THE WATCHMAN

Tuesday, March 21, 1882

      Murder Of A Deputy Collector---James M. Davis, who was recently
murdered near McMinnville, in this State, has a remarkable history. At the
time of his death he was nearly thirty-three years of age. During the
administration of Gov. John C. Brown he was appointed Deputy Sheriff
and succeeded in bringing to justice a gang of horse thieves who had
murdered his brother. Since then he has spent his life in arresting criminals,
many of whom were desperate characters. He has killed several who
resisted him, and in several instances he has been wounded, and narrowly
escaped death. With his own hands he has cut up over 500 wild cat
distilleries, and has captured about 3,000 prisoners since he has in the
revenue service. He was murdered by men in ambush about three miles
from McMinnville, and it is reported that at least thirty bullets were found
in his body, while his head was torn to pieces by pistol and rifle balls. A
reward is offered for his murderers. It is said of Davis that he never swore,
drank, or used tobacco, was kind to everyone, just and humane to his
prisoners after their surrender, and was respected and liked by all
law-abiding citizens. His life was insured to the amount of $14,000, which
will be a great help to his widow, who has several children to support.

      Killed On The Railroad---At Knoxville, on the 14th inst., a terrible
accident happened, resulting in the instant death of Thomas Bruce, a
colored brakeman on the Knoxville and Augusta Railroad. While engaged
in switching, he fell off the bumper which he had mounted, and was run
over. His head was cut  almost from his body, and his shoulders fearfully
mangled, before it was known that he had fallen. The jury which was
summoned rendered a verdict of accidental death through carelessness of
the deceased, and no blame is attached to the railroad. The body was
brought to Maryville, his home, and buried.

      Died---In the 8th District, on the 11th inst., Mr. Lyle Anderson, an old
and respected citizen of this county.

      J.M. Rorex, a young lawyer of this place, left here recently for Texas,
which he will make his future home. We wish John success.

      Rev. James G. Carson, of Xenia, Ohio, a former resident of this county,
was in on a visit, last week to relatives, and friends.

Tuesday, March 28, 1882

      Horrible Murder---On last Friday evening, between 3 and 3 o'clock, in
the first district of this county, about two miles from Wells' Mill, on Nine
Mile Creek, a most foul crime was committed by one Robert Flannigan
upon the person of  Joe Nichols, Flannigan's son-in-law. It is said that
Flannigan and Nichols had been quarrelling for some time before the deed
was committed. They were partners in a chair factory, and it is said that on
the evening the deed was committed the deceased and Flannigan quarreled
about the price of some chairs until words ceased to avail, when Flannigan
seized a piece of timber weighing 34 libs., and struck Nichols on the
forehead, causing instant death. News was brought to town, and Coroner
H.O. Wilson, Sheriff Rule and Dr. Blankenship started for the scene of
murder about 8 o'clock. A jury of inquest was summoned, which returned
the following verdict:
      "We believe from the evidence that the deceased come to his death
from a blow on the head made by a stick of timber in the hands of one
Robert Flannigan."
      The deceased leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss.
Flannigan has thus far evaded capture.

      Levi Madison, an old and highly respected colored man of this place,
died yesterday, after a long and painful illness.

      David Webb died at his home in Miller's Cove on last Saturday,
consumption being the enemy which conquered him.

      Sudden Death---Mrs. Nancy Gardner, wife of David Gardner, fell dead
at her home in the 7th District of this county, on the evening of Sabbath the
19th inst. She had prepared supper, apparently in good health, and went to
the smoke-house door near her residence, when one of her sons who was
in the house, saw her fall, and supposing something was wrong, ran to her
assistance, but she expired almost instantly. She had been attacked
sometime before with disease of the heart, and this is thought to be a
recurrence of the attack.

      We learn that Mrs. Sterrett, wife of Monroe Sterrett, died suddenly
near Four Mile Branch, Monroe County, on the 15th inst. The deceased
had been insane for about a month before her death.

      Married---On the 19th, Mr. S.M. McReynolds, and Miss. Nannie
McConnell. The groom and his charming bride have our best wishes, as
well as those of their many other friends in this vicinity.

      Married, at the residence of the bride's father, at Ellejoy, on 19th inst.,
by H.H. Gamble, Esq., Mr. John Cummings and Miss. Charity Davis. Well,
John has gone at last! It is just what he ought to have done some fifteen
years ago. We wish the couple a long, happy and useful journey through
life.

      Mrs. Betsy Carpenter, wife of Mr. Elisha Carpenter, died at her
residence in the 7th District of this county, on the 22nd inst., of pneumonia
fever. She was about sixty years of age, and much loved by all who knew
her.

      Justices Of The Peace---First District: H.L.W. Johnson, H.C. Tedford;
Second District: John P. Rhea, John J. Hudgeons; Third District: A.H.
Crumley, D.H. Smith; Fourth District: S.L. Greer, James F. Beals; Fifth
District: W.M. Brickell, Jacob Peters; Sixth District: James E. Scott, J.T.
Kinnick; Seventh District: S.C. Hinton; Eigth District: S.F. Bell, Lee
Carpenter; Ninth District: Joseph Ambrister, S.F. Cowan, W.C. Chumlea,
M.A. Hall; Tenth District: William H. Anderson, E.D. Harrold; Eleventh
District: A.R. McBath, Richard Lebow; Twelfth District: Robert Porter,
A.K. Kinnamon; Thirteenth District: Hugh H. Gamble, D.W. Trotter;
Fourteenth District: James Waters, Josias Gamble; Fifteenth District: D.H.
Emmett, W.H. Lawson; Sixteenth District: Daniel B. Lawson, N.H.
Sparks; Seventeenth District: William Harrison, Harvey S. Bright;
Eighteenth District: Spencer Walker, W.H. Headrick.

Tuesday, April 4, 1882

      We learn that a few days ago, on Ellejoy, in this county, there was what
the boys call a little "sweep." One Jeff Davis, having placed himself on the
outside of a quantity of spirits, became enraged at one of the female
portion of the human family, and was giving her a good whipping, when
along came one Anderson Farmer, who requested this performance to stop.
But he himself was soon an actor, and the final result was that Jeff Davis
received a severe cut and a broken jaw. 

      Died---At his house, two miles north of this place on the 29th ult.,
Joseph Ambrister Esq., an old, and highly respected citizen. His remains
were interred in Clark's burying ground.

Wednesday, April 12, 1882

      Died---Near Gamble's Store, in this county, on the 3rd inst., Harry
McNabb, the deceased was a brother to Mr. Charles McNabb, a worthy
young doctor of this county.
      Jackson Stinnett, an old resident of this county. He lived with Mr.
W.W. Lawrence for several years, and is said to have been an honest,
clever man.
      On the 6th inst., about six miles south of this place, at the residence of
her father, Miss. Lillie Hill, aged about 17 years. The deceased was a
daughter of Mr. Pleasant Hill, well known to many of our citizens.

      We learn that on last Friday night W.W. Freshour and J.C. McKenzie,
two vigilant Revenue Officers of this place, had the pleasure of forming the
acquaintance of one Andrew Wallace, an escaped prisoner from the jail at
Loudon. His abode when found was in Tuckaleechee, but he was
persuaded to register at the "Rule House," where he remains until other
lodging can be procured.

      John A. Murrell's Cell---While inspecting the records of the
penitentiary yesterday, records grown musty and yellow with age, an
American reporter came across an entry concerning a noted individual,
whose name, fifty years ago, was a terror, not only to Middle Tennessee,
but to the entire State. The individual referred to was John A. Murrell, and
the entry that startled the reporter, as he nervously clutched the page, was
the notation made on the records when Murrell was received at the
penitentiary in 1834 for stealing a negro in Madison County. The entry, as
it appears on the penitentiary records, is as follows: "John A. Murrell was
received in the penitentiary August 17, 1834. He is five feet ten inches and
a half in height, and weight from 158 to 170 pounds, dark hair, blue eyes,
long nose and much pitted with the small-pox, tolerably fair complexion,
twenty-eight years of age. Born in Lunenburg County, Virginia, and
brought up in Williamson County, Tennessee. His mother, wife and two
children reside in the neighborhood of Denmark, about nine miles from
Jackson, Madison County, Tennessee. His wife's maiden name was
Manghan. Her connections reside on the waters of South Harpeth,
Williamson County, Tennessee. His brother, William S. Murrell, a druggist,
resides in Cincinnati, Ohio. He has another brother living in Sumsterville,
S.C. He has a scar on the middle joint of the finger next the little finger of
the right hand. Has generally followed farming. Was found guilty of Negro
stealing at the Circuit Court of Madison County and sentenced to ten years
confinement in the jail and penitentiary house of the State of Tennessee."
      On the margin of the record is indorsed: "John A. Murrell was
delivered to J.S. Lyon, Sheriff of Madison County, 9th April 1837. See
order of Court of Errors and Appeals, at Jackson, filed with convict record,
1834."
      And below this appears the entry: "Returned April 26, 1837, by order
of Court of Appeals."
      Murrell was discharged at the expiration of his time, but no entry
appears on the penitentiary books showing the date of his discharge.
      While an inmate at the penitentiary, Murrell learned the blacksmith
trade and followed it during the time of his imprisonment. He occupied the
second cell from the entrance in wing No. 2. The cell was inspected by the
reporter, but any marks of Murrell's occupancy that may have existed have
disappeared beneath the white-wash that has been applied scores of times
since Tennessee's noted highwayman called the cell his own nearly fifty
years ago. ---Nashville American.

Wednesday, April 19, 1882

      Died---At Baker's Creek, in this county, on the 15th inst., Mrs. Ann
Henry, mother of Mr. W.H. Henry, a well known citizen of this place.

      Died---On the 12th instant, a child of Mr. Albert Finley, who lives two
miles northwest of this place.

      Died---On the 10th instant, near this place, a little child of Darius
Tedford, aged about 3 years.

Wednesday, April 26, 1882

      We found the memory of an old Blount County man very dear to the
people of that place (Murfreesboro, TN). In token of this there is a tablet in
the First Presbyterian Church (there) with the following inscription in
beautiful letters: "In memoriam. Rev. William Eagleton, D.D. Born Blount
County, Tenn., March 25, 1796. Died at Murfreesboro, March 28, 1866.
He came to us Dec. 1829, and for 37 years broke to us the bread of life.
How good and true, how guileless and truthful, how sympathizing and
affectionate, this shepherd was, we, his flock only know."
    
      Mr. D.G. Wright, a prominent and much respected cictizen of
Rockford, died last Friday morning at 6 o'clock. Mr. Wright's remains were
interred in the Magnolia Cemetery, at Maryville, next day. In his death this
county loses a valuable citizen, and his family have the heartfelt sympathy
of a multitude of friends. Mrs. Wright, we learn, is also very ill, and at last
reports her condition was extremely critical.

      Died---At Rockford, Thursday night, April 20th, Mr. S.H. George, a
well known citizen of that place.

      Mr. Kinnamon, who lives on Little River lost a small child last week. It
had been ill for some time.

      The printer made a mistake the other week in noticing the death of
Harry McNabb. It was Harvey McNabb who died.

      Died---On the 22nd inst., in Miller's Cove, Mr. Vance Walker.

Wednesday, June 14, 1882

      Died---On the 10th inst., at the residence of his brother, A.L. Wells, in
this place, Stephen Wells, an old and highly respected citizen of this
county.

      Died---A few days since, a little child of Maj. Ben Cunningham.

      Died---On the 4th inst., at her home, a few miles east of this place,
Mrs. Elias Hitch.

      Died---Last night, after a brief illness, at his home, about four miles
north of this place, James D. Weir. The deceased was an old and highly
respected citizen of this county, and was about 70 years old.

      Died---At Brick Mill, in this county, yesterday, Gillespie Montgomery,
after a brief illness.

      Correction---Dr. Charles Fulton died in 1880 instead of 1881, as we
had it.

      Dr. M.L. Currier, after spending a few weeks with parents and friends,
left yesterday for his home in Mechanicsville, Mo.

      Mr. James L. Lowe left Saturday for Colorado, on a visit to his
brothers who are living there. His wife and child accompanied him as far as
Sweetwater.

Wednesday, June 21, 1882

      In Memoriam---Lucy Bond, a little girl, aged 12 years, daughter of Mr.
John Bond, departed this life on the night of the 15th inst. She was bright
and intelligent, always ready to heed the behest of her parents; she was
loved by all who knew her. She attended Sabbath School not only for the
purpose of being in society, but always seemed greatly interested in the
lesson, and to hear something of the "old, old story, of Jesus and his love."
Mt Tabor, June 18, 1882.

Wednesday, July 19, 1882

      Death Of Miss. Evans---A few months ago two estimable young ladies,
Misses. Salley and Jennie Evans, left their home in New Castle, Indiana, for
Maryville, hoping that the health of the elder sister, Miss. Sallie, would be
benefited by the change. Thes Misses Evans won many friends during their
stay with us, who hoped that they would find here a pleasant home for
many years; but consumption had made too great inroads upon the system
of Miss. Sallie, the elder sister, and last Thursday morning, at 2 o'clock, the
spirit took its flight. Miss. Evans was aged 30 years. He devoted sister,
who was almost heart broken with her loss, left Friday morning with the
remains. Dr. Arbeely accompanied her to Chattanooga, where she was met
by a friend who escorted her to her former home. The beloved lady has the
deep sympathies of the many friends she has left behind her in Maryville.

      Departed---On last Sabbath night, James I. Henry, son of Jacob Henry,
departed this life at the residence of his father in this town. He had
consumption near twelve months, gradually growing weaker until death
releived him. He was in his eighteenth year, had graduated at the
Freedmen's Normal School and began a collegiate course at Maryville
College. He was very intelligent, industrious, and applied himself closely to
study. His prospects for usefulness, to human appearances were very
bright, byt the Great Ruler of the universe demanded his services
elsewhere. We extend our sympathies to the bereaved family.

      Mr. James L. Lowe returned from Colorado yesterday, looking hale
and hearty. His wife and child joined him at Sweetwater.

      The child of Mr. W.W. Freshour, who died on the 3rd inst., he informs
us did not die from the effects of "rat poison," but of typhoid fever. His
little boy, who was also very ill with the same disease, we are glad to hear
is better.

      Mrs. L.A. McConnell, who for the past twenty-five years has been
living in Washington Co. Iowa, is visiting friends and relatives in Blount
County. She is the widow of Isaac Wright McConnell, and sister of the late
Mrs. D.G. Wright and Mrs. Kizer. Her son, Mr. J.J. McConnell,
accompanied her.

      We are informed that Louis Jones, the father of Mrs. Moore, who died
recently near Wright's Ferry, has taken the small-pox, but is getting along
very well. His little daughter is just taking the disease. The child of Mrs.
Moore is getting well.

Wednesday, August 9, 1882

      A little boy named Webb, about eight years old, and living some four
miles from town, fell from a porch tree last Saturday, and broke both his
arms and cut his upper lip to the bone. His father, being a very poor man,
picked up the little sufferer and was carrying him to town when overtaken
by the ever kind and sympathetic Joseph Pyatt in a buggy, who relieved the
father of his burden and brought him to the office of Dr. J.W. Hannum,
where the bones were set and wounds dressed. The little fellow was
fearfully hurt, but a hero under his intense pains.

Wednesday, November 15, 1882

      The Hanging---Last Friday, Sam and Milt Hodge paid the highest
penalty of the law at Knoxville. We are no advocate of capital punishment.
In our opinion it would be far better for the country if imprisonment for life
was substituted. The effect on society would be better. Particularly
demoralizing are public executions. Thousands of people gathered at
Knoxville on that day. For what? To see two fellow mortals swing off into
eternity! Had that immense crowd seen one of their number fall into the
river, struggling in the water for life; or even had one jumped deliberately
into the water, there would have been a general rush to save the person
from death; but, as to the hanging, they gather eagerly to witness the
sickening scene as if it were an amusement.
      These two poor, illiterate colored men, doubtless having heard the
braggadocia of those standing higher in society, were led to believe that it
was honorable and a mark of manhood to take the life of a man. But, alas!
They are made to suffer the highest penalties of the law! They were poor,
illiterate, friendless, almost irresponsible, and they are made an example to
offenders! Why people want to witness such scenes is more than we can
comprehend.

      A Sensation---On going to press today (Thursday) quite an excitement
was raised in Maryville by a strange man entirely naked, running down
Main Street and calling out at the top of his voice until he came near the
law office of C.T. Cates, Esquire, when he ceased calling out and ran
through the street to the top of the hill near the depot, where he was
captured by Sheriff Edmondson, and brought back before Justices Lillard
and Moore, a warrant taken out for indecent exposure of the person, and
he being an entire stranger and evidently insane, the case was continued
until Monday for further developments.
      The first seen of him he was in front of the dormitory at the college
walking back and forth, which he kept up for some time. Then he came
over to town going up Church Street to the old New Providence burying
grounds. His conduct was strange and created a considerable fright among
the school children. At length he took off all his clothing and prostrated
himself on a grave, then rising he started down street as above shown.
When arrested he told Sheriff Edmondson that he was from the tombs.
      His clothing is of good plain material and well fitting. He says that he is
from Macon, Georgia: that he was a clerk in a store and stole large sums of
money; that his father, who is now dead, fixed it up for him; that he went
to Poughkepsie, N.Y., and got a commercial education and had been
employed at good wages but cheated his employers. That he was in love
with a young lady, who refused him, from which time he has been
committing all manner of crimes, except murder. He is evidently insane. A
Bible without any persons name in it was found with his clothes.
      When given a pen, although it was a bad one, he wrote in a beautiful
business-hand. "J.T. Evans, Macon, Ga."

Wednesday, December 20, 1882

      Sheriff Edmondson has a letter from Mr. John W. Evans, brother to the
insane man who startled our town so suddenly a few weeks ago, saying
that he arrived home, in Hawkinsville, Ga., very much worn and jaded, and
that his brother's mind is about restored, but he is reduced in flesh until he
is almost a skeleton and helpless as a child. His appetite is becoming natural
and he is gaining in health and strength slowly, but he has a fearful sore on
his arm. Our people will be pleased to hear of the unfortunate man's
restoration, as he had the full sympathy of all our citizens. Mr. Evans
expresses many thanks to Sheriff Edmondson and others who so kindly
cared for his brother in his sad condition.

MARYVILLE WATCHMAN

Wednesday, January 10, 1883

      Bettie Bruce has sued the K & A Railroad for $10,000 for the killing of
her son, Thomas Bruce, some months ago. W.F. Yardley, of Knoxville, is
her attorney.

      We are called upon to make the melancholy announcement of the death
of one of our most worthy and exemplary young men, Mr. Samuel S.
Lowe, brother of our fellow-citizen, Mr. James L. Lowe. The sad event
occurred on Dec. 31. As the old year died away, it took with it the spirit of
a noble youth, who had but recently stepped upon the threshold of
manhood. He was born Sept. 6, 1861, was a consistent professor of
religion, and had the promise of a useful life before him. But the inexorable
Angel of Death stepped in and claimed him as His own. His remains were
taken to Sweetwater, where they were laid to rest in the family
burying-ground.

      Obituary---It is with sadness that we announce the death of Mrs. Mary
J. Parham, consort of our fellow-townsman, W.T. Parham. The deceased
has been gradually sinking for some time from that dread disease,
consumption. She had the sympathy of all who knew her, as they noted the
decline of health and the approach of death. She was one of the noblest of
God's creatures--kind, affectionate, patient, gentle, forbearing, loving and
good. She was born June 15, 1840, was married to her surviving husband
July 22, 1858 and was called to her Heavenly home at 10 o'clock in the
evening of December 23rd, 1882.
      The messenger of death knows no season, or time, but calls whenever
and whomsoever it pleaseth Him. No person is so good, no tie so sacred,
no love so great, but that He stands ready to snap them asunder, while a
deaf ear is turned to the lamentations of the living. As the world was
entering upon the holiday festivities, the cold finger was laid upon the brow
of this excellent woman, and she is borne away from an affectionate
husband and her loving children. There was mourning in that household.
      On the next day, funeral services were held in the Methodist Episcopal
Church, conducted by Rev. James A. Ruble. The house was crowded, and
many tears were shed by those who witnesses the last sad rites. The
remains were buried in the private lot of Mr. Parham, adjoining the New
Providence burying ground.

Friday, January 26, 1883

       Miss. Annie Lord left this morning for Florida, to attend the bedside of
her father, the Rev. C.B. Lord, who is lying at the point of death.

      Ten Years In The Penitentiary---The trial of Robert Flannigan for the
killing of Thomas Nichols, his brother-in-law, in this county last year came
off in our Circuit Court this week and resulted in a verdict of guilty of
man-slaughter, and his sentence was fixed at ten years confinement in the
State penitentiary. The prisoner seemed well pleased with the verdict. He
was ably defended by Messrs. Cates and McTeer, of the Maryville bar. The
State was represented by Attorney General McConnell, assisted by Messrs.
Brown and Welcker.
      Following are the names of the jury: B.B. Steele, B.C. Taylor, William
Taynor, R.C. Duncan, Thomas Clark, J.C. Edmondson, J.L. Martin, D.K.
Parks, P.P. Miser, A.A. Coulter, D.B. Nelson and E.B. Young.

      Mrs. Henry Hinton, daughter of William Hardin, died unexpectedly at
her residence near Miser's Station, Monday last.

      The sad intelligence reached us yesterday that Mr. Homer G. Meade, of
Louisville, died at his home Wednesday morning, and upon inquiry the
report proved only too true. He had been confined to his room for some
time, but he was not considered dangerously ill, and his death at the time
was unexpected. Mr. Meade was about 48 years of age.

      We are pained to announce the death of Mr. R.H. Culton, one of our
oldest and most worthy citizens. He breathed his last at his home near
Maryville, on Friday last, the 19th inst., at the advanced age of 67 years.
During his life he was loved and respected by all who knew him, a devout
Christian, and a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which he was much
attached. He was a good man, and he has gone to his reward in a better
land. He leaves a wife and four children to mourn his loss.

      Messrs. John Kerr, William Stafford and Joseph Walker were brought
before the bar of justice, charged with unlawfully carrying concealed
weapons.
      Some of them wanted to pay the cost "and say no more about it," but
Judge Hood and Attorney-General McTeer didn't just exactly think that
way---that would not satisfy the majesty of the law. Each of the three pistol
"toters" met the same sad fate--they were each fined $50 and cost and
sentenced to ten days imprisonment in the county jail. We hope this will be
lesson to them.

      Forty-six Years Ago---In the year 1837 a slave belonging to Mr. Cox,
of Louisville, this county, murdered in cold blood an old gentleman by the
name of Humes, who lived near Louisville. It was on a dark, rainy night in
January that the awful crime was enacted. The murderer crept close to the
window, armed with a shot-gun loaded with sixteen slugs. Mr. Humes sat
playing a game of "checkers" by the fireside with a Mr. Hackney, his wife
sitting in the corner knitting. He little thought that soon he would be a
corpse, slain by the hand of violence. The murderer pulled the trigger and
sixteen leaden slugs went crashing through the window and into Mr.
Hume's body. At the same instant Mrs. Humes exclaimed: "What a loud
report of thunder that was!" She had not yet discovered that her husband
sat dead in his chair, nor spoke a word after the fatal shot was fired.
      The slave, Charlie Cox, was arrested soon after, on suspicion. Humes
owned Cox's wife and the report had reached Cox's ears that she was
cruelly treated at his hands. He had been heard to frequently remark that he
would "rather kill old Humes than to kill a bear."
      Cox maintained his innocence all through the trial. The evidence was
entirely circumstantial, yet Cox was found guilty and sentenced to be
hanged. Still he said he was innocent.
      The day of the execution arrived. Cox appeared careless and indifferent
to his fate. On the scaffold he was asked if he had any confession to make.
To the surprise of the officers, he said yes--that he "killed old Humes and
was proud of it." With a terrible oath he cursed Humes, saying if he had a
thousand deaths to die he would sacrifice them every one to kill such a man
as he had murdered. He died with a curse on his lips against Humes and all
slave owners.
      This incident occurred forty-six years ago. Cox was the last man
hanged in Blount County. His executioner was the late Gen. William
Wallace, who was then the Sheriff of the county.

      Is Justice A Mockery?---A gentleman from Monroe County informs us
that the jury in the famous Joe Boyd murder trial at Madisonville recently,
after "hanging" on the case for five days, failed to arrive at a
verdict---rendering a new trial necessary. According to the published facts
in regard to the affair, Joseph K. Boyd is surely a red-handed murderer. A
few months ago he invaded the home of his uncle, Thomas Boyd, at
Sweetwater, and deliberately shot him dead, without any provocation
whatever. It is now stated that ten of these jury-men were for acquitting
this murderer, while two were for sending him to the penitentiary for---one
year! Comment is unnecessary.

Friday, February 2, 1883

      Will Rogers, an exemplary young man of Cleveland, died suddenly of
heart disease, last week.

      Wiley Wright, a well known engineer, was killed in a railroad accident
on the K & O Railroad last Saturday.

      A horrible murder was committed last week, eight miles from
Chattanooga, on the Crawfish Springs Road. H.H. Rudd aged about 75
years, was the victim. The dastardly deed was committed by two Negroes,
who have been captured, and are in jail at Chattanooga. Money was the
object.

      At the Louisville Flouring Mills yesterday evening, Mr. Henry Finger
met with a sad and tragic death while engaged in putting up timbers under
the mill-race. One of the timbers fell upon his head, crushing his skull and
killing him almost stantly. Deceased was about 45 years of age, and a man
of family.

      A Tall Man With A Tall Name---Thomas Anderson Rutherford Nelson
Williams--one of Maryville's rising young lawyers.

      An exceedingly brilliant light was seen in the western horizon
Wednesday evening, at about 8 o'clock. It was a little north of sunset and
at an angle of about 45 degrees. It had the appearance of a very brilliant
comet, and was thought to be one, but when the clouds drifted away the
light was gone, and it was seen no more. Can our scientist tell us what it
was?

      Bob Flannigan, who was sentenced to ten years in the penitentiary, was
taken to Coal Creek today.

      John Coulter, from the 14th district, was arrested Wednesday on the
charge of profanity  and disorderly conduct. He will have a hearing
tomorrow before Justice Moore.

      We were premature in announcing that Mr. Sam Eagleton had gone to
Texas, last week. He, with his brother Johnny, will start Monday next,
destined for Big Springs, Howard County, where they will reinforce the
Blount County boys already there.

      Blount County Boys In Texas---The following named Blount County
boys are living at Big Springs, Howard County, Texas: Will Hannum,
Joseph M. Anderson, Burl George, John Snoddy, J.W. Wilson, Calvin
Anderson. They will soon be reinforced by John and Sam Eagleton. Jo.
Anderson is the County Court Clerk of Howard County.

      In Limbo---Two brothers, Sut and William Arwood, were arrested at
their home in the country Saturday night by Sheriff Edmondson and
Deputies Anderson and Goddard, charged with malicious mischief, on
indictments found by the last grand jury. In default of bail, they were sent
to jail to await a hearing at the next sitting of the Circuit Court.
      William Skinner and Newton Wheeler were arrested Monday night by
the same officers on the charge of unlawfully carrying concealed weapons.
They will have a preliminary examination before Justice Moore tomorrow.

      Dastardly Crime---One of the most heinous, depraved and dastardly
outrages that ever blackened the history of crime was perpetrated in the
13th civil didtrict of this county Wednesday morning last. The facts are
almost in creditable, and were it not that they come from sworn evidence,
they could scarcely be believed. The particulars are about as follows:
Wednesday morning Harvey Dupes, a white man about thirty years of age,
went to the house of Mrs. Pryor, a widow lady of good character. Mrs.
Pryor is the mother of a beautiful little girl of six summers, and this little
one, the comfort and the angel of its mother's life, was playing in innocent
myrth around the hearthstone. Dupes, by speaking kindly to the child, won
its confidence and took it upon his lap. The mother in the meantime had
stepped out of the house. Dupes played with an caressed the innocent little
child for a time, and then his hellish, depraved, rankerous passion asserted
itself, and the impulse seized him to rob the virgin of its purity. The little
girl cried for help, and soon its mother appeared, when Dupes fled.
      Mrs. Pryor went immediately to Justice Dunlap and swore out a
warrant against Dupes, charging him with rape. The warrant was placed in
the hands of Constable Hooper who soon arrested the human fiend, and
brought him before Justice Dunlap for preliminary examination. The
evidence showed conclusively that Dupes was guilty, and he was
committed to jail without bond---the case not being bailable. He was
brought to town yesterday and placed in jail.
      The severest penalty for this crime is hanging.

      War Claims---The following is a list of the persons living in Blount
County, and amounts allowed, in the bill recently introduced in Congress.
The bill has the indorsement of the War Claims Committee, and its early
passage is considered certain:
      Richard W. Burns, $89.49; Jacob Best, 7.50; Abel Carpenter, 43.50;
H.H.C. Caruthers, 100.00; Thomas Clark, 79.00; P.H. Clark, 165.00;
James Lewis, 80.00; -----Dewberry, 34.25; Alex Eagleton, 223.00; Robert
Eagleton, dec'd, 130.00; John W. Eakin, 40.00; John Fuller, 33.60; James
H. George, 67.00; Benjamin Grindstaff, 104.00; William S. Griffitts,
100.00; David Griffin, dec'd, 65.00; William Henry, 19.00; James W. Hall,
110.00; John Holliday, dec'd, 50.00; M. Huffstetler, dec'd, 100.50, John P.
Hook, 49.50; Elizabeth Hutton, 457.50; Margaret Hamil, 70.00; Margaret
Kidd, dec'd, 125.00; Luvenia Kagley, 56.00; William Kerr, 280.80; John C.
Logan, 7.50; James M. Lane, 144.00; William Means, 160.00; Sam
McCarney, dec'd, 411.80; Jasper Mitchell, 28.00; J.H. Montgomery,
225.00; William McTeer, dec'd, 135.00; Andrew Miller, dec'd, 157.00;
Levi Parkins, 52.00; Isaac Russell, dec'd, 307.00; M.M. Tipton, 65.00;
James Thompson, 125.00; James Thompson, dec'd, 387.60; Dan Taylor,
22.00; Sarah J. Tedford, dec'd, 110.00; Moses Tuck, 135.00; Sarah
Vaught, 18.00; William Wright, 995.00; Vance Walker, 256.00; Henry
Webb, 209.00.

Friday, February 9, 1883

      We are pained to learn of the death of the daughter of Dr. H.H. Allen,
of Thorntown, Ind. Our people remember Dr. Allen who was associated
with Dr. T.P. Cowan in dentistry here, and made his home with us on
account of the illness of his daughter. A card from him announces the sad
intelligence, without giving further particulars.

February 16, 1883

Passon On---Last week we inadvertently neglected to mention the death of
Hon. James H. Donaldson, of Unitia, who passed from life into the valley
of death on the 3rd inst., at the ripe old age of 71 years. He was one of the
honored and respected citizens of this section, and represented Blount
County in the Legislature many years ago. The community will sadly miss
him and his place will be hard to fill. He was a good Christian, an elder in
the Presbyterian Church, and died in the full hope of Heaven. Peace to his
ashes.

      A few years ago there was an old man living in Happy Valley, in this
county. When young he was afflicted with a white swelling in the leg. His
disease weakened him, mentally and physically, as he grew older. When the
war broke out he was living in Carter County with a son who was his sole
dependence. The boy volunteered in the 13th Tennessee Cavalry, took sick
and was taken away from the command among strangers in a hospital and
died. The boy's mother died also. The man married another woman who
was of weak mental powers, but industrious and honest, and the couple
settled in Happy Valley. The old man could do nothing, was helpless as a
child. His wife climbed the mountains, four miles across to Montvale
Springs in the morning and washed for meal and meat, which she carried
back in the evening, and in this way kept the wolf from the door for some
time. This was a clear case where the old man was entitled tp a pension. He
applied. He made proof of the enlistment of his son, of his dependence, of
son's death, of his own poverty and all, but the department demanded the
affidavits of persons who were present when the boy died, of what disease
he died, and questions of like nature, which proof could not be directly
made, but the secondary evidence was forwarded. This state of affairs
continued until the old man died, and it was ascertained that no meat had
been in their house for days, except a small portion some neighbors had
furnished a day or two before his death. He was back in the mountains,
weak, poor, demented and without political influence.

      Score another murder for Knoxville. This time it is a woman who killed
her divorced husband, Bruce Bluebaeker.

      Our fellow-citizen, Moses Burger, left Tuesday morning for Howard
County, Texas, where he proposes to grow up with the country.

      Mr. George Brown, of the Long Hollow vicinity, who for a number of
years has been living in the Indian Territory, recently returned on a visit to
friends, and we are advised he will soon return to the Territory and will be
accompanied by his brother, Benjamin S., who will perhaps engage in
teaching the young Indian idea how to shoot.

      Mr. John Wright, son of W.E. Wright, of the 10th district, died of
consumption on the night of the 13th inst., and was interred at Mt. Tabor
on the 14th.

      Prof. J. Calvin Boyd, having been making a short visit to kindred and
friends after an absence of 19 years, started for his Nebraska home by
Wednesday's train.

      Mr. R. Smith Cummings, an old-time citizen of Maryville and for a
number of years a wagon-maker of Louisville, but for 25 years past a
resident of Texas, arrived by Tuesday's train on a visit to his old friends and
kindred in this county. He is now about 75 years of age. He was
accompanied by his kinsman, Mr. Huffaker, whose mother will be
remembered by the older citizens as Miss. Ellen Cummings and daughter of
the late William Cummings, who for many years occupied the house where
Mrs. F.M. Hood now lives.
     
February 23, 1883

      Mr. J.A. Fancher, of Tuckaleechee, left Wednesday for Sexton,
Indiana, where he will make his future home.

      Mr. William L. Hutton, wife and daughter from McKinney, Texas,
arrived by Monday's train to visit the home of their youth, and their many
kindred and friends in this and other counties, after an absence of 16 years.
Mr. Hutton will be remembered as the Sheriff of our county about the
commencement of the war.

      We are pained to learn that Mr. Arthur A. Kennedy, a native of our
county and for many years one of our prominent businessmen, died a few
days ago in Dallas, Texas, where he had been living for many years.