of the best men in the State.

From the Christian Pioneer.
Obituary. – Miles C. Drake, died at his home in clay county, Mo., on the 10th 
of October, 1867, in the 60th year of his age.
Our brother, born and reared in Mason county, Ky., emigrated to this State in 
1855, where, by a consistent life, he soon drew around him, almost as large a 
circle of friends as he left in his native land.  He was the last (save one) of 
a family of ten brothers and sister to die.  His sickness was protracted, and 
his sufferings such that no language can describe.  Yet he endured all, almost 
without a murmur; cheerful and always glad to see his friends.  For more than 
twenty years he was a devoted member of the Christian Church.  His brethren 
will miss him there.  When asked by a friend only a few weeks before his death, 
if afraid to die, his words were, O no, not at all!  He leaves a wife and seven 
children to struggle on in this world, as best they can, without his guiding, 
supporting, and ever present protecting hand, even in the smallest affairs of 
life.  Owing to his untireing energy, and the deep concern for his family, he 
kept up, though a perfect wreck, until within a few days of his death.  ‘Tis a 
mysterious providence that has sundered this bright link in affection’s chain, 
that has taken the head, and left the dependent, helpless ones, in sorrow and 
tears; that has made the vacant chair, which earth can never fill.  But in 
wisdom God has done it, and we, his creatures, must bow in submission to the 
hand that smites, believing we will yet see why he was taken, and we 
left.               M.

Died, - At his residence in Clay county, Mo., January 9th, 1868, Presley Day, 
in the 78th year of his life.  A Virginian by birth he was reared, educated and 
spent most of his manhood in Mason county, Ky., where he had many warm personal 
friends.  He emigrated to this county in 1854, and although a quiet citizen, 
devoting most of his time to books and papers, yet his glad, cheerful welcome 
to all who came, will long enshrine his memory in the hearts of young and old.  
How sadly this affliction comes to us in our home circle?  From our earliest 
infancy he was one of us, ever sharing in our childish sports and amusements.  
In maturer years, aiding by his counsel and advice.  In old age remembering and 
providing for our care and comfort.  How dark the cloud resting over us now?  
How painful the remembrance of bright hours never to come again.  Yet amid all 
the star of hope comes to us, and like a beautiful bird sings its sweetest, 
sadest strains.  The cal, cheerful manner in which he received the message, he 
must die – his entire submission – his cool calculations concerning all 
business arrangements – his willingness to go – saying “the great thing was to 
be ready” – were to us a bright assurance that his heart was right, and though 
our hearts are filled with sadness, and we are constantly watching for his 
return, forgetful or scarcely realizing the great truth, with childlike 
confidence in the Divine hand, we submit to the heavy stroke, believing he has 
gone to reap a bright reward, where sorrow and suffering come no more.
Wildwood, Mo., Jan. 15, 1867                    M.

Jan 31, 1868:
In this county on the 25th inst., Hugh T., infant son of J.L. and Kate Petty, 
aged 5 months, 7 days.

In Haynesville, Mo., on the 24th inst., Miss Florence Peters, daughter of Ashby 
and Matilda Peters, aged about 20 years.
“How still and peaceful is the grave
When life’s vain tumult’s past,
The appointed house by Heaven’s decree,
Receives us all at last.”

In this city on the 30th inst., Lily, infant daughter of T.J. and Juliette H. 
Huntington, aged ---months. 

Judge James Henshaw, one of the Clay County Court Judges, died at his residence 
a few days since.

Death of Miss Bernard. – Miss Arabella Bernad, whom we mentioned as having been 
shot by the accidental discharge of a pistol, on Monday, died yesterday from 
the effect of the wound.  Miss Bernard was but seventeen years old, a lovely 
and accomplished young lade, and her death falls heavily indeed upon her 
bereaved parents and many relatives and friends in this county.  Her funeral 
will take place from the family residence, at Westport, this morning, at 10 
o’clock. – Kansas City Advertiser.

Feb 7, 1868:
Departed this life at her grandmother’s, Mary D. Estes, on the 16th of Jan., 
1868, of Croup, Helen Lee, little daughter of Annie E. and Hallie D. Hinman, 
aged two years, 3 months and two weeks.
Leelle was an affectionate little child, beloved by all who knew her, for she 
had learned to be obedient at that early age.  She was the only daughter of her 
parents, and was doted on, and perhaps idolized by them, but Jesus the Great 
Shepherd of the sheep, saw proper to take this little lamb to Himself.  She is 
now in Heaven, waiting the arrival of her parents.  Weep not fond parents, for 
your little daughter, for her body now quietly rests by the side of her 
grandfather and uncle and her little sister, and her spirit has returned to Him 
who gave it.                A Friend.

Died, on the 24th day of January, 1868, Miss Florence Peters, daughter of Mr. 
Ashby Peters, of Haynesville, Clinton co., Mo.
Thus has passed away a young lady in the early prime of womanhood.  How strange 
the workings of that mysterious Providence who doeth all things well; and how 
hard it is to restrain the spirit from complaining when the cup of bitterness 
becomes its portion.  Dreary winter with its frost and ice mellows the soil and 
renders it yet more fruitful for the coming season; and sorrow softens the 
heart for the more abundant praise of God.
Death is a very bitter thing under any circumstances, but more especially when 
he robs us of our favorite ones.  The subject of this notice was a young lady 
of more than ordinary intellect, nor was her heart less cultivated than her 
mind; and better than all her heart was deeply imbued with the spirit of her 
Saviour, having been a member of the Christian Church since the fourteenth year 
of her age.  She loved the Church with all its appointments.  She loved the 
Sunday School with all it exercises.  Her death was the triumphant close of a 
Christian’s life – and “though dead she yet speaketh” by her example and her 
influence.  

Death of a Veteran Editor. – Col. John H. Harney, the able and veteran editor 
of the Louisville Democrat, died at his residence in Jefferson county on Sunday 
morning 26th in the 61st year of his age.  The deceased was born in Bourbon 
county, Ky., Feb. 20th, 1806.

Charley Boyd Killed.
We learn that on Saturday night last Charley Boyd, registrar of Platte county, 
and the same man that was recently tried and condemned for some crime, and 
pardoned by Gov. Fletcher, was killed in Platte City in the act of robbing a 
store.  The particulars are about as follows:  A Mr. Boyd recently from St. 
Joseph, had opened a store in Platte City, and had missed a good many goods.  
His suspicions fell upon one of his clerks, whom he discharged, but the goods 
continued to go.  His suspicions were eventually aroused against Registrar 
Boyd, and he immediately conveyed word to him that he was going to St. Joseph 
and his clerk to the country to spend the night.  Instead of doing so , they 
armed and concealed themselves in the store, and about midnight they heard the 
door lock click, and after Boyd had got some distance into the store, they 
fired, the charge of shot going through Boyd, killing him almost instantly.  
Boyd (the store keeper) was tried before an examining court and acquitted.  One 
by one the leading radicals meet their doom.

Feb 14, 1868:
On the 13th inst., Maggie E., infant daughter of Thomas and Kate Leonard, aged 
12 months.

Death of Wm. L. Atwood. – WE are pained to announce the death of Wm. L. Atwood, 
a young and promising member of the St. Louis Bar, and broth-in-law of the Rev. 
Dr. M.M. Fisher of this place.  He died of Typhoid fever in St. Louis, Mo., on 
the 25th inst., in the 25th year of his age. – Fulton Telegraph.

Feb 21, 1868:
James E. Swinney, and old citizen of Howard county, died at his residence near 
Glasgow, a few days ago, in the fiftieth year of his age.

Mr. John Patee, one of the founders of St. Joseph, died in that city on the 
13th inst., aged 73 years, 6 months and 13 days.

Feb 28, 1868:
Gen. Samuel D. Lucas, died at his residence in Independence on the 23d inst., 
He was in the 68th year of his age, and had been a citizen of Missouri since 
1826.

Hon. Jos. R. Ingersoll, a distinguished lawyer and politician, died in 
Philadelphia on the 20th inst.

Mar 6, 1868:
Mr. Clayton Tillery.
I see by the Liberty paper the death of this old and valued citizen; no better 
man  lived,  - a good neighbor and friend, always ready in times of need, in 
sickness or distress, willing to succor to the best of his ability, no matter 
who.  He visited the sick, the sorrowful and the dying, and there are many who 
have received his attention and sympathy. – this tribute is from one who oft 
times received many kindnesses from him in times of trouble and distress, and 
can fully testify to his merits as an honest man and Christian.  He has gone to 
his long rest where his works will follow him.    M. D. 

Mar 13, 1868:
Mrs. Sarah Jane Hicks died at Leavenworth City on the 7th.

Mar 16, 1868:
Died, - on the 6th instant, Walter Claiborne, infant son of John M. and 
Elizabeth H. Hogan, aged 3 months and 6 days.
Mother do not weep for Walter,
God has claimed him for his won;
Placed a crown upon his forehead,
And he now sits by his throne.

Yes! your darling babe’s an Angel,
In the joyful realms above;
Guarded from all pain and danger,
By a Savior’s constant love.

Do not grieve for baby Walter,
Though you miss him from your knee;
When you pass from earth to Heaven,
At the gate he’ll welcome thee.

Let his thought your mind possessing,
Cheer you in your hours of pain;
Urge you on to meet your Walter,
Where you ne’er will part again.              T. H. S.

Mar 20, 1868:
Died, in Gallatin, Mo., on the 1st March, 1868, Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Wirt, widow 
of the late Phillip R.Wirt, in the 46th year of her age.  She died in the 
triumphs of Christian Faith. 

Mar 27, 1868:
Kansas City papers record the death in that place of Augustus W. Simpson, who 
expired somewhat suddenly last Sunday evening of heart disease.  Mr. S. had 
long been connected with journalism in Missouri, and was widely and favorably 
known throughout the State.  He was a native of Howard county, and was about 
forty-six years of age.  From early boyhood until the close of the late war he 
resided in Boonville, where for fourteen years he edited and published the 
Observer, and able and influential paper.  In 1860 he was elected Public 
Printer, in conjunction with Mr. Ament, and carried on the State Times at 
Jefferson City for about two years.  In April 1865, he and A.J. Reed 
established the Kansas City Commercial Advertiser, to which paper he devoted 
his experience and ability with great zeal for some time, and it had not been 
until quite recently that he ceased altogether the duties and responsibilities 
of the editorial chair.  He leaves a wife and son.  

Apr 3, 1868:
Death of a Venerable Lady. – The Paris Kentuckian records the death of Mrs. 
Polly Miller, who died on the 13th inst., at the residence of her son James 
Miller, near Lair Station, in the eighty-fourth year of her age.

We are pained to announce the death of our friend, R.S. Mize, on Wednesday 
night last. – Independence Sentinel.

Apr 17, 1868:
Died, in Clay County, Mo., on Sunday, A.M., April 8th, 1868, Mrs. Martha J. 
Hall, wife of Mr. John T. Hall, in the 33d year of her age.
Sister Hall was born January 1st, 1835, and about the year 1856 made a 
profession of religion, and was baptized into the fellowship of the New Hope 
Church, Clay county, by Elder F. Graves, where she continued her membership and 
enjoyed the entire fellowship of the Church till it was broken by her death.  
Such was the uniform propriety with which she filled all her respective 
positions in this life that it won for her the friendship and esteem of all.  
As a companion she was devoted and faithful – as a mother she was kind and good 
to her children, over striving to bring them up in the way they should go, both 
by her words and her example – and as a neighbor and Christian she was beloved 
by all who knew her.  She died of Consumption after a confinement of some eight 
or ten months, during which time she suffered very much, but bore it all with 
almost unparalleled patience and resignation.  It was my pleasure to visit her 
several times during her illness.  I would read and talk to her, all of which 
she enjoyed very much.  I at all times found her perfectly resigned – ready and 
willing for the change, and prepared to give a “reason of her hope.”  She would 
say, “I am not afraid to die.  I am willing to go when the Lord calls for me.”  
As she was entering the valley and shadow of death, she called to her the 
family relations and friends to give to them her parting words and bid them 
farewell, assuring them she was happy and would soon be with Christ, then 
calmly closed her eyes in the long and sweet sleep of death, when the happy 
spirit left the earthly house to join the redeemed above and be “present with 
the Lord.”  It is almost needless to say she is greatly missed by all; that her 
loss is very great.  The nuptial relation that existed for sixteen years 
between her and her husband, whom she has left to mourn her loss, is severed.  
Her voice is no longer heard by the family – dispensing words of parental 
instruction and kindness.  Her set in the Church is vacant.  Yet she has left 
behind her her moral likeness, printed in the hearts of all, and “by it she 
being dead, yet she liveth.”  We mourn her loss, but not as those who have no 
hope, for she bequeaths to us the blessed consolation that it was gain for her 
to die; that she would enjoy the undisturbed rest, that remains to the people 
of God, where
“No chilling winds nor poisonous breath
Can reach that healthful shore;
Sickness and sorrow, pain and death,
Are felt and feared no more.”
To her sorrowing and afflicted children and relatives, we would say live as she 
has lived, that you may die as she has died; that you may again live with her, 
where there is no death.  To the bereaved husband we would say for her, in the 
language of Paul to Timothy, as he was about to be offered up, “Do the 
diligence to come to me shortly.”
“Dearest sister, thou hast left us,
Here thy loss we deeply feel,
But ‘tis God that hath bereft us,
He can all our sorrows heal.

Yet again we hope to see thee,
When the day of life is fled;
Then in Heaven with joy to greet thee,
Where no farewell tears are shed.”            T. M.

May 1, 1868:
Died, in this county on the 21st, April, John J. Moseley, son of H.C. and 
Margaret Moseley, in the 13th year of his age.

Died in this county, on the 24th ult., Mrs. Martha E. Darby, wife of R.W. 
Darby, and daughter of Zattu Todd, Esq.

Eddie, son of Leonard and Eliza Ligon, died April 26, 1868.  He was born Oct., 
1865.  The bereaved parents feel that a bright light in their house has gone 
out.  May they not sorrow as those who have no hope; but henceforth follow him 
who leadeth his flock like a shepherd gathering the Lambs with His arms and 
carrying them in His bosom.

Mrs. Harriet Benham Prentice, wife of George D. Prentice, editor of the 
Lousiville Journal, died on the 27th April.

May 8, 1868:
Died, at her residence in Liberty, Mo., on Saturday evening, May 2d, after many 
months of suffering, Mrs. Vienna S. McCoun, in the 46th year of her age.
Another voice hushed in death – another generous and noble heart motionless and 
still, and her seat in the family circle and in the house of God vacant.  Mrs. 
McCoun was a most exemplary and intelligent lady, and was held in the highest 
estimation by all who enjoyed her friendship.  She had been a zealous member of 
the Christian Church of this city for eighteen years, and all that time 
exhibited in her walk and conversation that she had laid up her treasure where 
moth nor rust doth not corrupt nor thieves break through and steal.”  She died 
in the triumphs of that faith which had sustained her through many sore 
afflictions; and as I listened to the funeral discourse of that old white 
headed patriarch of the Church, Elder F.R. Palmer, who painted in glowing and 
true colors, the proud distinction of the Christian life and Death, I could but 
wish that my Last days might be like hers, and that when I come to pass the 
cold Jordan of death, some Christian patriarch might be able to say of me that 
I lived and died a Christian.  
the void thus left in a large circle of relatives and friends will long be 
felt, and cherished by those to whom she was endeared by her many noble social 
qualities.  One by one our friends drift out into that unknown sea that rolls 
round the world; and yet with all there is dignity about that going away alone, 
we call dying – that wrapping the mantle of immortality about us; that putting 
aside with pale hands the dim azure curtains that are drawn around the world’s 
couch; that venturing away from home for the first time in our lives; for we 
are not dead – there is nothing dead to speak of and we go only off to explore 
foreign countries not laid down on any map.
“All are not dead who die; they linger yet
Among us, and we feel
Their ever blessed influence, or forget
Death and the grave are real.”                  Friend.

May 15, 1868:
In Memoriam.
Martha E., consort of R.W. Darby, and daughter of Zattu Todd, and grand 
daughter of Judge Benj. Ricketts, was born December 17th, 1845, and died April 
24th, 1868, aged 22 years, 5 months and 8 days.
She joined the Christian Church at Antioch, in Clay county, Mo., in Oct. 1863.  
Her body is in the grave, but her name and memory are tenderly cherished by all 
who knew her.  Ah yes, there is a voice heard amid the silence of her Christian 
tomb more eloquent than that of the forum.  Her brief life was sufficiently 
long to demonstrate to all who knew her, that vitality and power of the 
religion she professed.  Her piety was ardent and uniform.  Her Christian 
graces shone forth in all the relations of life, whether as church member, 
daughter, wife, sister, mother or neighbor.  The truth is, such Christians in 
one sense never die, for their words and deeds are ever coming up before us, 
urging to swifter progress and more earnest toil.  Blessed are the dead which 
die in the Lord from henceforth, yea said the spirit that they may rest from 
their labors and their works do follow them.
“How very lonely seems our home
Since you dear wife have fled;
How hard to think our precious one
Art hidden with the dead.

And yet no murmur passed our lips
When we resigned you up,
For well we knew “twas Jesus’ hand
That held the bitter cup.

Yet not to thee, O grave, have we
Our precious one resigned.
But to the tender arms of him
Who doth our faith refine.

Yet, ah, we miss you but to say
How much all words are vain,
Our hearts would shrink could we not feel
Our loss has been your gain.”                            Friend.

Died in this city on the 13th inst., Mrs. Grezella Wise, wife of Levi Wise, and 
daughter of J.E. Dulin, aged about 32 years.

May 29, 1868:
Hon. John A. Gilmer, of North Carolina, died at his residence at Greensboro, in 
that State, on May 24th.  He was born in 1805, was educated for the law, and 
admitted to the bar in 1832.  He was a member of the State Senate of North 
Carolina from 1846 to 1856.

Gen. Kit Carson, the celebrated scout and Indian fighter, died at Fort Lyon, 
Colorado, on the 26th ult.

Jun 5, 1868:
In this city, on the 1st inst., Mr. John Edwards, aged about 62 years.

On the 23d ult., Mr. James Sullivan aged about 60 years.

Death of an Old Citizen of St. Joseph.
Joseph Robidoux, the first inhabitant and founder of St. Joseph, died in that 
city last Wednesday morning, at the age of 84.  He was taken ill during the 
night, having retired in apparent good health.  Mr. Robidoux established an 
Indian trading post at that place nearly sixty years ago, and has resided there 
ever since.  After he laid off the ground into town lots he became wealthy, but 
most of it passed out of his hands years ago, and he died comparatively poor.  
His children and grand children are numerous.

Jun 12, 1868:
Obituary. – Died, May 6, 1868, at the residence of her daughter-in-law, Mrs. 
Susan Rollins, near Smithville, Clay co., Mo., Mrs. Sophia Rollins, aged 90 
years.
The subject of this notice was born June 6, 1777, on the eastern shore of 
Maryland, and was the daughter of John Kennedy, a soldier of the revolution, 
who was captured by the British at Guilford Court house, N.C., and perished on 
board the notorious old Jersey prison ship.  When the deceased was but 2 years 
old, her parents removed to Bedford c., Va., and when about 15, her then 
widowed mother, with her large family of children emigrated to Bourbon co., 
Ky., then a dense howling wilderness, and encountered all the privations and 
perils incident to pioneer life.  At the age of 20, she was married to Mr. 
Joshua Rollins, also a native of Maryland, who died in 1801, leaving her with 3 
little children, 2 daughters and a son, to rear.  Thus at the time of her 
death, she had lived a widow 68 years.  In the fall of 1830, she came with her 
son Lee Rollins, and his family, to Clay co., Mo., where she spent the remnant 
of her days.  She was a faithful soldier of the cross, and follower of the 
Lamb, having been a professor of religion 68 years, belonged to the old Baptist 
Church, Stoney Point, Bourbon co., Ky., and was baptized by the late Lewis 
Corbin.  Mrs. Rollins was mild and even tempered, ever at peace with all the 
world, was highly esteemed by her neighbors, and all who knew her, for her many 
virtues.  She was very industrious and energetic, and led a business, stirring, 
active life, and enjoying excellent health most of her life having had but two 
physicians to see her during her long period of existence.  She also retained 
her strength of mind to within about a year of her death.  During the last few 
years of her life, the religion of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and its 
gret consolation was her all, absorbing theme.  She love to think and talk of 
eternity, and the glorious promises of the gospel.  She was a Christian lady in 
every sense of the word, and murmured not to die.  Death had no terrors for 
her.  She felt that she was only exchanging a dark world of sin and sorrow, for 
a bright and happy home in heaven.  She had lost sight of worldly affairs; her 
brothers and sisters, and all her children, had long passed away, to the spirit 
land, and she was left, as it were, almost a stranger in the world, in the 
midst of a new generation, whose faces she scarcely knew, and felt that she had 
nothing to live for, and longed to go home, to meet the loved ones gone 
before.  How sadly she is missed by all who visited her late home!  Her place 
in the corner is vacant, and looks lone and desolate; her dear familiar face is 
gone, and her voice, hushed, and still as the silent night!  Yes, we miss her 
at home.  But she could not live always; the snows of four and ten winters were 
upon her, and her time had come to die.  Unable longer to buffet the rude winds 
and storms of life, she bowed to the cold and chilling blast of death, and now 
softly lies, and sweetly sleeps, low in the ground.  Let us trust that her soul 
rests with God, where it is one bright summer always, and storms do never 
come.  She died apparently entirely free from pain, and without a struggle, 
breathed her life away as gently as an infant falls to sleep upon its fond 
mother’s bosom.  She was buried in the graveyard close by the house, along side 
of her only son.
“And there the night dew weeps in silence o’er her head,
And morning softly wakes the gentle air,
That waves the grass upon her lowly bed.”
Gosneyville, Mo., June 6, 1868.

In this county on 4th April, 1868, elder Howell Searcy, in the 80th year of his 
age.  He was one of the oldest and most influential citizens of Clay county.

Distressing Accident. – We are pained to relate a fatal accident that occurred 
in the family of Hon. E.H. Norton, a few days ago.  On Sunday last Mrs. Norton, 
through mistake, administered to her infant child, only a few days old, a dose 
of Morphine intended for herself, mistaking it for a simple powder prepared for 
the babe.  The effects of the fatal medicine were soon apparent, but every 
exertion to save the life of the child failed, and on Monday evening it died.  
The sympathies of the entire community are with the family in this its sore 
affliction. – Platte City Reveille.

Death of Col. Metcalf, Cincinnati, June 7.
Col. Leonidas Metcalf, son of the late Gov. Metcalf, of Kentucky, died in this 
city today of heart disease.  He was Colonel of the 10th Kentucky Cavalry in 
the war.

Jun 19, 1868:
In this county on the 5th of April, suddenly of hart disease, Mr. John C. 
Hawkins, in the 65th year of his age.  He was born in Woodford county Ky., but 
had resided in Clay county for near forty years.  he was a member of the 
Baptist Church, and enjoyed the confidence of all who knew him.

Jun 26, 1868:
In this county on 18th inst., Mr. James Wasson, in the 70th year of his age.  
Mr. W. had resided in this county for a great many years, and was beloved by 
all who knew him.  A good man has fallen.

Jun 31, 1868:
Died in this City, on the 20th inst., Mr. Lawrence Norton, aged about 40 years.

Aug 7, 1868:
In this county on the 2d inst., John Leakey, age 72 years.  He lived 50 years 
in Clay co.

Aug 14, 1868:
William G. Willis died at his residence in Bullittsville, Boone county, a few 
days ago, of apoplexy, in the forty-eighth year of his age.   He was probably 
the largest man in Kentucky, weighing five hundred pounds.

Dr. Matthew R. Arnold, died at his residence in Boone county, Mo., on the 22d 
ult., in the 63d year of his age.

Aug 28, 1868:
In this city, on the 25th inst., after a protracted illness, Miss Mary Alice 
George, aged about 19 years.  

Sep 4, 1868:
Died at the residence of his mother, in this county on the 31st ult., after a 
long and painful illness, Silas L. Woods, Esq., aged 30 years.

John a. Brooks, late a member of the Kentucky Legislature, died in Crittenden 
county, on the 29th ult.

Murder. – Robert Maddox, was found in the road about four miles north of this 
and near his home, on Friday morning last, murdered.  He had been shot.  It is 
to be hoped his murderer will be brought to punishment.  Of al the systems of 
murder that of private assassination is the most damnable.

Sep 18, 1868:
In Memoriam.
Departed this life in the City of Liberty, Missouri, on the morning of the 25th 
of August, 1868, of typhoid fever, after a painful illness of four weeks, Miss 
Mary Alice George, aged nineteen years; daughter of the late Capt. William 
George of Jessamine Co., Ky., and Mrs. Julia A. George of this city.  
It is gratifying to know that her protracted sufferings, mitigated to the full 
extent that medical skill and watchful solicitude could devise, were borne by 
the sufferer with singular fortitude and submission.
But this brief memorial is not designed to draw a lesson from her death, so 
much as from her life; for in this was she most eminent.
Possessed of a natural susceptibility for the pleasures of the world, she 
partook of them with avidity; but soon satiated, she turned from “all they 
brought to all they could not bring” to seek that “blessing that maketh rich 
and addeth no sorrow.”
Casting her lot, in early youth, with the people of God, her language was “Thy 
people shall be my people, and thy God my God,” and henceforth in the great 
congregation, the social meeting for prayer, the Sunday School or where ever 
else Christian effort was manifested within her sphere, we find her zeal and 
constancy leading to the cheerful and devout performance of Christian duty.
And, could the force of her example, now that she is no more on earth, 
stimulated the less ardent zeal of those who survive her to like works of faith 
and labors of love, then might the wisdom of God, in calling her hence so 
early, become manifest to human understanding; otherwise inscrutable and past 
finding out must his afflictive providence appear.
When we see the grave devouring the beautiful and the good of earth, especially 
in the prime and vigor of life, we are prostrated with grief; and Infidelity 
taking advantage of our infirmity, would sow, in our bleeding hearts, the 
noxious weeds of mistrust in the goodness and infinite mercy of God.  But out 
of the gloom of sorrow emerges the star of Hope, and angel voices sweetly say 
of the loved and lost,
“Trace but her steps and meet her in the skies,”
“Hope looks beyond the bounds of time,
When what we now deplore,
Shall rise in full immortal prime,
And bloom to fade no more.”
Thou art gone to the grave, and affection will hallow thy memory dear departed 
one.  The pallid hand of death must be laid upon the hearts of all who knew and 
loved thee, ere thy silent grave shall cease to be bedewed with memory’s fond 
tears, or fail to remind us of the goodness, purity and truth that passed into 
the skies when thy Saviour called thee home.
Sad and dark t our surviving hearts was the hour, when Death took thee to his 
cold embrace; yet for thee hath the grave no victory, nor Death a sting.
Rest loved one in thy silent tomb till the resurrection morn, when at the voice 
of the Archangel and the trump of God, thou shalt rise again, thy mortal robes 
exchanged for garments of immortality made white in the blood of the Lamb, thou 
shalt shine as a star in the Kingdom of God, forever more.               “Love.”

Death of Henry H. Estes, Esq.
“Old uncle Henry Estes died today,” – such were the brief, yet suggestive, 
words that were spoken to the people of this County on the 8th inst.  Of a 
purer, truer, or more honest man, that announcement is seldom, or never, made.  
Such men should not pass away unnoticed.
Mr. Estes was born in the State of Virginia on the 11th of May, 1788, and had, 
therefore, at the time of his death, “by reason of strength,” seen the suns of 
four-score summers.  He was a not unworthy son of that grand, Virginian stock 
of men of whom it is but simple justice to say that they are chivalric as 
Bayard, as the Douglas, tender and true, and brave as Imperial Caesar.  He was 
also of that pioneer race of Virginians who have subdued the wilderness from 
the banks of the James to the waters of the Missouri, and hemmed the broad land 
with towns and cities.
Mr. Estes accompanied his father from Virginia to Madison Co., KY., in the year 
1792, where he remained until 1816, when he removed to that part of Missouri, 
now known as Howard Co., whence in 1817 he passed over into Saline Co., and 
finally in 1819 settled in Clay Co., and here continued to reside until his 
death.  In 1811, Mr. Estes joined the Old Baptist Church, - a community which 
embraces within its fold so many men of distinguished piety, - and continued a 
consistent, earnest and devoted member of the same during the remainder of his 
life.  In 1814, he was married to his amiable, (and now venerable,) consort, 
who survives him.  He was one of the first white men who made their homes in 
this County, and came in with the Robertsons, the Thorps, the Campbells, the 
Tillerys, and others whose names are ever mentioned with respect.  In 1824, he 
was one of the Commissioners who located the town of Liberty.  During all the 
years since those early days, his life has been one of activity and usefulness, 
and at the service of his friends and the public.  He was, indeed, one of the 
patriarchs of the land, and a noble specimen of those hardy, self-denying, 
adventurous men who, at an early day, cut loose from civilization, and bravely 
pushing into the gloomy depths of the forest, cleared up and made beautiful the 
country we now enjoy.  A conversation with Mr. Estes was always pleasant.  It 
carried the mind back to the fresh and virginal days of Missouri.  It caused 
one, in imagination, to see our fathers painfully tracing their way Westward, 
slowly felling the mighty oaks, and toiling on their little cleared patches of 
ground.  You could observe the small openings in the woods expand into fields, 
residences succeed the stockade forts, and villages take the places of Indian 
lodges.  By an by, you could discover the steamboat urging its way up our great 
river and soon thereafter the keelboats, laden with the rich spoil of mountain 
and of plain, ceased to float down upon the swelling tides of June, and no more 
the old voyageurs made the waters vocal as they went wit airs and melodies that 
breathed of the vines and meadows of France.
No man ever passed through a long life of activity and intercourse with the 
world and preserved a more spotless reputation than Mr. Estes.  He was of 
unsullied private character – pure morals – strict integrity – and undoubted 
veracity.  The writer never heard a disrespectful word said of him.  To his 
friends he was unalterably true, and his enemies – if he had any – feared 
nothing form him but open, manly opposition.  All his ways were those of peace 
and justice.  He was a sincere, practical Christian, not relying on precept 
only, but teaching by example also.  Mr. Estes was remarkable for his modesty, 
gentleness, and reverence for holy things.  During the trying scenes of the war 
no marauder dared to harm the venerable man; his age, his piety, his high 
reputation for honor and truth were to him as a shield, both day and night.  
Never than in him was more beautifully illustrated the truth of the saying – 
“An honest man’s the noblest work of God.”
But he is gone and it is for us to revere his memory.  He died not as the 
wicked and unjust, by violence, but full of years and honors, - surrounded by 
friends and kinsman, - peacefully, and in full possession of his faculties.  He 
had seen his descendants even to the third and fourth generations.  His 
declining years were serene and bright,
“And that which should accompany old age,
As honor, love, obedience, troops of friends.”
He had in more than ordinary degree. In the death of Mr. Estes, those of blood 
with him have lost a loving relative, - his friends an agreeable and 
instructive companion, - his county, a noble citizen, - and long and faithfully 
will they all mourn for him.  D. C. A. 

Sep 25, 1868:
An Old Citizen Dead. – Mr. Robert Cain, one of the oldest and most respected 
citizens of this county, died at his residence on the 14th inst., after a long 
and painful sickness.  Mr. Cain was about seventy-eight years old.  He served 
as a soldier in the war of 1812.  He leaves a wife and several children to 
mourn his loss.  He was a man of irreproachable character and had a host of 
friends.  – Platte City Reveille.

Oct 30, 1868:
Mr. Thomas J. Miller, a very worthy citizen, died on the 20th inst., aged about 
31 years.  He was a native of Maryland, and had resided in this county about 
three years.

An Assassination. – Last evening as Maj. Thomas K. Scott, living near Harlem, 
was going from the kitchen towards the dining room with a lighted candle in his 
hand, some person fired at and killed him almost instantly.  The bullet struck 
him in the back and ranged upwards towards the stomach, but did not come out.  
He fell on his face and expired in about three minutes after he was shot.  He 
never spoke after he was struck, and there are various rumors as to the cause 
of this sad catastrophe.  He was a middle-aged man, and belonged to the 
Colorado Rifles.  He was said to be quarrelsome in disposition and possessed 
many bitter enemies as well as some warm friends.  He had recently quarreled 
with his son-in-law, and the day he was shot hard words were known to have 
passed between them in regard to some property.  He had also had a quarrel with 
some of his neighbors about the use of water on his place.  He also had a 
difficulty with his wife in regard to a separation from her.  Many believe that 
he was murdered for his money, as he was supposed to have quite an amount on 
his person at the time of his death.  The party that fired the shot was tracked 
across the field for some distance, but no other clue or trace of the assassin 
could be found and the jury returned a verdict that the deceased came to his 
death by a pistol shot, fire by some party unknown to them. – Kansas City Times.

Nov 6, 1868:
On the 19th, after short life of suffering, little Benny, infant son of J.M. 
and Fannie McGinniss, aged 10 months and 13 days.
But why do we weep – why are we troubled as those who have no hope.  I know 
that our little sufferer is at rest – that his little robe was long ago washed 
white in the blood of Jesus – that his little hands – which were confined here, 
were let loose, and that he is now numbered with the little Angels at the feet 
of Jesus – that his first accents will be heard around the throne of God – for 
the Saviour said, “of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.”  I feel that I will miss 
him through my journey in life, but the Lord hath given, and has also taken 
away.               Mother.

Terrible Tragedy.
A Father-in –law shoots his son-in-law in the street.
On last Thursday our city was startled by a terrible tragedy which was enacted 
in our streets. Col. Wm. A. Warner, formerly a Colonel of the 18th Kentucky 
U.S. Vols., shot and killed Samuel W. Nutter.  Some two years ago Nutter 
married the daughter of Warner.  From some cause unknown to us, the match 
proved to be an unhappy one.  A Few months ago Mrs. Nutter returned to her 
father’s house near Dover, and began a suit for divorce.  In her bill she 
charged her husband with theft, incest, and other crimes.  Both parties being 
wealthy, and of unquestionable standing in society, the case caused 
considerable gossip.  Mr. Nutter published a pamphlet concerning the divorce 
case, in which he charged Col. Warner with murder, theft, arson, &c., &c., and 
was nearly as severe towards Mrs. Warner.  On Thursday last Col. Warner and Mr. 
Nutter were both in attendance at the fair.  In the evening both came into the 
city.  Mr. Nutter had his sister in the buggy with him.  He drove to Pigott’s 
book store, and got out for a moment, leaving his sister in the buggy.  Col. 
Warner seeing him go in, passed down on the sidewalk to within about forty feet 
of the door, carrying a double barreled shot gun under his arm.  When within 
the distance above named, Nutter stepped out of the store on his way to the 
buggy.  Warner raised his gun and fired at him filling his breast with buckshot 
and killing him instantly.  His sister, frantic with grief and terror, and 
besmeared with her brother’s blood, was an object of universal sympathy.
Deputy Sheriff Hammonds saw Warner approaching, and knowing of the difficulty, 
suspected his object, and ran after him, but unfortunately was but a second or 
two too late to prevent the fatal shot.  He immediately arrested Col. Warner 
and confined him in jail.  The Colonel made no effort to escape, but expressed 
his willingness to abide by the law.  We do not presume to judge this matter.  
Let him have a speedy and impartial trial by a jury of his peers, and we will 
be satisfied with the result.  Both the deceased and the prisoner have many 
warm friends.  Let them join in preventing injustice. – Lexington (Mo.) 
Register.

Nov 13, 1868:
In this county, on the 13th Oct., 1868, Mr. Abijah Stapp, aged 65 years, 7 
months and 28 days.

Nov 20, 1868:
In Platte county, on the 6th inst., Mr. Daniel Carey, aged about 68 years.

Death of Rev. A.P. Williams. – We learn that Rev. A.P. Williams met with an 
accident last Monday evening, at Glasgow, which resulted in death.  His horse 
fell over an embankment, and he was so internally injured that he died in about 
two hours. – Macon Times.

The Platte County Murder –A Terrible Suspicion.
A few days since we gave an account of the murder of Mrs. Marshall and her son 
in Platte county.  Such details as we were able to give were sufficiently 
horrible.  In relation to the bloody deed, we find the following in an exchange:
“The murder of Mrs. Marshall and son, near Barry, in Platte county, has been 
suspected in the person of a son and brother of the deceased.  Suspicion was 
fixing itself so strongly upon him that on Friday evening he left for parts 
unknown.  The authorities are now in search of him.  A reward of $1,500 is 
offered for the murderer.”
A similar statement was made to us some days since by a party in this city, who 
purported to have an intimate knowledge of the family.  But the implication of 
a son in a crime so revolting did not, at the time, fully obtain credence.
The son, charged with the double crime of matricide and fratricide is the elder 
brother of the victim.  It is said that for some time past a gnawing jealousy 
had taken hold of him.  He did not live with his mother, and entertained the 
belief that she intended to bequeath the bulk of her estate to the younger 
brother still at home.  It was, therefore, to put this out of the question, and 
to secure to himself the entire property, that the elder Marshall is charged 
with having committed the revolting crime.
We trust that future developments may discredit the charge.  It is too horrible 
for belief.  – St. Joe Gazette.  

Dec 11, 1868:
The Marshall Murder. – From a private letter From Barry, we clip te following 
in regard to the Marshall murder:  “Wm. A. Marshall was arrested on the morning 
of the 7th, by Deputy Sheriff Hunt, accompanied by a Detective, as is supposed, 
for the murder of John W. Marshall and his mother.  WE have no especial 
information in regard to it, to advise you of.”

Dec 18, 1868:
Mr. Michael Castillo, died at his residence in this city, on Monday morning 
last, aged about 50 years.  He was a most worthy citizen, and his death 
lamented by all who knew him.

Dec 25, 1868:
Died, on the 10th inst., of Diptheria, Samuel C. Lainhart, son of Wm. Lainhart; 
dec’ed, and Polly Lainhart, in his 17th year.
Though but a youth he had lived long enough to endear himself to the circle of 
his acquaintance by whom his memory will be long and fondly cherished, and his 
loss sorely felt by his brothers and sisters of whom he was the youngest, and 
by his aged mother whose darling he was and to whose declining days he promised 
to be the stay and comfort.

Died, in this county on the 11th inst., Mrs. Elizabeth Field, in the 87th year 
of her age.

Mrs. Peggy Ewing, wife of the late Rev. Finis Ewing, died at Pleasant Hill, 
Mo., on the 11th inst., aged ninety-seven years.

Mr. Robt. McCullough, noticed in our last as having had his leg cut off at our 
depot by the wheel of a car passing over it, died at the Arthur House on 
Tuesday last.






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