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Jersey County Democrat, 1865 – 1868Typed excerpts from the Jersey County Democrat. There will be newspaper and typographical errors.

1865

June 23, 1865

Our old friend H. N. CROSS, started for Chicago on Monday last, with another fine drove of fat cattle, for which he is famous in raising. It comprised 125 head, the average weight of which was 1400 pounds.

There is to be a grand ball or cotillon party in Fidelity, on the 4th of July evening, at the National Hall.

W. T. DOWDALL, formerly editor and proprietor of the “Alton Democrat,” has become a victim to the petroleum fever, now raging with such intensity in this county. He is a man of enterprise, and we begin to believe the epidemic which has taken such fearful hold of him has something in it. The “Carlinville Spectator” says: “Dowdall, formerly editor and proprietor of the ‘Alton Democrat,’ who has been able to withstand the glare of Uncle Sam’s shoulder straps, the taste of Fred Inglis’s prime whiskey, and the charms of petticoated humanity generally, has, at last, fallen a victim to petroleum, and ‘gone his pile’ in a Jersey County Company. Well, friend Dowdall, we wish you luck, but would not have thought you could be thus tempted to vacate the sanctum for the oil hills of Calhoun, Greene or Jersey.”

J. GROJAN is “at home” when his customers call for a fine boot or shoe.

Monsieur FRANCISCO will give one of his grand entertainments at the Court House, on some evening next week, with an entire change of programme from his last, which pleased his audience so well. It is not often we are privileged to have a first class performer of any kind here, and when we do it is proper for us to say so. We wish he could have a larger hall to accommodate all who wish to see him.

The “Opposition Club,” is the name of a new organization in town, for the sale of liquor publicly without license. We do not know the “modus operandi” exactly, but it is said they who join get their drinks for half price; whether poorer in quality or lesser in quantity than the regular dealers, we are not advised. The “dodge” is something new, and we notice it as a consequence.

For once we have three barber’s shops in town, but as only one of them advertises in our paper, we presume he is the best, as he is the most enterprising.

Col. KNAPP, at the “Old Corner,” has “a few more left” of those superior and fashionable hoop skirts for the ladies. Had Jeff. Davis worn one of them he would probably have escaped, as they are so genteel that on one could have expected anything but a lady was inside.

Hansell’s Billiard Saloon, to those who understand the game of billieards, is becoming a fashionable resort, and now that a competent teacher is in town, we presume that a fresh impetus will be given to learners.

[July 4th celebration] A procession will be formed at the Court House, at 10 o’clock A.M., and escorted by the Alton Military Band (which has been secured for the occasion), and proceed to the grove of Abijah DAVIS, opposite his residence, at the north part of town, along the State road to Carrollton, where the Declaration of Independence will be read, and an oration by Rev. C. H. TAYLOR, of Alton. Then a basket or pic-nic dinner, on the extensive grounds of the grove. Then toasts and sentiments and responsive speeches, interspersed with music and firing of cannon. To conclude with a fine display of fireworks, in the evening. The people, both of the town and country are invited, and requested to bring a good supply of edibles for themselves and invited guests, and have a good social gathering and feast, as friends and neighbors, together on the grounds. Water will be furnished in abundance, for both man and beast. Geo. E. WARREN, Chairman, Com. of Arrangements.


July 7, 1865

The passengers by the evening stage on Monday, had a very narrow escape from serious damage. The firing of crackers just as the stage drove up, so frightened the horses that they became unmanageable and one of them cleared himself entirely, and ran a mile before being caught; the other succeeded in overturning the coach in which were four persons, who escaped with severe bruises. Miss Ella McGANNON was the only lady passenger; she suffered considerably from bruises and fright, but was able to be out the next day to assist in the exercises of the 4th.

Tomatoes and apricots have made their appearance at the “National.” If folks will eat the luxuries of the season, they must call on Charley BOWMAN, for he is always just a little ahead of city markets, and when Scott can’t furnish a good drink to accompany the edibles, there is no use in looking further.

Shephard & Cory, the new form, are “not backward in coming forward” in providing all at appertains to the grocery business. They have also an ice-cream saloon that is well patronized.

“Dinna forget” the Buffingtons when you want anything in the line of drugs, medicines, fine note and letter paper, etc.

E. M. SMITH, who was found dead last week, was insured for $4,000 in the Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company of Newark, N.J. M. D. ROBBINS, at the Bank, is agent for the company.

J. C. STRONG, at the Jerseyville Photograph gallery is turning out some fine pictures.

J. P. BELL is stiil manufacturing some of the finest and best buggies and wagons in the state. His place of business is on Pearl Street at the corner next wquare east of the National Hotel.

The Oil fever is still quite prevalent in the county, and in one well – “the Biernville” – the drill has reached the depth of 412 feet, and the oil is so manifest in the “tailing,” that the company talk of pumping from one barrel to ten barrels per day. Prof. DIEHL has within a few days past been prospecting through the county, and seems to have a high opinion of the future oil productions of this portion of the state.

The town was quite dull because of the “harvest time,” yet the merchants seemed to be in good spirits, and anticipate a busy season. Quite a number of new buildings are going up, and improvements are manifest on every hand. The Presbyterian church is being thoroughly repaired and refitted.

The Jacksonville and Alton Railroad is being rapidly pushed forward, but it is not likely the cars will run before the first of January, on this end of the road. The deep cut at the Piasa is a very heavy undertaking, and will be some sixty-five feet deep, mostly through solid limestone.


July 14, 1865

The Jersey House, under the administration of Mr. PARKER, has changed its policy in regard to its entertainments. A license to sell liquor has been taken out and a bar established.

The old Red Corner store having been sold to John BEATTY, Sr., is about to undergo some repaires.

Dr. L. H. ROBBINS has removed his office to D. G. WYCKOFF’s Store, where orders may be left when he is not in.

The “Floral Queen,” or Coronation of the Rose, was handsomely and well performed last night at Otter Creek by the pupils of Miss Jennie CHANDLER. Miss Ella McGANNON assisted in many of the difficult portions of the piece, and of course with her usual ease and efficiency, Jerseyville was fairly as well as numerously represented.


August 18, 1865

“Dog days” are about over, and we heartly wish the dog nights would end with them, for a more useless set of curs never kept people awake with their origies than the almost numberless specimins that continue to be fed and fostered in this town. We wish the town authorities would abate the nuisance as they do elsewhere by making the owners keep them in proper quarters or find no fault if a dead dog is found occasionally or oftener.

If you want a clean shave, hair cut or a nice shampoo bath go the the shop of Mr. FIELDS four doors north of the “National.” If J. D. SMITH gets you in his easy chair, it is a sure thing, though the “boss” is first rate.

For once during the summer we are promised a public concert, and that it will be a good one we have no doubt at all. The Orpheus Club, of St. Louis will be here on a week from Sunday and will sing in the Presbyterian Choir, assisted by Miss Ella McGANNON, and on Monday evening they propose giving a concert for the benefit of the Church.

The First Presbyterian Church in this town has been undergoing extensive alterations and repairs, and though not entirely finished will be used on Sunday next for divine services. The gallery has been taken down, the church lengthened sufficient for the introduction of four rows of new pews, and it has been very neatly papered, plastered and painted throughout.

Charley SCHROEDER is going away from town to live and he advertises to sell his stock of harnesses, groceries, etc. at public auction on the 25th.

Now is the time to procure stencil plates to mark your clothing, boxes, bags, etc. Mr. VAN FLEET, opposite the “National” is a very neat workman.

The Messrs BUFFINGTON, at their elegant and complete drug store, are constantly adding new features and improvements. Their last invoices contained the most elegant perfumery manufactured in Paris or America, and the ladies are finding it out. They are prepared to furnish pure liquors with their physicians’ prescriptions. Stationery and fancy articles they keep in abundance and in large variety.


December 15, 1865

Married. Nov. 11, 1865. Charles McDANIEL and Amanda M. DABBS.

1866

January 5, 1866

Married. Alexander SUTHERLAND and Josephine SEELEY, May 18, 1865.

Married. Charles McDOWEL and Augusta M. DABBS, November 11, 1865.


March 16, 1866

Myron H. HANSELL married Lydia M. NOBLE on February 21, 1866.


March 30, 1866

Married. On the 27th inst., by Rev. C. H. FOOTE, Mr. Austin LANDON and Miss Alma ARGO(?).

Married. March 20, by C. H. GOODRICH, Esq. Rob S. GIBERSON and Mary HASSILTON.

Married. On Tuesday evening, March 27th, by Rev. C. H. FOOTE, William H. CALLENDER, of New Orleans, and Miss Ella V. McGANNON, of Jerseyville. No cards.

We had the pleasure last week, of a call from C. R. and S. S. ARNOLD, who visited our place for the purpose of setting in operation upon the yard of Barr & Minard one of Houck’s Brick machines. Mr. Barr having previously made a conditional purchase of Jersey County with a machine. The Messrs. Arnolds have operated the machine to the entire satisfaction of Barr & Minard who at once completed the terms of purchase. The machine makes a brick of the most perfect proportions, and possesses a capacity of turning out from 20 to 80 thousand a day. It is compact and strongly built and runs with two horses. It makes a press-brick of unlimited strength, twelve per cent larger than the ordinary brick, and absorbs only one sixteenth as much water as the brick made by other processes.

Easter Ball at Recappe’s Hall on Monday evening. Music by the Bunker Hill band. C. H. SMITH Manager.

The ten o’clock up train yesterday on our rail road ran off the track about half a mile north of town and five or six freight cars were thrown off and the rails torn up for a hundered yards. No one injured seriously. The cause of the accident was the loosening of the ties on the raised part of the track.

The question often asked is: ‘What evidence have we of oil in Jersey County?’ We answer that beside having elements deemed essential in common with other oil regions, we have other evidences in the actual presence of the oil itself in the rocks. Whether it exists in paying quantities has yet to be determined by enterprise.


April 27, 1866

Married, March 24 by Rev. Aaron DODSON. Joshua E. DABBS and Susan E. WORTHY.


May 18, 1866New firm. Calm & Jarboe are refitting the old corner opposite Wiley and Ten EICK’s Hardware Store, with a view of establishing a clothing, furnishing and dry goods store.

Physician’s Fees – Adopted by the Jersey County Medical Society, April 2, 1866.

    Visit in town within one mile, $1.50
    Subsequent necessary visit same day, 1.00
    Night visit, 2.00
    Extra patients in same family (each), 1.00
    Milage by day, .50
    Milage by night, .75
    Obstetrics (mileage extra ove three miles), 10.00
    Detention per hour after five hours, .50
    Where instruments are required or turning is necessary, 25.00
    Subsequent visits same as ordinary
    Attendance on cholera or small pox, each visit, milage extra, 5.00
    Gonorrhea, in advance, 10.00 to 25.00
    Syphilis, in advance, 20.00 to 50.00
    Office advice, 50 cts to $5

    Surgery

    Amputation of thigh, $50.00
    Amputation of arm or leg, 25.00
    Amputation of finger or toe, 5.00 to 25.00
    Reducing fracture of leg or thigh, 25.00 to 50.00
    Reducing fracture of arm, 10.00
    Reducing fracture of clavicle, 10.00
    Reducing dislocation of hip, 25.00 to 50.00
    Reducing dislocation of knee, 10.00 to 50.00
    Reducing dislocation of ankle, 10.00 to 25.00
    Reducing dislocation of arm or shoulder, 5.00 to 25.00
    Dressing wounds of head, 1.50 to 10.00
    Trephining, 50.00
    Operation for hydrocele, 5.00 to 25.00
    Operation for hair lip, 10.00 to 25.00
    Extirpation of tumors, 2.50 to 50.00
    Opening abscess, 1.00 to 5.00
    Venesection, 1.00
    Vaccinnation, 1.00
    Operation for strangulated hernia, 50.00 to 100.00
    Post mortem examination, 25.00


November 30, 1866

Married. October 31, 1866. Henry L. Sunderland and Emma J. Nutt.

1867

September 13, 1867

Shooting Match. The grand shooting match took place just north of Bayer’s brickyard, in the north-east part of town, on last Monday. About one hundred pigeons had been provided by Mr. Hansell for the occasion. Captains were selected and sides chosen. M. C. STANLEY and Ford LEWIS were chosen referees. Scores:

    R. M. KNAPP, 7
    Joseph SALTAR(?), 7
    L. S. HANSELL, 8
    B. W. GREEN, 5
    Total: 27

    P. RANDOLPH, 3
    John FOX, 6
    G. M. REAMER, 8
    T. F. WILSON, 7
    Total: 24

There was only one thing which disturbed the even tenor of the shootists and that was a fight, a bonafide up-and-at-em fight, a rip-snorter, rough-and-tumble, between Col. Stanley and a lame pigeon. The Col. was plucky and so was the pigeon. Sometimes one was on top and sometimes the other. Betting ran high on the pigeon. Lucky for the Col. and unfortunately for the pigeon, he thought of McCool’s underhand rib-smashing passes, and acting from a strong feeling of self-preservation he planted a severe and fatal blow in the stomach of the pigeon, the battle was over and the Col. victorious. In sonsequence of this great victory a grand ovation and supper was given the conqueror at the National Hotel. There was eating in hot haste, and eyes looked into champagne glasses, that but an hour before glanced along gunbarrels, and flashed with pride as downy pigeons fell. The Col. was “all around the room” and being President every thing naturally had to “come through him” even to the commonest suggestion – but every one was satisfied and felt bully. All were sober. There was but one mistake made during the evening and that was when the Col. asked somebody if he would not have “more pigeon in his glass,” but we all knew it was a joke when he picked up the pigeon and tried to pour it into the glass. It was a good time and the Shooting Club are indebted to Mr. HOLCOMBE for many acts of kindness shown them during the evening.

1868

January 17, 1868

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

PARDONED – Oglesby upon petition numerously signed, and upon favorable report of the Warden has pardoned John Ross.

– We are requested to publish the following notice of Church services: Union services at the Union Presbyterian Church, Jerseyville, on Saturday, Jan. 11th. At all the churches on Sunday, Jan. 12th.

BURGLARY – On last Sunday night the boot and shoe store of S. Buckley was broken into and three pair of boots stolen. The thief in his hurry took boots which were unmatched and left one of his old shoes as a remembrance. The shoe is a fine specimen of cow-hide.

STATE OF ILLINOIS, County of Jersey.
Comes Patrick Conway, who being duly sworn on oath says: That Whereas it is currently reported, that one Stiles W. Hand, did, in a crowd in Jerseyville, on the night of the 6th day of January, A.D. 1868, say that this affiant did tell the said Hand that John Murphy and John Blennerhassett, set the Priest’s barn, in Jerseyville, on fire; this affiant says that he never told Stiles W. Hand any such thing; and said affiant futher state that, if said Hand made the assertion imputed to him that he, the said Hand, then and there, uttered a gross falsehood, maliciously intended to injure the character of this affiant. P. CONWAY. Subscribed and sworn to before me this 7th day of January, A.D., 1868. J.M. HURD, J.P.

BURGLARY – On last Tuesday night some burglarous individuals effected an entrance into the store of Mr. F. Bertman, by boring out a portion of the back door just beneath the lock. By this means they were enabled to break the wooden bar which was secured across the door. They carried away goods of considerable value. After filling a trunk and carpet bag with dry good they decamped, leaving behind them their tools, which were an auger, a chisel, a brace and a saw. Up to this writing no clue as to who were the thieves has been discovered. Robberies are becoming more and more frequent in our county. This is the third or fourth burglary committed in Jerseyville within the past two months. All efforts to catch the thieves have proved unavailing. That their rendezvous is right in Jerseyville, we cannot doubt. -Who they are and where they keep themselves is yet to be found out, and will be found out sooner or later. When these lazy light-fingered gentlemen are caught and brought to trial, jurymen should feel no compunction in inflicting upon them the severest penalty for their crimes, known to the law.

REWARD – It will be seen by looking in our advertising columns that a large reward is offered for information that will lead to the conviction of the person who set fire to the stable adjoining the Catholic Church. If this course were taken to ferret out criminals in all cases, there would be less crime committed in the county. Our county should have standing rewards for the capture and conviction of criminals. This county should have a standing reward of not less than $500 for murderers, and not less than $300 for horse-thieves and for persons guilty of arson.
     We admire the generosity and earnestness of all persons who are ready to give large sums, individually, for the conviction of criminal offenders; but it is not fair that a few men only should interest themselves in preventing crime. It is a work in which every good citizen should feel interested, and the way to make this detecting fund light and even upon community, is by taxations.
     Many crimes have been committed in this county, and the offenders are still at large. This would not be the case if rewards of amounts sufficient were offered to induce men to “quit business” to look after offenders. No man feels like spending his money and his time, and bearing his own expenses running after a thief, when there is no certainty of capture or reward. The day of doing things without pay is played out. ‘FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS REWARD,’ will be do more catching a murderer than 500 constables.


June 26, 1868

Mr. George Burke is now burning is second brick kiln.

Mr. Frank Schattgan is building a fine residence just east of the Cemetery.

Mr. P. Dunphy is erecting a frame building on Pearl street. We have not learned what it is to be used for.

Mr. Dapper will move his merchant Taylor establishment into the building formerly occupied by Elliot & Co.

Ross & Moorhous have sold the “City Mills” to L. D. Cory and L. Turner for $16,000.

Mr. J. N. Hutchinson has moved his stock of dry goods to Fidelity. Hutch is a good fellow and we wish him success in his new quarters.

Marriages:

May 4th, by L. Richardson, J. P., Stephen Riches and Eliza _?_
May 5th, by Rev. J. W. Caldwell, John M. Morris and Mrs. Harriet Jackson.
May 9th, by Rev. John W. Slaten, Leonard Brown and Annie Davis.
May 20th, by Rev. Aaron Travue, Andrew Smalley and Lidia W. Jones.


May 1, 1868

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

Mr. Asher is building a fine two-story frame residence on Exchange Street, east of State.

EPISCOPAL SERVICE – There will be Episcopal service held at the Court House on next Sunday morning and evening, by Rev. Mr. Dresser.

DECLINED BUILDING – We learn that Abner Cory has declined building on the lot he purchased last year on State street, opposite the Catholic church.

WILL REMAIN – We are informed that Rev. Wm. White Williams has reconsidered his determination to leave this city for the present, and will remain until after the Presidential election.

ON A VISIT – Issac R. Combs and daughter, and Miss Sophy Robbins, of this city, left last Monday on a visit to friends in New Jersey. They will be absent several months.

LUMBER ORDERED – N.L. Smith, Jr. has ordered nearly 40,000 feet of lumber from Chicago to be used on the County Poor House. It is expected to arrive in a few days.

FRAME WORK RAISED – The frame of F. Bertman’s residence, in the northern part of the city, is raised, and the building will be enclosed by the middle of the month.

ANOTHER ONE GONE – We notice by our exchanges that Miss Jennie L. Carr, daughter of Rev. L.C. Carr, late of this city, was married at Griggsville, on the 21st, to a gentleman from Upper Alton.

REMODELING – J. George Schwarz is having an addition put on his house in the suburbs of the city, formerly occupied by Mr. Waterman, and having it otherwise remodeled and improved. When completed it will be a desirable suburban residence.

CLOSED FOR REPAIRS – The 2d Presbyterian church is closed for the present, and no services are expected there before the 1st of June. The Church will be repainted and papered, which will add much to the appearance of this handsome house of worship.

ILL – We regret to learn that our old friend, William McAdams, Sr., has been quite unwell at his residence near Otterville in this county. His many friends will join us in the wish that he may be speedily restored to his usual health. His disease is fever, from which he has suffered much.

COMMENCED – Our brickmakers commenced making brick at their different yards in this city last Monday. The weather so far has been quite unfavorable for the business, but we learn that Farns & Co., have 45,000 under shelter, and will be ready to burn at an early day, should the weather remain settled.

GOOD IMPROVEMENT – Our Street Commissioner has erected a bridge over the ravine opposite Dr. E.A. Casey’s residence on Olive street, and filled it up on both sides with dirt, which makes it almost level. It will be a good improvement for the teamsters who haul brick and other heavy loads from that portion of the city.

CHURCH BELL – Our friends of the Baptist church have inaugurated a “mite” society, which meets at some private residence every Thursday evening. We understand that the object of the “mite” is to raise funds to procure a church bell, which the church needs badly. We hope they will meet with the success they deserve, and that we may soon be greeted by the pleasant sound of another church bell.

GOOD PRICE FOR PROPERTY – Samuel W. Davis sold to Geo. Ware, the house and lot on the corner of State and Pearl Streets formerly occupied by Alex. B. Morean & Co., yesterday, for $8000. The lot fronts 42 feet on State street and 20 on Pearl. This shows a decided advance in real estate. Mr. Edee purchased a corner lot on the same block last fall 50×110, with a fair frame dwelling on it, for $3000 -or in other words, he got more than six and a half times as much ground for the same money. If Mr. Edee should dispose of his lots at the same figures, he would realize a net profit of over $16,000 on his transaction.

If you want a nice Italian Marble Head Stone, go and look at Israel Squier’s in the East Jerseyville Cemetery and give R.S. Benedict a call.

STONE CUTTING. Our citizens have heretofore had to send to Alton to have their building stone dressed. We are happy to inform them that Currie & McCaughy, old and experienced stone cutters, have located in this city permanently, and are now prepared to execute in a workmanlike manner, in all kinds of building stone, such as window sills, Caps, Curbing, and other works, at Alton prices. We see no reason why this branch of business should not prosper here, and we hope that all who contemplate building and have work in their line will encourage them as they deserve. Persons desiring to see them, can find them near Bayer’s new brick house immediately west of the depot, where they have their stone yard at present.


July 10, 1868

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

TO BRICK MAKERS AND BRICK LAYERS: Proposals will be received for making and laying, or separately for either branch, the Brick of a Catholic Church, intended to be built in Jerseyville, Ill. For further information apply to Rev. J.O. Sullivan or William Shephard

The City Council have ordered a new sidewalk built on Exchange street from Van Dyne’s corner to Mrs. Davis’.

NEW DWELLING – A new frame residence is being erected by William Rue, in the western part of the city near Dr.H. Calkins.

TO BE MADE LARGER – The building Committee of the new Methodist Church intend to make that building twelve feet larger. When that is done the house will be 40 by 72.

BIG TRADE – Over eighty gallons of ice cream was sold at Leighs & Brinton’s last Saturday. The receipts of this house that day was six hundred dollars.

BRIDGES AND CULVERTS – Quite a number of bridges and culverts are being built in the city and suburbs. Mr. Stanley is doing the work in a substantial and workmanlike manner.

NEW WALK – The street Commissioner is having a new plank walk laid on the south side of Arch street between Voorees & Malott’s Grocery store and Daniel Nail’s residence.

We call attention to the advertisement of Mr. Pinero. Mr. Pinero intends going south for his health in October next. and has advertised to sell his house and lots and furniture at public auction, on the 5th of September.

REMODELING – Carpenters are engaged in erecting a portico and making other changes in Dr. Bringhurst’s residence on north state street. The Doctor will bring his family to this city next month to reside permanently.

LARGE CROWD – We believe that the largest crowd that we have even seen in Jerseyville was on State street to witness the Masque Parade on the 4th inst., The street was literally jammed from Exchange to Arch street, and it was with great difficulty that persons could make their way through.

BRICK KILN BOUGHT – We learn that Hon. William Shephard has purchased the brick kiln recently burned by Adolph Bayer containing 100,000 brick, for the new Catholic Church now in process of erection in this city. The edifice will require about 450,000 brick but the above is all that have been purchased as yet.

You can see a tablet in the east Jerseyville grave yard for the wife of L. Dupy, executed by Benedict & McDonald, Alton.

FOR SALE: Two business houses and lots on Pearl street opposite National hotel. Also, 2 60-100 acres of land in the south part of the city, set out with ornamental, shade and fruit trees. I have also for sale two wardrobes, 1 extension table, 1 cupboard, 1 parlor wood stove, 1 coal stove, 1 dining room stove and 1 cooking stove. Call soon if you wish to buy any of the above named articles. S.W. DAVIS

A fine two story house and 2 1/2 lots situated on Pearl street near Cory’s Grain Warehouse. The house contains five rooms, with an excellent cellar. There is a living well of water on the premises 16 feet in rock. There is also a good stable , granary and cow shed. This property will be sold cheap if applied for soon, Inquire of PETER McGRAFF

FARMS FOR SALE – The undersigned offers for sale two farms, one situated 4 1/2 miles southwest of Jerseyville, containing 80 or 1760 acres, as may best suite the purchases, all under good state of cultivation. The other containing 120 acres, situated 3 1/2 miles southwest of Jerseyville, under good state of cultivation, orchards and all necessary buildings on the premismes–Terms to suite purchaser. For particulars, inquire of John W. Vinson, at Jerseyville Mills. HENRY JOHNSON

FARM FOR SALE – The subscriber offers for sale his farm, 7 miles east of Jerseyville on the Shipman road, containing 100 acres, eighty prairie in cultivation and twenty-five young timber. Two story frame house 36×20 with eight rooms and cellar, a good barn, two wells and running water the year round on the farm, 150 choice apple and peach trees, the dwelling beautifully situated in a grove of hickory and young oak. Will be sold cheap by applying to the subscriber on the premises. GEO. MACLEAN

NEW CHURCH IN JERSEYVILLE, ILL. GRAND CEREMONY OF LAYING THE CORNER STONE
     The first day of June, 1868 will long be remembered by the people of the rapidly growing district of Jerseyville and neighborhood. On Monday last, the corner stone of a new and capacious church was laid with the usual ceremonial, by the Rt. Rev. Bishop Juncker of Alton, attended by a number of priests of the diocese and many from St. Louis, and in the presence of a large number of the inhabitants of the above rapidly increasing locality.
     Among the reverend clergy present we noticed the following: Rev. J. Jansens, Secretary to the Bishop; Rev. P. O’Brien, St. Michaels; Rev. J.P. Klein, Carrollton; Rev. M. Harty, Alton; Rev. R.S. Tucker, Brookfield, Mo.; Rev. P.O’Reilly and Rev. Arthur Mulholland, St. Lawrence; O’Tooles; Rev. Mr. O’Halloran, Bunker Hill; Rev. James McCabe, St. Michael’s; Rev. Thomas Cavanaugh, Assumption; and the Rev. O’Sullivan, the pastor.
     The visitors from St. Louis were numerous, including the juvenile Band of the Assumption Parish, some fifteen in number, under the direction of Mr. John Farrell, of the T. Abstinence Soc., who played some stirring airs as they marched from the ferry-boat to the depot of the St. Louis, Jacksonville and Chicago Railroad, where a number of clergy and other visitors were in attendance.
     Thanks to the kind courtesy of the railroad authorities, and to the personal attention of S.H. Knight at the depot, every facility was afforded on the occasion.
     On arriving at Jerseyville, the company formed in line, and preceded by the Assumption band, marched towards the sight of the new church, where they were met by the Rev. J. O’Sullivan, the pastor, and priests from other parts. At the appointed hour, the clergy formed in order of procession, followed by the Rt. Reverend Bishop, who at once proceeded with the ceremony. After blessing the site of the high altar, which was designated by a plain cross, the procession moved towards the corner stone, in which was placed a tin box, containing coins of the different denominations, a silver medal, struck in commemoration of the 18th centenary of the martyrdom of S.S. Peter and Paul, a copy of the St. Louis Guardian, the Jerseyville Register and the Jersey County Democrat,beside the usual document, which was signed by the Rt. Rev. Bishop, the reverend clergy; Thomas W. Brady, Architect; James H. McNamara, Draftsman; James Clement, Editor of the Guardian,etc. After the box had been deposited, the stone was lowered to its final resting place, after which the procession returned to the locality of the high Altar, the Bishop and the clergy occupying seats on a temporary platform, which was surrounded by the members of the Jerseyville Hibernian Society in scarfs and badges.
     The Rev. P.O’Reilly, of St. Louis delivered an eloquent and appropriate discourse, which was listened to by a large crowd, consisting of the congregation and many non-Catholics. The scene at this time was a touching one, and must indeed have been exceedingly gratifying to the zealous pastor, who has worked so assiduously to meet the wants of his growing flock. Further description of the scene at this time is rendered unnecessary, as we noticed some photographic artists at work, and doubtless we shall have a full and true representation .
     In the afternoon the invited guests sat down to a tastefully spread collation after which the juveniles of the band serenaded the Bishop, who, after some touching and kind words, presented each of the youthful band with a handsome medal.
     The Bishop having been conducted to his carriage, the procession was again formed, and marched through the town to the depot, halting at the establishment of Wm. Shephard, Esq. whom the band serenaded. Cheers and counter cheers were the signal for departure from the depot.
     On the home trip – there being two hours to spare at Alton – the party by special invitation proceeded to the Bishop’s house, where they were most hospitably received. Here again the boys of Father Cavanaugh’s band were the especially favored; having kissed the Bishop’s ring, they all knelt down and received his lordship’s blessing and often in latter life will each one of these good lads remember the happy occasion.
     The following brief notice of the new church will be of interest, at least, to the inhabitants of Jerseyville:
     The church is 110 feet long by 55 feet wide, and will be in the early English style of gothic architecture. In the centre of the entrance front will be the tower, 20 feet square exclusive of buttresses, the lower of which will be a vestibule, the second floor part of the organ gallery, and the upper portion above the roof is designed for the belfry. The angles will be finished with pinnacles, and the centre terminated by a spire of graceful proportions; the whole height from the pavement to the top of the cross will be 125 feet.
     The building will be covered by one span of roof, dispensing with columns, dressed and ornamented with tracery, 12 windows (6 north and 6 south) will afford a mellow light to flow through stained glass.
     At the west end will be placed the high and side altar and sacristy, pews, communion rail and gallery enclosure, as well as the alter above mentioned, will be carried out to correspond with the style of the church.
     The pews will seat 600 persons. – St. Louis Guardian


September 24, 1868

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

ENCLOSED – F.X. Schattegen’s dwelling, near the cemetery enclosed. It will be completed and ready for occupancy in November.

HEAVY TAX-PAYER – C.B. Fisher is the largest tax-payer in this city. His personal property alone is assessed at $22,000.

NEW DWELLING – We notice that David Ross’ new building, east of Cory & Turner’s mill, is fast approaching completion. It will be the largest residence in that portion of the city.

NEW FENCE – Our faithful and vigilant night policeman, Toney Rory, has recently been treating himself to a new picket fence in front of his residence on Arch street.

JOINED THE CONFERENCE – Rev. Mr. Wilber of this city, joined the Methodist Conference recently, and was appointed to the Fieldon mission in this county — He will at once enter upon the discharge of his ministerial duties.

SERIOUSLY ILL – We regret to learn that Bishop H.D. Juncker of Alton, a distinguished prelate of the Catholic Church, is lying seriously ill at his residence in Alton.

STOLEN –If the party who stole a flag and broom from the sand pile in front of my store, will return the flag, he can keep the broom and no questions will be asked. H. KRUMPANITZKY

HOLDING HIS COAT – During the preparations for the meeting last Monday, while John Van Pelt, who is always on hand on such occasions, was busily engaged in assisting in the good work, becoming too warm took off his coat and handed it to a radial of the Ben. Butler persuasion, with the request that he hold it. –The disciple of Benjamin done as requested and the last we heard of him was that he was still holding the coat.

PERSONAL – James D. Russell and family left the city last Monday on a visit to Jefferson, Wisconsin.

Mrs. C.M. Hamilton left at the same time on a visit to Appleton, Wisconsin. We wish them all a pleasant voyage a good time generally and a safe return.

Rev. C.H. Foot, for many years pastor of the 1st Presbyterian Church, but now a citizen of Cairo, Illinois has been on a visit to his many friends in this city for several days. We regret to learn that he has been quite indisposed during his sojourn amongst us.

ANOTHER HUMBUG – A traveling menagerie and “circus” is advertised to be here next week. The proprietors profess to have the “irrepressible” rhinoceros, the white bear and the elephant. It may be a big thing, but when we see a show that cannot afford to pay more than $1.50 to advertise its humbugs, we are inclined to believe that the posters we see on the walls constitute the best part of the performance. If any of our farmers want to be skinned out of two or three dollars, this show will kindly take them in.


October 8, 1868

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

The fair at St. Louis has been largely attended. The crowd on last Thursday was estimated at 90,000.

COMPLETED – The brick walk of the new Baptist Church at Otterville is finished, and carpenters are now busy engaged in enclosing it.

TO SPEND THE WINTER – We learn that P.D. Cheney formerly a citizen of this place, intends to return here shortly and remain during the winter.

LEG BROKEN – Last Tuesday afternoon a daughter of Mr. Paul, living in the southern part of the city, accidentally fell from a wagon and broke her leg.

GOOD ROADS -The roads are in a splendid condition at present, and should they continue, it will be a favorable time for persons to get in their winter’s supply of wood.

A BISHOP DEAD – Bishop H.D. Junker, of the Catholic Church, died at his residence in Alton, on the 2d inst. after a lingering and protracted illness of over two months.

ST. LOUIS FAIR – A goodly number of our citizens have gone to St. Louis to visit the great Fair of the Mississippi valley. We understand that the railroad has been selling excursion tickets to the fair this week.

The new brick store of H. Krumpantizky on Pearl street is going up rapidly. The contractor Lewis R. Myers, has the cellar already completed, and is now at work on the second story. Should the weather prove favorable, the building will be up by the 1st proximo.

The Terpsichorean Club of Jerseyville will give its opening ball at Concert Hall on Wednesday evening, October 14th. The balls given by this society are always of the very best, and persons wishing to spend an evening pleasantly will not fail to be on hand next Wednesday.

NEWBERN POST OFFICE – We have been told repeatedly by our subscribers that they fail to get their papers at Newbern. The gentlemanly post master, himself, has even gone to the trouble to notify us that the DEMOCRAT does not arrive at that office regularly. Something is wrong. We have inquired particularly at the office here; and they inform us that the DEMOCRAT is put in the Newbern mail every week. We have at present a good list of subscribers at Newbern, and that list would have been double what it is, had there been no difficulty about getting our paper. We have concluded that the difficulty is at the Newbern office. What the trouble is we don’t know.

A fine assortment of Democratic Campaign Badges just received at Selby’s Book and news Store, will be sold to clubs at $2.00 per dozen.

BURGLARY – The store of Herdman Bro. was broken into on last Wednesday night and goods to the amount of a thousand dollars or more stolen. Bolts of muslin, fine hats, coats and pants were taken without regard to “condition or color.” No clue as to whom the burglars were.

During the Fair the passenger train going south, and the accommodation trains going north and south, will stop at the new plank walk near the fair grounds, thereby enabling parties from a distance to have easy access to the fair, as it is but a few minute’s walk. Mr. Morse, the accommodating superintendent of the road has kindly consented to this arrangement which will be of great benefit to parties coming by rail to the fair.

Mr. Marshall will open his new store on next Monday morning. He has, as we have already informed our readers, rented the store house which has long been known as “Knapp’s Corner.” The building has been entirely overhauled and newly fitted. A new front has been made, the ceiling raised, and the walls newly papers. A large and new stock of family groceries will be put in on next Monday, and Mr. Marshall invites his old friends and patrons to call and see him at his new place. He proposes to sell at wholesale prices to persons wishing to buy by the quantity. his stock of fancy confectioneries is complete, and his assortment of China and Glass-ware is as good as is to be found in the city. Look out for the big porter! Marshall is alive!!

FAIR GROUNDS, JERSEYVILLE, ILL. Oct. 3d, 1868
     Board of Directors met upon the grounds of the Society pursuant to adjournment.
     Mr. President Beatty in the Chair.
     Directors present – Cross, Kirby, Beatty, Simmons, Craig and Post.
     Minutes of preceding meeting read and approved.
     Ordered that Secretary address a letter to Superintendent of the Saint Louis and Chicago R.R. (Jacksonville Division,) requesting him to permit trains running North and South to stop at a point on said road where the plank walk crosses the same near the Fair Grounds and the Conductors of trains be so instructed during the Fair.
     Ordered that no fire be allowed upon the grounds of the Society, excepting fire made from fluids.
     Ordered that Hugh N. Cross be and he is hereby appointed committee of one to superintend shows and exhibitions, to regulate and locate the same on the grounds; also to determine the admissibility of same, allowing no admission to any of immoral character. ordered that Wm. Kirby and S. Davidson be and they are hereby appointed a committee on wells.
     Ordered that no badge or other device of a political character worn upon the person be allowed on the grounds of the Society, and that the police be instructed carefully to enforce this order.
     Ordered that the bid of the Jerseyville Band to play during the fair for the sum of $160 be and is hereby accepted and that Smith M. Titus be and is hereby appointed superintendent of music during the week of the fair, and that the Jerseyville Band and Otterville Band be under his supervision, and that he make all necessary arrangements in the premises.
     Ordered that the Secretary procure suitable badges of a metallic substance for the use of the officers of the Society.
     Ordered that the Board to now adjourn until Monday, 12th instant, at 9 o’clock A.M. Morris R. Locke, Secretary.

BY THE MAYOR A PROCLAMATION.
     WHEREAS: The Jersey County Agricultural and Mechanical Association are about to hold their first annual exhibition on their grounds adjacent to the city, commencing on the 13th inst., and continuing for four days, and whereas, it is particularly desirous that all shall have an opportunity of attend, Therefore, to the end that those whose business is such that they cannot attend during the fair, it is recommended that all the business houses in the city be closed and business suspended on Thursday, the 15th day of October, A.D. 1868. H.O. GOODRICH, Mayor; GEO. H. JACKSON, Clerk.


November 5, 1868

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

On Saturday last an invitation of Fieldon Lodge No 592 A.F. and A.m., quite a number of the members of Jerseyville Lodge No 494 A.F. and A.M. paid our neighboring town of Fieldon a visit for the purpose of witnessing the installation of the officers elect of Fieldon Lodge, (a new lodge just organized). Although the roads were heavy, the weather cloudy, and the westerly winds blew cold, in company with our urbane Bro. Col. Smith M. Titus, we had a comfortable ride to Fieldon, where we with others who had gone before, were cordially welcomed and hospitably taken care of. We were not a minute to late, just in time to witness the commencement of the impressive ceremony of installation conducted by Bro. John L. White, W.M. of Jerseyville Lodge, who with his great knowledge of the ancient mysteries spoke the language of the order with great force and effect to the officers installed and the brethren present. The officers installed are:
     Bro. Sylvester Redfield, W.M.
      ” Wesley Park, S.W.
      ” James Eads, J.W.
      ” James H. Farrow, Treasurer
      ” Edward Arkebauer, Secretary
      ” H.N. Belt, Jr., S.D.
      ” E.F. Brown, J.D.
      ” J.K. Phipps, Tyler
     Bro. James H. Belt, Stewart
     Bro. Leonard Turner, Stewart
     After which Rev. Bro. Wilber, upon invitation, proceeded to deliver an oration well timed and appropriate to the occasion, which was well received by a large audience. Bro. Wilber gave us the full benefit of his great research and experience in Masonry. From the building of King Solomon’s Temple, he traced Masonry in all her meanderings through scenes of war and desolation down to the present time and proved positively that Masonry was the guardian of that inimitable gift of God to man, the Holy Bible, and the time friend of the widow and orphan, after which the brethren formed themselves into line and proceeded to the Hall of the Lodge where a bountiful repast awaited them and when the craft was called from labor to refreshment, how well was the order obeyed, and how eagerly our Jerseyville brethren approached the heavily ladened Board, and with what audity they partook of the choice viands spread before them typical of the magnanimity and quantity of that ever hospitable community the good people of Fieldon, can be better imagined than describe, and then the “wee sma” hours appeared our Jerseyville brethren found their way home by moonlight to their scolding wives and crying babies. – So ends a pleasant visit to Fieldon.

COMPLETED -The new brick walk in front of the residence of Dr. J.L. White, C.M. Hamilton, and Smith M. Titus, on Hamilton Avenue is now finished. It is decidedly the best side walk in the city and should similar ones be laid on that and other streets, the repairs on walks would be numbered amongst the things that were. As the material in this is of the best character, the pavement will wear for ages. The work is done in an excellent manner and reflects great credit upon Mr. Hamilton, the originator and executor of the whole job, from beginning to end.

WORKING THE ROADS – Our farmers are now busily engaged in various parts of the county in working the public highways. Should the weather remain clear for several weeks so that the roads can get settled it will be a decided improvement, otherwise we fear that in many places they will be rendered almost impassable, when they are now plowed and thrownup.

ADDITION – A.D. Erwin is building an addition to his residence in the northern part of this city.

REMOVED – The Jerseyville Lodge No 35, I.O.G.T. have removed from their hall on State Street, to their old quarters on Exchange street, opposite the Court House.

AN IMPROVEMENT – A neat and handsome verandah has been erected in front of the late residence of Joseph P. Bell, on Pearl street. It adds much to the looks of this very desirable property.

MOVING – There are more emigrants going through the county at present than ever known before. Covered wagons containing families, and in many instances all the worldly goods of the parties are daily seen passing through our streets bound for every part of the compass.

FRUSTRATED – Some daring villains attempted to break into James A. Locke’s residence on Arch street a few nights since, but were discovered before they accomplished their design. A dose of cold lead administered to these house breakers would be the best remedy we know of.

ABOUT THE DEPOT – In the immediate vicinity of the depot, buildings are going up rapidly. The whole block immediately west of the railroad and between Arch and Prairie streets has been improved by the erection of a Hotel, cabinet shop, saloon, bowling alley and a two-story frame business house.


November 10, 1868

LOCAL NEWS:

AMUSEMENTS – The Scotch Girl and Yankey Boy’s Variety Theatre at Jerseyville, on Saturday Evening, Nov. 21st. -For particulars see small bills.

We learn from J.N. Squier & Co. that their loss at the Elsah Paper Mill on stock (the manufactured part being saved) has already been satisfactorily adjusted and settled by the Hartford Insurance Company.

OFF TO CARLINVILLE – Our young friends Charles E. Casey and Luther Snell left here last Tuesday for Carlinville for the purpose of attending school at that thriving young city.

IN TOWN – Lamson Williams for many years a citizen of this place, but now a resident of Kansas, has been in town several days. He is well pleased with his new home.

The Elsah Paper Mills were destroyed by fire on last Thursday night. The property belonged to J.N. Squires, Dr. White and J.W. Calhoun, Insurance on the mills to the amount of $10,000. We have not yet learned the particulars of the burning.

SUDDEN DEATH – A few days since while Mr. Barnes, an aged gentleman living at Fidelity in this county, was sitting at his home, he suddenly fell from it and never spoke afterwards. He died next day. Death supposed to be from apoplexy.

NEW BRIDGE – A new bridge is being built across the ravine opposite James Dyes’ residence on the Shipman Road. In our opinion the County Court are committing a very grave error in not building substantial stone abutments for these bridges. Should it be done it would save thousands of dollars in years to come, as a bridge then would last until the timbers decayed.

ATTENDING SCHOOL – Quite a number of young gentlemen from this city and county are at Jacksonville attending school, among whom we may mention Joel Cory, Jr., George Ely, Adam Christopher, James Davidson, Walter Cory and David Beatty. We hope they will be successful in obtaining much knowledge and in the course of time return to us finished scholars.

SOLD OUT – Robert Newton has purchased Levi D. Cory’s interest in the Agricultural Machine Shops on Prairie street. Mr. Newton opened this branch of business here five years ago on a limited capital and has increased the works in that short time until today the property is worth $12,000. We are glad to learn that the present year, so far, has been prosperous, and that the proprietor will make large additions to his already crowded shops. Success attend you, Robert.

We learn that the Rev. Mr. Gibson of Chicago has come among us to take charge of the Episcopal Services of this city and Carrollton, and will hold services at the Court House in this city next Sunday, Nov 20th, and every second Sunday thereafter; and at Carrollton insuing Sundays. Mr. Gibson can be found at the residence of Mrs. Bonnell, near the Baptist Church, where he will be happy to meet all friends of the church at any time.

AN ELOPEMENT – We learn from the St. Louis Times that Michael McBride and Miss Mary Stewart, both of this city, were married in St. Louis, last Saturday, by Justice Keating. The “parients” objected; so the determined couple sought free (?) Missouri and a willing justice to make them one. Immediately after the ceremony the happy pair left on the North Missouri Railroad on a bridal tour.

FENCING THE RAILROAD -The Jacksonville Division of the Chicago & Alton R.R. is now being enclosed by a plank fence four feet high. It is nearly all finished between Macoupin Bridge and Kane Station. We also notice that the fence is being build south of this city through E.O. Hartwick’s farm. Hope it will all be built at an early day, as it will save the farmers from loosing stock and the company from law suits.

ANNUAL BIBLE MEETINGS IN JERSEY COUNTY FOR THE YEAR 1868-69:
     Ebenezer – at Ebenezer Church, Sunday Nov 22d, at 10 1/2 a.m.
     Delaware – in the Palmer School House, Sunday, November 22d at 7 p.m.
     Fidelity – in the M.E. Church, Sunday November 29th at 10 1/2 a.m.
     Hopewell – in the Hopewell Church, Sunday November 29th at 3 p.m.
     Delhi – at Delhi, Sunday December 6th at 10 1/2 a.m.
     Newbern – in the M.E. Church, Sunday December 6th at 3 p.m.
     Jersey Landing – at Elsah, Sunday December 13th at 10 1/2 a.m.
     Grafton – in the M.E. Church, Thursday December 17th at 7 p.m.
     Coon Creek – in the Union School House, Tuesday, December 22d at 7 p.m.
     Otter Creek – at Otterville, Sunday December 27th at 10 1/2 a.m.
     West Woods – in the Centre School House, Sunday, January 4th at 10 1/2 a.m.
     Fieldon – in the P. and M. Church, Sunday January 11th at 10 1/2 a.m.

1869

June 26, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

BUILDING – The new buildings of Shephard and Hamilton, immediately adjoining each other, are rapidly approaching completion, and when finished will be a great credit to the owners.

THE END – Let every body have their peace made with their Creator, for the end of the earth is at hand. We are told by the Advents that the final dissolution of our globe will take place on the 10th of July next. Look out for a “big thing”.

ICE CREAM – Krumpanitzky & Schoetker, on the south side of Pearl street, opposite the National Hotel, are constantly kept busy dishing out delicious ice-cream to customers. They are two young men of taste, and make it their duty to purchase none but the best and purest cream.

For the last few days the rattling of reapers and headers through our streets, and the great demand for harvest hands are certainly indications of a good and prosperous wheat crop. The crop of this county is large, and we hear of but little complaints of damage done to it by the late rain storms, so that an ample yield is expected.

On the 1st instant, in Plainview, Macoupin county, a pair of horses were appropriated by some person, and brought in this direction. The thief being hotly pursued was captured near the ferry above Grafton, and since then a man has been found suspended from the limb of a tree in the bottom within a short distance of the ferry. The body was not identified.

A STAGE RIDE IN NEBRASKA. Crab Orchard, Neb., May 30, ’69
     DEAR SELBY: – We arrived at Omaha May 15th, put up at the Wyoming house, and had tolerable fare. We arrived in company with Judge Noggle and family of Wisconsin. He had lately been appointed Chief Justice of Montana and was on his way to his field of labors. On the morning of the 26th, we crossed to St. Joseph Railroad, on which we went to the depot opposite Nebraska City – rode to the city in a buggy wagon (the omnibus being full, but they did not forget to charge us seventy-five cents cash.) We put up at the Cincinnati House – a very good house – and on the morning of the 27th, at six o’clock, took the stage for Crab Orchard in Johnson county. Our fellow passengers were three men from northern Iowa and Minnesota, who were looking for a milder climate. – As we traveled over the rolling prairie all expressed themselves delighted with the beauty of the scenery – more beautiful landscapes could hardly be imagined. The prairies were dotted here and there with small houses, mostly new, as far as the eye could reach.
     Our first stopping place was Grant Post-office, kept in a dug-out, that is, a pit sunk in the ground about three feet and a turf house built over it and covered with turf. The only person we saw there was a young looking woman. The driver unlocked the bag, emptied the mail on the floor and the young woman helped him to sort it. From this place we had a new driver to Tecumseh, the county seat of Johnson county, a thriving little village on the east bank of the great Nemeha river. Here we had to wait four hours for the stage from Brownville and attended a railroad meeting at the court house. The question was, shall the county of Johnson issue one hundred thousand dollars of bonds to assist in building the Nemeha Valley Railroad, which is to pass through Tecumseh. We heard a speech from J.H. Presson, Esq., the county clerk. The meeting was most unanimous for the bonds, and the county voted for them on the 19th by a large majority. The Sherman house at Tecumseh, a fine looking tavern, was undergoing thorough repairs, consequently the accommodations were none of the best.
     We started at five o’clock P.M. with another driver to go fifteen miles and as there had been heavy rains the bridge over Yankee Creek at Vesta was submerged, and we had to go around some distance. It became dark and the driver got lost in the timbered bottom land along Yankee Creek, and had to get out and hunt for crossings. Finally his team got tired and when he struck a wheat field he would cry out, “Unload, we are on plowed ground.” Then we all tumbled out and made the best of our way on foot until we reached sold ground again, and as the sky was overcast with dark clouds, we had to group our in rather unenviable plight.
     We finally reached a house and the driver called up the occupant and asked him if he knew where we were. The Bohemian said, “Yaw.”, but he could not tell him how to get away, or where to find a road. We continued traveling until about eleven o’clock, when we reached a log house, found the inmates all in bed, and the passengers, now six in number, very hungry. The lady of the house had a very bad headache, but we insisted upon having a cup of coffee and some bread and butter, which we finally got. Frank and I being near our destination, proposed to stay all night. The man said he did not keep folks at his house over night. He said he had come there from northern Illinois some five years ago to get away from railroads and steamboats, and now people were settling all around him, and were going to make three or four railroads though the county and tax him to help pay for them, and he wanted to sell out, but was not going to sell to any land speculator.
     After hearing his complaint we told him that we were not going any further in the stage, we were strangers there and could not find our way anywhere else that night; and further, it had set in to rain hard, and as he had plenty of house-room, if he would permit us we would make a bed of our own coats and satchels. But he finally furnished us with a comfortable bed, and we were soon sound asleep. The stage with the other passengers started for Beatrice in the rain, which increased so that they had to return and stay a good part of the night, then started again and we have not heard from them since.
     Frank and I stayed for breakfast, and then walked about two miles to the house of L.H. Laflin near our land, where we found comfortable quarters and good living, and went to work surveying our land. J.M.H.


July 3, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

RELIGIOUS – Rev. Mr. Gibson will hold church services at the Court House on next Sabbath.

RETURNED – Geo. R. Swallow, Ford Lewis and P.D. Cheney returned Tuesday evening from Nebraska.

FOR SALE – We see by posters that Mr. Stephen Buckly offers for sale, cheap, his business stand on State street and his residence near the railroad.

UNPARALLED ROBBERIES – Some unknown man busted into Mr. D. R. Herdman’s henery and robbed therefrom four handsome young spring pullets.

ANOTHER – An unknown man broke into the dwelling of Mr. Jarboe and stole some cans of fruit. There is evidently a hungry thief about town.

There seems to be a strike for wages among harvest hands. Farmers offer $2.50 and in fact can barely afford to pay that while hands demand from three to four dollars. Wheat is all ripening at once and farmers feel that they cannot afford to dally two or three days with a harvest hand, about the price. On last Mondy night a car load of negroes was brought up from St. Louis by some one, and on Tuesday night another load. – These hands are now in the field working at $2.50 per day. If so, the conflict between white labor and black labor is already begun in Jersey county. It is always best for hands to take the customary price. We believe that farmers here have always paid the biggest price for hands. We know they re not stingy.

DIED. At her father’s residence in Fidelity, Ills., on last Sabbath, about 2 o’clock, P.M., the second daughter of Dr. J. Hunter, after an illness of near two months. The dear “pretty child” has gone to him who said, “suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”ALLEN

TO THE CITIZENS OF OTTERVILLE AND VICINITY:Having heard it reported that I was connected with the case of Demps Richey, (regarding which it is stated there is some mystery as to his death), I take this method of informing the public that I was not in attendance on the deceased and know nothing cocerning the matter. JOHN S. WILLIAMS, M.D., Otterville, Ill.


July 10, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

ACCIDENT – A man named Connelly, in the west woods, fell from his wagon and was severely injured by the wheels running over his body.

REMOVAL – Major Sanford is preparing to move his meat market into the building formerly occupied by Krumpanitzky & Son on Pearl street, opposite the hotel.

DON’T FORGET -When you want lumber of any description, sash, blinds, and doors, don’t forget to call on Hassett & Bro., near the depot. Their stock is complete and they sell at the lowest prices. Liberal deduction made to contractors and builders.

RUE & CO. – This firm offers building material to contractors and builders at the lowest figures. All kinds of lumber constantly kept on hand, doors, sash and blinds can be had at all times.

NATIVE CATAWBA – Mr. John Flamm is agent for this pure and really healthy drink. It is manufactured by J.E. Starr and is warranted to be pure. Call on Mr. Flamm and get a bottle and try it. Price is $2.50 per gallon. See advertisement.

GEM SALOON – There is not a more attractive nor a better kept saloon in the city than the GEM. Everything is neat and quiet. The billiard tables are always kept in the best condition, and liquors, wines and cigars of the best quality can always be had.

PERSONAL: Hon. R.M. Knapp went to Springfield this week on business pertaining to his profession.
Mr. J.J. Paris has returned home from Macon, Missouri.
J.P. Bell, formerly of this city is now engaged in the commission and produce business in Kansas City, and is doing well.
C.B. Fisher, now of Kansas City, was in town this week.
Mr. L.M. Cutting has returned from St. Cloud, Minn., where he has been for a few weeks on account of his health.
Mr. E. A. Pinero is expected home from the Hot Springs, Ark., this week.
Mr. and Mrs. P.D. Cheney celebrated the tenth anniversary of their married life, last Tuesday evening.
Mr. L.H. Turner returned home last Saturday from his visit to Michigan and Wisconsin. He saw some sawdust operations that he did not exactly like, otherwise everything was lovely.
Morris R. Locke returned home Thursday evening from the north, where he has been on business in connection with his profession.
James A. Locke is now located at Springfield, Ill., and is working in the interests of the Life Association of America.
W.V. Shephard & Co. sent away seventy-five of the Davenport’s Low Water Alarm yesterday.

Rain continues to come down in torrents, and last Thursday it pelted away all day. The farmers are having a very unpleasant and disagreeable time in garnering their cereal crops, and in all probability they may expect a continuation of the same aqueous atmosphere until after the eclipse on the 7th of August.

REV. WM. WHITE WILLIAMS, formerly of this city, well known to many of our citizens, has been in the lunatic asylum at Northampton, Mass., for some time. He recently escaped from the institution by swimming Mill river, but was recaptured near Goshen.


July 17, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEM: FIRE! – Last Thursday night, at half past one o’clock the Warehouse of Steiner & Corzine, south of the depot, unaccountably caught fire in the upper story, and in less than forty minutes was burned to the ground. The Hook & Ladder Company turned out bravely (?) and the way they tore the igniting timbers and saved the railroad ties from being consumed, reflects great credit on them. Their facilities on the ground for getting water consisted of two water buckets and one swill-tub. The owners of the building sustain a loss of five thousand dollars. A part of it was occupied by 1200 flour barrels belonging to Goodrich & Nevius; 700 belonging to Reamer & Paris, 200 spokes belonging to P.F. Randolph. No insurance on any of the above.


August 12, 1869

LETTER TO EDITOR: MR. EDITOR– Since the farmers commenced plowing for wheat, they have found it almost impossible to plow owing to the vast number of bumble-bees, and having found a remedy to destroy them I deem it a duty to make it known to the public. While plowing a few days I plowed up a very large nest of them, and had hard work to get away without being badly stung. My hat falling off near the nest, and having a hole in the top of it, two-thirds of them went into my hat. I immediately procured a jug of water, and placing it near the nest, to my great surprise in five minutes the most of them were in the jug which I covered and then shook it until they were all drowned. W.J. Anderson.


August 21, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

Jason H. Ames has commenced to erect an addition to his storehouse, to make room for his mammoth stock of hardware.

FATAL ACCIDENT – On Friday, the 13th inst., as James H. Moore, a farmer living near Fidelity, was returning home, his horse fell and threw him violently against the ground, from the effects of which he died in a few minutes.

RENTED – The new brick buildings of Shephard and Hamilton, that are now being erected on Main street, have been already leased. Hawley & Leach have leased for several years Shephard’s at $750 per annum, while that of Hamilton’s has been leased to J.S. Campbell for $1,100 a year.

PUBLIC SALE – Mr. L.S. Hemphill will sell his personal property at auction on next Wednesday, on his premises near Chamber’s Corners. The property offered is excellent, and terms easy.

CLOSING OUT -GROCERIES CHEAP – Elliott & Smith are now closing out their entire stock of groceries at cost with a view to quit the business. Families who want groceries can get them cheap at Elliott & Smith’s.

NEW DOLLAR BILLS – In addition to the new fractional currency, the treasury department will soon issue new United States notes of the denomination of one dollar. The plates for these notes are now being engraved. The vignette of Chief Justice Chase on the left of the face of the notes will be taken off and a bust of Washington substituted. This, and changes in the vignettes recently made on the face of the fractional currency, is in accordance with an act of Congress prohibiting the vignettes of persons now living from being on the face of the United States currency.

AUCTION SALE OF VALUABLE PROPERTY -I will offer for sale at public auction on Saturday, the 21st day of August, 1869, the following described property in the city of Jerseyville: A dwelling house and lot; house has 5 rooms, well, cistern and stable near Norton’s Machine Shop on Prairie Street. Also a store house on State street, now occupied by George Hodgkins as an eating house. Also the store known as Thuston’s corner, now occupied by Voorhees & Malott. Also the farm on which I now reside, consisting of 80 acres more or less, with good house and granary, well, cistern, and a first rate orchard on the premises. Terms of payments very liberal, made known on day of sale. Sale to take place in Jerseyville in front of Hodgkin’s eating house, Titles to all the property undisputed. P. CONWAY

FOR SALE: A good dwelling house and two acres of ground, situated in Burke’s 2d Addition to Jerseyville, a beautiful and pleasant part of the city. The house is a neat frame, containing a hall and three rooms. On the premises is a good well of water, and flowers and shrubbery, and a Carpenter Shop. The ground is all under fence, and in excellent condition. The property will be sold cheap. For further particulars apply to W.W. COLEMAN, or this office. Price 1600. Ten hundred down, balance in 1 year.

FOREPAUGH’S GIGANTIC MENAGERIE AND CIRCUS -This combination will appear here on Saturday, August 31st. It is, without doubt, the grandest affair, both in the extent and variety of its collection of animals, and the magnitude of its proportions, that has ever been place on exhibition in the State.


September 4, 1869

HORRIBLE ACCIDENT – On Thursday of last week, Mr. Michael Harety, living five miles south of Jerseyville, met with a horrible accident while mowing weeds. One of the lines became fast about the head of one of the horses. Mr. Harety stepped out on the tongue of the machine to unfasten the line. As he turned to go back, the horses took fright and started to run. He held on to the tongue until he was thrown under the horses feet, when the machine struck him and dragged him quite a distance wounding him in a terrible e manner. The large wheel ran over his leg cutting the flesh badly and producing a comminuted fracture of the thigh bone. The skin under the arm and over the right shoulder blade was lacerated and peeled up in a most shocking manner. There were two or three large wounds cut under the arm and the axilary artery severed. Drs. Barry and DuHadway were called in attendance and did all in their power to alleviate the poor man’s distress. It is though he will recover.


September 4, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

GRAPE THIEVES – The other night some persons attempted to steal grapes from Mr. Jarboe’s vineyard. They were discovered by Mr. Jarboe who sent a load of shot after them which caused them to give up the grape business for that time.

DIED – In this city, on the 30th of August, of congestion of the brain, John Bailey, aged 24 years and 9 months.

The Carlinville Democrat says that “Prof. Thos. D. Worral has a large practice in the county near Girard and Virden.”There are several people here interested in the Prof.’s financial success. We hope the first ten dollars he yanks in will find its way to our sanctum.

GREAT LAND SALES – On the 23d of this month thirty thousand acres of land and twelve hundred city lots will be sold at Lincoln, the capital of Nebraska.

APPLES – Michael Sweeney having refitted up his cider mill, is now ready to convert apples into cider every day in the week except two – Monday and Friday.

REMOVAL – Charles M. Boyle has removed his stock of wines and liquers into the building formerly occupied by Pat. Kenedy, as a dry goods store, where he now intends to carry on the business, including the bottling of soda water, ale and porter.

PERSONAL – Miss Fannie Cutting has returned from Boston where she has been for some time on a visit to friends.

Mr. C.P. Holcombe has returned from New Jersey.

Seventy-five dollars have been subscribed to purchase Mr. S.M. Titus a new saddle and bridle which will be presented him at the Fair as an appreciation of his services as Marshall.

Mr. G.W. Ware and family have gone East on a visit to friends. Mr. Ware will visit New York and lay in his fall and winter goods.

Sheriff Belt settled with the auditor this week. The amount of tax due the State from Jersey County was about $22,000.

Rev. J.N. Hill is at present visiting friends in the East.

Mr. J.N. Finch is preparing to move to Nebraska.


September 18, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

HUMBOLDT CELEBRATION – The Germans celebrated the centennial anniversary of Humboldt at Flamm’s Grove, north of this city last Wednesday. The oration was delivered by Rev. Mr. Minturn, pastor of the Fieldon Catholic church. The Jerseyville band gave the music and “a happy time generally” prevailed. The utmost good order was observed throughout the day.

Mr. Stephen Bowman, Jr. left on a visit to Nebraska, Wednesday morning. We wish him a pleasant journey.

Allen & Pinero will have the Grafton Bank in operation by the first of October. They are now engaged in building a fire and burglar proof vault.

Hawley & Leach will move into Shephard’s new building next week.

Mr. J.S. Campbell will soon move into Hamilton’s new building. The work is fast being completed.

Mr. John Flamm met with an accident last week, badly injuring his left arm.

Mr. Israel Squier returned on Thursday evening from Newark, N.J., where he has been for several weeks on a visit to friends. He is in the enjoyment of the best of health.

Sheriff Belt is very sick of bilious fever at his residence, in Fieldon. We trust that he will speedily recover.

Mr. Daniel Watts is lying dangerously ill at Judge Powell’s.

KING’S ADDITION TO JERSEYVILLE. Mr. R. A. King, of this city, has divided the forty acres fromerly owned by C.B. Fisher, into city lots of one acre each. The lots are handsomely located. It is the intention of Mr. King to sell these lots to such persons as may desire to build neat sub-urban residences. He will sell a square of three acres at a very reasonable price to parties wishing to build. A large portion of this addition lies in a magnificent grove, and the remainder is beautiful rolling priarie. Adjoining this addition lie the new and handsome residences of Collins, Ross and Anderson. As soon as the lots are sold the streets will be opened, and very little improvements will be necessary to make that portion of our city a little paradise. Any person wishing a fine, yet a cheap building location, will do well to call on Mr. King at his office and make a selection from his excellent and beautiful lots.


September 25, 1869

ITEM. Several gentlemen of Jersey County are arranging an excursion this winter to Kansas to shoot buffalo.


October 2, 1869

NEW HOTEL, RESTAURANT, BILLIARDS, &C.
Our gentlemanly, whole-souled and enterprising fellow-townsman, JOHN S. CAMPBELL, has leased the large and well-appointed Hamilton building – now rapidly approaching completion – wherein he proposes to entertain the public in a sytle inferior to none. In connection with the Hotel, Mr. Campbell has established a first-class Restaurant, where may be obtained, at all hours (DAY OR NIGHT) every eatable and luxury the market affords. His Billard Room embraces 4 splendid Tables, of Brunswick’s latest patent Cushions. The very best brands of Cigars, Wines, Whiskies, Brandies, Ale, &C., may always be found at CAMPBELL’S. Mr. C. will remove from his present location MONDAY, 4TH instant, where he hopes to merit and receive the patronage of an appreciative and generous public.

VALEDICTORY. With this issue, our connection with the Democrat ceases. We have disposed of our office to Mr. A.A. Wheelock, of Winchester, Ill., a gentleman of fifteen years newspaper experience, a practical printer, a sound Democrat, a man of strict integrity, and every way worthy of the patronage of the Democracy of Jersey county. For nearly four years we have labored, editorially, for the cause of the Democracy. We have endeavored to be “Democratic at all times and under all circumstances.” If, during the heat of partisan debate, we have ever wounded the feelings of any man, we hope it will be buried in oblivion. There are those in the Democratic party in this county, to whom we feel under many and lasting obligations for their good advice, good will and assistance. To those, we wish to express our warmest and most grateful thanks. And to our patrons and friends we return thanks for their long continued patronage and support. Believing firmly in the truth of the principles of Democracy, we hope and shall ever pray for the continued triumph of Democracy over Radicalism in Jersey county, and everywhere in the United States where there are white men. Again we desire to express our sincere thanks to those who have assisted us with their counsel and patronage. T.J. SELBY


October 8, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

Quite a number of our citizens went to St. Louis this week to attend the fair.

C. Pauly, on State street, has placed a cracker mill in his bakery.

Rev. C.H. Foote, formerly pastor of the Fist Presbyterian Church in this city, is now here on a visit to friends.

Very heavy passenger trains have been running on our railroad this week in order to accommodate the multitude of people going to St. Louis to attend the fair.

Our city is to be visited during the fair by White & Bonham’s Metropolitan Theatre. Wherever they have been we hear them very highly spoken of. White is a very pleasing comedian, and Bonham is popular as an actor and reader. Miss Prentice is spoken of as being beautiful and accomplished., The Carrollton Patriot says–“During the week, Messrs. White & Bonham have been running their Metropolitan Theatre in this city to good houses and well satisfied people.”

A serious affray occurred in town on last Wednesday between Lewis H. Turner, well known to most of our citizens, and a man named Campbell, which resulted in the stabbing of Turner. We have not been able to get the full particulars. A dispute seems to have arisen about the price of a cow which Campbell bought from Turner some two years ago, in which Turner struck Campbell with his fist. C. drew a knife and severely cut Turner in several places, inflicting wounds which will render him a cripple for life. Campbell is in jail.

The suits pending in the Circuit Court between the St. Louis, Jacksonville and Chicago, and Peoria, Pekin and Jacksonville railroads are now in a fair way of being amicably arranged and settled. And what is good news to the people living along the lines of said roads, it is now stated on the best of authority that joint running arrangements are to be made between them at a very early day, by which passengers and freight are to be carried through from Peoria and other stations on the P.P. & J.R.R. to St. Louis and all points on the St. L., J. & C. R.R. without change of cars.


October 16, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

The Ladain brothers are erecting a large two story residence, on a lot near the residence of T.J. Selby, on Spruce Street.

Fred Ingils, of Alton, very well known by many of our citizens, died at Omaha, on Monday last. His remains were taken to Alton for interment.

Master Eddie Sanford, driving down State street with a pony, about the size of a jay bird, hitched to a diminutive sulkey, created quite a sensation on last Tuesday.

Our young friends Scott Bowman, Will Eads, Charley Cassey, Mark Warren and Stephen Reddish, who are attending Whipple Academy, in Jacksonville, visited home this week to see their friends and the fair. They all appear as if school agreed with them.

The Jerseyville correspondent of the Republican says: “Madam Rumor” has it that Dr. Charles E. McAdams, of Moroa, Illinois, who is now in this city, is here on a matrimonial raid, and will soon lead to the altar a handsome and accomplished Spruce street belle.

Mrs. Julia Fox, late Miss McKnight, who was formerly connected with the Young Ladies Seminary of this city, as music teacher, died at her residence in St. Louis, on the 8th inst. She leaves many friends in Jerseyville to lament her untimely loss.

Davenport Improved Gang and Trench Plow took the first premium at the grand field trial at the St. Louis Fair this fall.

THE FRANCIS FISHER. The public are notified that the boat Francis Fisher, will take freight and produce from Otter Creek and Macoupin to St. Louis at the lowest votes. FRITZ SNITZLER


October 23, 1869

SABBATH SCHOOL CONVENTION. The regular semi-annual meeting of this convention will be held at Otterville, on Thursday, Oct. 28th, 1869, at 10 o’clock a.m. precisely, and continues during Thursday and Friday. Each Sabbath School in Jersey county is expected to elect delegates to this convention as early as the preceding Sabbath, 24th inst., who will pledge themselves to attend and represent their respective Sabbath Schools. All persons friendly to the cause are invited to be present, also, and participate in its deliberations. None are excluded. Ample arrangements are being made for entertainment of delegates free of charge. Those appointed to open discussions are expected to come prepared; others are requested to do so. Pastors and superintendents will please give general notice of this convention in their churches and schools respectively, on the Sabbath before the convention, 24th inst. Stephen Paxson, the father of Illinois Sabbath Schools, has written me that he will be certain to be with us., Providence permitting. W.H. POGUE, Pres’t.

FOUND DEAD! AN INTERESTING TRIAL
     On last Sunday morning, when the jailor visited the jail to feed the prisoners, he found a man named Asbury Davis, who had been placed there the night before, dead in the cell in which he was confined. He was lying near the door on his left side with his head under his arm and his knees slightly drawn up. Information was immediately given to the proper authorities, a coroner’s jury summoned and an inquest held. There were no external signs of violence and the general appearance of the body indicated that he died, apparently, unconscious of pain or approaching death. The coroner’s inquest was held on Sunday about 11 o’clock. The jury brought in a verdict of death from some unknown cause. Before the jury dispersed, the friends of the deceased consented to a post mortem examination, which was conducted by Drs. Barry, DuHadway and Hamilton. They found the left lung slightly congested, heart normal, the left lobe of the liver ruptured or lacerated in six or eight difference places. There was a large quantity of coagulated blood in the cavity of the abdomen–perhaps two quarts. The spleen was ruptured its entire length, from which place the blood found in the abdomen proceeded. The bowels were normal. Death would have ensued from these injuries very soon. Davis certainly lived but a very short time after having received the injuries. How he received them and where, and by whom, are questions that will not be readily answered. The whole case is enshrouded in impenetrable mystery at present. From the beginning suspicions of foul play were entertained by almost all who knew or had heard of the case. As the deceased was last seen come from a certain saloon in a peculiar manner, suspicion was fastened upon the men who were in the saloon, Nicholas Wallace, David Noonan, John Malone. These parties were arrested by the city constable on Sunday afternoon and lodged in jail to await examination. On Monday examination began before Justices Hurd, Voorhees and Flamm. King & Merrill appeared as counsel for the prosecution, and Hon. R.M. Knapp, W.H. Pogue, Robert Sayers and G.W.. Herdman, as counsel for the defense.
     There being no evidence against John Malone, he was discharged by the court. The examination of the other two lasted two days. A great many witnesses were examined, many of whom knew nothing of the case.
     We give the main points of the testimony of the leading witnesses, leaving out repetitions of evidence.
     JOHN MURPHY testified that he was an officer of the law, and that about 8 o’clock on Sunday evening, October 16th, he found the deceased lying partly under a bridge at the corner of Jefferson and Spruce streets. He placed him on a wheel-barrow and carried him to the county jail; did not know that he was hurt; placed him on a bed in the jail cell and left him; did not see him again until next day when he was found dead. Mr. Rory and a colored man assisted in taking deceased to jail; supposed him to be intoxicated.
     JOHN BALLARD – I am acquainted with the prisoners and knew the deceased; was standing at the National Hotel corner and heard some one call out, “John”, turned around and saw deceased coming out of Nick Wallace’s saloon on the side walk, on his hands and knees; did not see any one shove him out; he came out the saloon with considerable force; went down to the saloon; stepped in and got Davis’ hat and placed it on his head; the parties in the saloon were Wallace, Noonan and Malone; Wallace was standing near the door; deceased was across the street and up the walk toward Krumpanitzy’s store; the time this occurred was about 5 o’clock p.m.
     FRANK SHATTGAN – I heard a noise in Wallace’s saloon between 6 and 7 o’clock p.m.; was standing in the door of my meat shop, which is directly opposite the saloon; I could see across; there were four or five men, more or less, in the saloon; they had a man down on the floor; the man had a red shirt on; supposed they were kicking the man, but would not be positive about that; saw the man come out of the saloon and saw that he was Asbury Davis; do not know that he was thrown from the saloon; deceased had on a red shirt; the noise I heard in the saloon was occasioned by loud cursing; the deceased pitched down on his hands and knees; got up and came across the street to where I was standing; he was in a doubled-up position; was white as a sheet and his eyes were set in his head; supposed he was in liquor; he tired to come into my shop, but I told him to go where he got his whisky; he looked more like a dead man than a live one; I heard Wallace’s testimony before the coroner’s jury; his evidence was very contradictory; he contradicted himself often; he said he had hold of Davis and then he said he hadn’t; he made himself the laughing stock of the crowd; I heard him questioned as to whether he had kicked or struck Davis, and he said he hadn’t; have not heard Wallace say anything since the death of Davis; my shop is just across the street from the saloon; it was pretty well on to 6 o’clock.
     On cross-examination, said that Wallace had lived at his present residence for some time; had nothing against Wallace; Wallace kept a low-lived hole. Mr. E. Davidson and Walkerman were at witnesses’ shop at the time; did not see Wallace strike or kick deceased. (The cross-examination was lengthy, but no new evidence elicited.)
     DR. DU HADWAY – I was acquainted with the deceased and know the parties on trial; there was a post mortem examination held on October 17th by Drs. Barry, Hamilton and myself. Barry and Hamilton made the dissection while I took notes of the examination; I first saw the deceased on a table in the grand jury room during the holding of the coroner’s inquest, in the forenoon; Dr. Hamilton and myself made the external examination; found no marks or injuries upon the body indicating the cause of death; found bruises on the knees, the left elbow and left shoulder; these injuries were not sufficient to produce death; the examination revealed slight congestion of the upper portion of the left lobe of the lung; there was a large quantity of coagulated blood in the cavity of the abdomen; the left lobe of the liver was ruptured in six or eight places; the heart, bowels, stomach, bladder and kidneys were in a normal condition; the spleen was extensively ruptured, which accounted for the large amount of blood found in the cavity of the abdomen, and was the cause of death; the left lobe of the liver had several contusions, and was highly congested; the membrane covering the spleen was broken off – highly congested and enlarged; these wounds were produced by external violence of some character; the rupture of the spleen alone would have caused death in a very short time; the blood found in the cavity of the abdomen proceeded from the ruptured spleen; a kick, or a blow, or a wagon-wheel running over that region of the body, or falling over the edge of a table, falling on a stone or other hard substance, might produce such injuries; such injuries, in my opinion, would cause almost instant death; such injuries may exist from external violence and leave no external signs on the body.
     On cross-examination, said that he was foreman of the coroner’s jury; that a person receiving such injuries would immediately show signs of collapse; could not walk about the streets as described, nor could he desire anything to eat; would die in a very short time, almost instantly.
     DR. BARRY – I made the post mortem examination by special request; was asked to perform the operation by Mr. Cray, a relative of the deceased, the body was lying on a table in the grand jury room; in the process of the examination the left lung was found to be slightly congested; the heart was normal; the liver was ruptured in six or eight different places; the spleen badly ruptured; found there had been extensive hemmorage–there were some two or three quarts of coagulated blood in the cavity of the abdomen; the spleen is a very vascular organ, that is, contains a great quantity of blood, and upon being ruptured, would induce extensive hemorrhage and cause death in a very short time; the stomach was in a normal condition; the blood found in the cavity of the abdomen was occasioned by the rupture of the spleen; the ruptures were produced by direct of indirect violence; the violence must have been of a very great character; the injuries were evidently recent; a kick from a horse, a blow from a club, a fall against a curb stone, or a violent kick, or a wagon-wheel running over a person might produce such injures. In dissecting the stomach from the body I cut the upper orifice, from which a portion of the contents escaped into my hands; the contents were of a semi-liquid character; the stomach was almost empty; the injuries found on the body were sufficient to cause death almost instantly; such injuries might cause the death of some men sooner than others; this man’s vital organs were more or less all diseased; his physical constitution was very poorly, indeed; with the injuries we found, he could not have lived over an hour; the shock given to the nervous system would have prostrated him at once; being under the influence of liquor might make some difference in the length f time a man would live–in this man’s case perhaps not; there were no external signs of violence; such injuries can exist and there be no external signs whatever.
     On cross-examination, the Doctor stated that he thought the injuries given this man were not inflicted at Wallace’s saloon at the time specified; the deceased could not have walked about the streets, would have no desire to eat a hearty supper, etc.
     DR. HAMILTON – I assisted in the examination; found the spleen badly ruptured and the liver lacerated in seven or eight places; the heart was normal; the lung slightly congested; great quantity of clotted blood in the cavity of the abdomen; symptoms would be lividity of the features, etc., and no pain at the seat of the injuries; death was caused by the injuries discovered. The longest time a man could live, as laid down in the books, would be from five to six hours; death would follow in a very short time; this man might have lived three or four hours; the time of death cannot be definitely fixed; such injuries may exist and there be no external signs; ruptures of the system are not frequent; a small blow may sometimes be sufficient to rupture the spleen, if diseased.
     The cross-examination was lengthy, but no new evidence was elicited. The tendency of the testimony of all the medical witnesses goes to prove that the injuries could not have been given at Wallace’s saloon at 4 or 5 o’clock p.m. There was other evidence introduced by the prosecution, but none of it tended to fasten conviction upon the parties accused. The defense introduced good testimony. They proved by Malone that Wallace, nor none of the other parties ever kicked or beat the deceased; that Wallace wore slippers and could not have done the kicking; that it was about 5 o’clock when the deceased was in the saloon; that he was seen walking about town after he left the saloon; that at 7 o’clock, two hours after he was at Wallace’s he ate his supper at Mr. Dunphy’s boarding house, and was as well as usual at that time; that he conversed with and treated, and himself drank liquor two hours after he was at Wallace’s’: that he complained of no pain, & etc.
     After a short consultation of the justices, the parties accused were discharged.
     Who committed the deed? Where was it done? And why was it done? These are questions that will be frequently asked, but not so readily answered. The case seems to be enshrouded in impenetrable mystery. But we believe that “Murder will out,” and that the guilty parties will yet be found and brought to justice.


October 30, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

DIED – On the 30 of October 1869, at the residence of her father, Thomas F. Chapman, MRS. MARY F. BURKE, wife of James Burke, aged 23 years, 11 months and 12 days.

AN EIGHT POUNDER – Our friend, John Vincent was blessed with an addition to his family. It is a female daughter and weights eight and a half pounds.

Our old friend, James McKinney, at his old stand on Arch street near the depot is serving the finest fresh oysters we ever age. Go there for anything good to eat or drink.

George Whyte, late a resident of this city, allowed his smiling face to be seen there again on last Wednesday. He lately was married to a young widow. – “May they be happy!”

Mr. Abram Leak, who went east last winter and married an accomplished young lady is going to “keeping house” in the residence belonging to Mr. Frank Corzine of this city. We hope he will enjoy rising early in cold weather to build fires.

PERSONAL – Mrs. Goodrich, wife of Mayor Goodrich of this city, left this week for California. She will remain there for one year for her health, which has been poorly for some time.

It is rumored that our friend Edgar will take a rib to himself in a few weeks.

Mr. James C. Ross returned last Monday from a visit to Kansas.

We learn from the Jerseyville correspondence of the Republican that General Daniel Nail, Col. James S. Blythe, and Maj. James W. Calhoun, of this city, have been invited to address a “female rights” convention at Carlinville.

The National Tableaux will exhibit at Villingers Hall on Monday Evening, Nov. 1st. It is the only genuine transforming scenery ever exhibitied in the west, producing each scene 14 x16 feet. The exhibition is accompanied by the renowned Geologist and Astronomer, Prof. S.R. Fairfield, late of the acamedy of music n.N.Y. City. Liberal arrangements have been made for the attendance of the schools, and parents should see that their children are funrished with tickets before the evening of the exhibition.


November 6, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEM:

We notice the arrival among us of Mr. George H. Akard, agent of the Singer Sewing Machine Manufacturing Company.

The work on the Catholic Church on South State Street is progressing. The edifice when completed will be an ornament to the city.

Mr. James A. Rice has contracted to run the County Poor House and farm for one year. We understand that he enters upon the discharge of his duties immediately.

Personal – Andrew Jackson returned to the city last Thursday, having been absent since Monday on a trip to Chicago to meet his wife who was returning home from a visit to the east.

Capt. Elliott, the competent and accomodating agent in this city of the U.S. Express Company, has removed his office from the south room to the north room in Thuston’s Row.

A petition to have English Precinct in this county re-annexed to Jerseyville Precinct is being almost unanimously signed by the voters in English. They say it was an outrage ever to have been separated from Jerseyville.


November 13, 1869

LOCAL NEWS ITEMS:

DIED – at the residence of his father, two miles east of Jerseyville, at 2 o’clock Monday morning last, Robert P. Conn, aged 26 years.

Mr. Robinson, the father of W.A. Robinson, who was tried in Jacksonville for the alleged crime of killing General Murray McConnell, died at his home, in Lawrence county, a few days ago.

Mr. William Taylor, an old resident of this place, died on last Monday night very suddenly. On Monday evening he attended a Sunday School Convention at the Baptist church – next morning was dead.

The first quarterly meeting of the Jerseyville station of the Methodist Episcopal Church for this Conference year will commence on the 12th inst. It is expected that the venerable and eloquent Dr. J.B. Corrington will be present and officiate on the occasion, assisted by the able and talented pastor, Rev. W.H. Reede.

Cora Van Pelt, a little daughter of John E. Van Pelt, of this city, met with a distressing accident on Friday the 6th inst., while playing. She got a cockle burr in her windpipe, since which her life has been almost despaired of. Dr. Prince of Jacksonville, who was immediately called to her aid, performed a surgical operation, by which the burr was removed. It is thought that the child will recover.

At the last meeting of our Council a proposition was made by Mr. D. Turnbolt of St. Louis, to lay gas pipe through the principal streets to light the city with gas. The proposal of Mr. Turnbolt was referred to a special committee who are to report this evening. We are glad that this matter has been brought before our Council, and hope that arrangements may be made by which our city may be lighted with gas at an early day. Everybody knows the advantages of gas over coal oil, or any other illuminating substance in existence.

Rev. R.I. Gillispie, (Indian name, White Feather,) an Indian of the Shawnee Indian Nation, will deliver an address on the origin, religion, manners and customs of the American Indians, in the Court House, on Monday evening next, 15th inst. He comes highly recommended by the press and clergy of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. Admission, 25 cts. Children, 15 cts. All are cordially invited to attend.

FIRE ENGINE TRIAL. Yesterday a committee from the City Council went to Carrollton to witness a trial of a wonderful new fire engine, which is highly recommended for use in cities like our own. The machine is constructed so as to be operated by the smallest possible number of men. A chemical preparation is used for extinguishing fires, which renders wood incombustible, so that fire cannot return upon it when it has once been put out. E.E. Manton, President of the Manufacturers Insurance Company of Boston says: “Thirty seconds sufficed to put out a fire of some twenty-five blazing barrels, being of the most inflammable material and were sprinkled well with naptha.” In a town like ours, so largely composed of combustible material, there should be greater protection against fires, from which we have already suffered to some extend. We already have Hooks and Ladders which are indispensable, and one or two cisterns. We need additional cisterns in different parts of town–but water without some way of applying it is of little use. Mr. C.H. DeLoss, general agent of the company manufacturing these engines suggest that a “Fire King” be placed near the center of the city, and two “Village Engines” be stationed, one on each side of town. With these engines and a company organized of our business men and property owners, and not roughs and careless boys, we will have a fire department, which, in usefulness and respectability will rank with our schools and churches, and will have under our control almost any fire that can break out in our city, and be free, to a certain extent from the extortions of insurance companies. If Mr.. DeLoss favors us with an exhibition of his engine we will give an account of the trial.


Contributed by Marty Crull and his volunteers, Judy Griffin.

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