1904 Deaths Pt 3 - Oklahoma County, Oklahoma Submitted by: Emily Jordan 29 Mar 2006 Return to Oklahoma County Archives: http://www.usgwarchives.net/ok/oklahoma/oklahoma.html ========================================================================== USGENWEB NOTICE Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ========================================================================== (9/1/1904) Mrs. Milton Maupin Dead. Mrs. Milton Maupin, died Tuesday afternoon at her home at 321 West Third street, of inflammation of the stomach. Yesterday morning the body was shipped to Corpus Christi, Texas, the old home of the deceased, for interment. Mrs. Maupin was only twenty years of age, and had lived in the city for the past two years, coming here as a bride. She was a member of the New Century club of this city, and a communicant of the Southern Methodist church. She leaves a husband, Mr. Milton Maupin, manager of the Dunn & Powell Brokerage company. Mrs. Maupin had returned just a few weeks from an extended visit to the World's Fair which she had studied with great enthusiasm and it was while in St. Louis that she contracted the sickness which resulted in her death. She was one of the most popular women in the city and leaves a large circle of mourning friends. The New Century club ladies met at the house and accompanied the casket to the early Katy train yesterday. (9/1/1904) The remains of Mrs. M.A. Maupin, who died Tuesday, were yesterday shipped to Corpus Christi, Tex., for interment. (9/2/1904) Miss Leola Crissman, aged 13, died last night of typhoid fever at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Crissman, at 631 East Fifth street. (9/4/1904) ALD. O.H. SHELBY FIFTH WARD DELEGATE DIES OF TYPHOID FEVER AFTER FIVE WEEKS' ILLNESS. KNEW SICKNESS WAS FATAL Left Ministry to Engage in Realty Business on Account of Delicate Health—A Good Man and Patriotic Citizen. Though not unexpected, the death of Alderman Harry O. Shelby, which occurred at 11 o'clock yesterday morning at his boarding place on East Second street, was a shock to his many warm friends in this city. The deceased had been in delicate health for a number of years and, when stricken with typhoid fever a few weeks ago he informed his friends that he would not survive. The obsequies will occur at 2:30 this afternoon at the Harrison Avenue Congregational church, conducted by Rev. Thos. H. Harper. Mr. Shelby was born on February 4, 1868, at Romney, Ind. His mother died when he was but 6 years old and his father when he was 12 years of age, thus leaving him largely in care of his older brother, Evan S. Shelby, at Lafayette, Ind. After leaving the public schools Mr. Shelby entered DuPauw university, where he studied for several years. He entered into the hardware business at New Richmond, Ind., where he built up a good business. It was his earnest desire that he should become a minister, and in order to get ready for that work, he entered the Moody institute at Chicago, where he had the Bible training, but also the practical experience. While there he attended night after night a mission, or spoke on the streets of the city, wherever he was assigned. He was always a great believer and worker in and for foreign missions, having supported in India two native workers for several years, and the many letters, giving reports of the work were cherished by him, as he felt they were connected to him by a tie which eternity alone can reveal. He came to Oklahoma City six years ago in search of health. So much better did he become that he decided to make this city his home. His faith in the city from the very first was great, and according to his belief that it would grow and become a place of importance, he invested his means, and his investments all proved to be good ones. At the time of his death he was the owner of several valuable pieces of property. In the business affairs of the city he always took a great interest. He was a man above reproach, and in all of his dealings not one word has ever been spoken against his character. In April of last year he was elected to the honorable position of councilman from the Fifth ward. He has proved himself true to his friends, the church and to the people he represented. He was a deacon in the Harrison Avenue Congregational church, having been for some time previous a member of the Pilgrim church. Probably no person in the city stood higher and no one had more friends that Harry Shelby. On questions of city government he was always found ready to take his stand for the enforcement of law, believing that in such enforcement the city would become more substantial and draw to it the better class of people. He was an untiring worker for the city and gave of his means for the promotion of any enterprise which he thought would build up the city and through him several of hour best citizens were induced to come here and make their homes. Every summer Mr. Shelby left the city in order to escape the heat. This year he had written to his brother at Lafayette that he would be there on August 6, that being as early as he thought he could possibly leave here. Before ready to leave, he was taken sick, and for five weeks he was confined to his bed. Around his bedside at the last were two of his brothers, Mr. Clyde Shelby and Mr. Evan S. Shelby of Lafayette, Ind.; also his uncle and aunt and nephew, Mr. and Mrs. Moses Shelby and Mr. I. Shelby. The funeral service will be held this afternoon at 2:30, from the Harrison Avenue Congregational church, at the corner of Sixth street and Harrison avenue. The remains will be shipped on the evening Frisco train to Lafayette, Ind. Where they will be buried by the side of his deceased parents, the cemetery being a part of the old farm on which he was raised. A great multitude of friends are deeply touched by his departure, and the familiar figure will no longer be seen on our streets, at the council chamber, or in the church, for he has passed into that great eternal city, there to live forever. The influence of his life has reached for and near. The many little ones, whom he loved to caress, will miss him, as well as those homes in which he was always a welcome visitor. Surely a good man hath gone from us. (9/4/1904) Only one suit was filed in the Probate court yesterday, as follows: Elizabeth B. Theimer, administratrix of estate of Benj. T. Theimer, deceased, vs. Frederick Welse; note $145. (9/6/1904) Funeral of Harry O. Shelby. The funeral of H.O. Shelby, who died last Saturday, was held yesterday at the Harrison Avenue Congregational church, and the large attendance indicated the high esteem and regard in which he was held in this city. The police department, the fire department, members of the city council and other city employes accompanied the remains to and from the church, as well as did a large number of friends. The pall bearers were Messrs. Graham, Dickinson and Caldwell from the Harrison Avenue church and Messrs. Benz, Hurry and Raymond from the Pilgrim Congregational church. Rev. Thos. Harper preached an eloquent sermon touching upon the good qualities of his departed friend, whom he loved as a brother. His text was Rev. 21-1, "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea." He emphasized the fact that we must all pass through the sea of life and that our friend Shelby had now anchored in the harbor where there shall be no more storms. The remains were shipped on the Frisco east to Indiana, his former home for burial. (9/7/1904) VICTIM DIED. Soldier at Fort Sill Will Be Tried for Murder. Lawton, Okla., Sept. 6.—Henry J. Lang, the Ft. Sill blacksmith of Troop O, who was shot Sunday, died at 10:30 today. Neal, the man who did the shooting, will now be put in the hands of the civil authorities and tried in United States court on the charge of murder. Further than the charge of assault with the intent to kill the military authorities have no jurisdiction in time of peace. (9/10/1904) Death of an Engineer. George Roberts died at 4:45 Thursday afternoon at his residence, No. 108 Pottawatomie. Deceased was an engineer of the Frisco system. He leaves three minor children to mourn his loss, his wife having died two years ago. The remains will be held until the arrival of his brother from Mexico. (9/10/1904) Death of E.C. Barkley. E.C. Barkley, traveling representative of the Moline Plow company for Oklahoma and Indian Territory, died in this city yesterday of stomach trouble at 3:40 o'clock in the afternoon. He was a native of Kentucky and 33 years old. He made this city his headquarters and had a large circle of friends here. The remains are being held awaiting instructions from relatives, who have been notified. (9/11/1904) Obituary. We, the undersigned, committee appointed by the senior counselor of the U.C.T. Council No. 70 of Oklahoma City, Okla., have passed the following resolutions of respect for our deceased brother, E. Campbell Barkley: Be it Resolved, That, whereas, the white winged Angel of Death has again unexpectedly entered our circle and swiftly borne from our midst Brother E. Campbell Barkley, a brother of such noble attributes, such a genial disposition and such a refined and general nature that he had won the admiration and respect of all who knew him and doubly endeared himself to the hearts of all of his brother Councilors; be it further. Resolved, By this Council, that in the great loss of Brother Barkley, this Council has lost a shining light and a useful member and it has never felt a keener pang or been called upon to offer up a greater sacrifice and deeply and sadly does each member of this Council mourn his loss, consoled only by the knowledge that their loss is his eternal ain, and can only say, "Farewell, thou kind and gentle spirit; thou has only led the way." Be it further Resolved, That this Council tenders to the bereaved and aged father and gentle sisters of this deceased brother it heartfelt and sincere sympathy in this dark hour of their tribulation and hope time may prove a balm to heal to some extent their stricken hearts. Be it also Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be published in the daily papers of this city and a copy be forwarded as a token of sympathy and respect to the sorrowing relatives of our deceased brother. J.J. M'EACHIN, JNO. G. WILLIAMS, J.E. M'CLUNG. (9/14/1904) WOMAN'S TERRIBLE DEATH. Clothing Caught Fire While She Was Burning Brush. Shawnee, Okla., Sept. 13.—The death of Mrs. Ed Cooper, aged 42, at her home one mile west of this city, was one of the most terrible that ever occurred in this county. She was burning brush, aiding her husband in clearing some land, they having removed recently there from this city, when, smoke-blinded, she walked into the fire and her clothing caught. Despite her frantic efforts, she was quickly enveloped in flames and died within a short time, her flesh being literally cooked. Her husband summoned help at once and physicians from this city went to her home but could do nothing as she had died almost at once. A family survives her. (9/17/1904) Mrs. James Kennedy, aged 65 years, died Thursday night at the home of T.G. O'Keefe, corner Ninth and Broadway. Deceased was well and favorably known, having been a resident of this city and Shawnee for about fifteen years. She is the mother of Mrs. O'Keefe, W.J., J.W., E.H. and Geo. Kennedy. She was born in Ireland and came to this country forty-five years ago and resided in Wisconsin before removing to Oklahoma. This funeral will be held from the Catholic church this morning. (9/20/1904) A Card of Thanks. Mr. and Mrs. Clark Hudson express their deep appreciation of the sympathy of kind neighbors and friends in their loss of their little daughter, Dorothy. They will ever be held in loving remembrance. (9/22/1904) James M. Beale, father of Ed Beale of this city, died at Arcadia, Ill., on September 16. His brother, Dr. A.J. Beale, was the original owner of the Neas addition in this city. (9/25/1904) Howard McDonald, aged 42, died yesterday morning at 6 o'clock of injuries received at Mulvane, Kan., in getting off a Santa Fe train while same was in motion. The decedent was a resident of this city and leaves a wife and six children. (9/27/1904) Cement Courier: On last Friday morning news reached town of the death of the six weeks old child of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Steele who live six miles northwest of town, which ws smothered to death during the night previous. It seems the sister had been sleeping in a bed to herself and had been in the habit of getting up in the night and sleeping the latter part with her parents and the little babe. On Thursday night of last week she repeated her usual habit and in doing so she rested on the childs face who died from the effects. The father and mother awoke early in the morning and discovered that the child was dead and from whose mouth and nostrils blood was purging which indicated that death had been brought about by smothering. (9/28/1904) BABY SMOTHERED TO DEATH. Anardarko, Okla., Sept. 27.—Mr. and Mrs. Charles Steele, living seven miles from town, found their six-weeks-old baby smothered to death in their bed this morning. A little daughter who slept in a separate bed had the habit of arising in the latter part of the night and getting into bed with her parents and the baby. She repeated her customary habit last night and rested on the baby who died from the effects. When the parents awoke in the early morning they found the baby dead and blood oozing from it's nose and mouth, indicating smothering. (10/4/1904) The funeral of C.F. Middlecoff, conducted by Rev. A. W. Higby, was held Sunday from the family residence on Sixth street. (10/4/1904) OLD MAN KILLS HIS SON'S WIFE BLAMED HER FOR ENTICING HIS SONS AWAY FROM HOME—THOUGHT HER A BAD WOMAN. South McAlester, I.T., Oct. 3.—James M. Broomfield, aged 60, came here today and surrendered to the federal officers. He said he had shot and killed Ollie Broomfield, wife of his son, George. The old man alleges that his daughter-in-law was a lewd woman and had enticed two of his sons away from home claiming to have married George. Bloomfield went to the home of his son near Scipio, ten miles west of here. As Mrs. Bloomfield walked out into the yard the old man pulled a Winchester and shot her dead. The husband of the murdered came up and was bout to shoot his father when he discovered the identify of his wife's slayer and desisted. (10/5/1904) Found a Dead Negro. At about 7 o'clock last evening a Negro was found dead in the yard back of the Rock Island saloon on First street. Coroner Messenbaugh was notified, investigated the case and had body sent to the morgue. It was learned that the negro's name was A. Coleman, and his home in Chicago. He was about 35 years old and came to this city with Norris & Rowe's show last Sunday. Coroner Messenbaugh believed that the man died of lung trouble. People about the saloon said that he had been about the place all day and said he was sick. He went into the yard late in the afternoon and was later found dead. (10/5/1904) FRED K. PIXLEY LEFT A WILL HIS ESTATE IS ESTIMATED AT $4,500 TO BE SHARED BY A SON AND A DAUGHTER. The will of the late Fred K. Pixley has been received for probate in this county. Pixley died here on Sept. 3, leaving an estate valued at about $4,500. Celia G. Mansfield, his daughter, presented a petition representing that her father died intestate and asked that the court appoint Samuel Crocker to administer the estate. Shortly thereafter advice of the existence of a will came from Attorney Ellis E. Wilson of Waterloo, Iowa. The will has not yet been opened and examined by the court. According to the petition praying for the appointment of a guardian the decedent left no wife, but the following children and ???. Celia G. Mansfield, aged 52, of Cambridge Springs, Pa., and Albert Pixley, aged 49 of Alvion, Erie county, Pennsylvania. At the time of his death it is related that Pixley was the owner of property in Oklahoma county as follows: the northwest quarter of section 28, and the southeast quarter of section 18, in township 11, R.2 W., valued at $8,000 and mortgaged for $3,400. Also lots 33-40, inclusive, block 33, Capitol Hill, valued at $325; lots 13-17, inclusive, block 19, Schillings addition to Oklahoma City, valued at $250. He also owned twenty-two head of cattle valued at $225; three herd of horses, valued at $250, and implements and household goods valued at $25. Attorney John Wright, who represents the heirs, is out of the city at the present time and the will is held under seal until his return, when it will be opened and probated. (10/6/1904) Mrs. Charles Balzer died yesterday at her home in this city from an attack of brain fever. (10/7/1904) In a drunken brawl at Davis, I.T., at an early hour Sunday morning Charles Kerr, a farmer, was shot and probably mortally wounded by R.S. Parsons, who once resided at Ardmore. Parsons was taken to Ardmore and placed in jail. Buck Bill, a Tonkawa Indian, who was married to a white woman and left her $8,000 worth of property, died last week near Newkirk. (10/9/1904) The beloved sister of one, John Cook, who hails from Ardmore, I.T., in which he has returned to said place and died, has a trunk and his belongings thereof, somewhere in Oklahoma City. This sister will be very much pleased to have the person holding this trunk to notify the Sheriff's office of Oklahoma county, and by so doing she may receive the last effects of her dead brother. (10/11/1904) Frank Sword, a student of the Willard school, died Saturday of diptheria. (10/11/1904) The young friends of Mrs. W.G. Johnston will read with sorrow that she died yesterday morning. Funeral at the home, 411 West Eleventh street, this (Tuesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock. Interment here. (10/12/1904) HUSBAND AND SON DEAD. Second Son Sick, Daughter Distracted –A Story of Trouble. Guthrie, Okla., Oct. 11.—A peculiar state of things exists, pitiful in the extreme, in the family of a Mrs. Breckenridge, who lives three and a half miles north of Orlando. Several months ago she came with two sons and a daughter from England and located on a claim near Orlando. Seemingly the family had plenty of money, but the father and husband had been left in England. Ten days or two weeks ago a cablegram from England announced the dangerous illness of Mr. Breckenridge, and his wife left at once for England, being due to arrive there yesterday. Several days after her departure a second cablegram announced the death of her husband, and about the same time both sons were taken critically ill with typhoid fever. A few days ago the elder son, aged 21, died as the result of the fever, and the younger, Henry, aged 14, is still very ill. It is said the trouble so affected the mind of the daughter that she became distracted and made an attempt to kill the younger son to put him out of his misery. Her attempt was thwarted and she is now under restraint. When the mother arrived in England she learned of her husband's death and found a cablegram announcing the death of her elder son. (10/12/1904) MORE SCANDAL OVER ASYLUM ANOTHER PATIENT DIED SUDDENLY AT THE SANITARIUM AT NORMAN. CORONER'S JURY EXAMINES AND FINDS SOME ONE IN THE INSTITUTION GUILTY OF MURDER. Body of Perry Woman Exhumed for Examination, and Found to Be Covered with Bruises—Jury Finds Strong Verdict. Perry, Okla., Oct. 11.—The city is aroused over a fresh sensation arising from the asylum at Norman, and it is certain that the authorities at that institution will be prosecuted. A few weeks ago Mrs. Katherine Ditmer, the wife of a prominent German citizen, became demented and was taken to the asylum at Norman. Her insanity was not of the violent, but rather of the melancholy, morose form. Ten or twelve days ago her husband visited her there, and while he found her in good health, was told by her that she was being treated badly. He made an attempt to have her released, but was not successful. Upon his return here within a few days he had a letter from the authorities stating that she was getting along all right. Last week he received another not to the same effect. Two days later he heard that she was sick, and another letter a day later was fallowed with a telegram announcing that she was dead. Last Friday the remains were brought here for burial. It is reported that the clothing of the corpse when brought here was infected with lice and vermin. The husband noticed a bruise on her forehead, and after her interment thought so much about it that yesterday he had five of the local doctors go to the cemetery to examine the body, which he exumed. The face of the corpse was covered with cuts and bruises. The left eye had a cut over it about an inch long and to the bone in depth. The nose, cheek and chin were bruised, and discolored. Upon the report of these physicians Coroner Bruce Watson today employed a jury and held a complete autopsy. Aside from the bruises mentioned, when the skull was removed several bruises were found on top of the head which had affected the brain. After the testimony was taken the jury rendered the following verdict, omitting the caption: "We, the jury, find that Mrs. Katherine Ditmer came to her death in the insane asylum at Norman October 5, 1904, from violence inflicted upon the head and person while confined in the asylum by some person or persons unknown to the jury. We, the jury, find that the institution is at fault and should be investigated. Mr. Ditmer has employed counsel and will continue the investigation. (10/13/1904) Death of Miss Partridge. Miss Minnie Partridge, aged 18, a member of the junior class of the high school and numbering her friends by the score among the young people of Oklahoma City, died of pulmonary pneumonia yesterday at the home of her mother, 515 East Fifth street. The obsequies will occur at the family home at 2:30 o'clock this afternoon, conducted by Rev. O.P. Avery, pastor of the Harrison Congregational church, after which the remains will be transported to Michigan for interment. (10/13/1904) Died From His Injuries. Shawnee, Okla., Oct. 12.—Frank Kidney of this city, who was injured while working in the stock yards at Kansas City some days since, two bales of hay falling from above and injuring his spine at his shoulder blades, is dead as a result of his injuries. He was formerly of the local police force, and his wife, a young woman of considerable wealth and beauty, was with him when he died. He was a member of the Shawnee Camp of Modern Woodmen. (10/14/1904) Death of Miss Partridge. Miss Minnie, daughter of F.P. Partridge, who died at her home, No. 515 East Fifth street, Wednesday, will be taken to Flint, Mich., this afternoon, for interment. Miss Partridge was a member of the senior high school class, and was a general favorite with her classmates, and beloved by all who knew her. She was only sick a few days and her death came as a shock to her large circle of friends. The cause of her death was tubercular meningitis. The funeral will take place this afternoon at the family residence, at 1:30 o'clock, and the remains will be taken to the Rock Island depot, where the train will be taken for the long sad journey to Michigan. Rev. O.R. Avery, of the Harrison Avenue Congregational church will conduct the funeral services at the home. (10/14/1904) JORDON IN JAIL SHAWNEE COOK WHO KILLED MARSHAL SMITH HELD FOR MURDER. HE WILL PLEAD SELF DEFENSE Evidence Was Taken Before the Coroner's Jury Which Differed in Details—Smith Died on Wednesday Night. Shawnee, Okla., Oct. 13.—Jack Jordon cook at the English Kitchen who threw a cleaver at City Marshal Jim Smith of Wynnewood Wednesday morning in the cooking department of the Kitchen is in jail, without bond, awaiting a hearing of his case, Smith having died Wednesday night from the effects of the wound in his head, caused by the cleaver. Smith's skull was fractured and his brain was jarred to such an extent that arties were broken. The coroner empanneled a jury and heard the evidence Wednesday night and the jury returned a verdict that Smith met his death as above, recommending that Jordon be held. Jordon has a family here and has always borne a good reputation heretofore. Several witnesses told the jury that Smith, who was intoxicated, had passed through the kitchen earlier in the day Wednesday and had been directed by Jordon to a toilet room. He returned later and supposing he heard a woman in the kitchen, went back and asked about her, but was told that no women were employed there. He was in the way and was asked to move, and finally cursed the cook, who stepped toward him, laying down a knife he held in his hand and with which he had been toasting some bread, as he did so. The marshal is alleged to have thrown his hand back as if to draw his gun and Jordon then grabbed the cleaver and threw it, the marshal dropping immediately. Jordon says he believed his life was in danger and merely defended himself, and he is terribly wrought up over the consequences. Other evidence differed as to what Smith said and his action concerning the gun. About thirty friends and relatives of Mr. Smith arrived last night and several of his immediate relatives, including his brothers, made arrangements to remove the body to Wynnewood for burial, it being taken there this morning. The parties, while considerably aroused over the affair, were contented with the manner in which the officers were acting here and left, determined to aid in the prosecution, but with no thoughts of vengeance. It was rumored that a trainload of men from Wynnewood was coming here to wreak vengeance on the man who killed Smith, but as the officers heard the rumor, they removed Jordon to Tecumseh and lodged him in the inner cells at the county jail. His friends have employed Cassidy & Cassidy, one of the strongest legal firms in the territory, to defend him, and will make a strong effort for his acquittal. Smith was married and leaves a wife and three children at Wynnewood. (10/19/1904) Found in Dying Condition. South McAlester, I.T., Oct. 18.—Russell Bolling of Jackson, Miss., was found in an unconscious condition in the railroad yards here today suffering from fever. He died soon afterwards. (10/19/1904) Rev. J.V. Perry, formerly of Pawnee, died at Norman last week. He was the pioneer merchant of Payne county. (10/20/1904) Obituary Notice. Mrs. Will McIver, aged 28, died October 11 near Madisonville, Tex. Mrs. McIver was visiting her mother and father at the time of her death and had been in bad health since early spring. Her two children, aged 3 and 5 years, respectively, have been left with their grandparents, who will take care of them. Mr. McIver, the bereaved husband, was formerly in the police service in this city. Death of Mrs. Myra McIver. Will McIver has returned from Madisonville, Tex., where he summoned some days since announcing that his wife was dying. Mrs. Myra McIver died on October 11, just one hour before her husband reached her bedside. She had been in ill health since last spring and went to visit her mother, who resides at Madisonville, in the hope of recuperating. The obsequies occurred on October 12 and the remains were interred in the Madisonville cemetery. The decedent was 28 years of age, and had a wide circle of friends in Oklahoma City. Besides a sorrowing husband, she leaves a daughter, aged 5, and a son, aged 3, bereaved of her protecting care. (10/21/1904) Mr. and Mrs. E. Forest Pecor have returned from Mangum, where they went to settle the estate of Mr. Pecor's brother, Robert Emory, recently deceased. Mr. Emory was one of the first six postal clerks appointed in Texas and did duty for many years on the Denison and Houston railroad post office. On leaving the service he bought a farm in Texas and afterward in Greer county. He never married, and his estate is divided between his two sisters, Mrs. Pecor of this city and Mrs. Quarterman of Denison, Tex. (10/22/1904) JAS. GEARY DEAD EX-ALDERMAN PASSED AWAY SHORTLY AFTER THE NOON-HOUR YESTERDAY. FAMOUS SCOUT AND PLAINSMAN The Incidents of His Eventful Career Would Read Like Romance—Great Friend of Col. Wm. F. Cody. Ex-Alderman James Geary died at his home in this city, at 12:10 o'clock yesterday afternoon, after an illness of several months from cancer of the stomach. In his passing Oklahoma City has lost one of its best citizens and the Firth ward its staunch and constant friend. He was prominent as a Mason and Odd Fellow and was ever the friend of the poor and needy. As a scout and plainsman in the early days of the west he was associated with such noted frontier notables as Colonel Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill), Wm. Hickock, Amos Chapman and Ben Clark and as a scout was personally associated with Generals Hancock, Carr and other military men noted for their service during the early Indian campaigns. Colonel loved him as a brother. Jas. Geary was born January 8, 1844, and was the eldest of three children, two sisters of his family still living, Mrs. Mary A. Connon of Pueblo, Col., and Mrs. Ellen Bryne of New Orleans, La. His father and mother were natives of Ireland and died at St. Louis in 1858. Mr. Geary, Sr., was a civil engineer and contractor and left but little to his family, and Jas. Geary as a boy of 15 left his home in St. Louis and began his life on the frontier. Until the civil war he was engaged as a frontiersman with wagon trains crossing the plains to New Mexico and the outposts. At the breaking out of the civil war he became a member of Captain Tough's company of scouts, operating on the union side in Arkansas, Kansas and the Indian Territory. At the close of the war he became a master of transportation in the service of the United States army and a scout and was with M. V. Sheridan, General Carr, General Hancock and others of the most noted soldiers who conducted campaigns against the Indians in the great west. He was associated with such men as Colonel Wm. F. Cody, Hickok, Ben Clark, Amos Chapman and others who formed that notable arm of the United States army's fighting forces against the Indians, known as scouts. This life he led for a number of years, when he secured a contract to build houses and lay out farms for Indians in Oklahoma, and he built the first houses ever built in Oklahoma about 1868. His contract was abrogated because the Indians refused the aid of the government and Mr. Geary then began life as a ranchman and trader near Salina, Kan. Here he was married in 1869 to Miss Harriet Bowan of Virginia, who has been his devoted wife since that time. After a career as a merchant in Newton, Kan., that lasted several years, Mr. Geary came to Oklahoma City April 22, 1889, and has been a leading citizen here ever since. On May 3, 1889, he opened the Citizens' bank on a lot at the corner of Main and Broadway, where the Lee hotel now stands. This bank was sold in 1893 to Captain D.F. Stiles and associates, and Captain Stiles and Mr. Geary became owners of that part of the city now known as Maywood. Since the purchase of Maywood and until a few months ago, Mr. Geary was actively engaged in the real estate business. (10/22/1904) MAN KILLED IN DUEL AT HOBART FAMILY TROUBLE AND DIVORCE RESULTED IN A TRAGEDY ON A PRINCIPAL STREET. Hobart, Okla., Oct. 21.—In a desperate street duel on one of the principal thoroughfares of Hobart at an early hour this morning a groceryman, F.P. Lea, shot and killed Chas. G. Hill, owner of a barber shop. Lea is said to have claimed that Hill had been intimate with Lea's wife, which caused a divorce. It is claimed that Lea had several times before threatened to kill Hill, but his threats were not considered grave. Both are prominent men. Lea was shot in both arms. Hill leaves a wife and child. (10/22/1904) J. Patrick Ewing Dead. Advice reached this city last night to the effect that James Patrick Ewing, well known throughout the territory, died last evening in a hospital at El Reno. His passing at a premature time is believed to have been due to a fault that has attached to some of the best men and the brainiest that have ever lived. A few years ago he was appointed a federal court stenographer under Judge Scott and also served under Judge Keaton. His parents reside near Choctaw City and have been notified of his death. (10/22/1904) Death at Muskogee. Muskogee, I.T., Oct. 21.—Mrs. W.E. Rowsey, wife of W.E. Rowsey, vice president of the Commercial National bank, of this city, died yesterdays afternoon. The funeral this afternoon was one of the largest seen in the city. (10/25/1904) Mrs. J.J. Roach died yesterday at her home, No. 717 West Fourth street, of consumption. She came to this city with her husband only a short time ago, and had formed a few friendships here, but those who knew her speak highly of her womanly character. She was thirty-nine years old. Her remains were taken last night to Dallas, Texas, for interment. Jen, the thirteen months old child of Peter Mertz, No. 717 East Ninth street, died Sunday morning of pneumonia. The funeral took place yesterday morning. The funeral of Agnes, the 2-year-old child of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Goodholm, occurred Sunday. (10/25/1904) LAST SAD RITES REMAINS OF JAMES GEARY LAID TO REST IN FAIRLAWN CEMETERY. RITES CONDUCTED BY MASONS Ceremonies Attended by the Largest Funeral Assemblage Ever Seen in Oklahoma City—Senator Clarke's Address. The obsequies of the late James Geary, pioneer citizen and ex-alderman, occurred Sunday afternoon, and the services were attended by the largest throng of people ever assembled in this city to pay a parting tribute to a deceased citizen. It was the expressed desire of the deceased that the Masonic order have charge of the services and the inhumation ceremonies, which wish was observed. The procession formed at the Masonic Temple and was headed by a platoon of twelve members of the police force. A band followed, and the remainder of the line of march was composed of the city fire department, the city officials, forty members of the Knights Templar, members of the A.F. & A.M., and hundreds of citizens. The line was on Broadway to Ninth and thence east to the home in Maywood. At the residence the Masons took charge and the Masonic and Eastern Star ceremonies were given with a beautiful effect. An address was delivered by Hon. Sidney Clarke, who was followed in a brief address by Rev. A. W. Higby, pastor of St. Paul's Episcopal church, after which the sorrowful procession escorted the remains to Fairlawn where the remains were inhumed. Messrs. W.L. Alexander, Z.E. Beemblossom, Geo. W. Bennett, W.P. Harper, Harry Gerson and A.L. Welch acted as the pall bearers. The address of Hon. Sidney Clarke, delivered at the Geary home, follows: [omitted ] Mr. Geary was born in Saline county, Missouri, January 4, 1844. Both of his parents died when he was quite young. His education was obtained in the public schools of St. Louis. The same spirit of activity and enterprise which characterized his later years permeated his youth, and as early as 1859 he started for the Rocky Mountains. He crossed the plains in the spring of that year, and helped survey the ground on which the magnificent city of Denver now stands. In 1860 he was in the employ of the government at Santa Fe, N.M., and afterwards at Leavenworth, Kans. At the commencement of the civil war he promptly responded to the call for troops for the enlistment of the rebellion. His first enlistment was as a private soldier in the Second Kansas volunteer infantry. From 1861 to 1865 he served in the Union army as a scout, and in various important position. His bravery was frequently commended by his commanding officers and by all who were familiar with his difficult and dangerous service. His services under General Steele, General Thayer and Colonel Phillips, in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Indian Territory and Kansas, connected him intimately and honorably with some of the most important achievements of the Union army. After the civil war was over, from 1865 to 1869, he was again in the government service on the frontier. He was with the Seventh cavalry under Captain Sheridan, with General Hancock in his expedition against the Cheyenne and Arapahoe and Apache Indians, and with the Fifth and Nineteenth infantry in protecting the settlers of Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado and Nebraska from the predatory attacks of hostile Indian tribes. In 1869, under a contract with the government, he built houses for the Indians at Pond Creek, in this territory, prepared land for farming, and in this capacity was the first farmer in Oklahoma. This terminated his employment by the government. He then settled in McPherson county, Kansas, and there commenced his married life. His home was known as Geary's ranch. He laid out the town of Lakeview, was appointed postmaster by President Grant, and justice of the peace by Governor Osborne. In the performance of his duties and in his business relations he enjoyed and confidence of all with whom he came in contact. There, as elsewhere, in Kansas and Oklahoma, his high sense of honor guided his conduct and welded him as with hoops of steel to his neighbors and friends. In 1874 he became a citizen of Newton, Kansas, where he conducted a large business for many years, and took a high place among the leading and progressive citizens of that great commonwealth. In city, county and state affairs, he was known and honored for the liberal tendencies of his mind and for his considerate judgement of the motives of those from whom he differed in opinion. Firm in his convictions, and resolute in the path of duty, he never failed to accord to others that which he claimed for himself. [there is more …] (10/25/1904) BAFFLING CRIME MURDERERS PUT THEIR VICTIM ABOARD A TRAIN AT MEKUSUKEY. CLAIMED THAT HE WSA SICK. The Man Died Within a Short Time and the Crime Was Discovered On Examination –Not Yet Identified. Shawnee, Okla., Oct. 24.—Details of a crime which is baffling the police of this section came in Sunday morning. It appears that when the east bound passenger, due here at 12:30, but running three hours late Sunday morning, reached Mekusukey, or Tedmore, as it is sometimes called, the first station across the Indian Territory line, the engineer signaled for brakes and stopped, it being a flag station. As it is a through train, usually not stopping there, the conductor himself ran out and found two men with a lantern. They stated that they wanted to send a third man, who was ill to the hospital at South McAlester, and the conductor had them help the injured man aboard. He was placed in a seat comfortably and left. His companions swung off the train, waved goodbye at the conductor, who had paid very little attention to them, beyond receiving fare for the sick man. As the train neared South McAlester, in the early morning light the conductor saw that the sick man had sunk forward, and he raised him up, only to find that he was covered with blood. A hasty examination disclosed the fact that the man had a bullet hole beneath his right arm near the shoulder, and coming out under his left arm, as well as two other wounds, and was dying. He never recovered consciousness but died as the train reached South McAlester. He wore the garb of a section hand, but his bands proved that he was not a hard worker. He had money and a watch. It is believed that his murders are now hiding in this city and a careful search is being made for them. What could have been their motive is unknown. It was five or six hours after they put the man on the train before word could be telegraphed back and officers reach the scene, as the word had to go to Wewoka, Tedmore having no telegraph. (10/25/1904) Was An Electrician. South McAlester, I.T., Oct. 24.—Thos. Devine, an electrician formerly of Kansas City, died on a Choctaw passenger train near here this morning. He was placed on the train at Tisdal, Indian Territory, weak from the result of a pistol wound in his neck and breast. His companions left the train without explaining Devine's condition to the trainmen. No information can be learned by officers at Tisdale. The tragedy is a complete myster. (10/26/1904) CHILDREN BURN WITH THEIR HOME WHILE PARENTS WERE ABSENT THE HOUSE CAUGHT FIRE AND THREE WERE FATALLY BURNED. Mangum, Okla., Oct. 25.—Information reached this city this morning of a holocaust which occurred near Coralea, this county, yesterday afternoon. Jesse Evans, a well to do farmer, and his wife absented themselves from their home, leaving their three children, aged 4 and 2 years and one a few months old, alone in the house. In some inconceivable manner the house caught fire. Mr. Evans noticed it and running to the house, sought to rescue his children, who were all in one bed. They were frightfully burned and the two older boys have since died. The origin of the fire is shrouded in mystery, as there was no fire in the house at the time the parents left. (10/27/1904) The sudden death of Mrs. G.B. Stone, who was a member of the church society, caused a feeling of sadness over all, and while no resolutions of sorrow were taken, that not being the custom of the society, still the deep regret and sorrows were freely expressed. The society will meet again on November 8th with Mrs. Gertrude Street Wilson. On account of the death of Mrs. G.B. Stone the entertainment by the foreign mission society of the home mission society, both of the Southern Methodist church, and given in honor of Mrs. J.A. Matthews, who leaves for Kansas City today, was held at the home of Mrs. W.J. Jolly at 215 West Ninth street, instead of with Mrs. J.S. Kerfoot, at 218 West Eighth, as was intended. (10/28/1904) Edgar, the little 6-year-old son of Edgar Cook, died Tuesday night at the home of his parents, 701 West Fourth street of appendicitis. The funeral will take place this afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home. Rev. F.E. Day, pastor of the first M.E. church will officiate. (10/28/1904) Mrs. Susan Mays died at her home in Eldorado on Tuesday night of lung trouble. She was the wife of William Mays, the old mail carrier, who, for a dozen years or more before the railroad came, carried the mail from Eldorado to Quanah. (10/30/1904) Died at Thomas. Thomas, Okla., Oct. 29.—Dr. F.D. Curphey, past mayor of Thomas, and vice-president of the First National bank, died yesterday morning, having been ill a week. He was a graduate of the Kansas City College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1902. During two years' practice he accumulated twenty thousand dollars. He was a prominent Mason, Odd Fellow, Maccabee, Knight of Pythias and Woodmen. (11/2/1904) Elmer Neal, colored, died yesterday of injuries received Saturday. The remains will be shipped to Corsicana. (11/3/1904) FOUGHT TO DEATH DUEL BETWEEN OFFICERS AT LAWTON RESULTED FATALLY FOR ONE. BOTH SHOT THROUGH BODIES One Dead and the Other Dying—Township Officers Met in a Saloon and Settled an Old Grudge. Lawton, Okla., Nov. 2.—One of the most sensational killings in the history of the new country occurred in this city at 10 o'clock this morning. Sid Williams, constable of Brown township, lies at the undertaker's establishment dead, with a bullet hole through his body. Nep. Brady, deputy constable of Brown township, and city marshal of the town of Sterling, lies at the Travelers Home with a bullet hole through his body, which barely missed the lung. He is in a precarious condition, and the chances are decidedly against his recovery. The two men met at the Palace bar and ordered drinks. Brady drank and stepped back from the bar, when Williams, pulling his revolver, commanded Brady to deliver up his revolver. Brady, thinking he was joking, said he would as soon as he took the loads out of it. Williams then advanced and, leveling his revolver at the breast of Brady, pulled the trigger. The gun snapped and Brady dodged a second attempt, in the meantime pulling his revolver. Williams retreated toward the rear of the saloon and continued to fire, the third shot taking effect in Williams' chese. He fell, and as he did so, continued to fire upon Williams until his revolver was empty of its six loads. Williams was hit twice and had fired five times. He died instantly. An inquest was held by Pustice of the Peace Armstrong about 1 o'clock, and the jury returned a verdict that Sid Williams came to his death from a gun shot at the hands of Nep. Brady. The history of the trouble between the two men dates back more than a year. In a difficulty at the town of Sterling, while Williams was under the influence of liquor, he fired upon a citizen of that community. Brady arrested him and brought him before the court. The next grand jury indicted him for assault with intent to murder. The case was set for trial in the district court yesterday and continued for the term. Both men are married and have families. (11/4/1904) W.M. Gilstrap, a former resident of Oklahoma City and member of Oklahoma lodge, No. 2, I.O.O.F., died on October 29 at Seneca, Mo. (11/4/1904) A SPINAL TUMOR CAUSED THE DEATH OF THE INFANT CHILD OF MR. AND MRS. M.T. KELLY. SURGICAL OPERATION FAILED Medical Men Were Interested in a Rare Case Curable Only by Surgery and Seldom Sure Then. The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike T. Kelly of 311 East Grand avenue, died yesterday morning. The funeral services will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic church this morning. The child, which was 9 months old, was afflicted from birth with a tumor of the spinal cord or spina bifida, meaning that there is an opening into the spinal column and that the spinal cord, or some of its membranes protrude from the opening and form a tumor on the back. The affliction is a rare one and almost invariably proves fatal. The medical records show that in no case has a child lived two years, when so afflicted, unless relieved by a surgical operation, and when surgery is resorted to less than 50 per cent of the patients recover. The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Kelly was operated upon at St. Anthony's hospital one day last week and the operation was apparently successful until the child's condition changed Sunday, and it gradually declined. (11/8/1904) Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Atwood are at Council superintending the farm of E.L. Craig, who was recently called to Vermillion county, Illinois, because of the death of his mother. (11/10/1904) Card of Thanks. We wish to thank our friends for their kindness during the late sickness and death of P.J. Wells, also United Expressmen of Pella, Iowa, and especially Mr. G.A. Merritt, general superintendent of the Rock Island R.R. Mrs. R.J. Wells and Mr. and Mrs. E.P. Jiollite. (11/10/1904) Jessie Young, the negress who killed Florence Macklin, also colored, was indicted for murder by the grand jury and is in the county jail awaiting trial. (11/11/1904) Mrs. L.A. Turman, aged 31 years, superintendent of the Indian school at Lebanon, died last Saturday night. J.G. West, a farmer, 50 years old, living near Ravia, I.T., was shot and killed Friday evening in a personal difficulty. Ernest Roberts, a young married man, has been arrested. J.F. Douthitt of Enid, who was shot three times by his wife last April, died Monday of inanition due entirely as a consequence of his wounds. Since paralyzed in the lower limbs and this condition gradually spread to the vitals. He left a sworn statement exonerating his wife and the charge of shooting with intent to kill under which she is now held on bail, will be dismissed. A brakeman named Donnellan, the third victim in a year was claimed at the Enid Rock Island yards Wednesday. The first was Pete Davis on January 6th, and the second James Olive on September 10th. All of these men were employed on the same run, and the manner of their deaths was very similar. The horribly mangled remains of George A. Richards, division engineer, and J.F. Johnson, roadmaster of the Rock Island were picked up by the local Wednesday two miles from Chickasha. The men had left Anadarko on a gasoline motor car and the manner of their death is unknown. (11/12/1904) THE PASSING OF JAMES MILLS PRESSMAN OF THE DAILY OKLAHOMAN DIED YESTERDAY AT GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL. James Mills, who for the past year has been employed as chief pressman in the Daily Oklahoman office, died yesterday afternoon at 1:30 of catarrh of the stomach at the Good Samaritan hospital, after an illness of two weeks. Funeral arrangements have been deferred awaiting the arrival of a brother of the deceased from Chattanooga, where the remains will likely be taken for interment. Mr. Mills was 31 years of age and unmarried. He came to Oklahoma City about a year ago from his home at Chattanooga, where he had been employed in the pressrooms of the leading newspapers in that city. Until his removal to the hospital, about two weeks ago, he had resided with Mr. and Mrs. McAfee on Grand Avenue. He had for a number of years been a consistant Knights of Pythias and carried insurance in that order. He was a thorough workman and held in high esteem by his fellow workmen and all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. Loving his fellowman and leading an honorable industrious life he was by them beloved and passed to his reward with a clear record in the sight of the Creator and of his fellow men. In his quiet, unassuming way he fulfilled life’s mission. (11/12/1904) A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Charley Clark of University Addition Thursday night and died a few hours afterwards. (11/13/1904) Death of a Pioneer. William Vance, aged 66 years, and a pioneer citizen of Oklahoma City, passed away yesterday morning at the home of his son-in-law, J.M. Owen, 224 West Fourth street, after an illness of a few days. The decedent was a veteran of the civil war and a prominent member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He leaves a wife and two daughters, Miss Norah Vance of this city and Mrs. Lou Madison of Dodge City, Kan. Judge and Mrs. S.H. Madison reached this city yesterday. Arrangements have been made to hold the funeral services at 10:30 o’clock Monday morning at the Owen’s residence, 224 West Fourteenth street. (11/13/1904) GRANDMA RULE PASSES AWAY OBSEQUIES THIS AFTERNOON—REMAINS WILL BE TAKEN TO WICHITA FOR INTERMENT. Mrs. J.B. Rule, the mother of Henry W. Rule, died at one o’clock yesterday morning, having never rallied from an attack of pneumonia last spring. Grandma Rule, as her friends called her, was born December 22, 1818, in the city of London, England; was married in 1836 and came to America, settling first in Bradford, Canada, later making her home in Pittsburg, Pa. Her husband, Robert Rule, died Januear 22, 1866, in Manchester, Iowa. Mrs. Rule leaves three living children, Robert W. Rule, of Fall River, Kans., James P. Rule, of Syracuse, N.Y., and her son, Henry, living here. Mrs. Rule was a woman of most happy and cheerful temperament, disposed to look on the bright side rather than the dark, when well and herself, she was naturally of a bright, lively nature, very fond of music and very happy when with her friends. During her long life of 86 years she has seen the wonderful development of her chosen and greatly beloved adopted country. She very early absorbed the real American spirit. She always took pride in praising American institutions and her wonderful people. The dear little body will be taken to Wichita, Kans., for burial. Mr. Rule and wife leaving Monday morning. Funeral services will be held at the home of her son, 319 North Harvey this afternoon at 3 o’clock. The casket will not be opened at this service. Any friends who may wish to look on Grandma’s face can do so by calling at the house between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. today. (11/15/1904) The Death of Roy Ford. Roy Ford, traveling salesman for Carroll-Brough & Robinson, died of typhoid fever early Sunday morning at the home of his brother-in-law, E.I. Leach on East 7th St. His body was taken to his old home at Seneca, Kansas, for burial leaving on Santa Fe train yesterday morning. Mrs. Ford accompanied the remains, together with the parents of the deceased, who arrived here Saturday night. Funeral services were held at the residence of Mrs. Leach yesterday afternoon at one o'clock. (11/15/1904) A.E. Ellis, postmaster at Wheatland, Okla., died at 3 o'clock yesterday following a surgical operation resorted to in the hope of relieving the patient of intestinal stricture. (11/15/1904) IN MEMORIUM, William Vance was born February 7, 1839, in Run township, Hancock county, Illinois. His father was born in North Carolina and was one of the pioneer settlers of Illinois, and they lived near this place until 1884, when Wm. Vance moved to Wichita, Kan., having been married to Emily E. Stewart at Lima, Ill., on March 27, 1860. She survives him. There were born to them nine children, three having died in infancy, and of their children but two survive, Miss Norah of this city and Mrs. Lou Madison of Dodge City, Kan. His daughter Effie was the wife of J.M. Owen of Owen, Welsh & Co., and his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Mollie Vance, with her son, Warren, reside in this city. Mr. Vance was a pioneer settler of Oklahoma City. He arrived here with his family on the night of April23, 1889, from Wichita over the Santa Fe railroad. It is likely that his family was the first one on the townsite. All of its members were with him, not one was left behind—and unusual circumstance at the opening of this country. On his arrival he opened a restaurant on the railroad right of way. He set the first table ever set in and eating house in this city, and as soon as conditions became settled he engaged in the hotel business on Reno avenue. In 1894 he quit that business, invested in real estate on Grand avenue, and only last year completed a handsome house opposite the court house. During the war of the rebellion he enlisted in company G, 119th regiment Illinois volunteer infantry, and was a member of the G.A.R. post here. He joined the M.E. church at Lima, Ill., in 1882, and was a consistent member until his death, which occurred at the residence of J.M. Owen on Fourteenth street on Saturday morning at 9:30 o'clock. The city has lost a good citizen; the community, a man whose example and whose life were ennobling, and his family has sustained an irreparable loss. Everything speaks of his love and thought for those he has left behind him. He had for months contemplated spending this winter in California with his wife and daughter, Nora; and so this fall he visited Mrs. Madison in Dodge City, Kan., and the old home in Illinois to bid them good-bye and to see them all once more before he took this trip to the west; and everything was in readiness. But instead of these plans being carried out, on the night of November 11, at midnight, he called the dear ones each by name and bad them all good-bye, and to each he said: "Be good to mother." The last thought was for her who had climbed the hill with him hand in hand. Still he has gone only a little while before, and while you will all miss his love, his care his gentleness…. (11/16/1904) The Funeral Today. The obsequies of Alexander Ellis, who died Wednesday at his farm home fourteen miles southwest of this city, following a surgical operation, will be held at the Wheatland Methodist church at 9:15 o'clock this morning, after which the remains will be brought to Oklahoma City and inhumation will take place at Fairlawn. Friends of the deceased are invited to attend. (11/16/1904) A Funeral Escortt. The remains of Dr. C.H. Craddock of McLoud, who died Monday night at his home, were brought to this city yesterday afternoon and transferred to the Frisco to be forwarded to Henderson, Ky., for interment. The deceased was much beloved in his community as was shown by the fact that the Masonic and Odd Fellow orders furnished an escort of sixteen men each to this city and detailed four to accompany the remains to their last resting place in Kentucky. These latter were James Allen and R.A. Randelsof McLoud lodge No. 37, A.F. & A.M. ; E. Meyers and B.B. Glass of McLoud lodge No. 53, I.O.O.F. The other members of the escort were Rev. W.T. Scott, chaplain of both lodges; Edger Hodges, J. C. Brumfield, E.N. Hilborn, Dr. J. Mooney, D.N. Harvell, Sam Cavelt, John Malone, James Miller, John Hood, R.M. Proffit and A.J. Hollis. (11/17/1904) Card of Thanks. For the many kindnesses, the beautiful flowers and the loving sympathy extended to us and to our dear one we thank you one and all. Mrs. Emily Vance, Lenora Vance, Mrs. Lou Madison, J.W. Owen. (11/17/1904) S.J. Goldsmith and son, Leo, have returned from Oklahoma City where they went Friday with the remains of Baby Lilian Goldsmith who died Saturday night. The little form was laid to rest in the Oklahoma City cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. Goldsmith have the sincerest sympathy of their many friends.—Chickasha Express. (11/22/1904) We desire to express our sincere thanks to our many friends and neighbors for their sympathy and kindness during the illness and death of our beloved son, Lewis. MR. AND MRS. H.E. BILLIS. (11/22/1904) DEATHS Shawnee, Okla., Nov. 21.—Mrs. Lillian Randolph, wife of Chas. Key Cullom, a well known newspaper writer of this city, died Sunday at the home of Mr. Cullom's father, John H. Cullom, secretary of Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and former state treasurer of Texas. She had been very ill with appendicitis and an operation failed to relieve her. She and Chas. K. Cullom were married in Texas only two months ago. The remains were shipped today to her former home, Abilene, Tex., accompanied by her husband and parents, who were called to her deathbed here. Shawnee, Okla., Nov. 21.—Mrs. Susan B. Wells, aged 52 years, wife of C.C. Wells, died Sunday from blood poisoning, caused by a broken limb. Mrs. Wells was taking a pleasure walk a week ago when she fell, breaking one of her limbs in such a manner that the bone protruded through the flesh. She was given prompt medical aid, but was unable to stand the strain, and blood poisoning resulted. One of her sons is a prominent business man here. The funeral occurred today and the remains were interred in Fairview. (11/23/1904) Passing of a Priest. Father Vincent, parish priest at Yukon, died suddenly at the Hotel Lee yesterday morning at six o'clock of heart failure. He had come here to meet two brother priests who had been college friends of his. They all registered at the Hotel Lee. Shortly after midnight night clerk Meyers was summoned to the room occupied by Father Vincent and found him quite ill. He soon appeared to get better, and it was not thought necessary to call in medical assistance. Shortly after five o'clock he became suddenly worse. Dr. Walker was summoned but when he arrived Father Vincent was breathing his last. Bishop Meerschaert of Guthrie, was soon notified of the sudden death, and he with several priests arrived in the city during the day. The remains of Father Vincent were taken to Yukon this morning on the Rock Island train and pontifical mass will be celebrated at the parish church. At three o'clock this afternoon the remains will be put again on a Rock Island train and taken to Chicago for interment. Two priests will accompany the remains to their last place of rest. Father Vincent was only 30 years old and was much beloved by his people. (11/24/1904) Dr. E.F. Davis has returned from a trip to Peoria, Ill., where he attended the funeral of Dr. J.W. Hensley, the father of Mrs. Davis. Dr. Hensley was injured by a fall while visiting in Oklahoma City last autumn and it is believed that accident caused his death later. Mrs. Davis will return home in about a week or ten days. (11/26/1904) Fell Into Boiling Water. Shawnee, Okla., Nov. 25.—A tub of boiling water left standing on the floor at the home of Andrew Holt on Little river, eight miles south of here, caused the death of their four-year –old son, Richard. The little boy crawled over the floor until he fell into the boiler and was scalded to death. (11/29/1904) John Brownback, a prominent citizen of Anadarko, last week died of grief after his wife's death, which occurred four days prior to his own. (11/29/1904) FARMER KILLED BY FALL FROM A WAGON THE FATAL ACCIDENT OCCURRED NEAR EDMOND—HAD STARTED TO OKLAHOMA CITY WITH COTTON. Edmond, Okla., Nov. 28.—A farmer named Long, who lived east of Waterloo, in Logan county, was thrown from his wagon near here today and received injuries from which he died. In company with several farmers of the neighborhood Long started to Oklahoma City this morning with a load of cotton. While crossing the railroad track two miles north of Edmond his wagon gave a violent lurch throwing him out on his head. He was brought here for medical attention, but never recovered consciousness. He leaves a wife and children. Two of the latter are attending the normal here. (11/29/1904) DEPUTY MARSHAL SHOT BY INDIANS WELL KNOWN OFFICER KILLED AT WETUMKA—A SEARCH FOR HIS MURDERS IN PROGRESS. Muskogee, I.T., --Nov. 28.—United States Marshal Bennett received word here tonight that Deputy Marshal Ed Fink had been killed at Wetumka. Details cannot be obtained. All the information received is that Fink had been killed by two Indians who had escaped going toward the Seminole Nation. There has been no riot at Wetumka. Tonight deputies were sent out from Muskogee to Wetumka and every deputy on the west side of the territory has been notified. An organized search for the murders will be in progress before morning. Deputy Fink had been in the service three years and was a tried officer. Less than a year ago he was beaten and left for dead by Indians. He recovered and stuck to the dangerous business of a deputy. (11/29/1904) BOY CONFESSES MURDER Says He Killed a Peddler Who Had Mistreated Him. South McAlester, I.T., Nov. 28.—Charles Dusenbery, age 14(?) years, was jailed here today charged with killing an unknown peddler near Page, I.T. The lad confessed the crime, saying he had been mistreated by the peddler with whom he was traveling. Dusenbery shot his victim while he slept, taking all valuables from the corpse. (12/1/1904) Wednesday the daughter of Councilman Whitlock of Anadarko died. Friday his wife passed away and Sunday he himself died. It was a different disease in each case. (12/2/1904) OLD RESIDENT DEAD Jonathan Ames, Father of Socialist Party in Oklahoma. Guthrie, Okla., Dec. 1.—Jonathan Ames, aged 80, and known as the father of the socialist part in Oklahoma, died last night in Neosho, Mo., where with his aged wife he was visiting friends. He was a prominent and wealthy citizen of Guthrie for many years, and owned considerable business property here. He was the father of Mrs. L.E. Kimball and of the late Mrs. John C. Foster, both of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Ames had celebrated their fifty-fourth wedding anniversary. The remains were brought here today for interment. (12/2/1904) FUSS OVER ESTATE OF INSANE WOMAN CASE IN SUPREME COURT OVER PROPERTY LEFT BY MRS. HARTOP, WHO DIED IN ASYLUM. Guthrie, Okla., Dec.1.—There was appealed today to the Oklahoma supreme court the case of John A. Goodwin, Emma J. Masters, Cynthia Rosenberger and Nellie Bickford vs. Will Carlton Bickford, wherein the plaintiff in error seek to thwart the appointment of the defendant as administrator of the estate of Mrs. Mary Hartop, deceased. The Canadian county probate court heard the case and named Bickford as administrator. The plaintiffs in error appealed to the district court, but the appeal was dismissed, and now they ask the supreme court to reinstate their appeal to the district court. They have petitioned the appointment of John A. Goodwin as administrator. Mrs. Mary Hartop died about two years ago, while an inmate of the Oklahoma insane asylum at Norman. She remained in the asylum several months while the various heirs were in court trying to solve the question of her state of mind. Some held her insane and had her incarcerated; others held her sane and attempted to secure her release. She was released at one time and returned with friends to Illinois, but escaped and returned to Oklahoma and was again placed in the asylum, where she died. She left an estate consisting mostly of town and business property in El Reno, and worth a large amount of money. Bickford is a nephew of Mrs. Hartop and all the parties in the case are heirs. Bickford, Goodwin and another interested heir, Mrs. Walker, are residents of El Reno; Mrs. Rosenberger of Petersburg, Ill., Mrs. Masters of Lewiston, Ill., Mrs. Nellie Bickford of Oak Park, Ill.; and other heirs are Mrs. E.Carson Mason, of Bellows Falls, Vt., and James Dexter of Marlboro, Mass. On account of the war among the heirs, in their attempts to decide whether or not Mrs. Hartop was insane, the case became prominent in this territory and its final outcome is watched with interest. (12/2/1904) WAS CALLED OUT BY THE UMPIRE "STIX" ISAACS, ONCE FAMOUS AS A BALL PLAYER, DIED IN THIS CITY LAST EVENING. Iwin Isaacs, aged thirty-eight, better known by the familiar sobriquet of "Stix," which was given him by friends in the profession when he was engaged as a professional baseball player, died at his home in this city at six o'clock last evening of tuberculosis. The decedent leaves a wife and one child to mourn his passing. The remains are at the Rackley morgue, but funeral arrangements will not be made until the arrival of out of town relatives. The remains will be interred in the Catholic cemetery. Until he became ill, Mr. Isaacs was an employe in the city engineering department. He resided at 217 Noble street. A few years ago Isaacs became a brilliant star as a ball player in the Texas league and was given a trial on the Detroit team of the National league. He was a pitcher of much ability and was a remarkable batsman before his decline. (12/3/1904) Mortuary Report. Dr. Clutter, president of the board of health, reports the following: Deaths occurring in Oklahoma county during the month of November, with the cause of the same: Abscess of spine, 1; accident, 4; bronchitis, 1; burned,1; cancer,1; diabetes milletis, 1; diphtheria, 4; crispelas, 1; malarial fever, 2; paralysis, 1; periotonitis, 1; pneumonia, 1; stillborn, 2; tuberculosis, 2; typhoid fever, 3; whooping cough, 1; total, 35. (12/3/1904) Wealthy Citizen Dead. Guthrie, Okla., Dec. 2.—The death occurred at Coyle, this county, last night of George W. Whipple, one of the wealthiest citizens of Logan county, and until recently vice-president of the Logan County bank here. Hiram Fabion, a prominent merchant of Evansville, this county, also died last night; he was prominent in politics. The death occurred yesterday afternoon here of Abraham Hanford, and aged Mason. The remains were shipped today to Tecumseh, Michigan, for interment. (12/4/1904) INSANITY THE DEFENSE IN THE ALLEN MURDER CASE An Unbiased Empaneled After Ten Hours Labor—Principal Witnesses are Defendant's Three Sons—Allen Visibly Affected When Youngest Boy Testified—Jealousy Alleged Cause of Murder. It was about ten o'clock yesterday morning when a murder case that has been delayed for about one year was called in the district court, being the case of the Territory vs. W.T. Allen, charged with the murder of his wife, Jennie Allen, which occurred at the home of their son, John Allen, about one mile northeast of Luther, Okla., on July 7, 1903. Throughout the remainder of the day the time was devoted to selection of a jury. The right of peremptory challenges was exercised eight times by both sides and fully fifteen veniremen were released for cause, the most of those alleging conscientious scruples against assessing the death penalty under any circumstance. [jury names listed] After the jury had been duly sworn, Acting County Attorney G.A. Paul read the indictment, setting forth that on the 7th day of July, 1903, W.T. Allen shot three bullets into the body of his wife, Jennie Allen, from the effect of which she died the following day, to which indictment the defendant had entered a plea of not guilty. County Attorney's Statement. "We will show that this was one of the most heinous crimes ever committed in the territory. Allen, his wife and three sons removed from Missouri to Oklahoma county and purchased the Cabot hotel in the town of Luther and they carried on that business there. Commencing with the month of December, 1902, the defendant began a systematic, prolonged and violent abuse of his wife. From time to time he accused her of infidelity. From time to time he quarreled with her and, upon one occasion at least, he struck her. He charge her with all kinds of petty infidelities and apparently he was intensely jealous of every act and of every movement of that wife. So persistent was his abuse that finally, on July 3, 1903, it became necessary for her to secure the protection of the courts of this county, and she filed in this court a petition praying a decree of divorcement from Allen. She had threatened to do this some time previously. Repeatedly the defendant made threats that his wife would not leave him and that she would never live with another man; that he would kill her before she obtained a divorce for the purpose of living with another man. Crime Deliberately Planned. "Unable to bear with his constant and continuous abuse, she filed a petition for divorce on Friday, July 3, 1903, employing an attorney and a summons was served upon the defendant the following day. "On Sunday, the next day thereafter, Allen turned over his hotel business to a certain person who will be a witness upon the stand in the trial of this case, with positive directions instructing that this person take the hotel and run it from that time on; asserting that he was entirely too much worried and was unable to longer take care of the business. On Monday morning defendant told this person that he was going out of the city and requested him to keep a minute account of everything he purchased and every dollar taken in and that he, Allen, would look to it and see that all expenses were met and all bills paid. "The next day was Tuesday, the fatal day. At about eight o'clock that morning Allen reappeared at the hotel and made further and additional arrangements with the man in charge, and then told this man that he was going away, going on a trip, and that it might possibly be some time before he would return. Following this, Allen, who was never known to have a firearm, revolver or pistol about his premises and never carried a weapon, proceeded to a hardware store in Luther and there purchased this revolver (exhibiting the weapon) and paid $4.50 for it. He told the man who sold it to him that he was going away on a trip and that he would take with him certain valuable papers and wanted the revolver to protect himself and the papers. That, gentlemen of the jury, was along about 8, 8:30 or perhaps 9 o'clock in the morning of Tuesday, July 7. Allen Buys a Revolver. "Right around the corner from the hardware store there lived a woman who at that time was selling milk daily to the hotel and who was a good friend of both Allen and his wife. Having purchased a revolver he proceeded to the residence of this woman, sat down and talked with her for perhaps half an hour or an hour. He asked if she thought Mrs. Allen would ever return to him. Being assured that she would never return on account of the constant and continuous abuse heaped upon her by him, he proceeded directly, with the premeditated design to purposely effect the death of that poor woman, his wife; proceeded northeast of the town to the place where his son, John Allen, and wife resided, about a mile northeast of Luther, where Mrs. Allen had gone that same morning. Arriving there at perhaps 10:30 or perhaps 11 o'clock, he found his wife there. They were both distant and cold toward each other. Yes, along toward 11:30 Allen walked out to the house where he knew his wife to be at that time, and going out there expressly, as the evidence will disclose, for the purpose of bringing her back home or else killing her. "After talking to her for a time, he went out and sat under a tree, this after his wife had protested and said that she would not go back with him. He sat there under the shade of a tree and wrote four pages of matter the nature and condition of his mind and telling to the world everything he had in view and in his mind at that time. That paper will be produced in evidence here before you. It will show to you one of the most villainous, premeditated murders ever conceived by mortal man. Preparing for the Crime. "He sat there for perhaps three-quarters of an hour scribbling on that paper, writing out his last and dying requests, wherein he minutely detailed everything that was going to transpire and did transpire in less than four hours thereafter. He wrote and told his son John that he should have a deed then in the bank for certain property, and that he should have a certain necklace belonging to his wife, as he was going to kill her. He then and there put in writing his premeditated design of killing that poor woman. "At perhaps 12 o'clock Allen finished this dying declaration and proceeded to the house. His son John, his daughter-in-law May, his own little son Clarence and his wife were there. John invited both Allen and his wife to come to the dinner table. Mrs. Allen refused to go. Allen sat down and ate a hearty meal. Mrs. Allen sat in an adjoining room for some time. After dinner he desired to talk with her, but she declined to enter into conversation with him. Finally, along about 2:30 in the afternoon, Mrs. Allen starte to leave the premises with a view to returning to Luther. She went out the door and walked in a southwesternly direction. When probably 150 to 300 feet from the house, with Allen bent upon murder, following her, the latter spoke to her twice, telling her that he desired to speak to her and to talk matters over with her in reference to the divorce proceedings. She refused to talk with him and continued on her way, moving slowly toward the section line west of the home, with the intention of walking to town on the roadway. The Brutal Murder. "He followed until within perhaps four feet of her, when he reached down into his right-hand pocket, pulled out a revolver and shot her through the left arm. He then fired a second shot into her back. She then turned and told him she would speak with him, but before the words were out of her mouth he fired again and the bullet entered her right breast. She then moved in a westernly direction to near-by depression or ditch. Allen then said, "We are going to end this right now," and he fired another shot, the bullet striking her in the abdomen, whereupon she fell into the ditch, and then this man, the murderer who sits before you now, deliberately stood upon the crest of that gully and fired again. He revolver contained but five chambers, and he had emptied every one. Whether the evidence will show that more than four shots struck her I cannot say at this time. "Mrs. Allen then dragged herself as best she could up to the house, fell upon the porch or step, crawled into the house and lay there limp and bleeding before her son and daughter-in-law. "Allen followed her toward the house. He stopped under a tree on the way, pointed the empty revolver at his head and snapped it two or three times. He then went to the house, pulled off his coat and left it there and then left the place, going toward the east, and that was the last seen of him that day. He went into hiding. The next day the officers found and arrested him. "In substance this is our case. We will show these fact by eye-witnesses and we think your duty is plain." [this article continues with the testimony of 2 sons and the letter Allen wrote under the tree] (12/5/1904) DAVID L. PAYNE ANNIVERSARY OF HIS DEATH IS GENERALLY OBSERVED IN OKLAHOMA. STORY THAT NEVER GROWS OLD He Died Before Seeing the Fruition of His Labor, But Those Who Were With Him Revere Him as Leader. Guthrie, Okla., Dec. 5.—The anniversary of the death of Captain David L. Payne was observed throughout the entire territory on November 28, twenty years since he dropped dead in the hotel at Wellington, Kas., from heart trouble caused by exposure in leading expeditions into the disputed territory of what is now Oklahoma. [article continues with some of his escapades] (12/8/1904) The Ed Walden murder case will probably be called in the district court tomorrow morning, soon to be followed by the trial of Ed Filson on the charge of assassinating Effie Fisher. (12/9/1904) Miss Edna Kime, who died at her home in Chickasha on Dec. 5 was brought to this city and interred in Fairlawn cemetery. The decedent was manager of the Nickel Store at Chickasha when striken with peritonitis and an illness of two weeks terminated fatally. (12/10/1904) The funeral of Henry Armstead will occur today. He died of dropsy Thursday night at his home, 501 East Grand avenue, at the age of forty. (12/11/1904) Brought Here for Burial. James A. McConnell died at Phoenix, Arz., Dec. 6, 1904, age 68 years. The remains arrived over the Santa Fe last night and was taken to the residence of his son, Attorney R.N. McConnell, No. 400 West Thirteenth street, from which place funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock p.m. today, after which the body will be interred in the family lot in Fairlawn cemetery. (12/11/1904) DIED SUDDENLY IN A RESTAURANT L.C. PARSONS, A BARTENDER, THE VICTIM OF AN ATTACK OF HEART FAILURE. From heart failure L.C. Parsons died suddenly in the English Kitchen early yesterday morning. He was a bartender in John Blair's saloon and stopped at the restaurant to eat breakfast on his way to the saloon. The remains were at once removed to his home at 1137 West Main street. Mr. Parsons was about 45 years of age and leaves a widow and a married daughter, Mrs. Edna Hess, to mourn their loss. He came to this city from St. Louis, had a wide circle of friends and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. (12/14/1904) The funeral of Frank H. Marshall will occur at the family residence, 222 W. Eleventh street at 3 o'clock this afternoon. Friends are invited. (12/15/1904) At the United Presbyterian church at 2 o'clock this afternoon will occur the obsequies of the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. O.E. Banta, conducted by Rev. A.H. Griffith. (12/17/1904) WILL INVESTIGATE OFFICER'S DEATH WIDOW OF LATE LIEUTENANT MITCHELL DOES NOT BELIEVE HE COMMITTED SUICIDE. Guthrie, Okla., Dec. 16.—An effort will be made to investigate the death about a year ago of Lieutenant Marshall Mitchell, of the regular army, who died under mysterious circumstances at Ft. Leavenworth, where he was preparing for an examination for promotion. Lieutenant Mitchell was a young officer, who served with distinction in the Philippines during the most stirring war times in those islands, and upon returning home was married to Miss Gracia White, a prominent young lady teacher of this city. Their courtship had been romantic and was kept up through correspondence during all his service abroad. Immediately following the wedding, which occurred in this city soon after his return from the Philippines, they enjoyed a honeymoon trip and then located in Ft. Leavenworth, where he was slated for promotion. Everything was seemingly bright for the future, his married life was exceedingly happy, and so far as has ever been known his financial affairs were in good shape. He was quite popular in Guthrie, as was also his wife, and after the wedding a brilliant reception was given in their honor at the residence of J.O. Severus. There was no reason why he should commit suicide, and nothing has ever developed, it is understood, to back up the suicide theory. His wife and her friends have always believed he was murdered, and an investigation into the whole case will now be asked to ascertain if possible the true cause of his death. While it is understood that his widow knows no reason why he should have been murdered, yet this has always been her belief; perhaps there was some old enmity back of the entire affair. Recently Mrs. Mitchell, the widow, was in the city for several lays, and it is understood she stated that an entire investigation of the affair will be asked. It will likely be conducted by the army officers and through the war department. She now lives with her parents in the new county, having homesteaded a claim in Caddo county. (12/17/1904) LEVERICH TRIAL TAKING OF TESTIMONY IN THE CASE COMMENCED YESTERDAY FOR THE STATE. ATTORNEY GENERAL IS HERE Members of the Smith Family Relate Details of the Homicide—Testimony for the Defense Comes Today. The trial of the Leverich murder case was resumed in the district court yesterday with County Attorney Paul eliminated from the prosecution. Attorney General Simon is now nominally conducting the prosecution, but the principal part of the work will be done by Judge Fulton who is retained to assist in the case. The testimony for the territory was not concluded yesterday. The defense did little in cross-examination that would indicate the line of defense. Col. J.W. Johnson of this city and Attorney B.F. Williams, Jr., of Norman, are counsel for the defense and the latter has labored vigorously in preparation for the trial of the case and is giving invaluable assistance to his eminent co-counsel in the case. The principal witnesses for the prosecution yesterday were members of the Smith family and the territory's cause will depend principally upon the evidence which they give. Perry Smith was the first witness called. Said he was a brother of Oscar Smith, deceased. Witness said he had known Oscar Leverich about thirteen years. Witness then said: He married my sister. She is dead. Died at my father's home last March. Witness was handed a diagram showing the location of the Smith farm, the public road and other driveways. Witness lived in Horton, Kans., in December, 1903. The defendant and his wife lived together at that time. They had been married [eleven or seven] years. Were married in the court house in Oklahoma City and returned to the home of the bride's parents, where they remained two or three months, and then moved onto J.E. Smith's farm, where they went to housekeeping. John E. Smith arranged it so they could go to housekeeping. He bought their furniture and household goods for them. They lived there about a year and went to the "Pott" country where Leverich homesteaded a piece of land. My brothers and father bought the lumber and helped Leverich build his house. Witness said his father and brother broke up land for cultivation. Witness said he was in and about that country after the farm had been homesteaded by Leverich. Did not know that Leverich and his wife ever had any trouble. Prior to going to Kansas witness talked with Leverich about family affairs. Witness said he asked Leverich if he wanted to work, and he replied, "To hell with work with me." Leverich said that if any of my folks monkey with my family affairs he would kill them all and burn them out. Being cross-examined witness said he was not the youngest member of the family. Witness said he visited the home of his father after the death of his brother. He then went over the same questions propounded by the attorney for the prosecution. Witness said that the talk he had with Leverich was on South Broadway. It was during the forenoon. Leverich was walking and we both stopped. Witness said when he asked Leverich if he wanted to work and her replied: "To hell with work." I then told him that my sister had been at my house the day before and told me she had not had anything to eat. I told Leverich he should attend to such a matter. He got mad and told me that if any of my family monkeyed with his family he would kill all the s--- b--- and burn us out. He pulled out a knife and got very mad. I became frightened and walked away." Mrs. Martha J. Smith, mother of the murdered man, was called to the stand. She said she was 63 years old and came from Ohio. Said she had known Oscar Leverich twelve years. They had been married eleven years. They had six children, four of whom are living at my house. Up to the time of Mrs. Leverich's death she lived at my house. The defendant lived most any place. Witness was present at times when Leverich came to see his children at my house. A week or two before the murder Leverich came to our house and remained all day. He was talking to my daughter and we heard her crying. I went in and found that he had his hands on her face. He said they were talking over their trouble. Then Leverich came out of the room and said he didn't know what was the matter with her. Said she had ordered him away. We invited him to stay to dinner and he remained until after dark. Leverich told my husband that b—G—he would kill Oscar and John Smith before he would allow them to have anything to do with his children. Mr. Smith told him to get out and go home and not worry our daughter, because she was too ill. Leverich said he would not go until he got ready. He left at nine o'clock that night. My daughter died on May 10. Witness said that on December 6, Leverich came again. This was the Sunday following the day when Mr. Smith ordered Leverich away. Leverich came after the divorce proceedings had been instituted by his wife. Before that time Leverich had not been to our place for three months. Leverich knocked on the door. Mr. Smith opened the door and said, "How do you do?" Leverich said he came to see the children. Mr. Smith said he could not come in, and got the children and started to take them out to him on the porch. Continuing, the witness said that Leverich kicked the door and forced it open. Then he poked his head through and called out: "Lillie, Lillie, you and the children have been in this penitentiary long enough and I am going to get you out in a couple of days." John Smith then told Leverich that he could not come in. Leverich then kicked at him and grabbed an iron square off the porch and struck at him. Leverich then picked up two sticks of stovewood and John took one of them away from him. Leverich then struck him and felled him to the ground. [continued] (12/17/1904) ELECTRIC SHOCK WIRE HELD BY LINEMAN SHORES BROKE AND HE RECEIVED THE DEADLY CURRENT. COMPANIONS TRIED TO AID HIM Accident Was Unavoidable and in No Wise Due to Carelessness—Decedent Has a Brother at Orlando. Shortly before noon yesterday morning William R. Shores, a lineman employed by the electric light company, met with an accident that caused his death within an hour. Shores and another lineman, Charles Foster, were working on one of the company's poles on North Robinson street, between Main and First streets. While Shores was pulling a wire, it broke between his hands. As he had hold of both ends of the broken wire, it made a circuit, and the electric current passed through his body. His companion was quick to see his awful condition and instantly moved to get in reach of his unfortunate comrade, at the same time attempting to get his pliers loose from his belt so that he could cut the wire and break the circuit. The pliers caught in some way and in trying to wrench the tool loose it dropped out of his hand to the ground. Another lineman, who was working on the ground, also so the accident, and climbing the pole, succeeded in releasing Shores and bore him to the ground. The unfortunate man was taken into Kegerls' tailor shop and every effort was made to resuscitate him, but without avail. He died within a few minutes after being released from the wire. In speaking of the accident several of the linemen said it was not due to carelessness in anyway, and could not have been avoided by any of the usual precautions. Had the wire broken anywhere else the accident could not have happened. Shores was a member of local No. 155 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of this city. He was about 23 years of age. A brother of the deceased is a lineman living in Chicago and another brother lives at Marshall, Okla. The latter was immediately notified of the sad death, and is expected to arrive in the city this morning. Until he arrives or sends instructions, no funeral arrangements will be made. (12/22/1904) Traveling Salesman Dies. A. Back of Memphis, Tenn., a traveling salesman, died at Hotel Stewart at 6 o'clock yesterday morning of apoplexy. Prominent Hebrews in this city became interested in his case, providing medical care and attention during his week's illness, and will provide for his burial. (12/22/1904) Supposed Murderers of Agee. Bratcher and Sopher, the two men suspected of the murder of W.A. Agee near Jones City, and who were arrested Tuesday near Kent, Tex., will probably be brought here tonight by Sheriff O'Brien. The sheriff's office yesterday received a telegram from Sheriff Huddleston, of La Follette, Tenn., stating that two boxes, containing bedding that belonged to the murdered pensioner, have arrived at the Tennessee town. (12/22/1904) DIED IN PRISON OKLAHOMA MAN IN OHIO PENITENTIARY HOPED FOR A PARDON. DELAY OF HIS ATTORNEYS Added to Humiliation Caused John F. Davidson to Die of a Broken Heart—The Crime of Delaying Justice. Guthrie, Okla., Dec. 21.—Ezra Hartshorn, ex-Senator from Woods county, is here today and says the people of Woods county, especially the citizens of Aline, are thoroughly aroused because of the delay of attorneys in acting has caused the death in the Ohio penitentiary of John F. Davidson, an Oklahoma citizen, whom the people of Aline believe was entirely innocent of the crime charged against him and for which he was convicted, that of burning his store building in Williams county several years ago. Shortly after the arrest of Davidson at Aline an effort was made by the people of Woods county to secure a pardon from Governor Herrick of Ohio. Davidson was convicted and sentenced to serve a year in the state penitentiary. The cause was a celebrated one in that state. Davidson and his brother operated a general store in Williams county and they were charged with setting fire to the store and burning it to secure the insurance money. About eighteen months ago, a number of years after the crime was committed, Davidson's brother was arrester and sent to the penitentiary to serve ten years. He died a few months later of a broken heart, maintaining his innocence to the last. In the meantime John F. Davidson had emigrated to Oklahoma and had become a highly respected citizen of Aline, where he owned a store and general stock of goods. Soon after the imprisonment of his brother officers arrived from Ohio and arrested John F. Davidson, taking him back to that state for trial. He was convicted entirely on circumstantial evidence and sentenced to serve a year in the penitentiary . He, too, died in the prison recently of a broken heart, the disgrace of imprisonment being too great for him to bear. He, too, maintained his innocence to the last. David was a soldier in the civil war, serving in an Ohio regiment. His Woods county friends say he was an excellent citizen in every respect and the petition for a pardon was signed by every man in that part of Woods county. Through the territorial officers the matter of the pardon was taken up and every encouragement possible resulted. It was necessary to wait for the board of pardons to meet at Columbus and in the meantime the attorneys who had charge of the Davidson case allowed the matter to drag and were not prepared when the board finally met. Soon after, Davidson died of a broken heart in prison. It is understood his family will return to Ohio to live. (12/23/1904) Mrs. James M. Montgomery of 415 West Frisco street died at 4:30 o'clock last evening of consumption, after a lingering illness of several months. Funeral arrangements will be made today. (12/24/1904) The obsequies of Mrs. J.M. Montgomery will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic church at 9 o'clock this morning, conducted by Father Lanslot. The remains will leave the home promptly at 8:30. (12/24/1904) Old Pioneer Dead. Muskogee, I.T., Dec. 23.—F.M. Moore, one of the pioneers of the southwest, died at his home in this city this morning at the age of 70 years. He came of a family of pioneers and his ancestors for the past 200 years have assisted in blazing the way for civilization in every state in the south from the Carolinas to California. He was a Methodist minister, a teacher, lawyer and physician, and has acted in the capacity of a missionary in this country ever since the civil war. He established the first high school ever taught in Fort Smith, Ark., and since that time he has founded schools and churches in many parts of Indian Territory and the southwest. (12/27/1904) Died in His Barnyard. Vinita, I.T., Dec. 26.—John Lemaster, aged sixty-nine years, residing three miles south of Fairland, I.T., was found dead in his barnyard last night. He was alone during the evening, and when his sons returned from Fairland and entered the barnyard they found the lifeless body. It is believed that Mr. Lemaster sustained a stroke of paralysis of that his death resulted from heart failure. He had been a resident of that community for the past ten years. The cyclone which struck Fairland last summer demolished the Lemaster home, killing Mrs. Lemaster and injuring Mr. Lemaster to such an extent that he never fully recovered. (12/29/1904) Died of Heart Failure. The death of James F. Lilly, occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. W.W. Autry, No. 632 East Tenth street, Wednesday afternoon. Heart failure was the cause of his demise. The remains were taken to Gainesville, Texas, the home of the deceased and will be interred there. A wife and family survive Mr. Lilly who was nearing his 63rd year. (12/29/1904) William, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. John Bergman, died at the family home on West Reno street, yesterday. The deceased was four years of age and had been sick some days with a complication of diphtheria and scarlet fever. The funeral service, which will be private, will be conducted at the house and interment at Fairlawn. (12/31/1904) Dunn's Body Interred. The body of W.R. Dunn, found in the North Canadian river ?st of the city Thursday noon, was interred at Fairlawn cemetery Friday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock. A brief service was performed at the Robinson undertaking establishment, Fourth and Broadway, and the body of the murdered man was then taken to its last resting place. Mr. Dunn was generally supposed to have been murdered and his son, Pearl, and son-in-law, Fred Salisbury, are held for the crime. They will probably be arraigned before Justice of the Peace Leach today. (12/31/1904) GIRL ASKS FOR TEN THOUSAND HUSBAND OF THE LATE "LUCKY MRS. WOODS". IS DEFENDANT. GOT AN ENGAGEMENT RING AND COMPLAINS THAT THE VOWS IT TOKENED WERE UNFULFILLED. For Which Loss of Dignity and Disappointment No Amount Less Than $10,000 Can Sufficiently Atone. Lawton, Okla., Dec. 30.—Through her attorneys, Miss Maud Parmenter of this city today filed a petition with the district court instituting suit against Oliver M. Powers in the sum of $10,000, alleging breach of promise. The petition alleges that on January 20, 1904, Miss Parmenter and Powers became engaged to get married, and that on January 30 she was presented with an engagement ring; the date was set for their marriage on or about December 20, 1904; that in the summer Powers went away and thereafter grew cold toward her, neglected her and refused to talk of their coming wedding; that by reason of this she became afflicted with nervous prostration and for a period of nine weeks was unable to be out of bed, a physician's care being necessary all the time; that she was compelled to sever her connection with the Lawton conservatory of music and dramatic art as teacher of music because of her voice, for which she feels damaged to the amount of $5,000; that the severing of her connection damaged her financially about $500; that she spent about $300 in preparation for the marriage; that she felt herself deeply injured, humiliated, disgraced, her prospects in life injured if not ruined, and her good character and her fair name trailed in the dust by the cruel, heartless and brutal acts of the defendant. Oliver M. Powers was the husband of the late Alta M. Woods, who drew claim No. 1 in the great land drawing at the opening of the Kiowa-Comanche country. He is administrator of the Woods estate and has resided in Lawton most of the time since the death of his wife.