Clay County MO Archives News.....Deaths in Newspaper 1870
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The Liberty Tribune 1870
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 1870.  Some the deaths did not occur in 
Clay County.  The date of publication is shown prior to the item(s).

.Jan 7, 1870:
Died on the 18th day of December, 1869, of disease of the heart, at his 
residence in Clay county, Mo., Nicholas Moseby, aged 81 years, 11 months, and 
23 days.
The deceased was born in Woodford county, Ky., December 26th, 1787.  Had he 
lived 8 days longer, he would have been 82 years old.  He emigrated to Clay 
county in the year 1829, and ever since that time, he has been a good and an 
honored citizen of this county.  He leaves three children to mourn his loss.  
All of them are citizens of this county, and all of them were at his bedside, 
to soothe him in his dying hour.  In a long and varied life his integrity was 
never questioned.  He was an honest man.  He died at peace with his neighbors 
and with his God.  Peace to his ashes.               H.

Died in this county, on the 27th of Dec., 1869, Sabina, daughter of John L. and 
Mary Clark, aged 1 year 2 months and 18 days.
“The little head will nestle no more
On the downy pillow of snowy white;
And the little feet o’er the silent floor
Will patter no more, as they did before,
From morning till night.
But pillowed upon a softer breast,
The darling little head will be;
And the little feet forever will rest
With Him who said, when the children He blest,
“Let them come unto me.”

Death of Dr. H.S. Major.
Dr. Herman s. Major, died at his residence in this county, on the 23d ult., of 
dropsy of the heart, aged about 40 years.  He had resided in this county for 
about twenty years, and was a thoroughly educated physician, and up to his 
death enjoyed a large and lucrative practice.  He was a public spirited and 
excellent citizen, and his death will be sincerely mourned by a large circle of 
friends and relatives.  He was a member of the Baptist Church.

Jan 14, 1870:
E.B. McPherson, one of the Trustees of the Life Association of America, at 
Boonville, died at his residence last week.  His life was insured for $10,000.

An Old Citizen Dead.  On the 24th ult., Mr. Garland Smith, father of Dr. G.W. 
Smith, of this place, died at his residence in this county, aged about 70 
years.  Mr. Smith was a highly esteemed citizen, and during his long and useful 
life, had attracted to himself many warm friends who will be pained to hear of 
his death, although in the fullness of years.  Platte City Reveille.

Jan 21, 1870:
Died, Jan. 14th, 1870, at the residence of her father, C.C. Trabue, in Clay 
county, Mo., trusting in Jesus as her all sufficient Saviour, Mattie J. Trabue, 
in the 39th year of her age.  Them that sleep with Jesus will God bring with 
Him.

Jan 28, 1870:
Death of Mrs. Lawrence Archer.
By a private letter received in this city, we learn of the death of Mrs. 
Lawrence Archer, at San Jose, California, on New Year’s Eve, of consumption.  
Mrs. Archer (formerly Louisa Martin,) was a daughter of the late Dr. Martin, 
and one among the earliest settlers of St. Joseph.  She came to this city in 
1841; was married to Mr. Archer in 1847; and moved to California in 1852.  She 
was a most estimable lady, and the sad intelligence of her death will be read 
with profound regret by many relatives and friends in this county. – St. Joe 
Gazette.

Death of George d. Prentice.
George D. Prentice, the brilliant journalist, died in Louisville, Ky., on 
Saturday last.  Though Mr. Prentice had been in feeble health for some years, 
and had been prostrated for several weeks, the announcement of his death will 
come with something of a shock to many persons, who as far back as they can 
remember, have associated his name with all that was witty and eloquent and 
pathetic and kind hearted and generous.  There are some men for whose death the 
world is never prepared; and whether they pass away suddenly, like a meteor 
shooting from its place in the heavens, or fade gradually from life into death, 
like the closing glories of the setting summer sun, always, leave a void and a 
sense of darkness behind them; and such a man was George d. Prentice.
For forty years Mr. Prentice had been connected with the press of the country, 
and during all that time had occupied the foremost rank in his profession, and 
had exercised as potent an influence in moulding public opinion and shaping the 
policy of the country as any man not in official position.  In his earlier life 
he was a Whig and a most devoted admirer and follower of Mr. Clay.  At the 
wreck of the Whig party he occupied a conservative position but was not, we 
believe, connected with any party organization.  During the late war he was  
firm Unionist, but after its close, notwithstanding the force of old habits and 
associations, he was driven by the violence of the dominant party, into 
fellowship with the Democracy, and at the time of his death was associated 
editorially with the Louisville Courier-Journal.  Though stricken with years 
and the infirmities of age, his genius flashed out through its columns to the 
last, with much of its youthful brightness and point and splendor.
Though born in New England, there was nothing austere or Puritanical in his 
nature.  In his younger days and while in the prime of life, he was a welcome 
companion in all convivial parties, and at every table where jovial, congenial 
spirits were assembled.  Part philosopher, part historian and part poet, he was 
better fitted to shin among brilliant men, to throw over the wastes of politics 
the brightness and radiance of his genius, and to invest the platitudes of life 
with something of romance and poetry, than to build up a fortune for himself or 
his family; consequently he died poor, and at the time of his death was an 
employee where he had been master and hade ruled with a proud, imperial, noble 
sway. – K.C. Times.

A terrible catastrophe occurred at St. Joseph on th 23d.  A fire broke out in a 
lot of buildings known as the Rosebud Block, on Second street; in half an 
hour’s time five business houses were consumed.  In one of the up-stairs rooms 
a young man named W. Fowler, son of one of our oldest citizens, and a broth-in-
law of Hon. Ben. Loan, was sleeping.  His companion in the room endeavored to 
awaken him, but could not succeed.  AS the building lay a mass of smoking 
ruins, his blackened and charred bones were found in the debris.  The 
catastrophe did not terminate her.  Just before the walls fell in, a number of 
Rescue Hook and Ladder Company, observing the remains of young Fowler, rushed 
in to secure them.  Just then the burning walls came tumbling down, burying a 
number of them under the burning ruins.  Blas Argus, a tinner, whose parents 
reside in Buffalo, N.Y., was dragged out in a dying condition.  He lived only 
about three hours.  A Negro named Wesley Pfeouts was instantly killed.  Frank 
Hill had skull fractured., one arm broken, and was badly burned.  He will 
probably not live through the night.  Jule Sidekum was seriously injured in the 
breast and badly burned.  Fred. Mans was also seriously bruised and burned.  
Wm. Boragesser was severely injured.  Arthur Collmer had a severe blow on the 
skull, and was burned in several places.  The catastrophe has thrown a gloom 
over the city.  Hundreds have visited the ruins during the day.  The engine 
houses are draped in mourning.  The funeral of the young men takes place 
tomorrow, and will be attended by the fire department and a large number of 
citizens.

Feb 4, 1870:
Departed this life on the 26th of Dec., 1869, in Clinton county, Mo., Mrs. 
Martha Shaver, wife of Mr. Archibald Shaver and daughter of John E., and Sarah 
M. Whitsitt, in the 21st years of her age.
Our beloved sister was born and raised in Clay county, Mo., and during the year 
1865 she mad a profession of religion and was baptized into the fellowship of 
the Baptist Church at Crooked River by Elder A.N. Bird.  During the same year, 
and by the writer she was united in the sacred bonds of matrimony to her now 
bereaved husband.  From this church she moved her member ship to Mt. Zion 
church where she won the love and esteem of all, and fell asleep in the arms of 
Jesus.  In all her illness of about five weeks she evinced great patience and 
Christian resignation, till the great Physician visited her and gave relilef 
when the spirit left the “earthly house to be present with the Lord.”  Although 
of rather a cheerful and hopeful nature, she was not a great talker.  As a 
neighbor she was abliging and beloved.  AS a wife and mother she was kind and 
attentive.  Then she will be missed in the community and church, but especially 
in the family where by the husband and little one her voice was so often 
heard.  Her Christian deportment was exemplayr, and testified that she 
had “been with Jesus.”  Just before her illness she said she did not expect to 
live long and expressed a willingness to die and while suffering, said 
she “loved Jesus.”  She then kissed her little babe, took leave of the others 
and soon departed for that rest that “remains to the people of God.”  Her work 
is done here below and is gone to rest from her labors.  A mother, husband and 
brother are left to contend with life’s realities, and like her, to meet the 
last enemy – death.  May I not ask
“Will you meet her beyond the river,
Where the serges cease to roll,
Where in all the bright forever,
Sorrow ne’er shall press the soul?”
She has left tow little children to be cared for.  May heaven bless them!  It 
is very trying to us to give up those we love, but we should bow to the will of 
Him that doeth all things well, for they that die in the Lord will meet 
where “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no 
more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; 
for the former things are past away.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love.
T. Montgomery.

Died at the residence of her father, Mr. Jno. S. Huston, in Missouri City, on 
the 14th of January, 1870, Mrs. Carrie Adams, consort of T.S. Adams, aged 28 
years.

In Columbia, on the 26th inst., of whooping cough, Lucy Emma, daughter of 
Michael and Maggie A. Lawler, aged 1 year, 10 months and 24 days.
“suffer little children to come unto me.”

Died, at this residence near Smithville, in this county, of consumption, John 
W. Byrd, aged 33 years, 3 months and 11 days.  

Dr. Benjamin Dudley, one of the most distinguished surgeons in the United 
States, died suddenly at Lexington, Ky., on the 19th inst. at the advanced age 
of 85 years.

Feb 11, 1870:
Obituary. – Departed this life January 8th, 1870, George W. Walker, child of 
Edward and Elizabeth Walker, aged three years, three months and ten days.
At any age in life, death is a solemn event. To see the aged man die, calls for 
feelings, of holy reverence; to see the strong man die, fixes deep emotion in 
the soul; to see the young man die, arouses the tender sympathy of all hearts; 
but to see a little child die, produces feelings that those only know, who have 
gazed, with pitying eyes, into the face of the little sufferer; or to whose 
bosom  the fond child can be pressed no more, on whose ears the prattling 
words, shall fall no more, on earth.  Little George is gone!  The Savior, who 
said while on earth, “Suffer little children to come unto me, has taken him to 
his bosom.  He, who took little children in his arms, and blessed them has 
received George, and the little child on whom parents and grandparents, looked 
with fond hearts, and around whose little bed they spent sleepless nights, is 
freed from all suffering, and from his home among the Angels, calls on those 
below to meet him above.             A. N. B. 

At Pilot Grove, Cooper county, Mo., on the 22d of Jan., 1870 of Pneumonia, Wm. 
French, son of James s. and M.A. Coleman, in the 14th year of his age.
His maker called the fair bud from the vine,
And we sigh for the one, the loved one, we find,
‘Tis ours to submit – he’s now with the blest,
In the arms of the Saviour, seeking his rest.      C.

Died in this county, on the 31st ult., of Pneumonia, William H. Russell, aged 
about 48 years.  

Homicide.
Samuel H. and Elisha Calvin Cameron, two brother, aged respectively eighteen 
and sixteen years, were arrested on last Wednesday evening by Sheriff 
McPhetridge together with a number of other gentlemen, who had followed these 
young adepts in crime from Stewartsville to this point, about two miles South-
east of Plattsburg, for the murder of their Step-father, F.B. Harrington, who 
lived abut twelve miles North-west of Stewartsville, in DeKalb county, in this 
State.
The facts in the case, as we learn them from the boys themselves, are about as 
follows:
The elder brother has been living in Clay county for about a years, while the 
younger lived with his step-father until last Friday, when he left home and 
went to Clay county, where his brother was living.  After getting together they 
both returned to Stewartsville on Tuesday morning last and left there for their 
step-father’s about 10 o’clock that day, arriving at their destination late in 
the afternoon.
They were at home but a very short time, when the difficulty commenced.  The 
boys state that their step-father threatened them very severely, stating he 
would shoot them before sun down if they did not get off the place, and at the 
same time attempted to draw his hand out of his pocket, when the elder brother 
fired two shots and the younger four, when the old man fell, dying almost 
instantly.  After this they left, and were shortly afterwards arrested by a 
party in DeKalb county, who guarded them during the night, but supposing he had 
no authority to make the arrest, released them on Wednesday morning when they 
struck out for Plattsburg on their way back to Clay county.
They seemed to keep the main highway on their return from DeKalb to Clay, and 
certainly had no idea they would be followed, or at all contemplated the 
consequences of the grave offence they had committed.
They were lodged in our County jail last Wednesday night, and on Thursday 
morning were turned over to the authorities of DeKalb and were taken to that 
county to undergo a preliminary examination.

Feb 18, 1870:
Died, on the 14th inst., at the residence of his father, near this city, in the 
prime of early manhood, Portius E. Denny.
The beautiful tree full of blossoms is blown down.  He was indeed a young man 
of excellent promise, and, before the disease which hurried him to the grave, 
fastened upon him, his friends fondly anticipated for him a career of extensive 
usefulness.  He possessed a mind which indicated a susceptibility for high 
culture and especially a heart “in whose sacred cell the peaceful virtues loved 
to dwell.”
In all relations of life he sustained he has left an example worthy of 
imitation, as a son dutiful and affectionate, as a brother kind and tender, as 
a friend true and self sacrificing, as a student, diligent and accurate, as a 
member of the church ever, when able, at his post.  In the circle in which he 
moved he has left a vacuum not easy to be filled.  In his long affliction he 
was resigned and patient, exercising, even unto death, an unshaken faith in 
Jesus as his assured and all sufficient Saviour.  In his early departure, we 
are forcibly reminded of the fact that death has all seasons for its own.  It 
gives emphasis to the divine admonition.  Be ye also ready for in such an hour 
as ye think not the Son of Man cometh.  From the grave of his youth, there 
seems to come a voice saying –
“Farewell to all my earthly friends,
Ye also soon must die,
Be ready when your Saviour sends, 
To meet his in the sky.”:

Death of John J. Roe of Apoplexy.
St. Louis, Feb. 12. – John J. Roe, senior partner of John J. Roe, & Co., died 
suddenly this afternoon, about 4 o’clock, of apoplexy.  
Mr. Roe was on Change at noon, in good health.  At 2 o’clock, he attended the 
election of directors of the State Savings Association, of which he was 
President.  AT 3 o’clock, he attended a meeting of the directory, of the 
Memphis Packet Company, of which he was Vice-President and after chatting about 
an hour on business matters, he suddenly fell backward, gasping for breath, and 
died before physicians could reach him.
Mr. Roe was one of the most prominent and enterprising men in the city, and his 
death will create a void in business and social circles that will be difficult 
to fill.  He came from Ohio about thirty years ago, was for a long time 
connected with the river interests, and commanded several fine steamers.  
Subsequently he engaged in mercantile pursuits, amassing a fortune of about 
three million dollars, and was known throughout the Union as one of the largest 
provision operators in the country.
He was sixty-one years old, and leaves a wife and two children.

Feb 25, 1870:
Died, at her residence on Thursday, February 17th, 1870, Mrs. Lucinda Estes, 
wife of the late Henry H. Estes, in the 71st year of her age.

Died in Missouri City, on the 17th inst., Mary J. Huston, consort of J.S. 
Huston, in her 54th year. 

A Sad Case – A Body Found Imbedded in the Sand.
Some two months since, says the Weston Landmark, we learned from Mr. Mat Dale 
that his brother, Uriah Dale, was missing.  His absence could not be accounted 
for.  His brother knowing that he was often subject to what is commonly known 
as the “blues,” and at times subject to aberration of mind, was fearful that 
the missing man had committed suicide.  Having been last seen in the vicinity 
of Bee Creek, search was made by many of the neighbors and friends in the 
waters of said creek, but no traces could be found of the unfortunate man.  His 
continued absence caused the family of Mr. Mat Dale much uneasiness and sorrow, 
for they lived in the constant dread of hearing that their worst fears would be 
realized, I.e., that their relative had lost his life whilst reason had left 
its throne.  On Sunday last the body was found near the mouth of Platte River. 
It was brought to Platte City, and upon the coroner’s inquest it was found to 
be the body of Mr. Uriah Dale, identified by his brother, by his clothing and 
by papers found on his person.  The body was found imbedded in the sand at or 
near the bank of the river, partially covered with water.  it had lodged there 
in the drift wood and was frozen in the sand and mud.
It was a sad and pitiful object, the form of the man, but the features covered 
with mud and sand so as not to be distinguishable.  After the inquest the body 
was taken charge of by the relatives of the deceased and properly interred.  
Mr. Dale has the sympathy of the community in this sad bereavement.

Mar 11, 1870:
The Small Pox. – We learn that Mr. James Calvert, well known in this county, 
died of the small pox, in Kansas City a few days ago.  A brother who was with 
him when he died and who returned to Weston, now has the dread disease.  Thus 
far Platte City is exempt from its ravages, but we repeat our injunction to 
vaccinate. – Platte City Reveille.

We regret to hear that Col. John Wilder, editor of the Kansas City Journal, was 
shot and killed on Wednesday by a man by the name of Hutchinson.  We have no 
particulars beyond the fact that the difficulty originated about a lady.  Col. 
w. was a man of fine talents, polished and sociable in his intercourse with his 
fellow citizens, and as an editor had few superiors.  We deplore his untimely 
death.

Joseph Persinger – One of the earliest and one of the most distinguished 
pioneers died at his residence in Boone county, on Saturday, February 19th, 
1870, aged 85 years.

Mar 18, 1870:
Tribute of Respect.
Died near Liberty, on the 13th of February, 1870, Portius E. Denny, formerly a 
student of Westminster College.
The Philologic Society, upon receiving intelligence of Mr. Denny’s death, 
appointed a committee to draft resolutions expressive of their feelings.
About a year ago the slow, but fatal disease, consumption, laid hold of his 
healthy, vigorous form, and now he rests in the silent grave, its victim.  
While with sorrow we record his death, we rejoice in the belief that he found 
rest in the Savior, and,
“From his cell of clay
He burst a seraph in the blaze of day.”
Whereas, It hath pleased God in his infinite wisdom and goodness to remove from 
us one so loved and honored; be it 
Resolved, That the Society has lost one of it most active, talented and zealous 
members; and the church an earnest and devoted Christian.
Resolved, That we tender our heartfelt sympathies to his parents in their deep 
sorrow and affliction, and offer consolation in the words – 
“When by a good man’s grave I muse alone,
Methinks an angel sits upon the stone;
Like those of old on that thrice hallowed night
Who sat and watched in raiment heavenly bright;
And, with a voice inspiring joy, not fear,
Says pointing upward, that he is not here,
That he is risen.”
Resolved, That though it is hard to give up one so promising, and in the bloom 
of youth, we should resignedly say, “the Lord gave, the Lord hath taken away, 
blessed by the name of the Lord.”
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to his parents, and 
publication be given them in the Fulton Telegraph and St. Louis Presbyterian.
H.S. Priest,  G.S. Hoss,  T.W. Howison, Committee.

A Veteran Gone---A Disfranchised Citizen at Rest.
From the Nodaway Democrat we copy the following:
A few weeks ago there died, in the northeastern part of our county, one who 
well deserved the name of veteran; Mr. Isaac Dawes, aged 107 years.  In his 
youthful ears had rung the shouts, that resounding throughout the colonies in 
fierce denunciation of the Stamp Act, formed the first open expression of 
public indignation, which a few years later culminated in the Declaration of 
Independence.  His boyhood was passed amid those scenes of patriotism and self-
sacrifice that made “Old ‘76” an epoch whose counterpart will probably never 
again illuminate history.  Removing at an early age to Kentucky, he passed his 
young manhood amid those thrilling dramas that have brought the history of 
the “Dark and Bloody Ground” down to our day, tinged with a hue of romance that 
makes the early records of Kentucky seem to us almost mythical.  The associate 
and comrade in arms of Daniel Boone, Kenton, Clarke and Harlan, the old man has 
seen all lay down to die, and while the grass grew green above their resting 
places, and they slumbered on, unmindful of the giant progress of the young 
nation over whose tender infancy they had often-times stood guard so 
desperately, our humble veteran has seen the accumulated wonders of the 
nineteenth century.  His boyhood passed amid the struggles of the Revolution 
that set us free; his second childhood with tottering footsteps drawing near 
the tomb, amid the crushing thunders of the second Revolution which has made us 
graves again.  And in its weeping proscriptions that second Revolution enslaved 
the veteran with the rest.  He had voted for every President from George 
Washington down to the election of 1864.  But when the farce of the 4th of 
November, ’68 came to be enacted, and the old man sought once more to lift up 
his feeble voice, to add his mite to the control of the nation he had helped to 
rear, they told him he could not vote.  Free Missouri had disfranchised him!  
The Constitution he had defended ninety years ago, could not protect him now.  
The liberty he had fought to gain, was denied him as he sought to enjoy once 
more before the tomb closed over him.
The second revolution had taken from the veteran of the first his sacred 
rights.  Radicalism had snatched from the dying lips of the old man, the 
precious draught of liberty that would have made his deathbed happy, and caused 
his last breath to bless the land that should have cherished him.  But he was a 
rebel.  A rebel in ’76 – that was immortality.  A rebel in ’60 – that was 
crime.  such Radicalism.  

Apr 1, 1870:
Died, at the residence of her father, on Friday, the 25th March, 1870, from the 
effects of her clothes being burned off her, Miss Sallie Bell Craig, aged 17 
years, 11 months.
Just at the period when life’s way was strewn with flowers and the future 
bright with hope, one, young, lovely, amiable, kind and affectionate, beloved 
and respected by all who knew her, the pride of brothers’ love and the idol of 
a kind father’s heart, is snatched from us by the relentless hand of death, 
amid tortures inexpressible, and transplanted among the flowers of Eden, as 
fair as the fairest – a jewel in the Crown of Him who hath redeemed us – there 
to bloom in Eternal Spring.
“Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep
From which none ever wake to weep,
A calm and undisturbed repose
Unbroken by the last of foes.”         Camille.

Apr 8, 1870:
Died, in this county, on the 4th inst., of consumption, Lizzie, daughter of 
Thos. Field, aged 17 years, 1 month and 4 days.

Obituary. – Died, on the 18th of March, at his residence in Liberty, Mo., 
Daniel Huff, in the twenty-eight year of his age.  though afflicted for several 
years, with that dread disease consumption, he was only confined to his bed one 
month previous to his death.  How sweet must be his rest now, freed from his 
long imprisonment in this temple of affliction.  He is dead – we can scarcely 
convince ourselves of the crushing reality.  These are dark, sad thought, under 
which the heart would break and reason totter, had we not a brighter picture, 
and the assurance that he has but been taken from a life of suffering to one of 
perfect bliss.   Oh! how could the heart endure the pang of separation, were it 
not for the sweet confidence, that he sleeps in Jesus and we will soon meet him 
in “that happy land” to part no more.  He bore his illness with patience, 
talked of death with composure, and often begged of us not to weep for him, but 
prepare to meet him in Heaven.  He was perfectly conscious of his departure, 
and entirely resigned to the will of his heavenly Father.  Thus peacefully and 
tranquilly he leaned his head upon Jesus’ breast, and “breathed his life out 
sweetly there.”  So has passed calmly away from the changing scenes of earth, 
one dear to our hearts.  He was a kind, devoted husband and brother, and loved 
by all who knew him.
Death’s angel came, I stretched my hand,
And held so close and strong,
My only one, who was to stand
By me, my whole life long.

But death was stronger, so he gained
The victory o’er me’
And when the spring-moon faintest waned,
It paler grew to see.

My dead love held in my embrace,
While I so vainly strove,
With kisses on his dear, dear face,
To win him back, my love!

The little birds on this spring day sweet
With melody fill the air;’
O, angel death; take me to meet
My angel love, so fair!

Thou art gone, my sweet and lovely spirit mate, to thy high home mid the 
glorious stars, where partings are unknown, and farewells never spoken.  But 
well I know that thy sweet spirit in my lonely hours, when life is but one 
mournful memory, will often stoop from its own home to me, and clasp me within 
its bright angelic wings.  And I know that in my closing hour of life, when the 
last pulse is fluttering in my veins, and the last gleam is fading in my eyes, 
thou wilt be there to bear me company to the bright realms of thy own Paradise; 
and teach me my first flight upon the new wings of my immortality. 

Andrew J. Thompson, a teacher of penmanship, died a few days since at Bethany, 
Missouri.  He had a life policy for 5000 dollars in his trunk, and is supposed 
to have two sisters living in Maryland.

Apr 22, 1870:
Death of Gen. Rust. – Gen Albert Rust, of Arkansas, died on his plantation near 
Little Rock in that State on Monday night, the 4th inst., of inflammation of 
the brain.  He served two terms in congress before the war, and when the war 
broke out he raised a regiment in his State and took it to Virginia, where it 
formed part of Jackson’s firs “Stonewall brigade.”  He was an opponent of 
secession and a supporter of Douglas in the controversy that immediately 
preceded the war.  He will be remembered as the member of congress who 
assaulted Horace Greeley in Washington in 1858 for some reflections on his 
character contained in a letter to the Tribune.

May 6, 1870:
Died in this county, on 27th of April, 1870, Nancy Ruth Harrington, daughter of 
Thos. and Sarah Harrington, in the 13th year of her age.

Died in this county, on the 1st inst., Mrs. Louise Wood, wife of Judge Wood, 
and daughter of the late Wm. Duncan.  She was a consistent member of the 
Christian Church for many years.  “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall 
see God.”

At 12 o’clock Monday night forty men took John and Levi thy out of the Glasgow 
jail and hung them.  The death of young Proctor and James at the hands of these 
men, while assisting the sheriff to arrest them, so exasperated the community 
that they took the law in their own hands and lynched the murderers.

Dispatches from Helena, Montana, give a description of summary punishment which 
was meted out to two robbers and attempted murderers, on the 2d, in that city, 
as follows: This morning, Monday, May 3d, a meeting of citizens was called to 
decide what should be done with the prisoners.  A.L. Compton and Jas. Wilson, 
who had been identified by Lisehart, the man they robbed and attempted to kill 
on the night of the 17th.  District Judge Summers first addressed the meeting, 
and strongly protested against any interference with civil law, said that the 
time for vigilance committees had passed, and advised the people to disperse.  
The meeting was then addressed by some leading citizens, who said it was 
necessary to strike terror to the rest of the band known to exist at this time, 
and advised that immediate action be taken in the case.  A Committee of twenty-
four was selected to try the case, and the prisoners came before this committee 
and confessed their crime.  A more cool and premeditated robbery and murder 
could not have been planned.  AT 2 p.m. the Committee reported both guilty.  
They were sentenced to be hung at four thirty p.m., and over three thousand 
people were congregated at the Hangman’s Retreat at 5 p.m.  The wagon on which 
the prisoners stood with the rope about their necks, was driven from under 
them, and frontier justice was satisfied.  The citizens’ meeting was not a 
vigilance committee, but was composed of the best citizens of the country.  The 
whole affair was conducted in a most quiet but determined manner, no one 
questioning the justice both of the trial and verdict.

May 13, 1870:
Died, in this county on the 28th ult., Mrs. Lucretia Brasfield, widow of the 
late Leonard Brasfield, aged 79 years.

John Corby, an old and prominent citizen of St. Joseph died a few days ago.

Suicide. – We regret to announce that Mr. Wm. W. Donaldson, (generally 
called “Dick”) committed suicide by hanging himself on Sunday night last in an 
out house.  No caue is known for the rash deed.  He occasionally drank to 
excess, but for some time had been entirely sober.  He was an industrious and 
well-to-do farmer, and stood high with those who knew him.  He was unmarried, 
and aged about 35 years.

Died. – At the residence of his son, Miles Harrington in this county, on the 
3rd inst., of dyspepsia, William Harrington, aged eighty two.  Mr. Harrington 
was born in North Carolina, and moved to the Territory of Missouri in 1815.  He 
was one of the first settlers of the “Platte Purchase,” and was for several 
years one of the Justices of the County Court of Buchanan County.  
The deceased served under Doniphan in the Mexican war.  Full of years and 
leaving behind him the record of a well spent life, the old pioneer has gone to 
his rest. – Weston Landmark.

Jun 17, 1870:
Mr. Wm. Lane, of Lewis county, Mo., died at the residence of Dr. Dougherty, on 
Tuesday last, of consumption.  He was aged about 31 years, and was a cousin to 
Lewis and O.F. Dougherty, Esqrs.  His remains were taken to Lewis county for 
interment.

Charles Dickens, the great English novelist, died last week of apoplexy.

Jun 24, 1870:
Mr. S.S. Porter, died at his residence in this county on the 15th, aged 75 
years and 19 days.  He had been a citizen of Clay county about 26 years, and 
sustained an unimpeachable character.  One by one our patriarchs are passing to 
the “bourne from whence no traveler returns.”

Death of James A. Hutchinson. – James A. Hutchinson, who was to have been tried 
at the next term of our County Court for the killing of Col. wilder, died about 
5 o’clock this morning, at his residence in this city.  His disease was 
pneumonia, contracted about four days ago.  We will not refer to the difficulty 
which resulted in the death of Col. Wilder, as it would benefit no one, and 
only tend to aggrieve the innocent.  We will simply say that he who was charged 
with manslaughter by the Grand Jury of Jackson county, has taken an appeal to 
the court of last resort in the Universe, where we must all finally be judged 
for the deeds done in the body. – Kansas City Evening News.

Jul 1, 1870:
Died, in this city on the 28th ult., of Dropsy, Frederick Gwinner, aged about 
50 years.

Jul 8, 1870:
Gwinner.
Frederick Augustus Gwinner was born near Bethlehem, in Northampton County, 
Pennsylvania, October 2d, 1817 – and was at the time of his death, fifty-two 
years – eight months and twenty-six days old.
His father, Peter Gwinner, was Prothonotary of his county, and in this office 
young Frederick acquired his habits as a draftsman.  His mother who is well 
remembered by the old citizens of Liberty, was of a literary turn of mind, the 
last years of her life being spent entirely with books.  Her son Frederick 
inherited to a great degree her literary tastes.   
After having changed schools several times, on account of his fondness for 
practical jokes, he finally graduated at  -------  College in his native State, 
after that time he spent some time writing in his father’s office and reading 
history.
He then commenced the study of the law with Hon. Thos. -----, and read the 
entire legal course wit him; receiving his license to practice in 1839.  The 
following year, he removed to Liberty, Mo., and excepting a trip to the South, 
the remainder of his life was here.
During the year 1843, he was married to Miss Almeria Tillery, daughter of the 
late Samuel Tillery, for many years the Circuit Clerk of Clay county.
Only once during his life, did he indulge his literary inclinations in 
authorship.  “George Mannering or Scenes and Incidents in the Great West” was 
the result.  This capital story was published in a literary paper then 
published in St. Louis – and was awarded a premium.
It did not gain for the author an immortality, but it demonstrated that he 
might have gained an immortality, had he devoted the entire energies of his 
mind to that pursuit.
In the zenith of his career as a lawyer, he met at the bar such men as Gen. 
Hughes, Col. Doniphan, Judges Ryland – Atchison, &c, and he was the 
acknowledged peer of them all.  In consummate skill as a pleader, it is not too 
much to say, that he had no equal at the bar.
In those early times, congeniality was the rule and the intoxicating bowl the 
medium of social enjoyment.  Mr. Gwinner yielded to his temptation because his 
heart was too kind and his nature too genial to resist.  What he first indulged 
in from geniality, he afterwards submitted to from the inexorable law of 
habit.  This habit threw a cloud over the last years of his life.
His last illness, he bore patiently and even cheerfully.  Every relief which 
medical skill or the watchfulness of friends could furnish, was administered to 
him.  He died surrounded by his relatives, his professional brethren and his 
friends.  He leaves a son, now in the U.S. Navy with the South Atlantic 
Squadron – who is well known to our people.  He leaves also an only brother – 
Henry W. Gwinner – of the Penn. Central R.R. – who with his kind lady was with 
him during his last illness.
Though here on a mission of mercy they won golden opinions of our people, and 
as they returned to their home in sorrow, their hearts were lightened by the 
cordial sympathy of all who met them.
According to an expressed wish, Mr. Gwinner was buried in the old cemetery by 
the side of his wife and mother.  Peace to his ashes.        H.

Jul 15, 1870:
Wm. Ridgway died at his residence near Columbia, on the 29th ult., aged 85 
years.  He had resided where he died 52 years.

Jul 22, 1870:
Corpse of a man found dead in a log.
On last Sunday morning a little boy named Baldwin made a horrible discovery 
near the house of Mr. Humphrey, at Daniel’s branch, on the road leading from 
Platte City to Farley.  Near the road the boy was attracted by the curious 
actions of his dog; upon making an examination, the head and arm of a man were 
seen protruding from a hollow log.  Of course, the boy gave the alarm, and soon 
a number of persons had collected upon the spot.  The inquest held by Coroner 
Wilkinson the next day revealed the following facts:
The deceased person was James T. Clardy, aged twenty-seven years, son of Mr. 
Clardy, who resides near Smithville.  A post mortem examination of the body 
showed a bullet hole through the center of the forehead, no other wounds being 
observed.  Near the body lay a pistol (a Remington navy), which was identified 
as belonging to the deceased.  Two of the chambers were empty and the guard was 
bent.  Underneath the body in the tree was found the pocket-book of the 
deceased, open and empty, although it is said that he had money on his person 
when last seen by his friends.  A few paces distant down the branch was found 
the hat of the murdered man.  The body was dressed in heavy clothes.  The 
pantaloons were pushed up nearly to the top of the boots, evidently by the 
effort to put the body in the log, and the right hand was off and missing.  In 
the pockets of the clothes were found a watch, and various letters and papers, 
which served to identify the deceased.  One of the letters was addressed to his 
wife, stating that he expected to have a difficulty with Israel, and that when 
they met one or the other would be killed.  In anticipation of death, he bade 
her an affectionate farewell.  It seems impossible that any one man could have 
thus stuffed the body into the log, and it is evident that death was not the 
result of suicide.  Israel Heath, who would seem to be implicated by the letter 
referred to , is well known as an honorable and highly respected citizen – 
lately removed to some point in Kansas.  Those who know him will be loth to 
think him guilty of such a crime.  Clardy disappeared about the last of March 
or the first of April.  The last seen of him alive being when he left the 
residence of his mother-in-law, Mrs. Prior, about that time, with the intention 
of going to see his father near Smithville.  Being involved in debt, when his 
disappearance first created concern, it was thought that he had fled the 
country.  The Coroner’s jury returned a verdict that the deceased came to his 
death by a pistol shot, at the hands of person to them unknown.  such simply 
are the facts as obtained from the Coroner, and other persons who were present 
at the inquest.  The murder is veiled in mystery, and presents features of the 
coolest atrocity.  We might draw a thousand inferences from the thousand 
reports in circulation in regard to the probable cause and the murderer, but 
for the present and until further developments are made, we must satisfy our 
reades with only the simple facts of the affair. – Platte City Reveille.

Jul 29, 1870:
Tribute.
Died in Junction City, Davis county, Kansas, on Monday, July 11th, of 
congestion of the brain, Mary Ann, youngest daughter of John and Martha 
Leonard, of this City.  The deceased was a beautiful little girl of 8 years and 
6 months, and her death has been a sad stroke to her bereaved parents, and her 
little brother and two remaining sisters, but the Lord called her, and the 
little Angel took wings and her, spirit took flight to Him, to join the 
heavenly band of Choristering Angels.  It was a beautiful but sorrowful sight 
to see her spirit depart this vale of tears, with that last fond word, “Good 
Bye.”
Her remains were brought to this City, on Wednesday, 20th, and interred in the 
new Cemetery, followed by a concourse of friends.
My spirit star, so pure, so bright,
Fair Gem of priceless worth!
Day is not day, and light not light,
Since thou has left the earth.
Thy tender smile would lead me on,
When wandering afar;
But now I falter, thou art gone,
My pure, my spirit star!

My spirit star in heaven above,
With bright and cheering ray,
Beam down upon me with thy love,
And make my darkness day,
In dream-land oft I see thee near,
And naught my joy can mar
When thou art shining bright and clear
My pure, my spirit star!

My spirit star, my spirit star,
Shine down upon me from afar;
My life is drear, thou art not near,
My spirit Star, my Mary dear!


Col D.H. Buel, commanding the arsenal at Fort Leavenworth, was murdered about 
ten o’clock on the night of the 25th.  He had just returned with his wife and 
child from Gen. Sturgis’ where he had been spending the evening and had passed 
in the gate at home when some one concealed in the shrubbery shot and almost 
instantly killed him.  A soldier, named J.M. Melone is supposed to be the 
murderer.  A large reward is offered for his capture.

Mrs. Mary A. Laidlaw, widow of the late Wm. Laidlaw, a celebrated mountain 
trader of thirty years past, and who owned and improved the farm on which Mr. 
Leavell now lives, died in this city on the 1st June, 1870.  She was aged 63 
years, and was of the Sioux tribe of Indians – having married Mr. Laidlaw in 
the mountains.  She had resided in this county about thirty years and was a 
most estimable lady.  She raised a large family who were highly educated and 
accomplished.  

Mrs. Sallie Neat, mother of our countyman Geo. W. Neat, died in Lexington on 
the 17th inst., in the 69th year of her age.  

Aug 5, 1870:
On the 27th of July, at Missouri City, James F., son of Willis and Eliza 
Simonds, aged 6 years and 9 months.

Mrs. Judith d. Faucett, wife of Mr. Bracken Faucett, aged about 38 years, died 
in Claysville on the 6th July.  She was a most estimable lady, and her decease 
deeply regretted by her many acquaintances.  Gently rest the mounded sod upon 
her breast.

Mr. Isaac Holt lost his wife a few days since.

Col. Rice B. Davenport, an old and honored citizen of Clay county, died on 
Saturday last.  He was aged 73 years, and served in the Black hawk War, and 
against the Indians in Iowa, and settled in Clay county forty-five years ago.  
His numerous friends scattered over the west will hear of his death with deep 
regret.

Mrs. Mary Quisenberry died in Richmond, Mo., last week, at the advanced age of 
94 years.

Aug 12, 1870:
Died, in this city, August 5th, 1870, at the residence of Dr. J.T. Marsh, after 
many months severe suffering, Mrs. Elvina Pence, aged 62 years, 5 months 17 
days.
Again has death visited our household and taken from our midst one dear as a 
mother, our beloved Aunt, for none know better than the motherless nieces 
entrusted to her care, how faithfully she has supplied to us the place of a 
mother.  She had been greatly afflicted for many years but fo the last eight 
months of her life, she suffered the most intense pain, never having one 
moments ease except under the influence of opiates.  Weary with her sufferings, 
death came not to her as an unwelcome messenger.  It makes us very sad to think 
that no more on earth shall we see her dear dace, no more listen to her words 
of advice and counsel, but we should remember that our loss is her eternal 
gain.  She is at home now, at home with her Savior where she will suffer no 
more pain or death, but where all will be peace and joy forever.
Asleep in Jesus! blessed sleep,
From which none ever wake to weep.            E.

From Missouri City News:
A lady by the name of Bucks was killed by the cars passing over her, on Friday 
night last.  It is not known whether she placed herself upon the track for the 
purpose of death or stopped to rest and fell asleep.

Tribute of Respect.
Hall Arcacia Lodge No 289, A.F. & A.M.,
Gosneyville, July 31, A.L. 5870.
At a called meeting of Acacia Lodge No. 289 A.F. & A.M., on the 31st, the 
following preamble and resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, It has pleased the Supreme Architect of the Universe to summons from 
his labors upon earth our beloved Brother Rice B. Davenport, calling him by His 
Omnipotent will to that Judgement which awaits all who are toiling in this 
earthly temple; and
Whereas, The Masonic ties which have so long bound him to the fraternity in 
mutual friendship, are severed no more to be reestablished until the day when 
the grave shall yield up its dead.
Therefore – 
Resolved, That we sincerely mourn this disruption of covenanted friendship, 
bearing in tender remembrance his fidelity to Masonry and his devotion to the 
principles it inculcates.
Resolved, That we earnestly sympathise with the relatives and friends of our 
deceased Brother, and tender them that consolation which the world can neither 
give nor take away, and that we will wear the usual badge of mourning for the 
space of thirty days.
Resolved, That a copy of the above preamble and resolutions be furnished to the 
family of our deceased Brother, and published in the journals of Clay county.  
B.F. Records, W.M.               J.H. Stout, Sec’ry.

Aug 19, 1870:
Munificent Bequests. – We have already announced the death, in this place on 
the 24th July, of Mrs. Mary E. Allen widow of the late Robert M. Allen, 
deceased, and daughter of our venerable friend Elder T.M. Allen.  She made a 
will leaving her brother, Col. W.H. Allen of the firm of Allen, Maupin & Co., 
family grocery merchants sole executor.  By her will she made several 
munificent bequests, among them the following:  to the chair of sacred 
literature of Bethany, Va., College, $3,000; to the orphan asylum of Camden 
Point, Mo., $3,000; to Christian College, Columbia, Mo., $300.  She also 
provided that on the collection of a certain $4,000 note, due in three years, 
each of the institutions named is to be paid $500 additional.  Columbia 
Statesman.

Sep 2, 1870:
Deaths. – On the 14th , Charles, son W.B. and V.A. Dale, aged 3 ys, 8ms.

On the 23d inst., Miss Mollie Woods, aged 27 years.

On the 25th inst., Mary, infant daughter of Dr. W.J. and M.E. Yates, aged 1 yr, 
3 ms and 5 day.  All of Clay co.

Suicide of a Clay County Man.
Thos. B. Harris, formerly of Clay county, Mo., committed suicide at Ralston, 
New Mexico, on the 9th inst.  On his person was found a note, of which the 
following is a copy: “Aug. 7th. – I committed this act for reasons best known 
to myself.  I wish my  mines to lay as they are until some of my friends can 
write to Overton G. Harris, Liberty, Clay county, Mo.”
Mr. O.G. Harris is a brother to the deceased, and was in town the other day 
preparatory to starting to New Mexico.  The suicide mania is inexplicable.  It 
is confined to no class, its subjects are found in every walk of life.  

Sep 9, 1870:
Died in Plattsburg on the 24th ult., Charlie, infant son of I.N. and Fannie 
Hockaday, aged 13 months.

Sep 16, 1870:
Mr. E.P. Moore, an old citizen of Clay county, died near Missouri City on the 
14th inst.

Died in Liberty on the 6th Sept. Birdie, infant daughter of Charles and Mary M. 
Whitney, aged 10 months.

By Killed.
Jimmie Carroll, a lad about 13 years old, was killed by a train of cars on the 
Han. & St. Joe R.R., one mile north of Kearney, Clay county.  He left Liberty 
Sunday evening.  He would not pay his fare and was put off at Kearney – got on 
a freight train and was put off at the water tank where he was killed – in 
attempting to get on a passing train.  His father lives in St. Joseph.  

Sep 23, 1870:
Died, in Macon county, on the 9th isn’t., Mr. Robt. M. Snell, aged 77 years 3 
months and 15 days.  He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and in the battle of 
the River Raisin.

Died, in this county on the 18th inst., after a protracted illness, Miss 
Benetta Rouse, daughter of Mr. Ezekiel Rouse, aged about 17 years.
“It cannot be, each hope, each fear,
That lights the eye, or clouds the brow,
Proclaims there is a happier sphere
Than this bleak world that holds us now.
There is a voice which sorrow hears,
When heaviest weighs life’s galling chains,
‘Tis heaven that whispers. ‘Dry thy tears,
The pure in heart shall meet again.’”

We deeply regret to announce the death of Mrs. Mary E. Ferguson, wife of Mr. 
James Ferguson, of Columbia, and formerly of this city.  She died on the 19th 
inst., aged 46 years, 6 months and 7 days.  She was a most estimable lady, a 
true Christian and highly accomplished, and her death will be lamented by a 
large circle of relatives and friends.  WE extend to the bereaved family the 
heartfelt sympathies of this community in this the hour of their great and 
irreparable affliction.  There is no calamity to a family like that of the 
death of a wife and mother. 

Death of Mrs. Phebe Tillery.
Mrs. Phebe Tillery, widow of the late Samuel, for so many years Clerk of the 
Clay circuit court, died at the residence of her son-in-law G.W. Dresslaer, in 
Eastport, Iowa, on the 14th inst.  Her remains were brought to this city and 
interred on the 16th.  Mrs. T. was one of the oldest residents of Clay county, 
and she sustained through life the confidence and love of all who knew her.  
She had been for nearly a quarter of a century a member of the Baptist Church, 
and she died as on the Christian can.  She was 70 years of age.

A Foul Murder. – The Kansa City Journal of Commerce says that on Saturday 
evening last, an industrious and worthy young man named Arthur Bailey, was 
killed by three Negroes, on Independence Avenue.  He had for some time lived on 
a farm owned by his brother, who is Clerk of the Clay county circuit court.  
Young Bailey was in the habit of visiting the city, and sometimes took a little 
too much liquor, and such was his condition the night of his murder.  On 
leaving the grocery store of Mrs. Harper, he fell in with three drunken 
Negroes, a quarrel ensued, and one of them killed him with a rock. – The 
Negroes have been arrested.

Sep 30, 1870:
Died, on the night of the 21st inst., near Big Shoal Church, Mrs. Lindsey, wife 
of Mr. John N. Lindsey after a very short illness – disease and age unknown.  
Her funeral was attended by a large concourse of people.  She was a Christian 
lady – a devoted wife and a kind and tender mother, beloved and respected by 
all who knew her.  
“A home in Heaven what a blessed thought.
As the poor one toil at their weary lot.              Camille.

From Gosneyville.
Death – has again visited our neighborhood and claimed for his victim Lucy 
Mary, only daughter of Peyton and Sarah f. Newman, which occurred on Sunday 
evening the 25th at 9 o’clock.  Her age was 8 years 6 mos. and 16 days.  She 
was one of the sweetest as well as most intelligent children that I ever knew, 
and a great pet and favorite with all her acquaintances.  May the good Lord in 
His infinite mercy give them grace to bear their great bereavement with humble, 
pious fortitude.  And may they be all the more earnest in their Christian 
warfare so that in the glorious morn of the Resurrection they may meet their 
darling “Lula’ never more to be separated.  

Oct 7, 1870:
Died, in Pleasant Valley, Solano co., California, Aug 5th, Mary Ann, wife of 
Meredith R. Miller, aged 41 years, 5 mo. and 5 days.

Oct 14, 1870:
Fell asleep in Christ on the 15th of September, A.D., 1870Sister Octavia Walker 
at the residence of her consort’s, Robert Walker, of Clay county, MO.  The 
deceased was born in Trimble county, Ky., on the 31st day of August, A.D., 
1807.  For thirty years of her life she was a member of the Church of Christ.  
Thus one more of the useful sisters in Christ has passed away from a world of 
sorrow and trial to one (we trust) where “the wicked cease from troubling and 
weary souls are forever at rest.”  Peace be to her ashes.     
A. Friend.

Died in Clay county, on the 7th ult., George Ella, infant daughter of Thomas B. 
and Susan J. Prather, aged eleven months and twenty-three days.
She died in Beauty, like a rose
Blown from its parent stem,
She died in Beauty! like a pearl
Dropped from some diadem.

She lives in glory – like night’s gems
Set round the silver moon,
She lives in glory – like the sun
Amid the blue of June.

From the Fort Scott Montor:
Another horror occurred in a most singular manner.  Mr. Max Samuels, a clothing 
merchant of Baxter, and his clerk, Mr. Max Horn, were both stooping together 
unpacking some goods, when a double barreled gun shook down from the wall, and 
both barrels discharging, they were both shot in the head and killed instantly.

From Greenville, Mo.
A special meeting of Clay Lodge No. 207, A.F. and A.M., was held at Masonic 
Hall in Greenville, Clay county, Mo., Sept. 27th, A.L. 5870,., for the purpose 
of burying the body of Wesley E.P. Moore, who died Sept. 26th, 1870.  The Lodge 
was opened on the sublime degree.  The W.M. appointed a committee of three, 
consisting of Bros. W.H. Waers, H.J. Rowell, and John Crowley, to prepare 
suitable resolutions expressive of the sense of this Lodge on the death of Bro. 
Moore.  The committee reported the following, which was unanimously adopted:
Whereas, The will of God has been accomplished in the death of our much loved 
brother, Wesley E.P. Moore, therefore be it,
Resolved, That in the death of brother Moore the Fraternity has lost a true 
Mason and Christian brother, his church an exemplary member, the community a 
useful and worthy citizen, his family a devoted and affectionate husband and 
father.
Resolved, That whilst we mourn the loss of a brother, we deeply sympathise with 
the bereaved widow and orphans of our deceased brother.
Resolved, That this Lodge be draped mourning, and the members wear the usual 
badge of mourning for thirty days.
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be presented to the widow of our 
deceased brother, and that the “Freemason” and “Liberty Tribune” be requested 
to publish the same.
W.H. Waers,   H.J. Rowell,   John Crowley, Committee
The Lodge then proceeded to the late residence of our deceased brother and 
buried his remains in due and ancient form.  Attest:  W.H. Waers, Sec.

Nov 4, 1870:
Died in this county, on the 31st ult., Mr. Doniphan Aker, in the 22d year of 
his age.

In this county, on the 28th ult., of dropsy, Mrs. Brit, aged 70 years.

Death of Fletcher McMurray.
We regret to hear of the death of Mr. McMurray.  He was the “noblest work of 
God, and honest man” and the community has sustained an irreparable loss in his 
death.  The Kansas City Times says of him: “At last death has taken one upon 
whom consumption had laid its lingering and unyielding fingers.  ON last Sunday 
morning, Mr. Fletcher McMurry, editor and proprietor of the Independence 
Democrat, fell asleep peacefully, after months of suffering and emaciation.  
His was a stirring life, because he was a whole-souled, honest, decided man.  
He found the world real and tangible, and he put his hands upon it, and 
grappled with it, and took from it the tribute always given to manliness and 
honor.  Day after day he saw death coming slowly and insidiously, and yet the 
brave calm of his heart was untroubled, and the steadfast courage of his nature 
undismayed.  It may have been a Christian faith which sustained him this – it 
certainly was a Christian hope and charity.  Kind, generous, firm in 
friendship, true as steel, loyal to cause and country, a staunch party man 
because positive, frank, modest, trenchant with his pen, able and satirical in 
style, a printer and journalist – the craft in his death has lost an ornament 
and the profession a bright and brilliant star.
Over the unknown river the poor, frail bark of the dead editor has drifted.  It 
was early morning when his weary spirit went away from earth – typical, we all 
hope, of that celestial morning in whose sky the sun is eternal, and where 
never more comes the twilight of death – the stars of dissolution and the tomb.

Nov 18, 1870:
Died Friday, November 11th, 1870, Ambrose D. Lancaster, aged 22 years.
“Weep not for those
Who sink within the arms of death,
Ere yet the chilling wintry breath
Of sorrow o’er them blows;
But weep for them who her remain,
The mournful heritors of pain,
Condemned to see each bright joy fade,
And mark grief’s melancholy shade
Flung o’er Hope’s fairest rose.”

Dec 9, 1870:
Mr. James Flemming, on of the oldest and most respected citizens in Clay 
county, died
at his residence near this city, on the 1st inst.  He was born on the 15th 
September, 1792 in Rockingham county, Va.  His father was an officer in the 
revolutionary war, and served under Washington at Brandywine, Yorktown, &c.  
The deceased emigrated with his father to Fayette county, Ky., in 1805; and 
served in the war of 1812, and was in the battle of Tippecanoe and two fights 
in Canada.  He emigrated to Missouri in 1820, and settled in Clay county July 
4, 1832, and has been a citizen ever since.  Thus has passed away one of the 
old landmarks of the county – one who assisted in conquering the wilderness and 
making our county what it is – the garden spot of Missouri.  May he sleep in 
peace.

A Man Killed.
Last Sunday evening William Justus went to the house of Mr. James Burns, Jr., 
and threatened to kill him for some alleged offense.  Burns attempted to 
explain, but Justus would listen to nothing, and finally made at him with a 
revolver, whereupon Burns drew a knife and cut him so badly that he died in 
about an hour.  Mr. B. surrendered himself and was discharged on the ground of 
committing the act in self-defence.  The parties lived near the junction of the 
North Missouri with the Cameron Railroad.

Dec 16, 1870:
Died on the 12th of Dec., Harry Morton, infant son of Ephraim and Mollie 
Sandusky, aged 1 year, 3 months and 22 days.
“There is weeping on earth for the lost!
There is bowing in brief to the ground!
But rejoicing and praise ‘med the sanctified host
For a spirit in Paradise found!”












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