The Semi-Weekly Messenger
4 January 1898

The Suicide of Mamie Mays
The testimony at the Inquest Yesterday. The Act was the Result of Momentary Desperation - The Remains Interred in Bellevue Cemetery.
The Messenger yesterday morning chronicled the tragic death of Mamie Mays, who shot herself with a pistol through the temple yesterday morning about 12:30 o'clock at the house of Mattie Allen. The young woman was originally from Raleigh and her right name was Helen Blake, aged 19 years. She shot herself by a window in Mattie Allen's room, and the pistol with which she did the rash deed was a 32 calibre self-acting revolver, which she found underneath the pillow on the bed. The ball went in at the right temple and lodged under the skin of the left temple.
Coroner Jacobs was notified of the suicide shortly after it occured, and yesterday he telegraphed the chief of police in Raleigh to find out and notify her relatives, if she had any. A telegram was received later from her father requesting that the body be buried here and that the particulars be forwarded to him.
In order to make an investigation into the killing of the unfortunate woman, Coroner Jacobs summoned the following jury of inquest: John M Wright, C E Collins, John H Hill, Thomas H Hawkins, Elijah Lane and John D Franklin.
The jury went to Mattie Allen's house, 515 South Fourth street, between Castle and Church streets, at 10 o'clock, viewed the body and held an inquest over the remains.
Mattie Allen, being duly sworn, testified as follows:
"Last night, between 12 and 1 o'clock, Mamie Mays came in my room and said she wanted to go down town, then rang up for a carriage and then I rang up and told them not to send it. As soon as I went out of the room she rang up for it again. When I came back into the room she said I might as well let her go, as she intended going anyway, that the carriage would be here all right, and I said it did not make any difference, you will not go. Then she went out of the room and said she would go if she had to walk. She went upstairs and dressed herself and came down. I caught her at the foot of the stairs and pulled her into my room and would not let her go out. She said she would go if she had to sit up all night, and said, 'Oh, you don't know how blue I am; I wish I were dead.' She then said; 'You might as well let me go. I am going to kill that young man and then myself. I wish you would kill me. Loan me a pistol and I will shoot myself. I only want it for a few minutes and I will make an end to my life.' Then the door bell rang and I left her in my room to go to the door to keep her from going out in the carriage. She then said: 'You see, the carriage came all right. I wish I were dead and in h--l!' At that time I heard Eva Styles scream and run out of the room. The report of the pistol rang out and Eva said, 'Oh, Miss Mattie, she has shot herself.' I ran upstairs and woke up Mamie Edwards. We tried to get a doctor but did not succeed until after she had died."
Mamie Edwards, being sworn, testified as follows:
"Mattie Allen woke me up and I ran downstairs and picked Mamie Mays up and placed her on the bed. I found her pulse beating and telephoned for a doctor and Dr Russell came, but not until she was dead."
Eva Styles was sworn and her statement corroborated the foregoing statements.
The jury found for its verdict, "That the deceased came to her death from a gunshot wound inflicted by her own hand."
The funeral of the deceased took place yesterday afternoon at 4 o'clock from Mattie Allen's house and was conducted by the Rev Dr Strange, rector of St James Episcopal church. The interment was made at Bellevue cemetery, and there was placed on the grave a beautiful cross of carnations, hyacinths, violets and smilax.

Killing of Miss Humphrey
The Jury at the Inquest Yesterday Afternoon Exonerated Engineer Tom Lawther of Any Blame in the Unfortunate Accident - The Story of the Killing.
The jury of inquest summoned by Coroner Jacobs to inquire into the killing of Miss Caroline Humphrey on the Wilmington and New Bern railroad near Bay Meade on Tuesday morning, met at the court house yesterday at 2 PM to take testimony. The following constituted the jury: Captain E W Manning, foreman, Captain W P Oldham, Jno. T Howe, W T Shepard, E Y Pollock and T B Carney.
R N Carney being sworn testified as follows: "I know the deceased. Her name is Miss B C Humphrey. She was the woman who was buried yesterday. She was very deaf."
Thomas A Lawther, engineer of the fatal train, testified: "I left here Tuesday on a special train at 10:20 o'clock. When about south of Bay Meade I saw a woman walking on the track ahead of the engine, and after I got about 300 yards of her I noticed that she paid no attention to the train. I sounded the cattle alarm and she started towards the left side of the track very slightly. I then noticed that she was not going to get off the track and I applied the air brakes with all the force I had. I blew the alarm blast of the whistle up to the time she was struck. I afterwards backed the train and took up the remains and carried them to Scott's Hill and turned them over to the operator. I carried the train on to Jacksonville and then returned to Wilmington. I was about 300 yards from the woman when I saw she was paying no attention to the train. I was on a straight stretch of about two miles but I did not see the woman on the track when I came around the curve. I suppose that the object that saw on the track was about a half mile ahead of me. I gave the signal in time for her to get off the track. I had only an engine and one car, and when I saw that she paid no attention to the signal I applied the brakes but the distance was too short to stop the train. I suppose it was about 150 yards or as far from the court house to Market street beore I could stop the train. I put on the emergency brakes when I put on the danger signal but the engine ran about 450 yards before it was stopped. I could not have stopped the train at the speed I was going in a shorter distance. I suppose I was making about forty five miles an hour. The body hit the ground and slid upon a little hill about two feet high and was not dragged by the car any distance. I have served as a railroad engineer about thirty two years. I have never had a similar experience in my life. When I saw that the woman paid no attention to the signal, I supposed that she was deaf or wanted to commit suicide. It is an every day occurrance and frequently we have to ring the bell at persons and then they step off. Some even stay on the track until the engine gets within a few feet of them and then they step off. A train of one coach could not be stopped in a shorter distance than I stopped it to save your life."
T B Carney testified: "I live a little the other side of Bay Meade station. I know the deceased. She was living with her mother and had lived with us. I think she was perfectly deaf. I have cautioned her about walking on the railroad track, as she was deaf and she might get run over, and she agreed with me and realized that it was dangerous."
Sidney Gause, [black], fireman on the train with Engineer Lawther, coroborated Mr Lawther's statement.
Joe Hansely, who resides near the scene of the killing testified that he heard the warning signals bwn and saw the train stop after the accident happened.
Anthony Ballard, who also was near the scene, testified that he heard the signals blown.
The jury about 5 PM returned the following as their verdict.
"That the deceased came to her death by being struck and thrown from the railroad track by an engine run by Engineer Thomas A Lawther near Bay Meade, while on the way to Jacksonville, Onslow county, on the morning of December 28, 1897, and that we fail to find by the evidence given that blame can be attached to the engineer, but in our opinion more caution should be exercised in similar cases by all railroad engineers."


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
7 January 1898

Tried to Kill His Wife
Geo. A Williams, a Barber, Attempted to Shoot his Wife Through the Heart Yesterday - She Caught the Bullet in Her Shoulder
Geo Williams, a mulatto barber who works in Carter Peamon's shop on North Fourth Street, near the bridge, attempted to murder his wife yesterday in a fit of jealousy. His wife, Isabella, cooks for Mr Joseph H Watters, on Orange street, between Front and Second, and yesterday about 1 o'clock her husband went to Mr Watter's kitchen door and called for his wife. She was cooking dinner and told him she could not see him just then. The next thing she saw was a pistol pointed at her through the door. She jumped behind a house maid to shield herself, but Williams fired over the maid's shoulder and discharged his pistol three times at his wife. The two women screamed, and he skipped out.
The first shot took effect in his wife's left shoulder and went about four inches under the flesh and lodged half way between the shoulder and neck. Evidently he had aimed at her heart but she turned her shoulder in time to catch the bullet there and save her life. She went to Dr J C Shepard and had the buttle cut out and at last accounts she was getting along quite well, although the wound was very sore.
The Williams live at 612 South Seventh street, between Castle and Queen streets, but the wife remained at Mr Watters' residence last night fearing to go home. She is a yougn woman about 24 years of age.
A warrant was sworn out before Justice John J Fowler for Williams' arrest, but he was not found by the officers at last account last night.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
28 January 1898

Sudden Death
Geo. W. Gary, [black], a member of the paid fire department, and engineer of Engine Company No. 2, or the old Cape Fear Company, died suddenly yesterday evening at 6 o'clock at the engine house on Sixth and Castle streets. He had suffered at times with asthma and was ailing yesterday, but was attending to his duties as usual up to 2:30 pm when he complained of pain about his heart and ceased to work.
Dr Frank Russell was called and attended him about 3 o'clock, but at that time he was not considered dangerously ill. The doctor was called later in the afternoon but the man was dead before he reached him.
The deceased was about 38 years of age and had been with the company from its organization, about twenty years ago.
The body was viewed by the coroner, David Jacobs, who gave permission to remove it to his late residence, No. 209 South Eleventh street.
He leaves a wife, but no children.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
1 February 1898

Laid to Rest
The funeral of the lamented Mrs Clara W Springer took place yesterday morning at 11 o'clock at the residence of her son, Mr J A Springer, on Fifth and Princess streets, and there was present a large number of relatives and friends to pay a sad tribute to the memory of the deceased. The solemn services were conucted by the Rev Peyton H Hoge, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church and the hymns sung by the choir were those touching verses, beginning "Jesus, Lover of My Soul," and "Nearer My God to Thee." Upon conclusion of the services, the remains were followed by a large concourse to Oakdale cemetery, where the interment was sadly made. At the grave, Dr Hope made the prayer and the Rev A P Tyer, pastor of Grace M E church pronounced the benediction. The grave was covered with many beautiful floral tributes. The pallbearers were as follows: Honorary, Dr Wm J Love and Captain Louis S Belden; active, Dr A M Baldwin, Dr W E Storm, Colonel Roger Moore, and Messrs H H Munson, B F Hall and James H Chadbourn, Jr.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
4 February 1898

A Child Badly Burned
Yesterday morning Mertie, the little daughter of Mrs Laura Simmons, fell into the fire and was badly burned about the face and head.
Mrs Simmons resides on Second street, between Hanover and Brunswick, and yesterday morning, between 8 and 9 o'clock, she was sitting in front of an open fire place, in which a fire was burning brightly, playing with her little daughter, who is only 2 years of age. Having occasion to visit another part of the room, Mrs Simmons placed the little child in a chair, near the fire, and started off. Hardly had she turned her back when the child pitched out of the chair into the fire, and was badly burned before she was rescued by her almost distracted parent.
The little one's face was badly burned, and her head, too, suffered several burns. It is thought that she will lose one of her eyes, even if the wounds do not prove fatal.
Dr T S Burbank was called in and administered to the little one's sufferings, which were of a most painful nature.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
8 February 1898

Death of Mrs Sarah E Willson
In the 79th year of her age there passed away in this city at 11 o'clock last night Mrs Sarah Elizabeth Sherwood Willson, widow of the late Mr William Willson. She died at the home of her son, Mr James E Willson, 615 Princess street, and the funeral will take place from the residence at 3:30 o'cock tomorrow afternoon. The interment will be made at Oakdale cemetery.
The deceased lady has been a faithful member of Grace M E Church for many years and in her death a good Christian woman goes to her reward. She leaves four sons, Messrs James E WIllson and Charles D Willson of our city, and Messrs Walter and Ben Willson of Florida. Her death also bereaves a number of step children and relatives. The afflicted ones have the sincere sympathy of their numerous friends in this hour of their sadness.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
11 February 1898

Death of Mr William Henry Willard
Sunday morning Mr William Henry Willard died in Raleigh, and yesterday afternoon at the residence of his son-in-law, Captain Samuel A Ashe, that city, the funeral was held.
Mr M S Willard of this city [Wilmington NC], a nephew of the deceased, was in attendance at the last sad rites, but Mr A A Willard, also of this city [Wilmington NC], a brother of the deceased, is sick and was therefore unable to be at the funeral or to go to Raleigh.
The late William Henry Willard was born at Harvard, Mass, April 9th, 1819, and therefore lacked but two months of completing his 79th year. About the year 1837, when only 18 years of age, he came south and located at Washington, in this state, where he opened the first exclusively wholesale grocery house in the state. Soon after he married Miss Elizabeth Bamford, of Elizabeth City, and continued the wholesale grocery business until the breaking out of the war when he sold out and removed to Columbia SC, where he purchased the Saluda factory. At the close of the war he removed to Durham, NC where he organized and was president of the Willard Manufacturing Co, consisting of the Orange and Clover Orchard factories. For a number of years he was president of the Raleigh Nation bank. He was also president of the Morehead Banking Co, of Durham, and also of the R F Morris & Son, Smoking Tobacco Co, of Durham. He was vice president of the Willad Bag and Manufacturing Co, of this city, and for the past thirty years he had served as a director of the Wilmington and Weldon railroad.
There were four brothers in the family, three of whom came South. The youngest, Dr Andrew J Willard, remained in New England and is now proprietor and manager of a sanitarium at Burlington Vt. Messrs A A and James A Willard removed to Wilmington, previous to the war, and embarked in business here, of which Mr W H Willard was at one time silent partner.
The little town of Willard, on the WIlmington and Weldon railroad, twenty-eight miles from Wilmington, was named for Mr W H Willard. His only daughter was the late wife of Captain Samuel A Ashe of Raleigh.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
15 February 1898

Mahler-Hullen
Mr C. P. B. Mahler and Mrs N. Hullen, both of Wilmington were happily joined in the holy bonds of wedlock last evening at 6 o'clock at the bride's residence, on Fourth and Red Cross streets. The Rev. Mr. Voight, past of S Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church, performed the ceremony, and there was present quite a gathering of friends to witness the union. Miss Tillie Schulken presided at the piano and played the wedding march. The parlors were very prettily decorated with palms and smilax.
The bride wore a tailor made suit of dark brown, and after the couple had received the heartiest congratulations, they took the 7:15 pm train on the Atlantic Coast Line for New York. They will be gone two weeks and will return and give a reception on the evening of March 9th.
The couple were the recipients of many handsome presents.

Hit in the Head With a Rock
Wednesday afternoon Mr Albert Miller, son of Professor John G Miller, was hit in the head with a rock, thrown by Ed. Russ, a young white man. Mr Miller was badly hurt and at one time it was thought that his skull was fractured, but Dr W J Bellamy, the attending physician, soon dispelled that idea.
The assault occurred as follows:
Mr Miller is a member of Dr Blue Mountain Joe's orchestra, of which his father is leader, and late Wednesday afternoon was standing out in front of the show tent conversing with a party of friends. Suddenly a rock was hurled with great force into the party, and striking Mr Miller on the head, laid him unconscious on the ground.
Russ is the boy who threw the rock but it is not know whether Mr Miller or some other member of the party was the intended mark of his wrath. It is said that Mr Miller and Russ have never quarreled.
A warrant has been issued by Justice Fowler for the arrest of Mr Miller's assailant, but as yet the officers have been unsuccessful in finding him.

A Small Fire
Sparks from a blazing chimney caused a slight fire yesterday morning.
The roof of a one-story dwelling, No. 310 Castle street, between Third and Fourth, caught fire, but six minutes later the firemen succeeded in suppressing the flames.
The house was owned and occupied by Elizabeth Hall, [black]. The alarm was sent in from box 49, Fifth and Castle streets.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
18 February 1898

Accident to Mr W A Farriss
Mr W A Farriss, the clever proprietor of the Palace Bakery, while standing on Market street yesterday afternoon was hit by a hose reel responding to an alarm, and knocked down.
His injuries we are glad to not are not thought to be anyways serious, although exceedingly painful.

At Rest in Oakdale
The funeral of the late Mr  W M Hays [Hayes] took place Sunday morning from his late residence, 307 North Seventh street, and was conducted by the Rev W L Cunninggim, pastor of Fifth Street M E church. There was a large attendance and the remains were followed to Oakdale cemetery by a large concourse of sorrowing friends, the Odd Fellows, of which the deceased was a member, acting as the escort. The order was largely represented on this occasion and the members of the several lodges attended in a body. The pallbearers were as follows: Honorary, Messrs. R J Jones, J H Strauss, N Jacobi, C Schulken; active, Messrs. W H Yopp, Benj Bell, L L Boon, W H Badon, J N Jacobi and W F LeGwin.
Letitia Rebekah Lodge No 3, I O O F, of which Mr Hays was a member, attended the funeral in a body, and also sent in a handsome floral design. Many beautiful floral tributes were laid upon the grave.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
22 February 1898

Head Crushed with a Stone
Last night about 10 o'clock at Nutt and Grace streets, Thomas Jackson, [black], was assaulted by another [black man] named Townsend, who struck him over the left eye with a stone and knocked him down. Townsend then ran and left Jackson in a dazed condition, to fall into the hands of the policemen.
The wounded man was carried to the city hall, and Dr W D McMillan, superintendent of health, called, and dressed the wound. A deep cut about one inch wide was made to the bone just over the left eye where the brow joins the bridge of the nose. Dr McMillan sewed up the wound and at last accounts, Jackson was getting along quite well, though he was suffering much pain.
Dr McMillan says he does not think the frontal bone was fractured, and while Jackson got a painful injury it is not serious.
Jackson is from the District of Columbia and said he is known as "Jockey Jack." He has been here about three weeks and is employed at the sale stables of Mr F T Mills. He boards at the Townsend woman's house on Water and Grace streets, and says he was not in a position last night to pay his board. He states his assailant was after him for his mother's money and when he told him he did not have it, Townsend struck him with a stone.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
1 March 1898

Death of Mrs Eliza Swain
The Messenger regrets to chronicle the death of Mrs Eliza Swain, an estimable lady aged 56 years, which occurred yesterday in this city at her place of residence, corner Front and Walnut streets. The funeral, the services of which will be conducted by Rev Robert Strange, D D Pastor of St James Episcopal church will take place at noon today.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
4 March 1898

Probably Fatally Shot
Careless Handling of an Old Shot Gun Results in the Dangerous Shooting of John Lewis, [Black]
The finding of a gun yesterday afternoon and subsequent careless actions resulted in the dangerous, if not fatal, shooting of John Lewis, [black]. At least, that is the statement made by james Pearsall, also [black], in whose hands the gun was when fired with such serious effect.
It is a face that yesterday afternoon John Lewis, who is apparently about 23 years of age, was peppered in the right side of the face and in the head with nearly a score of duck shot, which rendered him unconscious and will very probably end in the loss of an eye, if death does not result. It is also a face that James Pearsall did the shooting, who then went and delivered himself to the police, and was locked up in the guard house by orders of Sergeant of Police Thos Lossen.
It is said that Pearsall has made several statements about the shooting, saying that the occurrence as purely accidental. The most authentic, judging from the surrounding circumstances, is the tale he told Policeman Jas W Smith and is as follows:
About 2:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon Pearsall and Lewis were on the premises of Mrs A F W Shutte, who runs a grocery store in a building at the end of what know as Shutte's alley, leading from Bladen street to Harnett, and between Eighth and Ninth streets. Both young men were sawing and splitting wood, and during the progress of their work they discovered an old shotgun underneath a wood house, close by. They obtained the gun and in some way Pearsall pointed it at Lewis, resulting in a discharge and a dangerously wounded man.
Dr D W Bulluck was summoned and upon arriving had Lewis sent to the hospital, where he received medical attention.
Dr R E Zachary, the physician in charge at the hospital, informed a Messenger representative last night that the extent of Lewis' injuries, which are of a bad characcter, could not yet be ascertained, and that the unfortunate man was still unconscious.

The Lamented Geo. R Craig
Particulars of the Sad Accident That Caused His Death - The Funeral Yesterday
The remains  of the lamented Mr George R Craig, who was accidentally shot and killed at Tampa, Fla, last Friday, arrived in Wilmington yesterday at 1:20 o'clock pm by the Atlantic Coast Line, accompanied by his wife and her sister. His brother, Mr John H Craig, of Elberton, arrived on Sunday to attend the funeral. The casket was taken to the residence of the deceased's mother, Mrs Virginia Craig, 313 MacRae street, where the funeral took place at 4 o'clock. The Rev A D McClure, pastor of St Andrew's Presbyterian church officiated and there was a large attendance of sorrowing relatives and sympathizing friends. The remains were followed in sadness to Oakdale cemetery, where the interment was made. Beautiful floral tributes were tenderly laid upon the grave. The pallbearers were Messrs J W Fleet, J W Thorburn, W A McGowan, W H Register, A J Yopp and A J Hanby.
We take the following account of the accident to Mr Craig from the Tampa correspondene of the Jacksonville Times-Union, under date of Tampa, February 26th:
"George R Craig shot and killed himself accidentally yesterday with a double-barreled shotgun. He was preparing to go up the river on a hunt, and was getting into a boat at the Florida Central & Peninsular Railroad docks. He jumped in and reached for his gun, taking it by the muzzle and pulling it toward him. The hammer struck something and the load of shot was discharged, all of it taking effect in his right side, making a most frightful wound. He immediately got out of the boat and started toward his home, but a short distance away, but he did not go far before he fell
"The report of the gun attracted attention and he was asked what was the matter, an he replied that he was shot. He was carried to his home, near by, and two physicians reached him a few moments afterward, but just as they did so he breathed his last.
"Craig was a painter and was well known. He had recently been connected with the police and fire departments of the city, recently being captain of Station No. 1. He leaves a wife but no children. He had a little girl in the boat with him at the time of the accident, and she had a very narrow escape from death from the same load of shot."


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
8 March 1898

Attempted Suicide
A Young White Woman of Unsound Mind Jumps Into a Cistern - Attempted to Kill Herself Once Before - A Sad Case
A young white woman, Miss Minnie Rodgers, attempted to commit suicide in this city yesterday morning, by drowning herself in a cistern.
The young woman, who is apparently about 25 years of age, resides with the family of Mr Giles Branch, on Surry street, between Queen and Wooster, where also her sister, a Mrs Jones, lives. The young woman for over a year past has been suffering from melancholy and some time ago attempted to burn herself up, and from that time a watch was kept on her every action.
Yesterday morning she managed to elude her watchers and go into the back yard, remove an iron top off an old abandoned cistern, and jump in, where she was found several hours later by a searching party.
Fortunately the water in the cistern was not more than two feet deep. When found, the young woman was standing perfectly motionless in the water.
She was questioned about jumping in the cistern, but she was unable to recall her actions previous to the time of her rescue, which was effected by Mr George Warren and several others by means of a ladder.
Later in the day a commission de lunatico inquirendo, consisting of Dr W D McMillan, superintendant of health, and Justices J J Fowler and Nick Morris, adjudged Miss Rodgers insane and placed her in charge of Mrs Jones, her sister, until she can be sent to the asylum at Raleigh.

Intended to Shoot Him
John Lewis, the [black] Man Shot Monday, Says that the Shooting Was Not an Accident - A Woman in the Case
The shooting scrape of Monday, which resulted in the serious wounding of John Lewis, [black], has taken a decidely new turn, as Lewis denies positively that the shooting took place accidentally, as told by James Pearsall, the [black] man in whose hands the gun was when fired with such serious effect.
Messenger readers are thoroughly familiar with the tale told by Pearsall to a representative and others at the time of the shooting.
Yesterday Lewis, who is at the hospital, was much better and talked freely about the affair. To Dr R E Zackary the clever young medico in charge of the hospital, and others, he stated that the shooting was not an accident, and gave the following version of the affair:
He stated that Lewis is a married man, and Monday afternoon he and Lewis were standing talking at the locality in Brooklyn where the shooting occurred, and that a woman (Lewis' wife, which, however, he did not know at that time) came by, and as he knew her and had often been in her company he said: "Come to me --." Pearsall then told him that the woman was his wife and shot him.
Of course, the truth of either Lewis' or Pearsall's statement cannot be ascertained until an investigation is held.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
11 March 1898

Death of Mrs Florence Grier Barrentine
Mrs Florence Grier Barentine, wife of Mr J G Barentine, passed quietly but perfectly resigned to her great reward last night, at the family residence, No 209 North Second street.
For two long years Mrs Barentine had been an invalid, but with true Christian fortitude, symbolic of her loving disposition, gentle nature and pure religious character, she bore her sufferings and last evening, when at ten minutes past the eighth hour the summons came for her to leave this earth and depart for a time from loved ones, she nobly responded, and left forever the world, in which before her sickness she labored so ardently and charitably in his name. The deceased was a devoted wife and a conscientious close church attendant.
She was a daughter of Mrs M A Lamb of this city, and was thirty-nine years of age.
The funeral services will be conducted this afternoon at 4 o'clock at the First Presbyterian church.

A Sad Accident
A Little Child Run Over by a City Trash Cart
A sad and deplorable accident happened yesterday afternoon to Katie, the little sixteen months old baby of Mr and Mrs M Levy, who reside on Third street between Chestnut and Grace.
Mr Levy's dwelling is located on the western side of the street, with a spacious yard directly in the rear. A lane, wide enough to admit the passage of a vehicle, extends the length of the residence on the south, connecting the yard with the street.
About 2:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon one of the city trash carts drover into the front part of the lane, and the driver, William Davis, [black], who has reached the three score years and ten allotted to man, commenced to pitch the trash into the cart, a service which he has done for the city for many years past.
A short distance away the lane turns around the southwest corner of the house and at this corner sat little Katie, who is yet unable to walk, while playing around her were two other small children.
After the old man had finished his task he "clucked" to his horse to get up, presumably to drive into the yard to turn around. Walking slowly along beside the cart he didn't notice the three children playing on the oppostie side, nor did the children perceive the approach of the vehicle.
As the cart proceded down the lane two of the children saw their danger and ran off, but little Katie only sat sill and cooed, until the front wheel of the cart came into contact with her head, pressing it down to the ground and passing over it.
The little child screamed, and the neighbors and Mr and Mrs Levy ran out.
Mr Levy was very much excited, which was only human under such trying circumstances, and struck old William, who stood with bowed head, several times.
The injured child was taken into the house, and the family physician, Dr Frank H Russell, sent for.
In meantime police locked William up in the guardhouse until the matter could be investigated. He was however released by order of Mayor Wright yesterday afternoon at 5 o'clock.
It was a miracle that the child was not killed, but as it is there are strong hopes for its recovery. Dr Russell informed a Messenger representative last night that the wheel of the cart passed over the left side of the head and caused a hemorrhage of the right ear, besides concussion of the brain.
That the unfortunate occurence was purely an accident there is not the slightest doubt. There was only one eye witness to the catastrophe, Mrs C P Bolles, whose residence is directly south of Mr Levy's dwelling. To a Messenger representative Mrs Bolles stated that she was sitting in the dining room of her residence, lookig out a windwo which opens on the lane, and that she noticed the trash cart in the lane. She arose, and raising the window, requested old William to pay a visit to her lot and remove some trash. William respectfully and obligingly told her that he would do so, and then drove his horse down the lane. It was then, for the first time, that Mrs Bolles, from her position in the window, noticed the three children and also observed old William was unaware of their presence. She at once hollered to William, but the warning was too late, as the wheel of the cart crushed into the head of the little child.

The Semi-Weekly Messenger
15 March 1898

Death of Mr Platt D Cowan
We regret to chronicle the death of Mr Platt Dickinson Cowan, who passed away yesterday morning at 10 o'clock, after an illness of a few weeks. While he has been in bad health it was not realized that his condition was serious until shortly before his death.
Mr Cowan was born in Wilmington September 4th, 1844, and was in the 54th year of his age. He was the sixth son and youngest of the ten children of the late Robert H Cowan and his wife Sallie Turner Stone, daughter of Governor Stone. He married a relative, Miss Jennie D Cowan, daughter of the late General John Cowan. She survives him but they have no children. He leaves one sister and three brothers the later being Colonel David S Cowan, of Columbus County, Captain John Cowan, of this city, and Mr Dudley Cowan, who is out west.
For many years Mr Cowan was auditor of the Wilmington, Charlotte, and Rutherford railroad, now the Carolina Central, but he moved some years ago to Richmond, Va, and was in the freigh and passenger department of the Richmond & Danville Railroad Company, now the Southern. Subsequently and up to a few years ago he was freight and passenger agent of the Richmond & Danville at Asheville.
The deceased was a man of good education and fine natural abiity and was a well read man, and geniel, sociable and curteous by nature. His death will cause sorrow to his friends.

Consigned to the Grave
At 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon the funeral of Mrs Florence Grier Barentine was held at the family residence, Second street, between Chestnut and Grace, and the remains then consigned to their last resting place in the quiet city of the dead - Oakdale cemetery.
The solmen rites were beautifully conducted by Rev Joseph R Wilson DD, of the First Presbyterian church, amidst a large gathering of sorrowing relatives and sympathetic friends.
The pallbearers were Messrs W A Riach, C H Robinson and B G Worthy, honorary, and Messrs R R Bellamy, W M Cumming, C W Worth, John H Rehder, C W Polvogt and H W Collins, active.

Funeral Honor to a [Black] Man
William Mosely was buried from St Thomas Catholic church Wednesday. The pews in the middle aisle were given the [black] people, while the side pews were occupied by the white congregation. Rev Father Dennen officiated with full ceremonial of the church, and preached a sermon explaining that the humblest Christian was entitled to the same honors as kings or the highest potentates on earth, that before the judgment seat of God where all must appear, no distinction would be made. Only our actions in life would be the standart by which eternal happiness or condemnation would be judged by. The full choir attended the services. Mrs J H Watters sang two solos most touchingly.

Death of Mr J E Niemyer
An Esteemed Citizen Goes to His Rest - He was an Engineer on the Blockade Runners During the War
We regret to chronicle the death of Mr John E Miemyer, who passed away yesterday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock at his home on Sixty and Orange streets.
Mr Niemyer has been on the decline about three years and nearly two years ago had to give up his occupation, that of a locomotive engineer on the Wilmington and Weldon road. He was a native of Germany and came to this country when quite young. He has spent most of his life in Wilmington and was one of the oldest engineers in this city, his age being 66 years and 5 months.
Nr Miemyer in 1852-53 was an engineer on the steamers plying between Wilmington and Charleston, and subsequently was engineer on several steamboats that plyed on the Cape Fear river. During the civil war he made several successful trips as engineer on the blockade runners coming and going out of Wilmington, though the blockade maintained by the federal fleet. After the war he went into the saw mill business up the Carolina Central, but not succeeding very well in the lumber business he returned to the city and for the past twenty years or more has been a locomotive engineer on the Wilmington and Weldon railroad.
Mr Niemyer was a highly respected and esteemed citizen and was a member of St John's Lodge No 1, A F & A M of Concord Chapter No 1, R A M of Plantagenet Commandery No 1, Knights Templar, and of Germania Lodge No 4, Knights of Pythias. He was greatly esteemed in these organizations and the Masons and Pythians will attend his funeral today an lay him away in accordance with their impressive burial rituals.
The deceased leaves a wife and one son and a daughter, who have the deep sympathy of many friends in the sad bereavement that has come to them. His son, Mr James Niemyer of Raleigh, and his daughter, Mrs Louis Wacksmuth, were with him through his illness.

A Sad Death
Friday morning Willie Price, 13 years of age, son of Mr W F Price, died at his father's home in Rocky Point.
The funeral took place yesterday afternoon at 3 o'clock from Riders Creek church. The deceased was a bright lad and had been an invalid for several years.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
18 March 1898

Assaulted While Praying
Disgraceful and Outrageous Conduct Last Night at the Union Baptist Church - A Minister Cursed and Assaulted in the Temple of God
In a temple of God last night Edgar Mintz, a young white man knocked a minister of the gospel down, while the divine was praying for the soul of his assailant. The story, which if true, and it is vouched for by nearly a score of people, is an outrageous one, and is as follows:
Last night services were held in the Union Baptist church, corner Eight and Dawson streets and were conducted by the pastor Rev J J Matthews.
While the service was in progress a number of young men, seated in the rear of the edifice, commenced to talk and otherwise disturb the worship. Rev Mr Matthews shook his finger in the direction from whence came the noise and admonished the young men.
Shortly afterwards church let out, and as most of the congregation were wending their way homeward, Edgar Mintz, a young white man, stepped into the front hall of the sacred temple, and addressed Rev Mr Matthews, who was standing in the hall.
Mintz asked the minister why he singled him out as the disturber of the worship, and why did he shake his finger at him.
The minister responded that he shook his finger at and admonished only those who were creating a disturbance.
Mintz thereupon called Rev Mr Matthews a -- liar, and as the divine raised his hands heavenward and prayed forgiveness for the soul of the blasphemer, Mintz struck him, knocking him down.
Judge Bornemann, who resides not far off, was sent for and arrested Mintz and committed him to jail to await trial this morning at 11 o'clock. Rev Mr Matthews suffered much and bled freely from the effects of the assault, which was witnessed by quite a number of people.

Policeman's Brutal Conduct
Mrs Kate Memory Says that Policeman W P Toomer [Black], Treated Her in a Brutal Manner - Lodged a Complaint
Yesterday afternoon about 5 o'clock Policeman W P Toomer, [black], arrested and brought to the station house Leslie Godwin, a young white man, who was partly under the influence of liquor. Drunk and disorderly was the charge entered on the record, after the prisoner had been locked up.
Policeman Toomer stated that he made the arrest in Brookly, and that sometime previous to the arrest a fight had taken place between Godwin and George Silvey, white. Of this fracas, however, the policeman said he saw nothing, but when he arrived Godwin was acting disorderly, while his sister and mother were pleading with him to go home, but in vain.
When Policeman Toomer made his exit from the station, Mrs Sallie Godwin and Mrs Katie Memory, mother and sister, respectively, of the young man arrested, entered.
They both recited a tale of brutal conduct on the part of Policeman Toomer, and the latter lady was somewhat excited, and during her recital burst into tears.
Both ladies stated that when Policeman Toomer arrived that son and brother was in their care, and was going home along with them. Policeman Toomer savagely grabbed hold of young Godwin and told him to consider himself under arrest. Mrs Memory then said: "Toomer, help me carry him home." To this the officer made an impertinent and gruff reply, and jerked Mrs Memory away from the side of her brother and threw her halfway across the sidewalk.
The complaing was made to Police Sergeant R F Gore, who informed the ladies that he would report the matter to Chief Melton.
The charge against Godwin and that made against Policeman Toomer will be investigated today.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
22 March 1898

Young Branch is Insane
Walter Branch, 19 years of age, is of unsound mind, but an operation is thought will put an end to this derangement.
As stated in The Messenger yesterday the sanity of Branch was inquired into by a commission de lunatico inquierendo, consisting of Dr W D McMillan, superintendant of health, and Justices J J Fowler and James M McGowan. The commission met at 1 o'clock yesterday afternoon and, after due investigation, adjudges Branch insane and ordered him sent to the asylum at Raleigh.
Subsequently, Dr T S Burbank stated that he thought Branch's derangement was caused by a piece of skull pressing against the brain, and that an operation would remove this cause of insanity. Consequently the young man was ordered sent to the city hospital, to be operated upon.
Some time ago in an accident in Washington DC, young Branch received a severe blow on the head, and this is supposed to have knocked a piece of the skull against the brain.

Death of Mr W T Sanford
The Messenger regrets to chronicle the deat of Mr William T Sanford, who died yesterday morning of consumption at 8:30 o'clock at the residence of his brother, Mr R L Sanford, No. 804 south Seventh street. He was thirty two years of age and moved to this city four months ago from Darlington SC, at which place his wife died last November. He leaves three children, the youngest of whom is four years of age, and a brother, Mr R L Sanford, to mourn his loss. He was a conscientious Chrisitan, and a member of Fifth street M E Church which he joined shortly after his removal here.
The funeral will take place this afternoon from the residence.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
25 March 1898

A Good Man Gone
Mr George G Lewis Passed Away Yesteray Afternoon with an Acute Attack of Inflamatory Rheumatism
We sincerely regret to chroncile the death of our esteemed townsman, Mr George Gillespie Lewis, and his wide circle of friends and acquaintances here and throughout this state and South Carolina will learn with deep sorrow that he has passed away. He died yesterday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock at his home in this city, No 315 North Fifth street, in the 49th year of his age.
Today three weeks ago, Mr Lewis was taken with inflammatory rheumatism and for some days he has been confined at home in a critical condition. A few days ago it went to his brain and he has been unconscious a couple of days and up to the time of his death.
The deceased was born in Wilmington and was a son of the late Mr Moses Lewis. He leaves a sister, Mrs M A Clark, of Jacksonville Fla, and a brother, Mr R J Lewis, of this city, the latter being with him when dissolution came. His death sorely bereaves a devoted wife and an affectionate family consisting of five sons and one daughter - Messrs John H Lewis, George S Lewis, William G Lewis and Miss Mary E Lewis. All of the family were with him, except Messrs John H and George S Lewis, who are travelling salesmen for a New York house. They have been telegraphed and are expected here this evening or tomorrow morning. To those who are sorely stricken with sorrow the deep sympathy of our entire community goes out.
In the death of Mr Lewis Wilmington loses a good man and a most excellent citizen. He was enterprising and public spirited and none were more deeply interested in the progres of Wilmington and the advancement of the material interests of our city. He was an active and earnest worker in all measures undertaken for the public good, and in the circle that worked for the good of Wilmington he will be seriously missed.
In the early years Mr Lewis engaged in the dry goods business here. For many years he travelled for a wholesale northern paper house, then for a shoe house, and meanwhile established and conducted several years the wholesale paper house of the Wilmington Paper Company. He went out of the paper business a couple of years ago, and has since been travelling as a salesman. He was extensively and well known to the trade in the Carolinas and other states. He was a consistent member of Grace M E church, and was a member of the board of stewards. He was also a member of Stonewall Lodge No 1 K of P, Wilmington Lodge No 139 I O O F, Clarendon Council, Legion of Honor and other fraternal orders. He has been a member of Stonewall Lodge No 1 K of P since May 12, 1871, nearly 27 years. At a meeting of that lodge last night his death was sadly announced and feeling remarks were made by Mr W H Yopp, Captain T D Meares, Captain W S Warrock, Messrs C H Ganzer, J J Hapkins and others, who paid touching and beautiful tributes to the departed brother.
The arrangements have not been definitely made for the funeral but it will take place tomorrow. Notice of the time will be given later, as also the usual notices by the fraternal orders.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
29 March 1898

Laid to Rest in Oakdale
The funeral of the lamented Mr George G Lewis, who passed away on Monday at 3:30 o'clock pm took place yesterday afternoon at 4 o'clock from Grace M E Church. There was a very large attendance, indicating the high esteem in which the deceased was held in this community. The members of Stonewall Lodge No 1 K of P, and of Wilmington Lodge No 139 I O O F of which the deceased was a beloved member, as well as members of all the other lodges of both orders in this city, attended and wore the badge of mourning.
The impressive funeral services were conducted by the Rev R C Beaman, presiding elder of Wilmington District M E Church South, after which the remains were followed by a great concourse of friends to Oakdale cemtery, where the interment was made, according to the rituals of the Pythians and Odd Fellows. The grave was laid with numerous beautiful floral designs as tender tributes to him who has forever gone from our midst to his reward.
The following were the pallbearers: Honorary, Colonel Roger Moore, Captain T D Meares, and Messrs A G Hankins, W W Hodges and W H Yopp; active, from Stoneawll Lodge, Captain W S Warrock and Messrs C H Ganzer and L L Boon; from Wilmington Lodge, Professor M C S Noble and Messrs J J Hopkins and W C Smith.
The sons of the deceased, Messrs John H and Geo. S Lewis came from New York to attend the funeral.

Sudden Death of a Little Boy
We sincerely regret to chronicle the sudden death this morning at 12:05 o'clock of Master Eduard Dingelhoef, the promising and manly little son of Mr and Mrs M J Dingelhoef. The little fellow was complaining slightly yesterday morning, but was at play all day as usual. Last night at 10 o'clock he was taken with a conjestive chill, and though a physician was called promptly, the little fellow died. He was aged 9 years. His devoted parents, now sorely strocken, will have the deep sympathy of their numerous friends.
The funeral will take place tomorrow at 4 pm from the residence, on North Fifth street, between Grace and Chestnut streets. The interment will be made in Oakdale cemetery.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
1 April 1898

Wedded Yesterday Afternoon
A quiet, but very pretty wedding took place yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock at St John's Episcopal church, the contracting parties being Miss Helen Stedman, of Elizabethtown, and Mr Harry J Lyon, of Lyon's Landing, Bladen county.
Rev James Carmichael D D pastor of the church, conducted the ceremony and the bride was given away by her uncle, Mr Frank H Stedman, of this city. Miss Fannie Corbett presided at the organ.
The bride is a daughter of Mrs Mary R Stedman and the gorom is a son of Mr C W Lyon.

Marriage of Professor Glenn and Miss Callaway
One of the prettiest home weddings that has been witnessed in Wilmington for a long time took place at St Andrews' manse, on Red Cross street, between Third and Fourth streets, yesterday morning at 9 o'clock when the beautiful and gifted Miss Willetta Callaway gave her hand in marriage to Prof William Simpson Glenn, of Spartanburg SC.
The wedding was a tableaux and the picture discosed to view as the folding doors of the double parlors were drawn back by Masters Alex. McClure and Walter Sprung was a most charming one. When the folding doors were thrown back the bridal party was standing in the rear parlor, and the back ground of green foliage, palms, ferns, bamboo and beautiful spring flowers made a pleasing contrast to the costumes of the bride and her attendant. The ceremony was preformed in a most beautiful and impressive manner by the Rev A D McClure pastor of St Andrews Presbyterian church and brother-in-law of the bride.
The maid of honor was Miss Grace O'Neal Sale, of Lynchburg, Va, and the brother of the gorom, Mr John P Glenn, of Spartanburg SC was best man.
The bride was most becomingly attired in a tailor made going away gown of grey cloth with white trimmings and hat to match. She carried a beautiful bouquet of bride roses. Her lovely maid of honor wore a stylish tailor made gown of green covert cloth with pink trimmings, and hat to match. She held a lovely bunch of pink carnations.
After congratulations, the bride and groom were accompanied to Front street station where they took the 9:35 am train on the Atlantic Coast Line for an extensive wedding tour north. They will make their future home in Spartanburg. The presents received were both numerous and costly and attested in a degree the high estimation in which the happy couple is held.
The bride is the daughter of Mrs M O Callaway and the sister of Mrs  A D McClure, of our city. The groom is well remembered in Wilmington as the able and efficient assistant a few years ago of Prof Washington Catlett, principal of Cape Fear Academy, of this city. He is now a successful merchant of Spartanburg.
The Messenger joins their host of friends in wishing them the fullest measure of happiness and success in their wedded life.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
5 April 1898

Death of Mrs Julia A Kelley
We are pained to record the death of that noble, Christian woman, Mrs Julia A Kelley, widow of the late Mr George H Kelley. She passed away last night at 9:15 o'clock at her home, 215 North second street. She has been in bad health for a year and for the past two months has been confined to her home.
Mrs Kelly was the daughter of the late Mr Isaac and Mrs Sarah Cason, and was born in Brunswick county. She was married in 1841 to Mr George H Kelley, and leaves eight children to mourn the loss of an affectionate and devoted mother, viz: Mr George C Kelley of Birmingham Ala; Mr A H Kelley, of Savannah Ga; Misses Inez and Addie Kelly, of Wilmington; Mr W L Kelley, of Birmingham; Miss Ida Kelley, Mr J D Kelley and Rev Edward Kelley, of Wilmington. In the sad affliction which has come to them, they have the deep sympathy of many friends here and elsewhere.
The deceased lady has been a life-long and earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal church, being a member of old Front Street church and later of Grace church.
The funeral notice will be given later.

The Wrong Man Arrested
For bearing a striking resemblance to a chicken thief wanted by the authorities, Dick Newsom, [black], was arrested yesterday morning, but his true identity was soon revealed and a release was the in order.
Several nights ago a number of chickens were stolen off the farm of Mr H L Fennell, four miles from the city, and subsequently the thief turned up in town and succeeded in selling the purloined fowls to a clerk at Mr C S Garrell's store, at Front street market, who had not at that time heard of the robbery. Shortly afterwards the clerk got news of the theft, adn at once gave Deputy Sheriff J P Flynn a description of the [black] man who had sole him the stolen property.
The description of the thief tallied exactly with the appearance of form and face of Dick Newsom, an employee at the farm. So a warrent yesterday morning was placed in the hands of Deputy Flynn to be served, and, as ever, without fail, the legal document was executed, and Newsom brought to the city and carried to Justice Bunting's temple of justice. He was not placed in jail, but allowed to remain in the magistrate's office until the clerk at Mr Garrell's could identify him, but this clerk failed to do so, as Newsome, he said, was the wrong man. Consequently Newsom was released from custody.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
8 April 1898

Spinal Column Fractured
Captain Jack Highsmith, engineer on the government dredge Ajax, now at work on the channel of the Cape Fear, at Fort Anderson, was in the city yesterday. He was brought to the city for Scotts Hill. He was called home by a telegraph, summoning him to his son, Mr Tom Highsmith who was thrown by a mule last Sunday week and sustained a fracture of the spinal column. The young man was not aware until three or four days afterwards that he was seriously injured. We regret to learn that he is now in a serious condition. He was brought to the city for treatment by Dr Bellamy.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
15 April 1898

Wedding Easter Evening
Sunday night at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd after the concluding Easter celebration, Mr James H Hobbs of Onslow county and Miss Maggie Mills, of this city, were united in holy bonds of matrimony in the presence of a large gathering.
Rev Robert Strange D D performed the ceremony.

Crazy on the War
A [Black] Woman Knocks Another in the Head with her Baby - The Infant Will Probably Die
There was a peculiar outcome of the war scare in Wilmington yesterday.
William Scott, a [black] drayman, resides at Sith and Harnett streets, and yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock, while he was at home with his family, they got to talking about the prospect of war between the United States and Spain. Nettie Scott, sister of William, belongs to the "Sanctified band," and she gave it out as her opinion that the war meant that the world would come to an end and that right away.
Scott's wife, Katie and Nettie got into a quarrel over the matter, and Katie told her to get out of there with her nonsense or she would knock her down with her baby, which she had in her arms. The wrangle grew fast and furious, and the woman actually caught her baby by the legs, and using it as a weapon, swung it around and dealt her sister-in-law a terrifice lick on the side of the head.
... child, and the mother, who had struck the blow with her own baby realized what she had done and clasped the body to her bosom.
Just as soon as she struck the lick she (sic) husband jumped up and tried to take the baby from her, and he had to beat her before he could do so.
The baby was insensible and Dr J Alston was sent for. He found the baby suffering with concussion of the brain, and in all probability it will die.
The baby is about three months old. The mother, who so cruelly treated it, is said to be of a hysterical disposition. Scott says he believes his wife has gone crazy. She had not been arested or taken into custody up to last accounts.
The mother of the child is a woman of 38 years of age and her sister-in-law is 25.

The Semi-Weekly Messenger
22 April 1898

Wedding at Morehead City
(Correspondence of The Messenger)
Morehead City, NC April 20
A lovely marriage took place in our town at 7:30 o'clock am at the bride's residence. The contracting parties were Mr B W Newkirk, of Wilmington NC and Miss Mamie Roberts, of Morehead City, NC. Rev Mr Massey performed the ceremony, among a host of friends of the bride. The bride and groom left on the 7:45 o'clock train for Wilmington NC, their future home. It was a very lovely affair and both parties stand high in society. Among the visitors were Mrs W S Herbert, Mr and Mrs M N Hales of Kinston NC; Mr and Mrs Taylor, Mrs Woolford and Miss Roberts of Beaufort NC.

A Home Wedding
Yesterday afternoon at 6:30 o'clock there was a pretty home wedding at the residence of Mrs Margaret C Williams, 217 South Front street, the contracting couple being her lovely daughter, Miss Roby S Williams and Mr Charles H Morgan of Philadelphia.
The double parlors were prettily decorated with moss, roses and pot plants, and a number of friends were present to witness the ceremony. Mrs J Willard Smith presided at the piano and played the bridal chorus from Lohengrin while the bride and groom came in the parlors from the door opening into the hall. The pretty bride carried a bouquet of La France and bride roses and was becomingly attired in a tailor made going-away gown of green broadcloth trimmed in white. The couple stood beneath a festoon of moss, cypress, ivy and yellow roses suspended over the folding doors and the ceremony was impressively performed by the Rev A P Tyer, pastor of Grace M E church.
After the marriage had been pronounced, the bride and groom received the hearty felicitations of their friends and soon afterwards took a carriage for Front street station, and left on the 7:15 pm train on the Atlantic Coast Line for their home in Philadelphia. They were showered with rice as they took their departure.
The couple received quite a number of useful and valuable presents.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
31 May 1898

Laid to Rest
The funeral of Nellie, the little daughte of Mrs Mattie L and the late Mr Rufus H Chasten, took place yesterday afternoon at the family residence on Fifth and Chestnut streets. The services were conducted by the Rev A P Tyer, pastor of Grace M E Church, assisted by the Rev A D McClure, after which the remains were borne to Oakdale cemetery and tenderly and sorrowfully laid away.
The little one, after a brief illness, died on Wednesday, aged 2 years 4 months and 14 days. The bereaved mother has the deep sympathy of a large circle of friends in the sad bereavement which is hers.

Death of Mr C H King's Brother
Mr C H King, of this city, received sad news indeed yesterday morning. It was the announcement of the death of his brother, Mr Geo. King, in Rochester NY.
Miss Laura King, also of this city, a sister of Mr King and the deceased left last night via the Atlantic Coast Line for Rochester.

Death of a Worthy [Black] Man
Alfred Hargrave, a very old and much respected [black] man of this city, died early yesterday morning at his home on Princess street between Eighth and Ninth streets. He was a blacksmith by trade and was an industrious man and very agreeable neighbour. White people who have been his neighbours for twenty-five years speak in the highest terms of him.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
14 June 1898

Murderous Assault on His Wife
Yesterday about noon, Wm Stevenson, a [black] driver at Mr R P Fowler's wood and coal yard, made a murderous assault upon his wife at the coal yard on Water street. He struck her with an iron bar on the side of the head, cutting a gash two inches long to the bone. She fell unconscious to the ground, but afterwards revived, and was given attention by Dr W D McMillan.
The woman was badly hurt and was suffering terribly from her wound when seen by a Messenger representative an hour after the assault. She says her husband sent her word to come to the coal yeard and he would give her some money. She went down and he began to quarrel with her and finally struck her with a piece of iron that he had been using to rake the fires in the furnace of the steam engine.
Stevenson was arrested and will have a hearing at 9 o'clock this morning before Justice R H Bunting. Upon his complaint, his wife was also arrested, charged with assault and battery upon him. He says she went down to the coal yard and began a fuss with him and assaulted him with a stick. He then jerked it out of her hand and struck her.
At the January term of the criminal court Stevenson was tried and sentenced to the work house for two years for brutally beating his wife. He was hired out to Mr Fowler and has been woroking for him several months.

The Venerable Mr R K Bryan Dead
The sad news was received in the city yesterday afternoon that the venerable Mr R K Bryan passed away yesterday afternoon at 3:45 o'clock at his home at Scotts Hill, in this county. Mr Bryan has been afflicted with blindness for several years and has been in feeble health for some time but has been seriously ill for only about a week.
The deceased was born in Fayetteville and was aged 71 years. For many years he was editor of The Fayetteville Examiner. In the fifties he moved to this county and was one of our most highly honored and influential citizens. Some years ago he represented the county in the general assembly and has always had the confidence and respect of the people. After residing in this county a while Mr Bryan moved to the western part of the state and for some years owned and edited the Piedmont Press there. He was a man of the loftiest integrity and was a chivalrous and noble gentleman in all things. He had fine literary tastes and was a cultured man and an able, vigorous writer.
Mrs Bryan leaves five children - Mrs J W Foy of Raleigh; Mr N N Bryan of Charlotte; Miss Mary Bryan of Scotts Hill; Miss Sallie Bryan, of this city and Mr R K Bryan Jr of Scotts Hill, formerly editor of The Evening Dispatch, and who married a daughter of our esteemed citizen Dr J C Shepard.
The funeral of Mr Bryan will take place at Scotts Hill this afternoon at 4 o'clock.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
17 June 1898

Instantly Killed
Lightning Strikes a Residence and Kills a [Black] Woman
Yesterday afternoon about 12:30 o'clock, during the raging of the thunderstorm, lightning struck the residene of Mr R F Rising, on Front street, between Queen and Wooster, with most disastrous effect. A [black] woman was instantly killed and the house set on fire.
Mr Rising and family and two gentlemen boarders were at dinner. The cook, Laer Henry, served the midday meal and made her exit upon the back piazza. It was then there was a loud clap of thunder and lightning struck the house in two places. One bolt tore its way through the roof of the piazza and communicated to a suspended steel trap, and thence struck the cook, killing her instantly. The other bolt passed down the chimney of the dwelling and severely shocked one of the boarders, Mr M J Johnson.
The first bolt set the house afire and it was necessary to call out the fire department by sounding an alarm from box 45, Front and Castle streets. The house, which is owned by Mrs Herbert Perdew, was damaged to the extent of about $25.
Time the [black] woman fell to the floor assistance was at her side, but life was extinct. Dr W D McMillan, superintendant of health, was summoned, and after examination of the body, gave a death certificate to Coroner Jacobs. The remains of the woman were then removed to the home of her husband on South Fourth street.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
28 June 1898

Death of Mrs Fannie E Blossom
The friends of Mrs Fannie E Blossom will regret to learn of her death which occurred in this city yesterday afternoon at 4:45 o'clock. She was aged 57 years and four months, and leaves one sone, Mr Willie Blossom, of Castle Hayne and two daughters, Mrs John E Wood of this city, and Mrs Frank W King of Forest City. The sad news has been telegraphed to Mrs King and she is expected here today.
The funeral will take place this afteroon at 4 o'clock at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, on Sixth and Queen streets, thence to Oakdale cemetery.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
1 July 1898

Happily Married Last Night
There was a happy marriage celebration in the city last evening. Though quiet, it was none the less pretty.
Mr W L Burkhimer, known to us all as "Buck," and Miss Lucy E Waddill, a charming young lady of Bennettsville SC, were united in marriage. The ceremony was performed at 8:30 o'clock by Rev Robert Strange D D, rector of St James Episcopal church, at his residence on Market street, between Third and Fourth. Only the family and immediate friends of the contracting parties witnessed the happy event.
The bride is quite an accomplished young lady, and is a daughter of Mr W G Waddill, a prosperous merchant of Bennettsville.

Wedded Last Evening
Brilliat Marriage of a Wilmingtonian at Gulleys' Mills
A rising young member of the New Hanover county bar and a talented and clever young Wilmingtonian was wedding last night in Gulley's Mills, near Raleigh.
The following special was received by The Messenger from the scene of the happy event:
"Gulley's Mills, NC, June 29 - Herbert McClammy Esq of Wilmington, was married here at 8 o'clock this evening to Miss Celestia Estelle Leach.
"The ceremony took place at the residence of Mr and Mrs Jas T Leach, parents of the bride. The parlors were beautifully decorated with royal palms and with la France and Bridesmaid roses. While the marriage ceremony was being read the bridal couple stood under an arch of palms, the bridesmaids and groomsmen, fourteen in all, in full evening dress, form - "Mr John D Bellamy Jr 2nd, of Wilmington, acted as best man, and Miss Nannie Leach, a sister of the bride, was maid of honor.
"George L Peschau Esq, Lieutenant R H Cowan of Company K, United States Volunteer Army, and Mr T O Bunting Jr of Wilmington were among the groomsmen. The bouquets carried by the bride and her bridesmaids and the boutonnieres of the groomsmen were exquisite. They were prepared by Mr W H Rehder, florist, of Wilmington.
"Pastor W C Norman, of Edenton Street M E church, officiated. There was notably a large gathering of well known Wake county people at the wedding, which was also attended by many Raleigh friends of the bride."
Both contracting parties are well known in this city. The bride is charmingly remembered, especially for her high scholarly accomplishments. The groom is one of our popular young citizens, posessing a high standing in his legal profession and many notable traits of good fellowship. He is a son of Congressman C W McClammy, deceased.
Mr and Mrs McClammy are now on a bridal tour, but will be at home in this city after July 10th, at No 403 Market street.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
5 July 1898

A Good Man Gone
Sudden Death Last Evening of Mr John R Latta, Auditor of the Wilmington Columbia and Augusta Railroad
We are pained to chronicel the sudden death of Mr John R Latta, one of Wilmington's most highly esteemed citizens and one of the oldest and most valued officials connected with the Atlantic Coast Line, the deceased having been for some years auditor of the Wilmington, Columbia and Augusta Railroad.
Mr Latta died last evening at 7:30 o'clock at his residence, 307 North Front street, from a second stroke of paralysis. He was at his office in the Coast Line building yesterday, in the discharge of his duties as usual, and left about 1:30 o'clock pm to go to his home near by for dinner. While waiting for dinner he was taken with a stroke of paralysis and became unconscious and never rallied afterwards.
His death was a great shock to his family and their large circle of friends tenderly feel for them in the sad affliction which has come to them so unexpectedly. About eight months ago Mr Latta had a stroke of paralysis, but he recovered to a certain extent and it was hoped he would be spared many years. He leaves a devoted family consisting of his wife and three sons, Messrs William L, L Dozier and Linwood D Latta.
The deceased was born September 10, 1835 at Fayetteville NC and was the son of the late Mr John C Latta of Fayetteville, and afterwards of Wilmington. He married Miss Katie Ralston of Georgetown SC, November 29, 1869. His father removed to Wilmington when the deceased was about 10 years of age, and in the latter part of the 50s and the early 60s he engaged in the mercantile business with his father. During the civil war he entered the confederate service and was adjutant of the thirteenth North Carolina Regiment. For thirty-four years he has been in the railroad service and was one of the oldest and most faithful of the few employees of the Atlantic Coast Line who have been connected with one or the other of the branches in the earlier days. For many years he was paymaster of the Wilmington and Manchester Railroad, now the Wilmington, Columbia and Augusta Railroad, and for some years has been auditor of the latter road as a branch of the Atlantic Coast Line. The railroad officials speak in unstinted terms of his staunch integrity and the efficient and faithful manner in which he discharged all duties that devolved upon him.
Mr Latta was a faithful member of St Andrew's Presbyterian church, was one of its organizers, was a member of the board of trustees and a ruling elder up to the time of his death. For many years he has been a member of Cornelius Harnett Council, Royal Arcanum and was a member of Cape Fear Camp, United Confederate Veterans. In his death Wilmington loses a good citizen and all who knew him will be saddened by the thought that he has gone from our midst.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
8 July 1898

Would Have Been 100 Years Old in August
A telegram received yesterday by Mr and Mrs DeWitt C Love conveyed the sad information to them of the death of Mrs S E Landis, of Brooklyn NC, grandmother of Mrs Love.
Mrs Landis would have been 100 years of age had she lived till her birthday next month. Mr and Mrs Love had intended going on to Brooklyn to attend a celebration of the hundredth birthday of Mrs Landis in August.
Mrs Landis, though of such extreme age, always exhibited the most remarkable vitality and was noted for her cheerfulness even almost up to the hour of her death.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
15 July 1898

Accidentally Shot
Dr F H Russell extracted a bullet Sunday afternoon from the arm of Henry Dew, a young man who works at the Wilmington cotton mills.
Sunday afternoon while a party of young men were at Greenfield mill, a point in the southern limits of the city, a pistol was examined by them. Mr F W Cornish, the miller, asked to see it and it was handed to him by Mr Dew. When Mr Cornish was in the act of taking it form Mr Dew the pistol discharged, the bullet lodging in Mr Dew's right arm. The wound though painful is not serious.
It was not known that the pistol was loaded.

Death of Sheriff Hewlett's Wife
Sunday afternoon at 1:15 o'clock Mrs Almyra Hewlett, wife of Sheriff Elijah Hewlett, of this county, entered into rest. She died at the family residence on Masonboro Sound, while all of her loved ones were gathered near.
Mrs Hewlett had been sick shortly over eight weeks, and her death, while not unexpected, will be a sad blow to many relatives and friends. She was 67 years of age, and was a daughter of the late Charles Craig, of Federal Point. By her death, a husband is deprived of a loving wife, and five children, Mrs James Hewlett, Mrs Willie Hollis, Mrs J B Fales and Messrs R H Hewlett and Addie Hewlett, all of Masonboro, of a devoted mother.
The last sad rites were performed yesterday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the Baptist church of Masonboro. The pastor, Rev Mr Ballard, conducted the services, assisted by Rev Farrington, pastor of South Side Baptist church, this city.
The pallbearers were Messrs Joseph Jones, J S Mumfress, J D Wagoner, J A Montgomery, E S McGowan, S A Montgomery, T A Walton and J D Walton.

Bitten by a Rattlesnake
Albert Nix, [black], who lives near the city on the Holly Shelter road, was bitten by a big rattlesnake yesterday morning. He carried his dinner to the field where he was at work, and when he went to set the bucket down under a bush to keep it cool, he heard the frightful sound of the reptile's rattles and jumped back, but he was too late. The snake struck him on the right wrist, but his fangs made a slanting prick and he did not get the force of the rattler's blow. He tied his handkerchief tightly around his arm and came to the city for treatment. His arm was badly swollen, but he got relief.
After he had been bitten Nix saw the rattler fly back into a half coil and he got a stick and killed it. It was four feet long.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
19 July 1898

Wilmington as a Matrimonial Field
Yesterday was a fruitful day at the register of deed's office. It was made so by the issuing of four marriage licenses, which was three "bones plunked up" by each happy groom. Strange to say only one of the directly interested persons of the entire "shooting match" hailed from this city. This left seven from a distance, which made it appear that Wilmington much posess decidely lucky matrimonial air for mortal to sigh in.
There were three white couples, Mr C Hines of South Carolina and Miss Ella F Duval of Cronly; Mr G W Grady and Miss Rossie S Herring of Wayne county; and Mr James Rew of Middle Sound and Miss Lena Fails of Greenville Sound. The last couple of the quartet was [black], James T McLaurin of this city and Charity Brown of Masonboro Sound.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
22 July 1898

Attempted Murder
Richard Crawford Stuck His Knife Twice up to the Hilt Into Cesar McLaurin - The Wounded Man's Condition Serious
Dick Crawford, [black], attempted to assassinate Cesar McLaurin also [black], yesterday evening at Point Peter. His murderous attempt may prove successful for McLaurin was stabbed twice to the hollow in the back, just below the right shoulder blade.
Cesar McLaurin is a regular employee of the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley railway, and works at the railroad shed at Point Peter. He got off for a few days and Crawford was woroking as a substitute in his place. Yesterday morning McLaurin came back for his job but Crawford refused to give it up and they had a fight about it, Crawford coming out second best. They afterwards made up, though, and seemed to be on friendly terms again. Crawford, it seems, however, harbored malice. While walking along with McLaurin, after quitting work, he suddenly stepped behind McLaurin and plunged his knife to the hilt into his back twice, as if not only to stab him but to cut him to pieces. McLaurin was helpless against the terrible onslaught on him and hollowed murder. Crawford then ran and has not been heard of since.
McLaurin was sent by the railroad officials to Dr Bulluck's office, and the docto dressed his wounds. They were deep stabs and were about an inch nad a half or two inches wide showing that Crawford struck the knife into him and tried to not only cut deep but wide. Both stabs went to the hollow and McLaurin bled profusely. He is dangerous wounded and it is feared there was internal hemorrhage. He was sent to his home 515 south Sixth street and at last accounts was in a precarious condition.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
29 July 1898

Passed a Bogus Check
A White Man Swindles the Shoe Establishment of Mr A Shrier - Police Hot on the Trail
The police are very anxious to obtain a "bird's eye" view of a white man named A C Morriss, who worked a shrewd swindling game upon one of our merchants Monday. He passed a bogush check for $10 at Mr A Shrier's shoe establishment, on Market street, between Front and Second, and then vamosed.
Morris is a cripple and is well known in this city. He knew mr Julius Taylor, head clerk in Mr A Shrier's, quite well, and Monday he walked into the shoe store and, after cordially greeting Mr Taylor, who came forward to wait on him, he proceeded to make purchases. He bought several articles, the cost of which amounted to about $3.80, and tendered payment a check for $20, made out on the Citizens Exchange Bank, of Richmond Va, payable to A C Morris and signed by E J Law. The check, Morris said, he had got Mr Geo. Harriss Jr of this city, who he knew quite well, to endorse it.
Never for one instant thinking the check was not genuine, especially as the name of Mr Harriss appeared on the back, Mr Taylor accepted it. He gave Morriss the difference in money, and Morriss then took his depature, after profusely thanking Mr Taylor for his kindness.
Tuesday the check was sent to on of the city banks for collection, and was promptly returned, accompanied by the startling information that it was "no good." Investigaton immediately followed, of course, and a telegram sent to Richmond brought back the answer that the name of E J Law was, no doubt, a fictitious one. Mr Harriss also disclaimed any acquaintance with Clark and, of course, his name appearing on the back of the check was a forgery.
The matter was at once placed in the hands of the police and is now being steadily pushed. They traced Morriss' stay here and learned that he departed Monday afternoon on the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley railroad.
The bogus check was dated Richmond Va, July 19, and was properly equipped with the revenue stamp.

Was it a Block-House
The Ruins on the Road to Scotts Hill Probably a Defense of the Early Settlers Against the Tuscarora Indians
A few years ago, a freshet uncovered the remains of brick walls and a vault on the road between Wilmington and Scotts Hill. Much speculation was indulged in as to what the ruins were, but soon the matter was dropped.
A gentleman who delves into such matters is satisfied that the ruins are those of a block house built by the early settlers to protect themselves against the warlike and predatory Tuscarora Indians who inhabited Easter North Carolina and frequently laid waste the settlements by fire and murdered the colonists. He says one of these block houses was located in Wilmington, and that they were located every five miles on the highways leading from one settlement to another. There is a tradition that there was one or more block houses on the road between here and Scotts Hill. The colonists were always on the lookout for incursions from hostile bands of Indians, and the early settlers had a thorough system of picketing and signals. When Indians approached, the women and children were gathered into the block houses for safety, and the men would fight the Indians off or finally make a stand themselves in the block houses. Couriers always rode rapidly from one block house to another, warning the settlers of the approach of the "Red Devils" as they were called. Many of these couriers were killed in going or returning from their hazardous mission, yet there were always found brave and true men who never flinched in the face of their duty to their wives and families and the community in general.
The Croatans, of whom there are about 3000 along the Carolina Central, mostly in Robeson county, are said to be a branch of the Tuscaroras. The Tuscaroras were divided into numerous "nations." Several of these "nations" inhabited the vicinity of Wilmington, viz. the Burgaws, the Waccamaws, etc.

Swallowed a Tack
Yesterday Mr W S Jones, who lives in "Brooklyn" heard his three year old boy making a strange noise, and piteously crying. He went to it to see what was the matter, and the little fellow seemed almost choked to death. He looked down his throat and saw a string which he could barely get hold of, and catching it with his fingers, he pulled it out. It was fastened to a leather headed carpet tack which the child had swallowed, and luckily which came out with the string, which was a strand of carpet thread.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
5 August 1898

Nearly Drowned
Two Men in a Batteau Capsized Under the End of a Flat - They Had a Narrow Escape
Last night at 9:30 o'clock Amos Nix and Jno. Moore, [black], were coming down North East river in a batteau, the tide swept them against the end of a flat opposite the Carolian Central wharves, upsetting the boat. Both men were thrown into the river, and Nix was carried under the flat by the current. Moore was much encumbered by his clothing but swam out and got another boat and went out to see if he could find his companion. He could not find him and it was reported that he was drowned. After an hour, however, Nix turned up all right, but he says he thought at one time that he was lost. The tide pressed him close to the bottom of the flat, and it was several minutes before he could get into a position to extricate himself. He says while he was face downward he could not get out from under the flat, but he managed to turn over on his back and get his feet and hands against the bottom of the flat and thus push himself from under it. The tide carried him down to the Champion Compress wharf and he got out afer being about as near drowned as a man ever was.
When he went back to the Carolina Central wharves to see what had become of his companion, they were both naturally surprised, as each supposed the other had been drowned.
They had some watermelons in the boat, and lost them all.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
12 August 1898

Escaped Prisoner Arrested
Sam Marshall, [black], an escaped prisoner, who was wanted for serveral offenses, was recaptured in the city Saturday night by Deputy Sheriff J P Flynn and Policemen Gurganus and George.
On the 18th of July, Marshall assaulted his wife with an axe and was arrested and recognized for trial next day before Justice Fowler. Instead of behaving himself, however, he returned home and assaulted his wife with a gun barrel, threatening to kill her. He was arrested and was required to give bond for his appearance, but on the way to jail he escaped from Deputy Sheriff Bryant.
Yesterday morning Marshall was given a hearing before Justice J J Fowler on the charge of assaulting his wife with a deadly weapon and was bound over to the next term of the criminal court. In default of $50 bail he was committed to jail. He will have a hearing today on another charge of assault and battery with a deadly weapon, and probably other charges will be laid at his door before the officers are through with him.

Fell From a House Top
A Painter Falls Thirty Feet and is Badly Hurt
Yesterday afternoon, a [black] painter, Tony Black, while at work on the house of Mr B G Worth, on Second street, between Chestnut and Grace, fell a distance of about thirty feet, sustaining serious injury.
About 5 o'clock Black placed his swinging stage in place at top of the residence on the north side. He then got upon the stage and commenced to work, when suddenly one of the two hooks, which are always attacked over the eaves, came unfastened, and Black and the stage were precipitated to the ground below. It was a fall of about thirty feet, and it was truly a miracle that Black was not killed. As it was, he struck the groun in an upright position, feet first. Consequently, he was saved from fatal injry, but one of his legs was broken, his head badly cut, a joint of a finger torn off and many other painful hurts inflicted.
Medical aid was at once sought, and Drs Frank H Russell and Thos S Burbank brought to the injured man. They made an examination and then had him removed to the city hospital, where his wounds were dressed. At last accounts last night the sufferer was resting easy.
Black is an employee of Mr A I Cooksey, and is a married man. At the time of the accident he was one of several hands at work on the same building.

Funeral of Mr James O Bowden
All that was mortal of the lamented and venerable Mr James O Bowden was laid in the grave Sunday afternoon at Oakdale cemetery. The funeral services took place at St Andrew's Presbyterian church at 5 o'clock that afternoon and was conducted by the Rev B E Wallace, in absence of the pastor, Rev A D McClure. A special choir, consisting of Mr and Mrs James D Smith, Miss Carrie White and Mr R H Grant, sang the hymns, and Miss Pocahontas Britt presided at the organ. As the remains were entering the church the choir touchingly sang the hymn beginning, "Sleep on, Beloved, Sleep, and Take Thy Rest." Then followed appropriate scripture reading, after which was sung the hymn beginning, "Come, Ye Disconsolate." After prayer and scripture reading the choir tenderly sing the hymn beginning "Asleep in Jesus," while the remains were carried from the church.
A large number of person attended the funeral including St John's Lodge No 1, A F & A M, of which the deceased was a member. From the church a large concourse followed the remains to the cemetery where the services were concluded with Masonic honors conducted by Mr Richard Price, acting as Worshipful Master of St John's Lodge. At the grave, the choir sang "Nearer My God to Thee." The grave was laid with  many beautiful flowers as a token of affection and respect to the memory of the deceased. The honorary pallbearers were Dr W J Love and Mr Alfred Alderman, old friends of the deceased and Messrs H H Munson and C H Robinson, representing St John's Lodge. The active pallbearers were Past Master Wm H Chadbourn, of St John's lodge and Messrs S P McNair, Jesse Wilder, W M Poisson, Thomas F Bagley and Dr A D McDonald.
The following relatives came down to attend the funeral: Mr J T Collins, Mrs John W Cowan, Mrs R W Collins and Mr Geroge Collins of Burgaw and Mrs Celestia Collins of Rocky Point.
The Rev C M Payne D D, pastor of St Andrew's Presbyterian church twenty years ago when Mr Bowden connected himself with that church, telegraphed his sympathy and words of consolation to the bereaved family. He said he regretted that was prevented from coming to Wilmington to attend the funeral.

Leg to be Amputated
John McNeill, [black], has been in the city hospital for a few weeks for treatment of diseased bones in his left food. An operation was performed some time ago and some of the bone was removed and the foot healed up, apparently cured. The surgeons, however, doubted the success of the operation and at the time wanted to amputate McNeill's foot, but he would not consent. The disease has again broken out, however, and in order to save the man's life, the troublesome foot will have to be takkne off at or above the ankle. The operation will be performed toay by Dr C T Harper, Dr W J H Bellamy and Dr R E Zachary, the resident physician at the hospital.

Thrilling Adventure with a Big Alligator
Yesterday afternoon Messrs S H Jones and J R Boyd went in a batteau through Eagle's Island on a fishing expedition. They rowed under the bridge on the causeway over Alligator Creek, and in the deep bay that lays just below the bridge they spied a big alligator swimming across the creek. They made for him and Mr Jones struck him with an oar. The gator was a large one and he gave a furious flirt that upset the small boat, throwing both occupants into the water. They were nearly frightened out of their wits, but the saurian evidently did not upset them on purpose, as he disappeared under the water and did not molest them.
Messrs Jones and Boyd were luckily close to shore and they had not sooner struck the water than they scrambled onto the bottom of the upturned boat and got it ashore, where they uprighted it and bailed the water out. Both of them have sworn off from tackling alligators when they go fishing. They say the gator appeared to be about eleven feet long, and it is beleived he is the big saurian that a year or so had his haunt below the bridge over Brunswick river. Parties passing in boats got after him several times, and worried the gator so much that every time a boat came in his neighborhood he would attack it. It will be remembered that The Messenger last summer warned fishing parties to keep a sharp look out for him when they passed under Brunswick bridge, as they might not know of the grudge the gator had against boats. Usually alligators don't molest anybody unless they are interferred with.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
19 August 1898

Wilmington's New Canning Factory
Mr Oscar Fillyaw's canning factory which was started up three weeks ago, has shut down for want of stock to work up. He hopes, however, to start again in a few days. He has been making a specialty of tomatoes, but the incessant rains have cut off the crop so he could not get enough fruit to keep going.
Mr Fillyaw's factory is in rear of his store, on the northeast corner of Fourth and Bladen streets, and its capacity is 1000 3-pound cans a day. The goods which he put up is of very fine quality, and all he wants is plenty of stock to run on.
Messrs Williamson & Jones' canning factory in East Wilmington has been operating to its full capacity.

Death of a Prominent Citizen
Mr DuBrutz Cutlar Passed Away Yesterday Afternoon at Wrightsville Sound
DuBrutz Cutlar, Esq. one of Wilmington's most prominent and greatly honored citizens, passed peacefully away yesterday afternoon at 5:45 o'clock at "Arcadia," the summer home of his son, Mr DuBrutz Cutlar Jr, on Wrightsvile Sound. A few years ago Mr Cutlar suffered a stroke of paralysis, and has had three or four attacks since. He has been an invalid the past three years and while his friends have sadly looked forward to his death, the announcement that the end has come will sadden the hearts of all who knew the deceased.
Mr Cutlar was aged 66 years and was born in Cumberland county. He was a son of the late Dr Fred J Cutlar, an eminent and leading citizen of Wilmington, who practiced his profession here many years. The deceased and three sisters, only two of whom, Mrs Jennie C Lee of this city, and Mrs Henry W Bradley, of San Francisco, California, survive him. His last brother, Dr Roger Cutlar, of San Francisco, died last November.
Mr Cutlar's parents removed from Wilmington to Fayetteville,a dn when he was a boy the family went to Alabama. While he was a youth they returned to Wilmington and he has since made this city his home. He received the foundation of education in Wilmington, and graduated at the State University, at Chapel Hill, in 1853, being a classmate of Colonel K M Murchison, Hon A M Waddell, Colonel Wm L DeRosset, Colonel John D Taylor, Mr Walker Meares, the late Mr D G Worth, and others whom we do not now recall. He read law under the late Hon George Davis and was admitted to the bar in 1855. He practiced his profession at the Wilmington bar and was a successful practitioner up to a few years ago when he was incapacitated by the sickness which ultimately terminated his life. He was for a number of years clerk and master of the county of equity and several years ago he was city attorney, these being the only public offices he ever held, preferring to follow his official work and allow the honors and emolument of office to fall on others. He was in the secret service of the Confederate government during the civil war.
Mr Cutlar was married February 22, 1865, to Miss Mariana Poisson, daughter of the late Dr Louis Julian Poisson and Miss Eliza Davis, sister of the late Hon George Davis and Bishop Thomas Davis of South Carolina. They had four children, three of whom survive him - Mr DuBrutz Cutlar Jr of this city, Mrs E J Justice of Marion NC and Mr Louis J P Cutlar of the Consolidate Gold Mines, of Mexico. In their bereavement a large circle of friends and acquaintances will share their sorrow and sincerely sympathize with them in the loss of an affectionate and devoted father.
Mr Cutlar was a man of sterling integrity and a high sense of honor marked his life professionally and otherwise. He was a man of fine ability, was ever genial and courteous, and there was no more chivalric gentleman that ever lived. He was charitable, kind hearted and brave, and was as modest and unassuming as he was brave. He was truly a christian gentleman, and was during his active life a leading member of St Paul's Episcopal church, being senior warden and treasurer since its organization.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
26 August 1898

Death of Miss Sue McArthur
We are pained to chronicle the death of Miss Sue McArthur, who passed away Sunday morning at 10:30 o'clock, at the residence of her brother, Captain H O McArthur, 412 North Front street. The deceased was aged 28 years, and had many friends who are grieved at her death and deeply sympathize with the bereaved family. She leaves two brothers, Captain Harry O McArthur of this city, an Corporal C M McArthur of the Wilmington Light Infantry, now stationed at St Simons Island, Ga, and also a sister, Miss Fannie McArthur of this city.
Corporal McArthur arrived here yesterday afternoon from camp, but came too late to accompany the family and friends with the remains to Kenansville, where the interment was made in the family church burial ground yesterday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.
Before the remains left the city on the 9:30 o'clock train yesterday morning, the Rev A D McClure, pastor of St Andrew's Presbyterian church, conducted services. Those who acted as pall bearers were Messrs R W Wallace, Alex. McGeachy, Will Donlan, W H Sprunt, J H Williams and B C Moore.

Death at the County Home
Mr John Williams, an inmate of the county home, suffered another stroke of paralysis early Sunday morning, which terminated in death.
The deceased was 48 years of age and leaves four sisters, Mrs C D Morrill, Mrs Maggie Mulford, Mrs Ellen Whrenn and Mrs Lizzie Lanier, all of this city, and Mr Curtis Williams of Brunswick county, to mourn his loss.
The funeral services, conducted by Rev J W Kramer, pastor of Brooklyn Baptist church, were held yesterday morning at 10 o'clock at the home of Mrs Chas. Petes on North Sixth street. In the afternoon the remains were carried to Northwest, Brunswick county for interment.

Death of Mrs S W Holden
The death of Mrs Mary Ann Holden, wife of Mr S W Holden, occurred yesterday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, and will bring sadness to the large circle of friends. She has been in bad health a long time, and the end has been sorrowfully looked for by the family and friends.
Mrs Holden was in the 69th year of her age and many years has been a faithful member of the First Baptist church. Her death deeply bereaves a husband, three sons and a daugther, and sincere sympathy goes out to them in their sorrow. Her children are Messrs Alex. S Holden, Herbert K Holden, William L Holden, and Mrs Ruth Ballinger, all of this city.
The funeral will take place this afternoon at 4:30 o'clock from the family residence, 814 Grace street, and the interment will be at Bellevue cemetery.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
2 September 1898

Death of Mr Christopher C Vernon
The friends of Mr Christopher C Vernon will regret to learn of his death, which occurred Sunday morning at 7 o'clock at his residence, No 29 North Ninth street, between Market and Princess streets. He has been an invalid for the past six years, and though a great sufferer, he was always cheerful and resigned. He leaves two daughters and one son - Mrs John Jones, Mrs Zack Lumley and Mr George Vernon, all of this city.
The deceased was a member of St Andrews Presbyterian church, and the pastor, Rev A D McClure, officated at the funeral which took place yesterday afternoon at 3 o'clock at the family residence. The interment was made at Bellevue cemetery, and beautiful flowers were laid upon the grave. The pallbearers were Messrs W H Sprunt, Oscar Pearsall, J L Calahan, C H Ganzer, William Holloway and P T Pickett.

Death from Bicycle Riding
We noted a few days ago that Master Charlie Bultman, of Sumter SC, was not expected to recover from the effects of over exertion in riding a bicycle. His sister, Mrs J J Fowler, of this city, received a telegram Sunday afternoon, conveying the sad information that her brother died at 1 o'clock Sunday afternoon. She received the message too late to go to Sumter to attend the funeral which took place yesterday.
Master Bultman was aged 14 years. He made many friends here who are exceedingly sorry to learn of his untimely death. He stayed with his sister here much of the past year and attended Miss Alderman's select school.
About three months ago Master Bultman took a ride of thirty miles, fifteen miles out and fifteen back. The next day he suffered terribly with pains in his limbs and the day following a physician was called. It was found that the over exertion had injured the lad's heart and his condition at no time gave any evidence that he would recover from it.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
6 September 1898

Married in Columbia
The Columbia SC State of yesterday says:
Mr E J Phillips of Wilmington NC, and Miss Annie J Dent, of this city, were married last night at the Second Presbyterian parsonage by the Rev A G Blackburn. The ceremony was scheduled to occur next Sunday, but time failed to move along fast enough for them, so last night they decided to turn in and have the knot tied. The young couple have decided to make Columbia their home, the groom having been employed here for the past four years.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
6 September 1898

Leg Crushed and Amputated
Yesterday  morning about 9 o'clock Tom Wagner, firemen's helper at the Hilton Lumber Company, got his left leg terribly crushed by getting it caught between a beam and geering wheel. The flesh was mangled and the bones crushed from the knee down.
The injured man was removed at once to the city hospital and Drs W J H Bellamy and C T Harper amputaed the leg just below the knee about 10 o'clock yesterday morning. At last accounts the injured man was getting along very well. He is a man about 35 years of age.

Death of Mr Thomas Ennett
The friends of Mr Thomas Ennett, a well known farmer who resides on Wrightsville Sound, will learn with sorrow that he passed away yesterday morning at 2 o'clock at his home. He leaves a wife and daughter, who have the sincere sympathy of many friends.
The funeral will take place this afternoon and the interment will be made in the family burying ground.

Died
Capps - In this city at 8 am Wednesday, September 7, 1897, C B Capps, born November 4, 1848.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
13 September 1898

Life Crushed Out
A Wagon Load of Lumber Passes Over a Body's Body - His Back was Broken and He Died in a Few Minutes After the Accident
A deplorable accident occurred yesterday afternoon at the northwest corner of Market and Seventh streets, next to Mr A David's residence, by which a little [black] boy named Alex Sampson was killed.
The wagon of the Fore & Foster Company was coming west on Market street with a load of lumber, and several small boys were running along swinging on the wagon tongue and pieces of timber between the wheels. The driver, W J Isler, [black], did not see them and when he turned from Market street to go north up Seventh street, the Sampson boy fell and was run over by one of the hind wheels. It is stated that in the scramble for a ride another boy knocked against the ill fated boy, so that he broke his hold and fell.
The uncle and brother of the boy, who happened to be passing, witnessed the terrible occurrence. The boy was picked up and carried into Mr B H J Ahrens' store, across the street, where all that could be done temporarily for his relief was done. The injured boy in a few moments was sent to his home on Sixth and Church streets and Dr D W Bulluck was called. He found that the wheel of the heavily loaded wagon had run over the small of the boy's back, crushing his spinal column. The boy died while Dr Bulluck was at the house.
The boy was aged 6 years and 4 months and was the son of the well known carpenter, Joseph D Sampson, who resides on the southwest corner of Sixth and Church streets. The boy's father was doing some work at Mr J A Springer's residence on Fifth and Princess streets, about three blocks from the scene of the accident when it occurred.
Coronor David Jacobs called and viewed the body of the deceased and examined three or four witnesses including John H Sampson, the boy's uncle, who witnessed the accident. The testimony failed to develop anything of criminal neglect on the part of the driver, W J Isler, hence he issued no warrant and did not deem an inquest necessary.
The boy's funeral will take place this afternoon at 4 o'clock from St Mark's Episcopal church.

Comes to Wilmington to Locate
Wilmington is to have a new acquisition to her bar. L V Grady, Esq of Duplin county, arrived in the city yesterday to locate and practice his profession. He is a bright young man and comes heralded as an able counsellor, besides he is a gentleman of pleasing address.
He will open an office in the old court house building, just in the rear of the headquarters of Dr W D McMillan, superintendent of health.

Death of a Prominent Citizen of Robeson County
The Hon James F Payne, one of the most prominent citizens of Robeson county, died at his home at Alma yesterday. The remains will be sent to Wilmington today by the noon train on the Carolina Central, and the funeral will take place at St James' Episcopal church this afternoon at 3 o'clock. The interment will be made in Oakdale cemetery.
Mr Payne was one of Robeson county's leading citizens. He was a democrat and has been honored at different times by the party. He has served his senatorial district in the state senate, and was highly esteemed as a man of the highest honor and integrity. He married a daughter of the late Mr Donald MacRae of this city, and his daughter, Miss Fair Payne, is a resident of our city. He had numerous friends in Wilmington who will learn with sorrow that he has passed away, and the sincerest sympathy is felt for the bereaved family.
We learn that locomotor ataxia was the cause of Mr Payne's death.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
23 September 1898

Mrs Jewett Passes Away
We are sorry to note the death of a noble Christian woman in the person of Mrs Lucy A Jewett, widow of the late Mr Stephen Jewett. She passed away last night at 11:15 o'clock at the home of her son-in-law, the Rev. Edward Wooten, on South Third street, next to St James' church. She has been an invalid for a year or more and her deateh was expected at any time.
Mrs Jewett was born in Wilmington July 15, 1819, and was in the 80th year of her age. She was a daughter of the late Mr Richard Bradley, and leaves six children, viz: Mrs Edward Wooten, Mr Stephen Jewett, Mr Henry B Jewett of this city, Mr R B Jewett of Savannah Ga, Mr W L Jewett of Ocalla Fla, and our former townsman Dr R D Jewett of Winston NC.
For more than fifty years Mrs Jewett was a communicant of St James' church, and in her death a truly good woman goes to her rest.
The funeral will take place at St James' this afternoon at 4 o'clock.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
4 October 1898

Accidentally Killed
Isaac Page Shoots Himself While Removing a Shotgun From A Wagon at Wrightsville - He Died in a Few Minutes
Dr Brutz Cutlar, Esq, received a telephone message from Wrightsville Saturday morning about 11 o'clock informing him that Isaac Page, a [black] man, in his employ had been accidentally shot and killed on the shell road, at Wrightsville. Mr Cutlar immediately notified Coroner Jacobs and went down to look into the matter, as Page has been with him some time and was a very useful servant.
Coroner Jacobs also went down and held an inquest over the dead body of Page. It seems that Page had a double barrel shot gun and was going out into the marsh to shoot marsh-hens, and that in some way th gun discharged, killing him almost instantly.
The coroner summoned the following as a jury of inquest: George Harriss Jr, R Oscar Grant, James Thompson, John Moore, Larry Jones, and Edward Johnson. Mr Harriss was appointed foreman of the jury and the testimony taken was as follows:
Dr Brutz Cutlar was sworn and testified: "I know the deceased. He has worked with me regularly since March of this year. His name is Isaac Page. I last saw him alive about 7:45 o'clock this morning. He asked if I had any objections to his going hunting for marsh-hens. I told him none whatsoever. I have given him the same use of my gun whenever he wanted it, and without any express permission or request."
John L Nixon being duly sworn testified as follows: "I went up to Mrs Wright's to deliver some groceries, then I come by Miss Hettie James' and I stopped there and asked deceased to hold my horse. I went up and secured an oil can from Miss James to take to Mr Stokleys. I asked deceased to ride back with me but he declined, saying he wanted to shoot some marsh hens. Deceased was then in the wagon, then a young lady called to me that she wanted to ride down to the store. Deceased jumped down from the front of the wagon and walked around and took the gun out from the back of wagon. In doing so, the gun went off. Deceased walked off about five yards, with the gun still in his hands where he dropped his gun, walked a little further and then fell. I assisted him to the side of teh road. Deceased did not say anything. I asked deceased if he was hurt, but he did not reply.  F M Davis was there by that time. I then drove the wagon to the store, and reported the action to Mr Stokely by whom I was employed. He sent Horace Moore to watch the deceased, and also telephoned Mr Cutlar to notify the coroner at once. Deceased was shot in the right breast just above the nipple, the entire load entering in a place about the size of a quarter. Deceased's chin and throat was burned with powder. The accident occurred between 10 and 11 o'clock and the gun deceased had was a double barrel breech loading shot gun. I was facing the horse and did not see the deceased at the moment of the explosion. When I saw deceased after the gun went off, he had one marsh-hen in his hand."
The jury after hearing the testimony found for their verdict that "deceased came to his death by the accidental discharge of a shot gun in his own hands."


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
7 October 1898

Residence Robbed
Mr William McAllister lives on Campbell street, near the Armour Packing Company's cold storage. Yesterday afternoon while Mrs McAllister was at a neighbour's house a few feet away in the same yard, a sneak thief entered the house and stole a black suit of clothing and a pair of pants of a grey suit belonging to Mr McAllister, a white shirt, a number of half-hose, some ladies' hosier, and 75 cents in money.
No one was seen to enter the house, and there is no clue to the robber.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
21 October 1898

A Human Brute
Horrible Tale of Wife Beating Unfolded in Court
There is no species of animal, not even the deadly serpent, that is so loathsome as a wife beater. In Justice Fowler's court yesterday afternoon one of these reprobates was arraigned for trial, and the testimony in the case laid bare a most diabolical malfeasance of the laws of humanity and the vows so faithful pledged at the marriage altar.
Addie Walters, a [black] woman who resides in the northern part of the city, swore out a peace warrant against her husband, Sam Walters. She alleged that he threatened her life. This proved true, but it also came to light that previously the husband had most cruelly maltreated the wife. Justice Folwer at once amended the warrant to assault and beating his wife, and expressed his utter contempt for a man, rather a reptile, of Walters' kind.
The testimony produced on trial disclosed an inhuman act of brutality. It was shown by several witnesses that during the month of August, Walters beat his wife into insensibility, inflicting horrible torture. After the poor woman regained consciousness she was delirous, but this the devilish monster did not mind. It was the nature of the beast.

Paralyzed in Prison
Sad Happening Yesterday Morning in the Guard House
Mr R J Smith, who resides on the corner of Third and Wooster streets, was stricken with paralysis early yesterday morning while confined a prisoner in the guard house.
Saturday night passers by at Fourth and Bladen streets noticed a man prostrated on the streets, as though drunk. Policeman R M Murray lives close by and he was at once notified. The officer found Mr Smith down on the street as informed, and apparently to him in a drunken condition. He attempted to get out of the man the location of his home, but received only disconnected replies. In fact, Mr Smith was so much of a rhapsodist at that time, and talked in such a silly manner that Policeman Murray took him to the city hall as drunk. Here he was again questioned and the result was the same. Then he was locked up in the guard house.
Yesterday morning Police Lieutenant Thos. Lossen had occasion to go in the guard house, and he found Mr Smith in a most pitiable condition. He was completely paralyzed, which infliction had evidently started Sunday night. A carriage was obtained and the sufferer conveyed to his home.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
1 November 1898

Fusion Policeman Drunk on Duty
Policeman Jim King, one of the populist policemen recently substituted for one of the [black] policment, while on duty about Front street market last night, was under the influence of whiskey. He got so merry about 9:30 o'clock that he went Mr N Polits' store and danced a jig.
A telephone message was sent to the city hall and Sergeant R F Gore went down and placed the tipsy policeman under arrest and carried him to the city hall.

Assaulted  in His Own Home
Last night about 11 o'clock Thomas Williams, [black] who lives on Sixxth street between Church and Castle streets went to Justice G W Borneman's on Ninth and Queen streets and bleeding from wounds, reported that while he was uptown his wife sent for him to come home. When he went home a [black] man who was unknown to him was in the house and immediately assaulted him with a knife and his joined in by beating him in the head with a brick.
Williams had a cut in the arm and a gash an inch and a quarter long in the top of his head.
Justice Bornemann issued warrants for the man and the woman who assaulted Williams.

Child Burned to Death
Mr C M Roberts of Moscow, Brunswick county, was in the city yesterday and informed us that on Wednesday last, a three year old child of Mr Chas. Pait was so badly burned that it died in a few house after the accident. The child with some other and larger children was playing with matches, lighting and throwing them at each other. One was thrown at the child which caught her clothing, resulting as stated. The parents of the child were away from home at the time.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
22 November 1898

Death of Mr Percy Alderman
We sincerely regret to chronicle the death of that highly esteemed young Wilmintonian, Mr Percy V Alderman. After an illness of six months he passed away last night at 10 o'clock at his home in this city.
The deceased was a son of Mr Geo F and Mrs Mary Alderman and was in the 29th year of his age. In April, he married Miss Rena Harris, of this city, and she and a little son four years and a half old suvive him. The bereaved young wife has a large circle of friends and acquaintances who deeply sympathize with her in her sad loss.
Mr Alderman was formerly employed in the auditing department of the Atlantic Coast Line. He was a member of Wilmington Council, order of Chosen Friends, and was a member and secretary of the second regiment band, of this city. For many years he has abeen a communicant of St James' Episcopal church, and the services for the burial of the dead will be said over the remains at that church this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock.
In this morning's Messenger, President James W Monroe, of the second regiment band, gives notice to the members of the band to assemble at their band room at 2:30 o'clock this afternoon, in full uniform and with instruments to attend the funeral. The interment will take place at Oakdale cemetery.

Death of a Good Woman
The sad news of the death of Mrs Joanna Mann, widow of the late L H Mann, was telegraphed to the family here yesterday evening from Raleight, where she passed away yesterday afternoon. Her remains will be sent here for interment in Bellevue cemetery and the funeral will take place at Fifth street M E church, but as yet the hour cannot be announced.
Mrs Mann was born in Swansboro, Onslow county, NC and was aged 52 years. She leaves five children - Mrs H W Howell of this city, Mr J L Mann of Washington DC and Messrs W E Mann, S L Mann and Miss Geneva J Mann, all of Wilmington. The deceased lady was for years a consistent member of Fiftt Street M E church, was a member and worker in the Ladies' Aid Society, and was a good christian woman. Deep sympathy is felt for the ones who are bereaved by her death.

The Semi-Weekly Messenger
6 December 1898

A Sore Bereavement
The Messenger's tenderest sympanthies go out to Mr and Mrs Carl W Polvogt in the sad affliction which the death of their little son, Carl William Jr has brought to them. The little boy, who was the idol of their parents, and was a bright and handsom little fellow, in the 7th year of his age, passed away yesterday morning after an illness of some time. In their sorrow the entire community will feel for the bereaved parents the deepest and sinceres sympathy.
The funeral will be held at St Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock. The interment will be made at Oakdale cemetery.

Died
In this city Wednesday evening at 8 o'clock, Sybl, daughter of T J and Olivia C Ashley, aged 15 months.
At 6 o'clock AM Thursday, December 1, 1898, Carl William Jr, son of Carl W and M Augusta Polvogt, aged 6 years, 9 months and 25 days.

Brilliant Marriage
Wedding Last Evening of Two Popular Young People
The Warren-Bissett marriage yesterday evening was one of loveliness. Wilmington will never know that will surpass it in art and sweetness. The very atmosphere was pervaded with a feeling of happiness, which set merrily tingling every heart of the vast assemblage of people who witnessed the brilliant matrimonial event. The nuptials were celebrated at St Andrew's Presbyterian church, and 6 o'clock in the evening was the hour, but long before that time the sacred edifice was crowded, and at last standing room, no matter how small the space desired, was not available.
"Two popular young people, indeed," remarked the early comer, cozily seated at a good point of observation, referring to the bride, Miss Olive Bissett and the groom, Mr Richard Foley Warren.
This remark was echoed by every heart, and even found endorsement from the belated arrivals, who were "crowded out" and had to be content watching the gay brida party alight from handsome equipages, and to listen to the beautiful strains of the melodious pipe organ inside.
The church inside was most copiously ornamented with floral designs, and blooms of the most pleasing kind. Everything coincided with the extreme felicitous event, and so artistically were the decorations arranged taht the harmony was perfect.
The altar was profusely banked with carnations, bamboo, chrysanthemums and ferns, while all around loomed splendidly up magnificent palms. At advantageous places among the masses of flowers were displayed large fashionable lamps, and the rays sent forth through delicated varigated shades gave a soft picturesque effect, adding greatly to the brilliancy of the occasion.
Just about the appointed time the arrival of the bridal party was inferred when the wedding march of Mendelssohn burst gloriously forth from the pipe organ.
As the strains of the joyous music seemed to swell to its utmost the procession commenced. Up the north aisle of the church first came two ushers, Messrs James Bisset of Rocky Mount and J B Clemmons. Closely followed the pretty little ribbon girl, Miss Katie VonGlahn and the gallant ribbon lad, Master Nick Post. Gracefully these two little folks, carrying the sash of ribbon between them, walked up the aisle, and one stopped to the right of the altar and the other to the left.
Next to enter were two more ushers, Messrs Jas W Monroe and Henry Haar, with the lovely maid of honor, Miss Jessie Bissett, sister of the bride, just in the rear. After all grouped themselves around the altar, the bride leaning on the arm of her father, Mr John Bissett, and the groom attended by his brother and best man, Mr E C Warren, approached, and were united in the holy bonds of matrimony by Rev A D McClure, pastor of the church.
When the ceremony concluded the entire party receded down the southern aisle, while Lohengrin's bridal chorus was being superbly rendered on the organ, and departed from the church. A short time and the carriages in which the party embarked and which bowled jollily along as if entering heartily in upon the spirit of the occasion, reached the commodious Atlantic Coast Line depot. Here a large number of friends and relatives had gathered and they all wished the happy twain long life and prosperity, and repeated it time and again until the 7:15 o'clock train departed for the north, which signalized that Mr and Mrs Richard Foley Warren were enroute on their bridal tour.
The bride was charmingly costumed in a stylist tailor made suit of brown broadcloth and her bouquet was bride's roses, surrounded by rare cuttings of ferns. The habit of the maid of honor was an exquisite blue broadcloth, and carnation pinks composed her bouquet. THe little girl was becomingly dressed in white organdie, with satin trimmings and diamond ornaments.
Each of the gentlemen attendants were fashionably attired in black cut-away coats, light pants and tan gloves, while a small boutonniere of chrysanthemums and pinks adorned each.
As seuvenirs of the grand occasion the maid of honor and the ribbon girl were each presented with an opal ring, and the ribbon boy was given an opal stick pin.
Those present at the wedding from away were Mr Henry Jaeger and family of Florence, SC; Mr James Bissett and Mr J R Bisset and family of Rocky Mount, Mr and Mrs Hood, Miss Carrie Bensell, Miss Kate Stewart, Mrs Cranmer and Mrs Foley of Southport.
The bride is the accomplished daughter of our esteemed townsman, Mr John Bissett and the groom is a son of Mrs E Warren, and one of Wilmington's progressive young citizens. The great favor of the couple is attested by numerous costly and elegant presents received from different points in this and other states.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
20 December 1898

Badly Crushed
Deplorable Accident Yesterday Afternoon, the Victim Being a Young Man
Mr W A Weeks, employed by the Atlantic Coast Line in the capacity of a yard conductor, met with a serious accident yesterday. He was caught between the bumpers of two cars, and badly mashed about the abdomen.
From what we can ascertain it seems that yesterday afternoon Mr Weeks was ordered to go to the car slide on the Wilmington and Weldon railroad, three miles from the city, and bring back several cars. He boarded one of the shifting engines on the yard and went out to the slide. It was neceassary for some shifting to be done, in order to get the cars in position to be pulled to the city, so Mr Brooks started in to direct the work. The cars possess automatic couplings, which work with a lever, and one of these levers Mr Weeks attempted to work to detach a car from the train. He signalled for the engineer to go forward, but as the coupling faild to get loose, he signalled to stop. Again he attempted to work the lever, and unknowingly was successful. In obedience to his "go ahead" signal the engine went forward and then stopped when he reversed the signal. During this time Mr Weeks was in between the cars, and when the coupling got away the detached car was left, but when the train stopped in some manner it ran up, and Mr Weeks was caught between the bumpers and badly crushed.
When the unfortunate young man was rescued it was seen he was mashed about the abdomen and suffering terribly. He was brought to the city, and carried to the home of Mr Vance Norwood, on Red Cross street, between Third and Fourth. The Coast Line at once sent their physician, Dr D W Bulluck, to Mr Weeks and he rendered all necessary medical aid. The doctor says the young man is injured internally, but that he apprehends no serious results. No bones were broken.
The accident happened about 4 o'clock and last night at midnight Mr Weeks was progressing nicely.

Shot Off His Hand
Yesterday Paul James, a young [black] man about 20 years of age, while hunting with others in the woods on Greenville Sound, accidentally shot himself through the left hand. A squirrel ran into a hollow tree and while trying to poke his gun up the hole to run him out, the gun was discharged. James' hand was so badly lacerated that he was brought to the city and committed to the hospital. Yesterday afternoon Dr A H Harriss assisted by Dr J D Fife, the resident physician, amputated the hand just above the wrist.

Death of Mrs Louisa F Harrell
We regret to note the death of Mrs Louisa F Harrell, widow of the late Mr E J Harrell. She passed away yesterday morning at the age of 75 years.
The funeral will take place this afternoon at 3 o'clock from the residence of Mr A H Morris, No 815 Chestnut street. The interment will be made in Bellevue cemetery.

Death of a Good Woman
There entered into rest at Salisbury, NC on Sunday, December 4th Mrs S L A Waren, who was the mother of our esteemed townsman, Mr W J Waren, chief clerk in the office of Mr W J Crosswell, district superintendent of the Southern Express Company. Mrs Warren's maiden name was Miss Sarah Louise Armstrong and she was born in Fairfield county SC December 30, 1827. In her departure death claimed a noble christian woman, but sorely bereaved the loved ones left behind. Mr Waren in the death of his mother has the sincere sympathy of many friends in Wilmington.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
23 December 1898

Was it Murder?
Mysterious Killing of Sam Hall Jr, a [Black] Boy - Found Dead with a 38 Calibre Bullet Through His Brain, Crap Shooting Probably Responsible for His Death
Yesterday morning about 9 o'clock William Walker, [black], who makes a business of picking up rags, bones and scrap iron about the city, went to the scrap pile on the block between Castle, Church, Thirteenth, and Fourteenth streets and discovered the dead body of a [black] boy about 12 years of age lying near the dumping grounds. He had been shot through the left eye and had evidently been dead several hours. The dead boy was subsequently identified as Sam Hall Jr, son of Samuel Lee Hall, a [black] carpenter who lives at 605 South Tenth street, between Castle and Queen.
When Walker discovered the dead body of the boy he thought he knew who he was and after inquriing if a boy were missing and being informed that Sammy Hall's father had been hunting for him, he informed Hall that he had found a dead boy at the place mentioned. Hall went to the trash pile and identified the body as that of his boy and telephoned to the city hall about the killing of his son.
Sergeant F T Skipper notified the coroner, who drove out to the trash pile and after casually examing the body and noticing that he had evidently been shot, gave permission for the body to be moved to the home of the boy's father.
Kept Bad Company
Sam Lee Hall, father of the dead boy, states that his son left home yesterday afternoon to play. When night came on and he did not reutnr home and the father got uneasy about him. He went out and looked for the boy and was up most of the night searching the neighborhood, making inquiry of all who knew the boy and at every place where he though the boy was likely to have been during the day. He finally gave up in despair.
The boy who was killed was a pupil of the Williston school and though he left home every day with his books to go to school, it transpired that he has only been to school twice this month and was last at school on the 7th instant. The boy, it seems, had fallen into the habit of keeping bad company and went into the woods with a crowd of boys who played craps. It is reported that a crowd of boys was seen in the woods Thursday afternoon where they had built a fire and were playing craps and it is believed that the ill fated boy was one of the party. It is believed that some of these boys either shot young Hall accidentally or murdered him and carried his body where it was found.
The Inquest
Dr R J Price, the coroner, having been notified, went out and viewed the body, and summoned a jury of inquest consisting of G W Bornemann, E W Hewlett, W L Burkhimer, J H A Strauss Jr, L W Bates, and C W Norwood, [black]. They viewed the body and met yesterday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock in the coroner's office at the court house. Justice Bornemann was made foreman, but as there were no witnesses, the jury adjourned until 3 pm to summon William Walker before them and to get such other witnesses as they could secure.
At 3 pm the jury again met at the coroner's office.
William Walker, who found the dead body was sworn and testified as follows:
"After 8 o'clock I took my wheelbarrow and went to the scrap pile about Thirteenth and Castle streets, to pick up rags and scraps. I went over the trash pile, looking for old woolen coats, and a short distance from the pile noticed what I thought was an old coat. I went over to it and found that it was the dead body of a [black] boy. I took it to be the body of Sammy Jones, but was not certain. I noticed blood over his left eye, and that he was purging at the mouth. I looked around to see if there were any rocks or bricks on the ground, thinking somebody might have struck him and killed him, but tehre were none, and there was no evidence of a struggle on the ground. The head of the boy was turned to the left side, and one hand was under him, as if he had attempted to get up. No one was there when I found the body. I went to the house of a man named Stewart at Eleventh and Castle streets, and saw some school children. I asked them if they knew of any boy that was missing and they said, 'Yes. Sammy Jones is missing.' I then went to Sammy's people and told them that I had found the body of their son at the trash pile. I went with them and showed them the body. There was no sign of any scuffling about the body and I noticed no firearms."
It was stated before the jury that Fred. Jones [black] had seen Nash McRae and Charles Washington, alias Charles Danger, both [black] in company with Sam Hall in the woods on Wednesday afternoon, so the coroner issued summonses for these boys to appear as witnesses adn placed htem in the hands of Constable William Sheehan to execute.
The jury then decided to have a postmortem prepared, and adjourned until 10 o'clock this morning.
The Post Mortem
Yesterday afternoon Drs W D McMillan, superintendent of health and Dr Price made a post mortem examination of the dead boy. The result was that they found a 38 calibre bullet in the base of the boy's skull, just under the skin. It had entered the left eye and passed through the brain.
Last night Constable Sheehan succeeded in finding Nash McRae, the [black] boy who was one of the last ones seen with the dead boy and he was taken in custody and placed in jail so that he can appear before the jury this morning. McRae is about 15 years of age and stated to a Messenger representative last night that he was with the deceased in the morning but had not been with him in the afternoon. He says he left him on Castle street between 11th and 12th streets about 9 o'clock in the morning.
At last accounts Constable Sheehan had not found the boy Charles Washington who bears such a bad reputation that he is generally known as Charles Danger or Dangerous.

Death of Mr T B Lippitt
The numerous friends of Mr Thomas B Lippitt were shocked yesterday morning to learn that he had been stricken with paralysis at his place of business in the office of Colonel John Wilder Atkinson, on Water street, between Princess and Chestnut streets. He came down town to business apparently in his usual health and was at several places of business early in the morning talking with friends. About 9 o'clock Captain J T Rankin went to his office and found Mr Lippitt sitting in a chair by the stove paralyzed in his left side. Captain Rankin summoned assitance and Dr D W Bulluck was called.
Mr Lippit was in a serious condition and was removed to his home on Orange street, near Third, where he passed away at 5 o'clock yesterday evening.
The deceased was the son of the late Mr William H Lippitt, and was in the 61st year of his age. He was a confederate veteran, having gone out in 1861, with the Wilmington Light Infantry, and later served in the Army of Northern Virginia, awhile in the Eighteenth North Carolina Regiment and later in some other. For awhile after the war he was engaged in the commission business and for many years was clerk for Colonel John Wilder Atkinson.
Colonel Atkinson, speaking of him yesterday, said he was one of the best men he ever knew. He was aman of the staunchest integrity and had the confidence and highest respect of all who knew him. He was never married, and has no brothers or sisters living. Messrs Joe Lippitt and Devereaux H Lippit, of this city, are his nephews, and he also has two nieces residing here, Mrs Dr Thomas S Burbank and Miss Sarah Lippitt. His death is the source of deep regret to his numerous friends.
The funeral will take place this afternoon at 4 o'clock at St James' Episcopal church. The interment will be made in Oakdale cemetery.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
27 December 1898

Death of Mr Peter Blomme
The friends of Mr Peter Blomme will learn with sorrow that he departed this life last night at 9 o'clock at his residence on Fifth and Campbell streets, after a serious illness since last Friday.
Mr Blomme was aged 59 years and was a native of Ghent, Belgium. He came to Wilmington during the civil war and was engaged in blockade running from this port. He has since resided in our city and has been engaged in the bakery and grocery business here for 35 years, first at Fourth and Red Cross, and for some years past at Fifth and Campbell streets, where his son, Mr John W Blomme now conducts the business.
The deceased leaves a wife, two sons, and two daughters - Messrs Charles J Blomme and John W Blomme, and Mrs J B J Sandlin and Mrs W H Howe, all of this city. They have the sincere sympathy of numerous friends in their sad bereavement.
Mr Blomme was a member of St Pauls' Evangelical Lutheran church and a member of Germania Lodge No 4 K of P, the membes of which lodge are summoned to appear at their castle hall this afternoon at 2:30 o'clock to attend the funeral which takes place this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock at the family residence. The interment will be made in Oakdale cemetery.

Home Wedding
Mr Sterling Price Adams, who for many years has been connected with the engineer department of the Atlantic Coast Line and Miss Lila H Morrison, daughter of Mr Thomas Morrison were united in marriage yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home of the bride, on Fifth and Princess streets. It was a quiet home wedding, the officating clergyman being the Rev Dr Carmichael of St John's Episcopal church. Mr F H Stedman acted as best man. The wedding took place in the parlor which was prettily decorated with palms, ferns and wild smilax.
The bride and groom were the recipients of many handsome and valuable presents and their numerous friends, joined by The Messenger, heartily wish them a long and happy life.
Mr Adams and his bride left by the 3:45 pm train on the Atlantic Coast Line for a trip to Floida and New Orleans. They expect to be home in ten days or two weeks.


The Semi-Weekly Messenger
30 December 1898

Funeral of Mrs Catherine K Price
The funeral of the lamented Mrs Catherine Kenan Price took place yesterday morning at the First Presbyterian church and there was gathered a large number of relatives and acquaintances to pay sad tribute to her sainted memory, impressive services were conducted by the Rev Peyton H Hoge D D and when they came to an end, a large concourse sadly followed the remains to Oakdale cemetery where the remains were laid in the tomb. Many beautiful floral tributes were laid upon the grave. The pall bearers were as follows: Honorary, Messrs W S Warrock, B G Worth, C H Robinson, Samuel Northrop, A A Willard, H H Munson, B F Hall and Colonel John D Taylor, elders of the First Presbyterian church and Messrs W H Sprunt and Oscar Pearsall, eldres of St Andrew's Presbyterian church; active, Messrs J Johnson Williams, Louis M Bunting, John Hill Bunting, William S Bunting, William H Brown and Dr R J Price. The first five are cousins of the deceased and the latter her nephew.
Mrs Price passed away Christmas day at 7:30 o'clock pm at her home on Fifth and Orange streets, having had an attack of paralysis on Saturday about noon. After she was stricken she regained consciousness at intervals, but owing to her exteme age, and despite all that medical attention could avail, life ebbed away.
The venerable lady was the daughter of James and Sallie Holmes and was born at Clinton March 5, 1814, consquently she would have reached the 85th year of her age next March. When she was quite small her parents removed to Fayetteville, but subsequently they returned to Clinton where her father died. About 1837 her mother also passed away and then her daughter game to Wilmington to make her home with her uncle, the late Mr Gabriel Holmes. Within a year after she became a resident of this city she married. Mr Richard W Price, who preceded her to the grave many years ago.
There were born to Mr and Mrs Price four children of whom two are dead and two are living. The children who survive her are Mr R W Price, who is with the wholesale grocery house of Messrs Hall & Pearsall, and Miss Bettie K Price, also a resident of Wilmington. Her deceased children were Mr James Price, who was a lieutenant in the seventh North Carolina regiment during the civil war and who died soon after its close and Miss Sallie N Price, who was the wife of Major Robert B MacRae of the seventh North Carolina regiment. The latter was a prominent citizen of New Hanover county, was a distinguished officer and was at the time of his death sheriff of the county. He was a brother of the late Mr Donald MacRae and of our present sheriff, Captain Walter G McRae.
The deceased lady of whom we write was the oldest member of the First Presbyterian church and had been a member of that church a longer period than any member now living, with the exception of Mrs P Rothwell, who survives her. These two ladies had been members of the First Presbyterian church for more than 50 years, as was mentioned by Dr Hoge at the celebration of the seventy-fifth anniversary of the church in 1892. on that occasion these two venerable ladies were each presented by the congregation with a copy of the New Testament and Psalms bound in five volumes and printed in large type so that they could read them with facility.
In November last, Mrs Price attended her last service and communed at the First Presbyterian church. She was a pure type of christian womanhood and in the long years of her life was a faithful and active worker in the church. Even in her decline she was faithful in the discharge of her duties towards God, and in her death, she goes to meet her maker who was her dependence all her life. In her death the grave claims a good woman and brings sad bereavement to the son and daughter who are left to mourn the loss of an affectionate and devoted mother. In their sad bereavement they have the deep and sincere sympathy of a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

Wilmington Boy
Who Won Fame on the Stage Home for the Holidays
About everybody in the city knows or has heard of R A Hewlett, the Wilmington boy, heart and soul, who has been one of the brightest stars in the vaudeville firmament for many years, and whose every twinkle in the future bids fair to bring him increased fame. Mr Hewlett (Gee! it sounds stiff, when we always said, familiarly, "Bob") is now in the city on a visit to his father, Mr W S Hewlett. He is accompanied by his charming wife and they expect to remain here until about Friday.
Mr Hewlett has abandoned entirely his comicalities on the slack wire, which have made thousands laugh, and he and his wife now only protray the most classical side of the vaudeville. They are just about to commence a tour, and will open at the Bijou in Washington DC some time next week. Then Wilmington, Delaware will be played, after which they will commence to travel Keith's circuit, which is a top nothcher and includes houses in New York, Philadelphia, etc.
Of course yesterday Mr Hewlett was kept busy shaking hands with his numerous friends. This is his first visit here since four years ago, at which time he coached a local production for the benefit of the naval reserves. Mr Hewlett and wife give several humorous sketches, and the other portion of the programme was cleverly participated in by our gallant tars and several of their talented friends. The show was a "go" and was carried to New Bern where it secured an immense hit.
Upon leaving Wilmington, Mr and Mrs Hewlett intend to spend several days with Mr Hewlett's sister in Portsmouth Va.

Lovely Christmas Wedding
It was a quiet but lovely Christmas wedding.
At 6 o'clock Sunday evening Mr Albert I Cooksey, a clever young Wilmingtonian and Miss Lilly White were united in the holy bonds of matrimony. The marriage took place at the residence of Captain James M McGowan, No 713 Orange street, and was strictly a "home wedding;" and yet it was exceedingly pretty. The ceremony was performed by Rev Calvin S Blackwell Ph. D. pastor of the First Baptist church.
The best man was Mr I C Williams and the maid of honor Miss Mattie White, sister of the bride.
Mr Cooksey has just had  a cozy dwelling completed in the norther portion fo the city where he and his wife will reside in the future.




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