McKean-Elk County PA Archives News.....Jan-April 1924 Deaths in Miner Newspaper ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Ronald Reid rreid21@cox.net December 31, 2010, 3:43 pm McKean County Miner 1924 DEATHS IN MCKEAN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA JAN-APRIL 1924 THE MCKEAN COUNTY MINER NEWSPAPER, (SMETHPORT) The following death notices appeared in the McKean County Miner from January thru April during the year of 1924. The date of publication is shown prior to the item(s). There is no implication that this is all that may have been published in these editions since some editions may be missing and many of the pages or portions thereof are unreadable. This transcription for 1924 of the McKean County Miner ends in April because the remaining issues for the year are not on-line. Transcribed by Ronald J. Reid, 2010 January 3, 1924, Page 1. On Wednesday afternoon t 3:30 p.m., Dec. 28, 1923, occurred the death of Zetto H. Tyler at his home in Coryville. The deceased was 38 years of age. Death came as release from a long and painful illness of several years. He leaves to mourn him his wife Nellie Rees Tyler and little daughter Florence, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. victor Tyler of Kane and three brothers, George of Allegany, N.Y., Clarence of Little Genesee, N.Y., and Vern of Kane, Pa. Mr. Tyler was a partner in the firm of Holmes and Tuttle. He was a member of the Grane, the I.O.O.F., and the Modern Woodmen of America. The entire community mourns the loss of this estimable young man. He was a public spirited citizen of the highest moral caliber, a kind and loving husband and father as well as especially loyal neighbor and friend ever ready to give a helping hand to those in trouble. During his entire illness, though suffering with severest pain, he was always patient and grateful and always considerate of those who waited upon him. And although he loved life and wanted to live, he looked forward to the end without fear and calmly arranged his funeral to the smallest detail. Rev. Lawrence Thayer of Millport, Pa., officiated at the residence Saturday afternoon. The great number and beauty of the floral tributes were eloquent testimony to the high regard which he was held. Interment was made in Rose Hill cemetery at Smethport following burial services in charge of the Eldred I.O.O.F. Page 3. Guy Brown of Beechwood, near Emporium, was almost instantly killed when he fell from the Pennsylvania passenger train, due to arrive here at 12:35 yesterday forenoon at Rathburn, a small flag station four miles west of Beechwood. It is thought Brown boarded the steps at the rear coach just after the vestibule doors had been closed and the train had gotten under motion. IN the hope that he would not be seen or heard as he madly clung to the handholds of the coach. His strength gave out as the train whizzed along at a rate of 54 miles an hour and his body was plunged to the ground with such force that he died in the St. Marys hospital a few hours afterwards. Mr. Brown was aged 38 years and besides his mother, whom he was on his way to spend Christmas with at St. Marys is survived by three small children, his wife having passed away about a year ago. The train crew did not know of the man’s plight nor hear of his death until after the train reached Kane, when it was learned that the man had been found along the tracks at Rathburn in an unconscious condition. Kane Re. 26. Page 3. E.H. Williams, 48 years old fell yesterday in the compressor station of the Hanley Oil company at Three Mile, Elk county, 12 miles from Kane, his head striking a work bench, and then the man fell to the cement floor. Three men were with Williams at the time. W. R. McCraken, in charge of the compressor, George M. Jeffords, lease foreman; and W.R. Rose, a leaseman. They picked up the unconscious man and summoned a physician but Williams died about an hour later. The physician said the man was subject to epileptic fits and it is assumed that he was stricken with a fit which caused his fall. Williams leaves a wife and four children, three sons and a daughter. Williams had worked for the Hanley Oil company about two years as a leaseman and before that time he lived in Kane and was employed at Durant City. The body was brought to Kane this afternoon, taken to Brown’s undertaking rooms. Funeral arrangement will be announced later. – Kane 29. Page 5. Emporium, Dec. 31. – At 8:30 o’clock this morning a terrific explosion rocked this village and was felt over a radius of 30 miles, caused by the blowing up of the mixing house at the Hercules Powder company’s plant here. The explosion was from an unknown cause and resulted in the deaths of O.K. Walker, who leaves a wife and two children. Charles Mansfield who leaves a wife. Three men, Tony clement, Ben VanGilder and truck driver whose name was not learned are in critical condition from injuries received. Walker, Mansfield, Clement and VanGilder were in the cotton dry house of the plant, close to the mixing house where the explosion occurred. This building was practically enveloped in the burst of flame from the exploding dynamite and Walker and Mansfield were burned so badly that they soon expired. Little hope is given at this time that any of the trio will recover. The truck driver was in an alleyway between the mixing house and cotton drying house when the dynamite let go. The fire quickly spread to other buildings of the pant some of which were totally and others partly destroyed. The mixing house and drying house were complete wrecks. It is estimated that the damage to the plant will be in excess of $100.000. – Kane Rep. 31. Page 8. James Williams of Kane a leaseman employed by the United Natural Gas Company, foud the body of Samuel Peterson, aged 67 years frozen and snow- covered lying in the woods near the head of Mill Creek. The scene of the discovery is in Elk county and the coroner of that county was immediately notified. Few details can be learned concerning the matter as the scene of the finding of the body is in an isolated locality with only woodcutters camps in the vicinity. Little is known concerning Peterson aside from the fact that he had worked for the chemical company for the past six years but had never told much concerning himself or relatives. Peterson had been missing since Monday which it is alleged that a number of woodcutters among whom was Peterson engaged in a drinking bout and it is believed the man started for a spring in the vicinity, dropped down, went to sleep and died from exposure. The coroner’s jury found that he died from exposure there being no indications of foul play. – Kane 28. Page 8. Dominick Vitalone aged about 35 years, was shot and instantly killed this morning at 7:10 o’clock at a point on Wetmore avenue about 75 feet in the rear of the grandstand at the Penna. R.R. baseball park and directly across the street from the P.R.R. roundhouse. Vitalone dropped to the sidewalk expiring instantly and the assassin ran away in a northeasterly direction across the vacant lots toward Chase street. Theodore Johnson, employed at the Kane Gasoline company’s plant who was walking on Wetmore avenue at the time on his way to work heard the shot, saw the victim fall and saw a man running across the pots in the vicinity but it was too dark at the time for him to get a good view of the fugitive. Austin Davis also was a witness of the shooting although both men were some distance away from the scene. Chief of Police R.T. Fowler was soon on the scene and in company with W.P. Merrit, P.R.R. railroad detective of Warren, followed the tracks made by the fleeing assassin in the direction of Chase and Dawson street. The officers also searched two dwelling houses on Dawson street occupied by Italian families but found no trace of a fugitive or anything of a suspicious nature. E.M. Retzer acting night policeman also took part in the investigation. Vitalone was shot about an inch below the left eye. A possible theory that could be built up regarding the direct occurance of the shooting is that Vitalone was approached by the assassin who asked him the time. Vitalone might have taken his watch from his pocket and at almost the same instant seen the menace of the revolver in the other man’s hand. Vitalone was carrying an umbrella, as it was raining at the time and might have made a desperate attempt to shield himself by covering his face with the umbrella the second that the assailant fired. Evidence of this theory is found in the fact that the slain man’s watch laid almost on his face as he fell and that a hole presumably made by a bullet was found in the umbrella. – Kane 22. January 10, 1924. Page 1. Harry Llewellyn Backus owner and publisher of the McKean County Miner passed away at his home in this borough Wednesday morning January 9th, 1924 following a stroke of paralysis which occurred Monday morning. This was his second stroke, the first occurring almost ten years ago. Since that time he has been crippled and unable to carry on his business which was conducted by his sister Miss Mattie until her death in June 1920 and later by his wife. He was the only son of Franklin w. and flora a. Backus, born September 13, 1872 in this place and educated in the Smethport public school which he left at the age of fifteen to go to work. IN June 1888 he began learning typesetting and printing in the office of the McKean County Miner, then under the editorship of colonel Lucius Rogers who founded the Miner in 1863, but later disposed of it to Bert Olson. He continued with the Miner several years, then spent one year on the McKean Democrat, then returned to the Miner where he continued as an employee in various capacities until February 1, 1900 when he purchased the Miner plant and became sole owner and editor. Under his able management the paper was not only a financial success, but ranked high among the papers of Northern Pennsylvania. The politics of the paper reflected the personal views of its owner and it was a tower of strength to the Republican party. In 1906 he served as secretary of the judiciary general committee of the State Legislature at Harrisburg continuing one term. He stood high in the Masonic order belonging to McKean Lodge, No. 388, Free and Accepted Masons, and holding all degrees of Coudersport Consistory Ancient Accepted Scottish rites, including the thirty-second degree. He was also a Noble of the Mystic Shrine, belonging to Zem Zem Temple, Erie, Pa. He was a member of the Bradford Lodge no. 284, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. In religious faith he was an Episcopalian having been baptized in early boyhood. He was married on September 11, 1907, to Lillian W. Shattuck of Linesville, Pa., who with his three children, Clarissa, harry and William survive him. His was a genial friendly nature which enjoyed life to the utmost and did everything in his power to make other enjoy it too. None who ever knew him before fate struck him with her heavy hand will forget his kindliness and open- hearted hospitality and during all the yea he was crippled he was patient and thoughtful of those about him, never complaining though life was a long martyrdom. He will be greatly missed by his bereaved family and a large circle of friends. The funeral will be held Friday January 11th at the family home at 2 o’clock p.m. Rev. W.E. Van Dyke officiating. Interment will be in Rose Hill cemetery. Page 3. The death of Mrs. Leone E. Ristine took place Saturday, December 22nd at her home in Salamanca, death being due to a stroke. She had been ill from diphtheria, her son Franklin also having had that disease, but both had recovered. That disease, however, left Mrs. Ristine in a weakened condition, with the result that the stroke followed. The quarantine on the house for diphtheria had been raised just the day previous to her death. Mrs. Ristine was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank D. Simar and was 45 years of age at the time of death. She was a resident of this section all of her life. In 1913 she was married to George Ristine, and besides her husband she leaves two sons, Harry and Franklin to mourn her death. She also leaves a host of friends throughout this section by whom she will be greatly missed. A short prayer service was held last Thursday morning at the home in Salamanca, Rev. D.R. Hoffman of St. Marys Episcopal Church officiating. The funeral party then motored to Port Allegany where funeral services were held in the Episcopal Church, Rev. W.E. Van Dyke of Smethport officiating. Interment was made in the family plot in the Port Allegany Cemetery. The bearers were M.J. Georgetson, Robert Barrett, A. Berg, Edward Swanson, Walter Vanable and Edward Wennerstrom. Out of town relatives at the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. F.P. Shaner of Olean; Mrs. Mollie Valsing of Bradford; Rev. Thomas Murray of Emporium and others. Port Allegany Argus-Reporter Jan. 3d. January 17, 1924. Page 3. Bradford, Jan. 12. – Oscar H. Miller, one of the best known residents of Bradford, died yesterday afternoon at 4:30 o’clock at his home at the age of 50 years. Mr. Miller had not been in robust health for several years but his acute illness was of short duration. Active in community affairs, public spirited and always among the leaders of campaigns for civic betterment, Mr. Miller won a wide circle of friends and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. Born in Woodhull, N.Y., August 3, 1884, he came to Bradford 25 years ago. For the past two and one half years he had been deputy internal tax collector. Previous to his appointment as tax collector he had been business manager of the Star-Record and previous to that he had been manager of the Bradford Daily Record. He was a member of Union Lodge F.&A.M. the local lodge of Elks in which he served as secretary for several years and of the First Presbyterian church. He was always active in church affairs and in the activities of organizations in which he held membership. He is survived by his widow, one daughter, Mrs. Dorothy Benson, one brother, Walter Hanber of Elmira, N.Y., and one sister, Mrs. Willis Drake of Pine City, N.Y. Funeral services were held at the home Monday afternoon at two o’clock. The Rev. F. Dean Miller of the First Presbyterian church officiated. Interment was made in Oak Hill cemetery. Page 3. Mrs. Maria Anderson, passed away at her home in Bloomster Hollow, Thursday evening, January 3rd, at 8:30 o’clock, after a few day’s illness. Mrs. Anderson was in her 74th year and a widow of charley Anderson, who proceeded her in death 14 years ago. She is survived by one daughter Mrs. O. Hartburg, three sons, John Oscar and martin, and 12 grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at the late home, Sunday afternoon Rev. Morten Parson of Nebo church Mt. Jewett officiating, of which church Mrs. Anderson was a member. Burial was made in Kasson cemetery. – Mt. Jewett Echo. Page 3. No poison was found in the examinations made of the vital organs of Charles C. Bonsack, according to a report just received by Dr. W.J. McGranor from the University of Buffalo, where these organs, the contents of the stomach, etc. had been sent for examination just after his death. The death of Mr. Bonsack, who was apparently in excellent health, was a mystery to the attending physicians and local authorities and a thorough examination was ordered to find out whether the death could have been caused by poisoning. The result of the analysis shows conclusively that death was not caused by poison and makes it more than ever probable that he died as the result of monoxide fumes from a defective gas stove. Dr. A.P. Sy, Professor of Chemistry at the University of Buffalo, made the chemical test and writes, I have tested for corrosive poison, poisonous metallic compounds, and alkaloids in stomach, kidney, stomach contents and urine. I found no poison, nor any indications of poison. Dr. F.W. Jacobs made the athologic and microscopic tests and also reported tha the found nothing that would prove that the man died of poisoning. With the receipt of these reports the case seems to be settled and no further investigations will be made. Port Allegany Reporter, Jan. 10 Page 5. Emporium, Jan. 12. – Mrs. Dickenson, a woman of about sixty-five years of age, dropped dead Friday morning about 11 o’clock, as she was preparing dinner at the St. Charles hotel where she was employed as cook. She appeared to be in her usual good health ten minutes before, when friends were with her, but when the members of the family heard something fall, she was found dead. Her body was taken to the home of her son Albert Dickenson on Spring street. She was the mother of nine children eight of whom are living. They are: Mrs. Bertha Baird of Cuba; Fred Dickenson, Buffalo; Archie Dickenson, Renova; George Dickenson, St. Marys; Anna Prentise, Four Mile; and Ernest Dickenson, also of Four Mile; Helen Peterson, Rich Valley; and Albert D., Spring street. Mr. Dickenson died just ten years ago the day Mrs. Dickenson dropped dead. January 24, 1924. Page 1. Mrs. Elizabeth P. Baker, a former resident of Smethport, died at the home of her son, John W. Baker in Ithaca, N.Y., on January 19, in her 87th year. Mrs. Baker, well known among the older generation of Smethport folk, always bore keen reminiscences of her residence here and only last fall had returned to Smethport to renew old acquaintances and friendships. She was an active Methodist and prominent in church circles. Surviving her are three sons, Frank S., of Eldred, Pa.; George W. of Worchester, Mass.; and John W. of Ithaca, N.Y.; a sister, Mrs. M.E. Ritchie of Spokane, Wash., 22 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. The funeral was held from the home of John W. Baker in Ithaca, on Tuesday, January 22d and burial was in Lake View Cemetery, Ithaca. Page 1. Betty Helen Johnson, ten months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Manford Johnson of Ridgway, died Saturday morning, January 19th, at her parent’s home, from a severe attack of crysipelas which had lasted for sixteen days. The funeral was held here Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home of Mrs. Johnson’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Hullstom, Rev. H. Olson, of the Swedish Mission Church officiating. The interment was in Rose Hill cemetery. She is survived by her parents and a two year old sister. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are former Smethport residents and they have the sympathy of a great many friends in their sad loss. Page 1. Saturday night shortly before 7 o’clock, Bert A. Marsh, a crippled one- legged man, aged 28 years, hobbled into R. Galle’s store, No. 5 Washington street and at once began a conversation with one of the clerks. He had in his hand a .25 calibre automatic revolver which he had bought in the same place on Saturday night of last week. This gun, he said, is no good. I have tried it and it does not work. Miss Esther Crandall an employe of the store said she was not watching him closely as he stood near the stove in the place, but her attention was quickly drawn to him when she heard the report of a revolver. She saw the man crumple to the floor, on his back, near the stove. He had shot himself, either by accident or intentionally. His death was almost instantaneous. Police officers were summoned and Coroner Heffner was notified. The news of the tragedy soon spread about and in a short time a curious crowd of Saturday night shoppers and promenaders gathered about the place. The shooting caused a sensation. Marsh was quite well known and there was much speculation as to the facts of the fatality. Was it suicide or an accident? Was a query generally discussed. A man who knew about some of Marsh’s affairs informed the Brad. Herald that Marsh had recently given testimony against an alleged bootlegger and it was intimated Marsh feared that he would be a vendetta victim. This led to the purchase of the revolver, it is surmised. IT was stated that he was in the habit of drinking more liquor than was good for him and when his body was examined after the shooting two bottles of liquor were found in his pockets. Dr. Kervin examined the body and found the fatal wound directly in the heart. Bert Marsh had lost one of his legs below the knee and used a wooden substitute of the “peg-leg” make in getting about. He had been employed at Bemis’ mill as a teamster and had long been a resident of Bradford and Limestone. His home was at 14 Fourth Street, this city. Coroner Heffner on arriving at the scene of the tragedy and questioning person in the store, was in a quandary as to whether it was an accident or a suicide. The fact that the shot had penetrated the heart lends color to the theory of suicide, the coroner later said, “The man had been drinking, but I am not informed that he was intoxicated to any serious extent.” The body was taken to Koch & Oxley undertaking establishment and Sunday an inquest was held at 2 p.m. Mrs. Marsh in an interview, stated that her husband had purchased the gun for self protection. He had left his home at 6:30 last evening, saying that he was going up town to purchase some clothing. Mrs. Marsh did not know that he had taken the gun with him. He had never taken it from the house since it came into his possession. As far as she knows there was no reason for suicide, except possibly over indulgence in hard liquor. Marsh had not been working full time until about three weeks ago, and had worried considerably over financial matters. The deceased is survived by his wife, three daughters and one son, also by four brothers and one sister. – Brad. Herald 20. Page 3. Falling to the ground a distance of about 20 feet, while walking on a steam box at the Rock City plant of the Hazelwood Oil Company yesterday morning, J.E. Black, age 78 years, superintendent of the plant died instantly. The plants boiler house was set afire shortly afterward. Mr. Black apparently had just turned on the gas under the boilers to produce more steam before making his fatal trip across the steam box. Remaining unattended, the fires set the boiler house ablaze. People attracted to the scene by the conflagration soon extinguished the flames but failed for some time to locate the superintendent whose body was discovered later by workmen. Mr. Black was born in Petrolia, Armstrong county in 1846 and came to this district in1881. He had been in the employ of the Hazelwood Oil company 42 years during which time he became well known among oil men in this field. He is survived by his widow of Rock City; two sons, William of Tulsa, Okla., and Edwin of Rock City; a daughter, Mrs. Earl H. Harter of Rock City, his mother, Mrs. Sarah J. Campbell of Leechburg, Pa., and a sister, Mrs. Agnes Garrett of Leechburg. – Era 17 Page 5. Chas. Larson and Ernest Larson returned Sunday from McKeesport Pa., where they were called on account of the death of their sister Mrs. Emma Taleire. January 31, 1924. Page 1. The body of Layton Stickler was discovered, Sunday evening, at the bottom of a pool of water ten feet deep, in Recreation Park in Galeton. Milton Zeaman, a boy 12 years of age, made the gruesome find. Stickler had been missing since January 11 and his mother Mrs. Hoyt Matteson and friends of the young man had been searching and advertising over a large territory to locate him. It is stated he was mentally unbalanced. ON the hands of the unfortunate man could be seen by the boy, the body having been covered by mud. Stickler was 22 years of age and had been a B.&S. railway employee. It is plainly a case of suicide. – Coudersport, Ent. 24. Page 1. D.C. Haines, well known farmer of Betula passed away peacefully Wednesday morning at his home, after an illness of six or seven months. Mr. Haines was born April 6th, 1851 in Oppo Glen, Pa., and was married about fifty-one years ago. He has resided in Norwich and Betula for the past fourteen years where he has been respected for his sterling character. He had held the office of road supervisor for the past eight years, and had fulfilled his duties to the last. He is survived by his wife by his second marriage which occurred five years ago and seven children: Mrs. Alex McAuley, Emporium, Pa.; Mrs. A.B. Teed, Betula, Pa.; J.D. Haynes, Betula, Pa; Mrs. Chas. Aucher, Watsontown, Pa.; Mrs., J.T. Armstrong, Austin, Pa.; John W. Haines, Olean, N.Y.; and Mrs. E.J. Sanders, Ishpenning, Mich. Two brothers Fred Haynes and Theodore Morgan of Cumberlandville, Pa., three sisters, Mrs. Mary Moore, Emporium, Pa., Mrs. H.D. Walker, Conrad, Pa.; Mrs. Nettie Lorenz, Williamsport, Pa., and nineteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Arrangements are not yet made for the funeral which will be held in Emporium the latter part of the week. Page 1. Mrs. Julia O’Brien, aged 69 years old, died Tuesday, January 29th at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Leo O’Connor of Erie, Pa. She was born in Coudersport, Pa., but spent a great deal of her life here where she was active in church work and highly respected by all who knew her. She left here about two years ago. Her death came as the culmination of a long illness, which she bore with fortitude. The surviving relatives are two daughters, Mrs. L. Schlosser of Shinglehouse, Pa., Mrs. L.M. O’Connor of Erie, Pa., four sons; T.W. O’Brien of Olean, N.Y., Leo O’Brien, Smethport, John O’Brien Chehalis, Wash., Edward O’Brien, Erie, Pa., also two brothers, J.W. McCarthy of Pittsburgh and J.R. McCarthy of Smethport. Funeral services will be held this morning from St. Elizabeth’s church at 9:30 o’clock. Rev. Liebel of Clermont, officiating. Interment will be in Rose Hill cemetery. Page 2. Turtle Point: Everyone was sorry to hear that George Cace of Eldred formerly of this place, passed away Saturday morning at his home at Eldred. He was a veteran of the Civil War and will be missed by many. Page 2. When Mrs. Joseph Rybak of Oil City went up stairs at her home last yesterday to get her six months old baby, Josephine, whom she had put in bed to sleep in the afternoon, she found the child blue in death. A little sister had gone upstairs, and thinking the baby cold, had pulled the blanket over her head and placed a pillow on top. The baby was smothered to death. – Kane 24. Page 3. The finding of the dead body of John Grimes at Shinglehouse, Thursday, gave that community a severe shock. Grimes had been a resident of Shinglehouse only about a year. Mrs. Grimes was visiting near Pittsburgh and he was alone temporarily. He was seen Wednesday but on Thursday when the milk man on his rounds found the previous days milk untouched his suspicions were aroused. He notified neighbors and an investigation was made. The body was found sitting on a kitchen chair in a position that would indicate he had fallen asleep and never awakened. He was fully clothed, wearing his cap and had taken off one shoe and put on a slipper. Mr. Grimes was about 60 years of age. Mrs. Grimes could not be located at once but arrived Friday evening and after a prayer Service at the home on Saturday the remains were taken to Tarehtam, Pa., where funeral service was held, Monday and burial made. Page 3. Little Nellie Beth Hyde, seven year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hyde of Derrick city who was injured when struck by an automobile Wednesday afternoon, died at 7:05 o’clock last night in the Bradford hospital without having regained consciousness since the accident. Because of her condition nothing could be done to save her life. The parents were constantly at the bedside since Wednesday afternoon and were at the hospital when the end came. Death was caused by a crushed skull. Caroll L. Douglass of East Main street driver of the machine which struck the girl while she ran across the road to her home on the way from school, made several visits to the hospital to ascertain the little patients condition. Beside her parents, Nellie is survived by a sister, Jane and a brother Frank Jr., both at home. The body has been turned over to undertakers Koch and Oxley to be prepared for burial. Funeral arrangements have not been completed. – Era 25. February 7, 1924. Page 1. William Allan the 22 days old infant of Mr. and Mrs. Ovid Ingram died Friday February 1st of whooping cough. Page 3. Bradford, Jan. 29. – Harry Gaffney of 139 Jackson avenue, well known chemical manufacturer, died very suddenly at Tarpon Springs, Florida at 9:30 o’clock last night, heart trouble being the cause of his death. He was spending some time at the winter resort in Florida in company with his wife. Mr. Gaffney was about 52 years of age and was one of the best known manufacturers of chemical and wood products in the country., He was secretary and treasurer of the Standard Charcoal company and was a prominent official in other corporations. He was a Republican and took an active interest in the affairs of that party. He was a 32nd degree Mason and also a member of the Bradford Lodge of Elks. Two brothers also survive, W.H. Gaffney of Bradford and A.H. Gaffney of Kane. February 14, 1924. Page 1. Funeral services for David M. Cotton were held yesterday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock at the home and at 2 o’clock at the Rew City United Brethren church, Rev. N.J. McIntyre, pastor of Hill Memorial church of this city officiating. Mrs. Parkhurst and Mrs. Rickerson of this city sang appropriate selections. The body was laid to rest in Oak Hill. The pall bearers all nephews of the deceased were Clare Cotton, Edward Cuthertson, William Shuman and Charles Simon. Among those present at the services from a distance were Mr. and Mrs. Jack Wilson of Pittsubrgh, Mr. and Mrs. R. Oliphat of Kane, Mr. and Mrs. Newman of Smethport, Mrs. D.A. Culbertson, Warren, Mr. and Mrs. L.C. Scott, Bingham, and G.W. Cotton of Davis. – Era 11. Page 1. Mrs. Mary L. Bisett passed away Tuesday morning at 8:55 o’clock in the Bradford hospital. She had been ill for the past four months had undergone several operations and was in a very much weakened condition sometime before the end, but her strong will power and faith I her ultimate recovery were such strong factors that hope for her recovery was held until a short time before her death. Her sister Mrs. Margaret Barker who has been her constant companion through her long illness was with her to the last. Mrs. Bisett was born on the O’Reilly farm about three miles from this place. Her parents were Michael and Margaret O’Reilly. She was educated in the public schools of this place when a child, and later graduated from St. Elizabeth’s Convent School at Allegheny, N.Y. She was married to Thos. J. Bisett of Bradford, May 22, 1889, who preceded her to the great beyond a number of years ago. She was in business here for about twenty years, selling out and leaving here to live with her son Merill in Tulsa Oklahoma four years ago. Since then she has spent her summers here. She was a member of St. Elizabeth’s church and Aid society and the traveler’s club of this place. Sunny tempered and kind hearted she numbered her friends by the score, beloved in her home and family, her passing leaves many sad hearts. She is survived by her son Merill Bisett of Tulsa, Oklahoma; three brothers, Chas. O’Reilly, Pittsburgh; John and Will O’Reilly of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and one sister, Mrs. Margaret Barker of this place. The funeral services will be held Friday morning at St. Elizabeth’s church, Rev. Father P.J. Donahue, officiating. Interment will be in St. Elizabeth’s cemetery. Page 1. Frank J. Ogilvie, who was a carpenter and contractor, passed away at his home 339 N. Adelaide Place, Colorado Springs, Colo., Tuesday morning, January 15th, 1924. He had creeping paralysis and shaking palsey start about ten years ago, then he also had Brights disease and finally two paralytic strokes this month on the 2nd and 15th. Through it all he was very patient, very hopeful, never giving up until nearly the last but sure that somehow he would get well. He was born in Elgin Scotland the 15th of September 1857 and came to America with his parents when he was three years old. They settled near Elgin, N.Y., not far from Franklinville in Cattaragus county where there were a good many Scotch people. He attended a country school when a small boy and finished his education in Franklinville. He went to Smethport, Pa., in 1877 and lived there until 1889 when he went to Port Townsend, Wash. After living in several towns and cities, he finally made Colorado Springs, Colo., his home about twenty-five years ago. He was married on October 25, 1882 to Lillian M. Bush of Hamilton, N.Y., who was born and brought up in Smethport, going with her sisters and little brother to live with her mother’s people after the death of their parents. He was baptized in the Presbyterian church when a baby and always inclined towards that religion. He belonged to the Woodmen of the World, Pikes Peak, No. 5. The funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 P.M. on the 18th. The Rev. M.M. Nelson officiating. Interment was in Evergreen cemetery in Colorado Springs. Page 1. Mrs. Nancy E. Howard aged 78 years, widow of E. Newell Howard passed away in her home at 516 Asphen St., East end Pittsburgh, Thursday morning, February 7th at 9 o’clock after an illness of ten days. Mrs. Howard formerly resided in Homestead and was well known in that vicinity, she having been an active member and worker at the first M.E. church and of the W.C. T.U. of that place. She is survived by the following children; Fred L. of Del Rio, Texas; Jesse B. Of Franklin, Pa., Mrs. Bessie M. Daly of Smethport, Pa., Mrs. alma Hanks of Beechview and Miss Grace e. Howard at home, also eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren and two sisters, Mrs. Emma Leet of Monroetown, Pa., Mrs. Alma Hollenback of Binghamton, N.Y.; and one brother Lucien Pitkin of Poolville, N.Y. She was a member of the Christ M.E. Church East End. The funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at 2:30, the Rev. Dr. T.R. Thalbam having charge of the services. The interment was made in the Allegheny cemetery. Mrs. Howard ahd spent several vacations in Smethport and made many friends who will miss her kindly smile and sweet word of sympathy. February 21, 1924. Page 1. George Hyde of Buffalo passed away Saturday February 16th at the Buffalo General hospital following an operation for appendicitis which occurred February 5th. His condition at the time of the operation was found to be so serious that no hope was entertained for his recovery. Mr. Hyde was the son of George and Celesta Hyde and was born at Barbanks crossing almost forty five years ago. All of his life with exception of the last ten years in Buffalo, was spent here, where he was active in town affairs, and highly respected. He held the position of assessor for six years, and was a capable public official. About ten years ago the family moved to Buffalo, where Mr. Hyde has held a position as carpenter in the Pierce-Arrow Automobile Works. He is survived by his wife, and two children, Robert and Dorothy Hyde, two brothers, Lon Hyde of Friendship, N.Y., Newton Hyde of East Smethport, and two sisters, Mrs. Frank Burdick of this place, and Mrs. Alice Robbins of Alexander, Kansas. The funeral was held Tuesday P.M. at 2:30 o’clock at the family residence in Buffalo. He was a member of Idlewood Lodge, No. 652, I.O.O.F., Cairo Sanctuary No. 35, O.O.H. and P., Mystic Mariners, Rebekah Lodge No. 607, I.O.O.F. Police reserve No. 4. The burial was under the auspices of Idlewild Lodge No. 652. The grief-stricken family have the sympathy of their many friends in this place. Page 8. On Friday Coroner H.C. Heffner was notified of the suicide at Mount Jewett of Bisair Bousain an elderly resident who was a native of Belgium. The man was evidently distressed by domestic affairs of some kind as he left a note explaining that he had quit his home and would never re-enter it. Bousain was aged about 65 years. The body was found suspended in a barn belonging to Bousain and authorities were at once notified. Coroner Heffner after learning of this directed that the body be taken in charge by undertaker Lantz of Mount Jewett. Deceased is survived by a wife and family the latter including step-children. Bradford Sunday Herald, February 17. February 28, 1924. Page 1. The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hallstrom of King street who was born Sunday, P.M., February 24th passed away Monday P.M. from leakage of the heart. The funeral was held Tuesday P.M. at 2:00 o’clock at the Hallstrom residence, Rev. S.A. Renicks officiating. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of a host of friends. Page 7. Hazelhurst: The mother of Mrs. Anna Davis of this place died at Fredonia, N.Y. The remains were brought here on Friday and were entered in the Kasson cemetery, Rev. C.M. Burnett officiated. Page 7. Turtle Point: Word has just been received here of the death of Dr. McCarey of Portville who has been in Florida for some time. He will be greatly missed and he was one who will be remembered for a long time. His remains will be brought back to his home in Portville for burial. Page 7. Turtle Point: word reached here yesterday of the death of Grant Winston of Two Mile who died at the Olean Clinic hospital. Page 7. Severely burned when her dress caught fire from an open gas heater yesterday noon, little Betty Mae Derkis, aged two years and four months, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Derkis of No. 63 Sherman street, died from her burns at the Bradford hospital at 6 o’clock last night. The child was home with her two brothers, one aged four years and the other an infant, at the time of the tragedy. The mother had gone to a neighbors to telephone. It is believed the girl was playing in front of the stove when her dress caught fire and soon was a mass of flames. Attracted by his sister’s cries, little Richard, the four year old brother, ran out and summoned his mother who rushed to the scene and with difficulty smothered the flames. Dr. Wade Paton was summoned and he had the child removed to the hospital after administering first aid. At the hospital everything known to medical science was resorted to in an effort to save her life without avail. The girl is survived by her parents, two brothers, Richard and Caroll, her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Philip Derkis of No. 213 High street, and her grandmother, Mrs. Irene Vernon of East Main street. The body has been turned over to Undertaker J.A. Still to be prepared for burial and today will be removed to the grandparents’ home at High street where funeral services will be held at a date to be announced later. – Bradford Era Feb. 25. Page 8. Riddled with bullets, the face mangled by bricks hurled by unknown assailants, the body of William J. McDougal, aged about 70 years, who conducted an apirary near Lewis run, was found yesterday in McDougall’s shack. Although McDougall’s gun was found on his body and three cartridges had been exploded from it, the condition of the body and other clues eliminate all possibilities of suicide. Robbery is believed to be the motive for the murder. County detective J.J. Allison and Chief of Police Carvelth, who are investigating the case believe two or three persons are involved in the crime. The body of the murdered man was found lying on a bed Tuesday morning by Ellis Louck, a driver for Bisett Brothers, who went to the shack about a half a mile from Lewis run to deliver coal. Noting the broken window panes and other evidence of pilaging and failing to get a response to his knocking at the door, Louck notified Fran k Bell, superintendent of the chemical plant nearby and the two men returned to the shack, broke in and found the body. They immediately notified the Bradford police. (Article continues with the reconstruction of the crime) An autopsy was held last night in Koch and Oxley’s mortuary where the body was removed revealed that five bullets had entered the body – one through the chest two through the abdominal cavity, one back of the head and another on the forehead. Lacerations of the face bore evidence of being caused by bricks hurled at the man. Several important clues have been discovered and suspects are under surveillance. Arrests are expected today. No relatives of the dead man have been located. March 6, 1924. Page 1. Mrs. Mary D. Martin 86 years of age passed away Sunday March 2d at the home of her niece, Mrs. Geo. Bayer of Farmers Valley. Mrs. Martin had been in poor health for the past year and finally dropsy developed which caused her death. Mrs. Martin’s home was in Chicago, but she has spent the past four years in this section visiting Mrs. Geo Bayer and other nieces who dearly loved her deeply. (remainder is unreadable) Page 1. Mrs. Rosie Elsie Briggs passed away Saturday March, 1st at the home of Bert Davis of Cole Creek from the ills incident to old age. Mrs. Briggs was ninety years old and held a respected place in the community. She will be greatly missed. She is survived by her daughter Mrs. Mary Studley of Cole Creek. Funeral services were held March 4th at the Davis residence Rev. S.A. Renicks of the Smethport Baptist church officiating. Interment was made in Smith’s cemetery. Page 3. Bradford. Feb. 28. – James Christie who was found at his home No. 36 Walker avenue Monday morning suffering from what is believed to be ptomaine poisoning died at the Bradford hospital at 1:30 o’clock this morning without having regained consciousness since he was taken ill some time Sunday night. His daughter, Mrs. George Bovaird Jr., and her husband were at the bedside when the end came. The immediate cause of death was given as heart trouble. No report has been received yet from the chemists who are analyzing some canned salmon which Mr. and Mrs. Christie ate Sunday and which is believed to have poisoned them. Reports early this morning stated that Mrs. Christie who is suffering from the same effects is improving and her recovery is believed assured. Everything known to medical skill was tried to save Mr. Christie’s life. Drs. Kervin, Nichols and Russell of Bradford and Dr. Russell of Buffalo having been attending him. Mr. Christie was one of the best known residents of Bradford. For years he had been employed by the Oil Well Supply company and was always active in community activities. He was a member of the local Masonic order and the First Presbyterian church. Beside his widow and daughter, he is survived by three sisters, Mrs. William Russel, Mrs. Naylor Millson and Miss Alma Christie and a brother, Albert Christie of Port Hope, Ontario Canada. – Kane Republican February 28. Page 3. Harry Boyd of Foxburg, a Baltimore & Ohio local freight brakeman, running between Kane and Foxburg met a horrible death yesterday afternoon at 1 o’clock at Lucinda when he had both legs ground off and received a crushed skull, killing him instantly. The train had stopped at that point to place a car on a siding. Boyd was riding on the top of the car to apply the hand brake after the car had passed the switch, which was thrown by a fellow employe who did not see Boyd when he fell. It is thought that when the brakeman twisted the wheel to apply the brake he slipped and fell with his legs across the rails. The left leg was cut off below the knee and the right above the knee. The unfortunate man’s body was picked up and carried to the depot where it was prepared to be taken to his home at Foxburg. He is survived by a wife and one child. He had been an employe of the company for several years and was very well known in Kane. – Kane Republican March 1. Page 7. Farmers Valley: Mrs. Rose Briggs died at the home of Burt Davis Saturday at 11 o’clock after a long illness. March 13, 1924. Page 1. Floyd Pettis, son of Mrs. James Tammany of Banks street passed away Tuesday, March, 11th at 12:15 p.m. at the family residence from brain fever. The young man, who was an automobile mechanic employed in St. Marys came home a few weeks ago in a very weakened condition but pluckily kept up about the house as long as possible. His condition was thought to have been caused from a fall from a truck which occurred some time ago and injured his head and spine. For several weeks grave fears have been held for his recovery in spite of all medical skill could do he grew worse rapidly, until the fatal culmination on Tuesday. Mr. Pettis was born in Port Allegany April 3, 1893, and came to Smethport to live when a child. He was employed for a number of years in Colegrove’s Grocery, where he made many a boy happy by letting him ride in the delivery wagon. About fourteen years ago he left here and has since been employed in different places, for some time St. Marys has been his home. He was baptized in the M.E. church and was member of the Elk’s lodge of St. Marys. He was a fine young man, well known and highly respected both here and in St. Marys where he has many friends. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. James Tammany and stepfather James Tammany. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2:00 o’clock p.m. at the family residence, Rev. Guy Lawton of the M.E. church officiating, interment will be in Rose Hill cemetery. Page 1. Edwin Austin, five-year-old son of Oscar F. Austin of Betula died March 5th from acute bronchitis. The burial took place at Colegrove on the 6th. Page 3. Coudersport, March 6. – Word was received here by Mrs. William Phelps that her nephew Charles Tuttle, of San Antonio, Texas, was instantly killed while braking on a train. Mrs. Fred Mitchell, of West Bingham is a sister and Mrs. Olles also of West Bingham is his mother. Mr. Tuttle is married and leaves one child. His death is much mourned here as he was a Potter County boy saw service over seas and was in the thickest of fight and came out sound and well. Burial will be made in San Antonio. March 20, 1924. Page 1. Earl McCarthy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chris McCarthy (deceased) passed away from tuberculosis, Sunday, March 16th at the home of his sister, Mrs. John Judge of Olean. He was born in Smethport, October 4, 1888, and spent the greater part of his life here. The young man was a world war veteran, having enlisted and served over seas, 18 months. He had been wounded in action having the fleshy part of his left leg shot quite badly. It is supposed that during his experience over seas he contracted the disease from which he died, although he was not in a serious condition until the last two months. He had been employed at Salem, New Jersey and was brought to his sister’s home 10 days before his death. He was well known here where he has many friends. He is survived by three brothers Howard, Cal and Robert of this place and three sisters, Mrs. John Judge and Alene McCarthy of Olean N.Y., and Clare McCarthy of Buffalo, N.Y. The body was brought here for burial and funeral services held at St. Elizabeth’s church at 9:00 o’clock a.m. Tuesday, March 18th, Rev. P.J. Donohue officiating. He was buried with full military honors by the Bucktail Post, American Legion which attended the funeral in a body. Taps were played and a salute fired at the grave. Interment was in St. Elizabeth’s cemetery. Those from out of town who attended the funeral were: Wm. Kirk, Johnsonburg, Pa., Martin Judge, Olean, N.Y.; Mrs. Wm. Greenalch, Grace Greenalch, Mrs. L. Sheley, and Mrs. Wm. Pendergast of Brockwayville, Pa. Page 7. Turtle Point: Mrs. Robt. Mullin passed away at her home in Port Allegany Sunday morning at 8:15. She was loved by many who will miss her the family have the sympathy from all in this vicinity. Page 7. Turtle Point: Mrs. Ed. McGill and daughter Ella are in Port Allegany on account of the death of Mrs. McGill’s mother, Mrs. P. Mullin. Mrs. pat Mullin will be buried Wednesday forenoon at Port Allegany. March 27, 1924. Page 1. Passing away apparently without a struggle from an attack of heart disease while she slept, the body of Miss Ellen Gratz was found in bed at her home, 101 Pine ave. about 4:30 o’clock, Saturday afternoon by Mrs. Fantine R. Burdick of this city. Mrs. Burdick at once summoned a physician who quickly arrived and after an examination said Miss Gratz had apparently expired about an hour previous. Mrs. Burdick was a frequent visitor at the house and when she received no response to her calls, Saturday afternoon, proceeded to Miss Gratz’s bedroom and found her as above stated. Miss Ella Gratz was about 70 years of age born at Gratztown, near Harrisburg, daughter of Theodore Gratz and Ann Ellen Carlson, and was a descendant of the Gratz family famous in the early history of Pennsylvania, particularly of Philadelphia. Rebecca Gratz famous in the early years of the preceding century as a philanthropist who resided at Philadelphia, was a grand- aunt of the deceased. She was a sister of the late Sarah Gratz Rogers widow of Hon. Lucius Rogers, one of McKean county’s most prominent citizens for many years. She came to Smethport from Gratzville shortly after the marriage of her sister and then came to Kane when Mr. and Mrs. Rogers became residents of this city a number of years ago and had since made her home here. The funeral services will be held tomorrow afternoon t 2 o’clock in St. John’s church. Rev. Fischer officiating. Interment will be in Harrisburg, where the remains will be laid at rest beside her father and mother. – Kane, March 21. April 3, 1924. Page 1. Coroner H. C. Heffner has investigated the death of Elmer McArthur of Erie who was found dead Saturday morning in his room at the St. Elmo hotel in Kane. The body was badly decomposed when found. The coroner pronounced death as accidental. Monoxide fumes from a lighted jet and a stove is believed to have caused McArthur’s death while he slept. He was last seen Thursday night. – Bradford Star-Record, March 31. Page 1. Elizabeth Ostrander of Davis City 57 years died Sunday from heart trouble from which she had suffered for the past sixteen months following an attack of the flu. Mrs. Ostrander came to Smethport with her parents when she was a small child and lived here until her marriage to C.A. Ostrander. For the past 28 years they have lived in Davis city where she was highly esteemed and respected. She is survived by her husband C.A. Ostrander of Davis City, and three brothers S.B. Freeman and P.C. Freeman of Bradford and Chas. E. Freeman of this place an adopted daughter, Mrs. Kemp of Eldred. The funeral was held Tuesday at 2:00 P.M. from the residence of Chas. Freeman, Rev. Guy Lawton of the M.E. Church officiating. Interment was in Rose Hill cemetery. Page 1. Mrs. Lucinda Stone of Rochester died March 20th in the Highland hospital of that place at the advanced age of 90 years. Mrs. Stone was born in New Lebanon in 1833 and came to Smethport when a child with her father David R. Bennett. She married Frederick D. Stone who ran a sawmill here, leaving here about 60 years ago to move to Lima, N.Y., and later to Rochester, where she lived for over 40 years. Mrs. Stone often visited here where she had many friends and relatives. She was a woman of splendid character who retained many of her youthful qualities and was keenly interested in everything going on about her. She is survived by her son, Frank D. Stone of Rochester, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren, two sisters, Mrs. Carrie Armstrong and Mrs. A.S. Burdick, and one brother Ed. Bennett of this place. The funeral was held at the Rochester home Saturday March 22nd at 3 o’clock, interment was in Mt. Hope cemetery. Mrs. A.S. Burdick and Ed. Bennett of this place attended the funeral. Page 2. Clermont: The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. George Anderson of this place died of pneumonia while visiting in Olean. Page 2. Clermont: Word has been received of the death of Mrs. William Ringrose who passed away at her home in Olean. She was a long resident of this place and is greatly missed by many of her friends. Page 3. Coroner H.C. Heffner of this city held an inquest last evening at Port Allegany to inquire into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mrs. Berton Guncheon and infant daughter Patricia, who with Mr. Guncheon were struck by a Pennsylvania train Thursday evening at the Mill street crossing in Port Allegany. Mrs. Guncheon was instantly killed and her daughter died a few minutes later at the Port Allegany hospital. Mr. Guncheon suffered internal injuries but he may get well it is understood. The three were in a Ford sedan driven by Mr. Guncheon when the fatality occurred. The coroner’s jury returned a verdict of accidental death and recommended that a safety device be placed at the Mill street crossing to prevent accidents in the future. Coroner Heffner had the train crew at the inquest and they testified that the train was moving about 15 miles an hour, also that the whistle was blown and the bell sounded as the train approached the crossing. – Era, Apr. 3 April 10, 1924. Page 4. John Lund, a highly respected resident of Hamlin passed away Monday, April 7th at his home from the ills incident to old age. Mr. Lund was almost 70 years of age and had been in poor health for the past two years. He was a stone mason by trade. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. John Lund. Funeral services were held Wednesday, P.M., April 9th in the Colegrove church, Rev. J.H. Bailey officiating. Interment was in the Colegrove cemetery. April 17, 1924. Page 5. W.R. Fulmer returned Wednesday, April the 9th from Endicott, N.Y., where he was called by the death of his brother, E.M. Fulmer, who died the Friday preceding of cancer. The deceased was a former Port Allegany resident. Page 8. Mr. John Lund of Hamlin passed away Sunday evening, April 6th after about two years illness. Mr. Lund was born in Sweden April 29, 1854. He came to this country 41 years ago and has lived in Hamlin every since. He was married to Miss Emma Hyalmar in 1892. He leaves to mourn his death, his wife and two sisters, Mrs. Nels Berg of Crosby and Mrs. Christena Tengland in Sweden and one brother, Mr. Carl Lund of Massachussetts. He was laid to rest in Norwich cemetery, Wednesday. The flowers were many and beautiful. April 24, 1924. Page 1. Ernest Danielson, age about 30 year of Warren, a tool dresser employed by the Pennsylvania Gas company, was instantly killed yesterday afternoon when he fell from the top of a derrick at the Ludlow field, along the Kinzua road, a short distance from Kane. Mr. Danielson had climbed to the top of the derrick to change a pulley preparatory to putting in a new casing. The derrick was covered with snow and sleet which had fallen during the morning and his hands slipped when he attempted to raise himself over the top of the derrick and he fell backward, hitting the roof of the engine house, he crashed through and landed on the floor. He was dead when Enoch Nelson, driller, reached him. Deceased was well known in the field around Kane. He is survived by his father and two brothers all of Warren. Pa. – Kane Republican April 19. Page 9. The death of Edward P. Havens of turtle Point took place last week Wednesday of a complication of diseases following a four weeks illness. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the home, Rev. Prosper Miller officiating and interment was made in the Lewis Hill cemetery. Mr. Haven was a farmer by occupation having resided in this section for about forty years. He was 68 years old having been born at Grove, N.Y. He leaves three sons, George of Washington, Henry of the U.S. Navy and Ralph of Turtle Point; one daughter, Eugenia Haven of Washington; one brother, R.A. Haven of Port Allegany; and two sisters, Mrs. Susan Andrews of Belmont and Mrs. Clarence Scott of Canaseraga, N.Y. His wife proceeded him in death 26 years ago. Mr. Havens was well known in this section and will be missed by a large number of friends. – Eldred Eagle, April, 17. This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/pafiles/ File size: 56.9 Kb