The 1900 Diary of W. S. Myers, Miami, Saline, MO
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The Diary of W. S. Myers
1900
Miami, Saline, MO
(Transcriber�s Note: I could not find the 1900 Diary. But there are three sources for the year 1900: first from a book entitled, �Dates of Events in W. S. Myers� Lifetime;� second is from various articles that he cut from The Miami News and pasted into a scrapbook; and third is from a Baby Book he made for my father, Robert Whitmore Myers, who was born May 6, 1900.)
DATES OF EVENTS IN MY LIFETIME........by W. S. Myers
JANUARY
Jan. 9, 1900
My aunt Addie [Adeline Whitmore Miller] died this a.m. She was a younger sister of my dear mother [Margaret Ann Whitmore Myers.] Lem and I made and covered a lid for her casket, for her funeral tomorrow.
Jan. 10.
I wrote a piece tonight for the Miami News of Aunt Addie�s death.
Jan. 12.
Jno. Walden�s case came up today (a short in funds).
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At left is a photo of "Clover Cottage," the home of Wib and Emma Myers, 1900, Miami, MO. If one looks at the photo carefully, "Jerry" is nibbling the grass, behind Emma.
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Jan. 15.
Ben Poe shot himself today, at Kansas City.
Jan. 18.
Mr. S. S. Lewis took dinner with us today.
Jan. 22.
Ruth Hornbeck, Emma�s sister, left this eve for Lead, So. Dakota.
Jan. 27.
I gave Miss Lou a fancy back-comb tonight. [Transcriber�s note: �Miss Lou� is Louisa Huyett Wheeler, the second wife of Dr. Amos Alexander Wheeler]
Jan. 29.
I moved the round table from the Store to our home.
FEBRUARY
Feb. 5, 1900
W. H. Wheeler gave me dates on the Baptist Church tonight.
Feb. 6.
Chas. Kruger gave me a nice hog today (red-black).
Feb. 12.
All connections made on Bell long distance telephone today.
Feb. 13.
I covered Miss Lou a couch today, with corduroy.
Feb. 14.
I gave Lewis Myers a pair of leggings this eve.
Feb. 16.
I covered Miss Parson�s box and foot stool today.
Feb. 18.
Mr. Ayres put up ice today (Sunday).
Feb. 20.
Lem put up 12-inch ice today.....34 loads, $22.80.
Feb. 21.
Geo. Thomas (col�d) quarantined today (fear small pox).
Feb. 22.
The Presbyterians hosted a �Geo. Washington Tea.� ($28.00)
Feb. 27.
I went up to the schoolhouse and packed Lewis part way home on my back....through the snowdrifts.
Feb. 28.
We had a full 20-inch snow last eve and night.
Feb. 28.
I wrote my first ad for the paper today......a carpet ad for the Miami Weekly News.
MARCH
Mar. 1, 1900
Francis & Miller bought out S. L Anderson (Sharon, Mo.)
Mar. 5.
I made two exhibiting shelves for the front windows at Store. Dr. A. R. Edmonds bought The Miami News from Jas. W. Weir today. The quarantine ran out on Geo. Thomas today.......no case! Silas Carter (col�d) spaded my garden today.
Mar. 6.
I put a water barrel at the corner of porch today.
Mar. 7.
The darkeys are building a new City Hall.
Mar. 8.
Lem is back from his New Orleans trip this eve.
Mar. 9.
I covered Miss Parson�s table with felt today.
Mar. 11.
I fixed a box and an easel for Miss Gussie Edmonds today.
Mar. 12.
We got our shoe machine from Mr. Leonard.
Mar. 16.
I set out a lot of pie-plants today that Mary Haynie gave us.
Mar. 17.
I set out a snowball[hydrangea] and three rose bushes. We made two show windows at Store today, of old relics.
Mar. 23.
I had a fire-fence put up back of the stable this a.m.
Mar. 26.
The Enterpe met with Emma tonight.
Mar. 27.
Sheriff Wilson�s wife had her arm shot off tonight.
Mar. 28.
The Negro that shot Mrs. Wilson was hung tonight. Mrs. Jno. Burns� cottage is being built. I pulled down the lathe fence across garden.
APRIL 1900
(no entries)
MAY
May 3, 1900
I set out two chrysanthemums today.
May 6.
Little �Robert Whitmore Myers� made his appearance at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Myers this morning, at 3:30 o�clock......8 lbs.
May 9.
Mr. S. S. Lewis sent Robert a pair of scissors. Little Robert had his first baby-caller this eve. It was Lillian May Grady.
Papa made Lewis Myers a �see-saw� today [See photo, at right]
May 11.
I fixed Miss Lou�s pea vines this a.m. Little Robert had a nice �write up� in The Miami News this eve, by Dr. A. R. Edmonds.
May 15.
I commenced using ice this a.m., for the season.
May 16.
Today was the first �call meeting� as to City Hall plans.
May 17.
Miss Emma Parsons gave little Robert a lovely cap. I made two fans for the Barber Shop today.
May 19.
I brought the cradle over from Mary�s, for Robert.
May 20.
Emma got up today, for the first time.
May 20.
Little Robert used his cradle for the first time. He also had his first dress on today. Lem saw little Robert
for the first time today.
May 21.
Jas. W. Weir took a photo of Robert today (Robert�s first). Aunt Mandy at home with Robert for the first time tonight.
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At right, is a photo of Aunt Mandy Briscoe, the first home nurse for Robert W. Myers, Miami, MO
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May 28.
We got photos of Robert today (they are good!).
May 29.
I draped a mantle at Dr. Edmonds this a.m.
May 31.
Emma and Robert made their first visit out today......to Grandma Lou�s.
JUNE
Jun. 2.
Aunt Mandy quit us tonight. She was just here one-month.
Jun. 3.
My birthday. Emma and Robert gave me a �cyclone camera.�
Jun. 4.
I loaded the camera for my first time tonight.
Jun. 6.
I took my first photo with my new camera tonight....at Dr. Wheeler�s home of the Presbyterian Church Supper. We got our new awning up at the Store today. Bro. Barber came this eve (our new preacher).
Jun. 8.
I got in part of my photography outfit.
Jun. 7 - 9.
Little Robert�s[second] nurse was here for three days (but no good).
Jun. 10.
Bro. Thos. Barber preached his first sermon here today.
Jun. 11.
I developed my first photo tonight.
Jun. 14.
Miss Parsons brought little Robert a 1/2 gallon of raspberries.
Jun. 17.
I cooked my first steak and made gravy this a.m.
Jun. 18.
I changed Robert for the first time today, and put him to bed.
Jun. 19.
I developed my first photos by myself tonight. Mincey Taylor (col�d) commenced work for us today.
Jun. 20.
Mrs. Creighton and Mattie Myers left here today.
Jun. 26.
I printed and finished my first batch of photos.
Jun. 27.
Robert and I gave mother her first blue �lawn dress� already made and ready to put on. It fit, too!
Jun. 29.
Little Robert�s buggy came today.
JULY
Jul. 2, 1900
Emma met me, for the first time this eve, with little Robert in his buggy....at Lem�s crossing.
Jul 4.
We enjoyed Bob Dunlap�s free �4th of July Entertainment� tonight.
Jul. 5.
We had our first tomatoes tonight, from our garden.
Jul. 6.
I took a photos of Robert.....two in the yard and one on porch.
Jul. 7.
Myers Bros. got in the Neill�s �Brussels carpet� bill today....a $96 bill.
Jul. 9.
I widened the crossing this eve, for Robert�s buggy.
Jul. 10.
I made Robert a little hammock today.
Jul. 11.
Little Robert had his first fall at noon today.....out of his hammock on our back porch.
Jul. 12.
Robert had his first ride out behind a horse in a buggy today, taking Aunt Kate out to S. O. Grady�s.
Jul. 13.
I made a �Wabash time table� for the Restaurant today. This was Robert�s first day out to �Auntie� Mary Haynie�s.
Jul. 14.
I received my weather signal flags. I got our red settee for our porch.
Jul. 15.
Robert�s first day spent out to J. C. Reynolds (his great aunt and uncle).
Jul. 18.
Emma and Robert took me out to L. W. Haynie�s this afternoon, to see the first �thrasher� work.
Jul. 19.
I gave Lewis a �mackintosh and cap.� ($5.50)
Jul. 23.
I made a �rainfall� bulletin board.
Jul. 26.
Cyrena had her first meal with us today.
Jul. 27.
I received my photo lamp today.
Jul. 30.
Geo. P. Hay commenced work for Myers Bros. today.
Jul. 31.
I took a photo today, at noon, of �the hammock group� at Miss Lou�s, and of the two babies, Robert and Jesse Stier [Cunningham].
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Pictured at right, in "the hammock group" are Cyrena Wheeler and Angie Wheeler, seated in center of hammock; Kathryn Wheeler, at far left; middle-back, Mrs. Shaw; "Miss Lou" holding Robert W. Myers and Jesse Stier Cunningham; and standing, Emma (Wheeler) Myers and Mary Elizabeth (Wheeler) Cunningham
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AUGUST
Aug. 1, 1900
I gave Cyrena a pink silk fan ($1.00) for her Carrollton trip.
Aug. 4.
Emma made me a wreath of flowers this morning, for Minnie Payton�s funeral.
Aug. 7.
Lem and Mary got their new trap [a two-seat surrey] (a little beauty!)
Aug. 9.
Emma, Robert and I went out to Jim and Rettie�s, to stay until tomorrow. Tonight was my first night to stay in the country. Jim and I went up to David Vanmeter�s new home and I took a photo of it.
Aug. 13.
Myers Bros. commenced their invoice.
Aug. 16.
Emma brought Robert to the Store for the first time this eve.
Aug. 20.
Robert weighed 14 1/2 lbs. tonight.
Aug. 23.
Dr. Wheeler gave Robert a rattle today, his first.
Aug. 26.
Little Robert bought his first pig today, from his Aunt Mary.....a 50-lb. red pig, for 2-cents.
Aug. 28.
Papa laid a walk in the garden for me today.
Aug. 30.
Myers Bros. finished their invoice tonight.
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 2, 1900
Lem went to St. Louis tonight.
Sept. 3.
The first baby that Robert ever saw, Lillian Grady, died this morning (infant).
Sept. 4.
The posts to Sharon, by the Saline County Telephone Co., were commenced today, in town.
Sept. 6.
I took a photo of our Miami hearse today, the new one. Miss Emma Parsons oiled the floor upstairs today, in her room.
Sept. 7.
Mary brought me home in their new trap tonight.....my first ride in it.
Sept. 8.
I gave Cyrena and Kate, each, a tie and collar today.......also Emma.
Sept. 9.
Miss Mabel Carpenter gave Robert a silver spoon. Little Lewis wore his first shirt and suspenders.
Sept. 10.
I gathered peaches for Mrs. Hays this morning.
Sept. 11.
Little Robert gave grandma �Lou� a nice tablecloth today ($4.05). Emma put up 29 pints of peaches today.
Sept. 12.
I took a photo of this home, and also a photo of Bure�s �ice-wagon.�
Sept. 13.
Cyrena and Kate spent the night with us tonight, for the first time.
Sept. 14.
Grandma Lou gave little Robert his first shoes and hose (tan moccasins and size 2 hose).
Sept. 18.
Little Robert put on his first short dress today.
Sept. 20.
Grandpa Myers gave Robert his first candy today.
Sept. 24.
I had little Robert�s first blue sun bonnet made today, by Mrs. James Cresap. She gave it to him free.
Miss Ona Davis commenced work for Myers Bros. this morning.
Sept. 25.
Geo. Wheeler got his eye hurt badly, by the Weir boy.
Sept. 26.
Myers Bros. sold their private telephone line, also Dr. A. A. Wheeler�s, this eve to the Saline County Telephone Company. Our Store phone was put in this day, at noon, and connected with the central line on the 29th.
Sept. 28.
I got Lewis� high chair today, for Robert.
Sept. 30.
Robert gave his mother a nice alpaca skirt this morning, made up, and a nice black silk waist, to be made. Emma talked to Rena Reid over our new phone this eve at Store, for the first time. Myers Bros. got nickel shoe rack display fixtures today, for the show window ($10).
OCTOBER
Oct. 2, 1900
My second night with Emma at her home.
Oct. 4.
I put up curtains, on rod, in show window.
Oct. 5.
Little Robert�s first day of sickness.
Oct. 6.
Dr. Wheeler gave Miss Lou a fine surrey today.
Oct. 7.
I kept Robert for the first time this morning, while Emma attended Church.
Oct. 9.
I bought my first pig this a.m., from Mr. Wilse Hays.......about 75 lbs. ($3.25)
Oct. 10.
I sold my first hog today, 255 lbs. @ 4.60....net $11.73. (the red and black spotted hog that Chas. Kruger gave us)
Oct. 12.
I got a brown shepherd dog from Joe Miller this eve.
Oct. 14.
Lem went to St. Louis tonight.
Oct. 16.
I made a box to go under the kitchen stove.
Oct. 19.
Rettie was connected this eve....with their phone.
Oct. 20.
We got our brass rack for the display window ($11).
Oct. 23.
Papa left for his Boonville trip, going first to Rettie�s.
Oct. 24.
Emma broke Robert�s first china cup today.
Oct. 25.
Lem put in an �electric call bell� in Store this eve. Emma made Robert a white and pink comfort today, with white ruffles on it. It is a beauty!
Oct. 26.
Sam Grady sawed 5 1/4 cords of wood for me.
Oct. 29.
I made a �fruit-box� for our cellar today.
Oct. 30.
I bound the Christian Heralds, the Ladies Home Journals, and a few Sunday School magazines today.
Oct. 31.
Aunt Rettie gave Robert his first pair of white kid shoes.
NOVEMBER
Nov. 1, 1900
The Exchange Telephone Board came today. I printed a �Bryan and McKinley� Electoral Board. I finished binding my magazines tonight. Geo. Burruss got home from the Klondyke today (18-months away).
Nov. 4.
A crowd of us walked out to Sheriff Wilson�s new cottage this eve, taking Robert in the buggy.
Nov. 7.
I fixed our back porch, for wood.
Nov. 8.
We moved our flowers in the house today and put down the awning on the back porch.
Nov. 9.
I took the morning-glory vine down this morning. Mrs. Mont Carroll spent today with us.
Nov. 12.
I bought two long pictures from Dr. Wheeler (50-cents each).
Nov. 13.
I gave Miss Lou a big wood box this a.m. The Saline Co. Telephone Co. put our phones in today (Lem�s, ours, and Dr. Wheeler�s).
Nov. 20.
Mr. S. S. Lewis took dinner with us.
Nov. 21.
Lem had a stove put at the desk, at Store, this eve.
Nov. 22.
Lem and I put up wire (call bell) between here and Chas. Davis.
Nov. 23.
I went out to L. W. Haynie�s in surrey this eve, after Emma and little Robert, as it was pouring down rain.
Nov. 24.
Little Robert saw his first snow today, at noon.
Nov. 25.
The Baptists used their new furnace today, for the first time.
Nov. 27.
Little Robert got his first letter, from Grandpa Wheeler, inviting him down to eat turkey on the 29th.
Nov. 28.
Mrs. Shaw gave little Robert his first doll today (rubber).
DECEMBER
Dec. 2, 1900
Joe Hightower broke out with smallpox.
Dec. 3.
Lem ran his telephone wire to Joe Hightower�s. Mary Moore commenced work for Lem and Mary.
Dec. 4.
Lem got the phone up and connected at Hightower�s.
Dec. 5.
Miss Lou, Cyrena, Bettie Reynolds, and self, were vaccinated today.
Dec. 6.
Lem put W. H. Wheeler�s phone in today.
Dec. 11.
Lem set a curtain in Miss Parson�s room on fire this a.m. I bought a white toy car (my first toy for little Robert) today, at Bob Dunlap�s (25-cents).
Dec. 13.
We got in a cute little watch for Lewis that Rettie and I are going to give him for Christmas.
Dec. 17.
Little Robert, with mother, made his first visit today, to call on Jennie Mattingly�s baby boy.
Dec. 18.
Emma and I took 6 o�clock dinner at Mary�s, with a crowd, in honor of Miss Ona Davis (retirement).
Dec. 21.
Lem took down our old telephone wire. I fixed a box tonight for Miss Lou to send to Ruth.
Dec. 23.
I gave four presents this morning, at our Sunday School, for best attendance (books) to: 1) Percy Saufley, 2)Lewis Myers, 3) Elmer Lee Barnett tied with Laura Barnett. Emma and little Robert spent the day at Mrs. H. D. Carpenter�s.
Dec. 24.
Miss Ona Davis quit us tonight.
Dec. 25.
Little Robert�s first Christmas with us all and jolly times we did have! We all took dinner at Miss Lou�s today.
Dec. 26.
Lem put up the Mullen�s phones today.
Dec. 27.
Lem, Mary, Lewis, Emma, Robert and I all spent the day out to Retta�s today. Good time, big dinner! Lem put up a �call bell� and changed the phone for them.
Dec. 28.
The Wheeler family and the Woodson boys dined with us today.
Dec. 29.
Robert got his second letter today, from his Uncle Syd (Wheeler). Robert cut his first tooth today (upper front).
Dec. 30.
I took six pictures of little Robert today.....3 in bathtub, 2 in chair, 1 on floor.
Dec. 31.
I gave Miss Lou and Cyrena and Kate a soap can (for dishwashing).
END
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THE BABY RECORD OF
ROBERT WHITMORE MYERS
..............................................As kept by his father, Wilbert S. Myers............................................
Robert Whitmore Myers
Born: Sunday, May 6, 1900, at 3:30 a.m.
Place: at the Greenabaum cottage, Miami, Saline, MO
Weighed: 8 lbs.
Named: after my dear departed brother, Robert, and the maiden name of my dear mother, Whitmore.
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MAY 6, 1900
There were 18 callers to see little Robert on this day:
Dr. A. A. Wheeler, his maternal grandfather
Mrs. A. A. Wheeler, his maternal grandmother, by marriage
Aunt Mandy Briscoe, col�d (his nurse)
Miss Kate Wheeler, his aunt
Miss Angie Wheeler, his aunt
Little Lewis Allen Myers, his first cousin
Mrs. Millie Hays (brought flowers)
Mrs. L. A. Myers [Mary], wife of his uncle Lem
Mrs. J. A. Jessup
Mrs. J. B. Cunningham, his aunt
Master Wheeler Cunningham, his first cousin
Mrs. James F. Vaughan [Susie], wife of his grand-uncle
Laura Lee Vaughan, his first cousin, once removed
Dr. James B. Cunningham, husband of his aunt Mary Elizabeth Wheeler
Mrs. Charles V. Davis
Miss Ethel Roberts
Miss Cyrena Wheeler, his aunt
Mrs. Ella Greenabaum
Little Robert received the following letters upon his birth:
Mr. John E. Whitmore, Staunton, VA, his great uncle
Mr. Lyttleton E. Myers, his uncle in Los Angeles, CA
Mrs. H. T. Hudson, his aunt Lina, in Boonville, MO
Mrs. James Long, his aunt Rettie, in Fairville, MO
Miss Hallie M. Hudson, his first cousin, in Dallas, TX
Dr. Wm. Elbert Dunlap, Dallas, TX
Rev. Robert L. Wilson, Kansas City, MO
Mrs. M. E. Shaw, Kansas City, MO
Miss Rena Reid, Slater, MO
Mr. N. McDougall, Slater, MO
Mr. Samuel B. Jeter, and Peyton Jeter, Malta Bend, MO
Mrs. Ruth Hornbeck, his aunt Ruth Wheeler, Rapid City, So. Dakota
Dr. Jas. L. Russell, Marshall, MO
Mr. Newton McK. Myers, his uncle, Marshall, MO
Sun., May 6.
The sun was out only for a little while this morning. It was cloudy most of the day and rained a little late in the evening. The thermometer was 63-degrees at 7:00 a.m. and 84-degrees at 2 o�clock in the afternoon. The day was very pleasant all day long. There were 18 callers to see little Robert. We received a bouquet of flowers from Mrs. Wilse Hays, and a pair of scissors (that cut doll clothes) from Mr. S. S. Lewis.
May 9.
Robert�s first �baby caller� came today, Miss Lillian May Grady.
May 11.
Robert had a nice �write-up� piece, by Dr. A. R. Edmonds, in the Miami Weekly News this evening.
May 17.
Little Robert received a nice �white silk cap� from Miss Emma Parsons today.
May 19.
I brought Lewis� old cradle over from Lem�s today for Robert to use.
May 20.
Little Robert put on his first little white dress and skirt this morning and used his cradle for the first time.
May 21.
Uncle Lem saw little Robert for the first time today. Mr. James W. Weir was over today, at 1:30 o�clock, and took 12 snap shots of little Robert, his first photos. Our nurse, Aunt Mandy, ended her round-the-clock care today and will now go home at night.
May 29.
We ordered Robert�s �horseless carriage� today.
May 31.
Little Robert and his mother went out for the first time this eve, from 2 to 5 o�clock, down to �Grandma Lou�s house.
JUNE
June 2.
Emma left Robert for the first time this eve, from 3:45 to 4:45 o�clock, with Aunt Cyrena, so Emma could go out driving with Aunt Lizzie. Aunt Mandy Briscoe, our nurse for one month, completed her time with us tonight.
June 3.
Little Robert and his mother gave me a 4� x 5� cyclone camera this morning, this being my 29th birthday. Mrs. Creighton gave me a little box today at Sunday School, so I will commence putting 5-cents in this every Sunday for a year, then one-half of it will go to foreign missions and the other half to the Presbyterian Church here at home.
June 5.
We received photos this eve, from the Brunswick photographer, of little Robert today. These were Robert�s first pictures, taken by Mr. J. W. Weir on May 21. Robert put on his first pair of moccasins this eve, knitted by his Aunt Lizzie Cunningham.
June 8.
I undressed and fixed little Robert for bed tonight, for my first time.
June 15.
Aunt Dora Lampkin commenced doing our washing today (25-cents a week). Emma hired Mincy Taylor (col�d) to work for us today, as Emma did not feel at all well.
June 24.
Robert had 17 callers today and laughed out loud for his first time this a.m.
JULY
July 2.
Emma is feeling better so Mincy Taylor stopped working for us tonight.
July 3.
Emma and Robert, in his buggy, met me tonight as I came home, at Uncle Lem�s crossing.
July 4.
The following are the ones I gave Robert�s first photos to:
Mrs. Jas. B. Cunningham (Emma�s sister)
Mrs. A. A. Wheeler (Emma�s step-mother)
Mrs. H. T. Hudson, Boonville, MO (my sister, Lina)
Mrs. James Long, Fairville, MO (my sister, Rettie)
Mrs. Ruth Hornbeck, Spearfish, So. Dakota (Emma�s sister)
Mr. L. E. Myers, Los Angeles, Calif. (my brother)
Mr. J. E. Whitmore ( my uncle on my mother�s side and the man we honored with little Robert�s middle name), Staunton, Va.
Mrs. M. L. Burns, Independence, Mo.
Mr. Jesse W. Wheeler, Arrow Rock, Mo. (Emma�s brother)
Grandpa Isaac
Myers
Two for us, and one for this book.
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Emma had little Robert in his buggy this eve, all decorated with flags, and they met me as I came home from the Store. So I had Emma stand by the flower mound in our yard, with Robert in the buggy, and I took a snap shot with my new camera. It didn�t turn out too good, but you can see what I got by looking at the lower right of this page.
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July 6.
Little Robert is two months old today and he weighs 11 1/2 pounds.
July 8.
Emma brought little Robert up in town and in the Store tonight, for the first time.
July 9.
I widened the crossing in front of our house this eve, so that the buggy could get through.
July 12.
We took little Robert on his first horse-and-buggy ride this eve, out to Mr. S. O. Grady�s and back. We took Aunt Kate out there for a party tonight.
July 15.
Emma and I took Robert out to Uncle Joshua Reynolds� home today, for the first time.
July 18.
Emma, Robert, and I saw our first thrashing machine work this eve, at L. W. Haynie�s field.
July 31.
I took a photo of little Robert with his cousin, Jesse Stier Cunningham, today at Grandma�s house. Others in the picture were Mrs. Shaw, Mrs. Lizzie Cunningham, Emma, Aunt Cyrena, Aunt Kate, and Angie Wheeler.
AUGUST
Aug. 5.
I gave little Robert his first sip of lemonade this eve and he had the biggest and longest laughing spell he ever had.
Aug. 9.
Emma, Robert and I went out to Aunt Ret�s and Uncle Jim�s this morning, to stay until tomorrow, our first night in the country together.
Aug. 16.
Emma and little Robert went over to Lem and Mary�s today, for their first time there. Aunt Mary sold Robert a little red pig today, about a 60-lb. pig, for 2-cents (�a chicken eater�).
Aug. 28.
Emma and little Robert took tea today at Mrs. H. D. Carpenter�s.
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 3.
The first baby that little Robert ever saw, Lillian May Grady, died tonight. She would have been one-year-old this month.
Sept. 14.
Grandma Lou gave Robert his first shoes and hose today, pure white kid shoes, number 2, and number 4 hose. The shoes are little beauties!
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This is the Greenabaum Cottage, Miami, MO, where W. S. and Emma Myers first lived, and where Robert W. Myers was born. This was also known as "Clover Cottage" for obvious reasons. Emma is holding Robert on the front porch. This photo was taken Sept. 12, 1900.
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Sept. 24.
Mrs. Jas Cresap made Robert his first sun-bonnet today, little blue and white stitches on crown and ruffled all around.
Sept. 28.
Emma gave Robert some gravy today, it being the first food he has ever had outside of milk and water.
I brought cousin Lewis� little red high-chair over tonight, for Robert to use.
OCTOBER
Oct. 5.
I kept Robert alone this morning for the first time, while Emma attended Church.
Oct. 6.
Robert weighed 16 3/4 today, 5 mo. old.
NOVEMBER
Nov. 4.
Emma, little Robert in his buggy, and I, along with Aunt Cyrena, Aunt Kate, and Miss Mamie Grady, all walked out to Sheriff Wilson�s new cottage today. Remember our time!!!
Nov. 6.
Little Robert weighed 18 1/2 pounds, and measured 27 inches in length today, at 6 mo. old. We left little Robert with Mrs. Hays today at noon, and with Mrs. Chas. V. Davis tonight, so that Emma and I could eat dinner and supper with the Presbyterian�s at their �to do.�
Nov. 7.
Robert spent the day with his first �baby friend� today, Oma (or Orna) Carroll. His mother was Miss Tina Shelton once, before she was Mrs. Carroll.
Nov. 10.
Little Robert ate at the table today for his first time, gravy and potatoes.
Nov. 23.
Emma and little Robert spent the day out at Miss Mary Haynie�s, but it poured down rain so hard that I had to go after them about 4 o�clock and bring them home.
Nov. 27.
Little Robert got his first written invitation today, from Grandma and Grandpa Wheeler, for a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day on the 29th.
DECEMBER
Dec. 13.
Robert played �patty-cake� for the first time this morning.
Dec. 17.
Emma took Robert to call on the first boy his size this eve, Master Webster Mattingly.
Dec. 18.
Emma and I went, with a crowd of others, to a 6 o�clock dinner tonight in honor of Miss Ona Davis, who is now working for Lem and I at the Store. Mary wanted little Robert to come as well, but as he had been coughing all day we left him home. We tried to get Aunt Mandy, but she was not in town, so we got another old Auntie....Aunt Martha Carter. But no sooner had we left, little Robert would have none of it and nearly �brought down the house.� When Grandpa Wheeler passed by he heard the fuss so went in and called Cyrena and Kate and they came over and calmed Robert down. By the time Emma and I got home Robert was asleep.
Dec. 23.
Emma, Robert and I spent the day at Mr. and Mrs. H. D. Carpenter�s, who now live at my old home place!
Dec. 25.
Today was pretty for awhile, then cloudy. There was a little snow on the ground, but it was very pleasant. The thermometer stood at 21-degrees at 7 a.m., and 33-degrees at 2 o�clock this afternoon. This was little Robert�s first Christmas and he had a stocking hanging up at Grandma�s and one on the mantle at home. Old Santa filled them both with all kinds of good things to eat....oranges, candy, bananas and nuts. He also received 12 nice presents as named below. We all took dinner at Grandpa Wheeler�s and we all had lots of fun.
Robert�s Christmas presents:
1. a nice silver mug from Grandma and Grandpa Wheeler
2. a silver atomizer from Aunt Mary and Uncle Lem
3. a gold ring from Aunt Rettie
4. a handmade Battenburg bib from Mary Haynie
5. a pair of silk mittens (white) from Mrs. Thos. Mattingly
6. a pin holder with safety pins in it from Rena Reid
7. a linen book from Santa
8. a rubber ball from Jesse Stier Cunningham
9. a rubber ball from Lewis Myers
10. a rubber ball from Mary Burruss
11. a bell-toy from little Angie Wheeler
12. a rubber doll from Santa
Dec. 27.
Emma, little Robert and I, along with Lem, Mary and Lewis, all took dinner out at Rettie and Jim�s today, in Fairville.
Dec. 29.
Little Robert received his first real letter today. It was from Uncle Syd Wheeler, of Arrow Rock, Mo., thanking him for the �clothes-brush� he sent for Christmas.
Dec. 30.
Robert cut his first tooth today, front upper tooth.
Dec. 31.
Robert cut two more teeth today, so at 7 mo., 25-days, he has three teeth. Emma and Robert gave me a nice diary today, to write in for my 14th year.
END OF 1900
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OBITUARIES FROM THE MIAMI NEWS, 1900
These obits were cut from the Miami News and pasted into the scrapbooks kept by Wilbert S. Myers......
BARBEE
BATES
BISHOP
BOWEN
BROWN(Col'd.)
BUCKNER(Col'd.)
BURNSIDE
CAHILL
CASEBOLT
CHILCOTT(2)
CRAVENS
EDMONDS
GRADY
GUTHREY
HILL
INGRAM
ISH
JOHNSTON
LATIMER
LYON
MILLER
MILLSAPS
POE
RUXTON
SMITH
TITUS(Col'd.)
TURPIN
WHITAKER
WILSON
ZEA
AND...The murder of BAILEY by PURCELL
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REV. JOSHUA BARBEE
Reverend Joshua Barbee, the well-known Presbyterian divine, died at his home in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, on the evening of Wednesday, October 10, 1900. Mr. Barbee's home, for the greatest part of his life, has been at Marshall, Missouri, but he was so well known, honored, and loved throughout the county, that many homes always had a glad welcome for him.
Mr. Barbee's career, from early manhood, was marked by a profound religious fervor; his faith was magnificent; "he knew his God as surely as he knew the tranquil beauty of the stars, or the meridian splendor of the sun." When asked if he knew his condition, he replied, "Yes, you know I am not afraid to die." His last words, when asked if he had anything further to say, were, "There is my life. It is known by everyone in Saline; it is an open book, read for yourselves."
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CAPT. WILLIAM S. BATES
Peacefully passes away at the ripe old age of 82 years
Died, at the home of his son, W. M. Bates, Thursday, March 15, 1900, at 1 o'clock a.m., Capt. William S. Bates, at the age of 82 years, 5 months, and 29 days.
Deceased was a member of the Christian Church for many years and always lived an upright and correct life. He had been in poor health for about two years and was greatly troubled with his eyes.
William S. Bates was the son of William S. and Huldah B. Bates (nee Parrish) and was born in Goochgland County, Virginia., September 16, 1817, and at the age of seven years came with his father and family to Marion County, Missouri. Soon after their arrival in Marion County, the new county of Lewis was organized, and without any further move they found themselved located in Lewis County, where the deceased was raised on a farm. The Indians (Sacs) were still numerous there at that day, and the Indian children were his daily companions. His education was obtained in the pioneer style, and he learned to speak the Indian language. At the age of eighteen he learned the trade of house joiner, and worked at it until 1848, combined with cabinet making, and had a farm southwest of LaGrange. In 1856 he moved to this county and located on a farm upon which he resided until a few years since. In April, 1845, he was married to Miss Mary E. Gash, daughter of Martin and Mary Gash, of Marion County, Mo. She died July 26, 1872; leaving five children - Mrs. Mary R. Ish, of Ft. Collins, Col.; William M., Henry M., Edward J., and Mrs. Elizabeth H. Timmons.
In July, 1846, he fell from a scaffold and broke his left ankle, and, as a consequence, was unable to walk much for a number of years.
His great-grandfather, James Bates, came from New England to Virginia, and there married Mrs. Duncombe, and to them were born five sons. His grandfather, also James Bates, married Miss Mabethalum Sergent, to whom were born four sons and three daughters. His grandmother's name (mother's side) was Massey, and he was a descendant from two of the best families of Virginia. During the war he opposed secession, but was in sympathy with the South. Funeral services were conducted today at 10 o'clock at the residence of W. M. Bates by Elder G. E. Prewitt and the remains were interred in the Christian Cemetery.
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MRS. ALDORA BISHOP
Mrs. Aldora Bishop, wife of John R. Bishop, died of heart trouble at her home three miles east of Miami, Wednesday, November 14, 1900.
Mrs. Bishop, the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Hattabaugh, of Carroll County, was born October 8, 1862. On December 10, 1879, she was married to Mr. John R. Bishop. For many years she has been a devoted member of the Christian Church. Her husband and six children survive her. Elder Wharton, of Marshall, conducted funeral services at the Odd Fellows cemetery where interment took place yesterday afternoon.
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FUNERAL OF MRS. BOWEN
Mrs. Ellen Bowen, wife of Reb. L. P. Bowen, died of heart trouble at their home at Monroe, Louisiana, on March 3, 1900, aged 55 years. She was born in Maryland. For many years she had lived at Marshall, where her husband was pastor of the Presbyterian Church and where she had been most active in the Master's cause.
The body arrived at Marshall Tuesday night, accompanied by Dr. Bowen, Dr. Boude, of California, Mo., P. H. Franklin, Geo. Lankford and J. Van Dyke, the three last named meeting the train at Napton. The ladies of the "Ellen Bowen Missionary Society" took the body in charge and conveyed it to the church where the funeral services were conducted at 3 p.m., Wednesday, by Revs. W. R. Dobyns, C. E. Thomas, Dr.Boude, and Dr. Milster. The church was packed with friends of the deceased and the bier was one mass of flowers, sent from the sunny southland and given by friends at Marshall.
And in the words of her husband....Why should I write? Has not enough been said? But you and others saw the rays of the diamond; I saw the diamond.
This is one who remembers her as a little brown-eyed charmer--sitting just ahead of our famly pew, complexion of lily and rose, herself one incessant sparkle--with a vitality and vivacity that couldn't sit still three consecutive minutes to save her life. How many the sermons she spoiled for the godly mother, atoned for by the wholesome switching afterwards. Who dreamed of the future then in the bud?
Then came the developing time--the early girlhood, the school days--the blooming of the lily and the rose. Reared in the lap of luxury, a home of wealth, an aristocratic community and her family at the top--and she unconscious of the distinctions of rich or poor, and sweeping the universal heart. She would see no poor girl, no timid girl, slighted. They are talking of it yet. It was a presage of all the coming years.
Now came the reverses--the war time, security debts, everything--but sufficient left for an economical support, and the father struggling for recovery. Then came the heroism. Against the protests of a father doting on an only daughter, she determined to help him and, to the astonishment of society, went out into an uncultured neighborhood and took charge of a country school--the refined among the unrefined--and walking over a mile, back and forth through the Maryland coast-storms, and after making the fires with the delicate hands which had always been protected by plenty of servants. There again she swept all hearts, and they will tell you today of what they call the fairy of the fields.
When the time for marriage singularly came, the dear old straight-faced Presbyterians thought the bachelor preacher was making a mistake. The "queen of the dance" and the pulpit....how could they harmonize? And he was an Evangelist in great Missouri, taking her to the road instead of to a home, her the petted child of fortune and a cultured mansion. She went, and captured every community and very congregation she entered. She went and quadrupled his influence for good. She has never lingered anywhere that the place was not the holier for it.
One of the many touching memories of last Wednesday was the mingling of Louisiana and Missouri flowers on casket and grave. So, too, in the peaceful death hours had mingled the perfect blooms of Missouri and Louisiana ladyhood; for Marshall had sent an angel of help to be among the heavely messengers when they came. I am sure that the departed, modest, and womanly, would have recoiled from so much laudation; would have thought that the speakers were talking of someone else on Wednesday. My part is justified in God's own picture of ideal womanhood..."her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her." L.P.B.
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MRS. EDDIE BROWN
[There was no date on this obit, but, because it was pasted on the same page as other 1900 obituaries, it is a good guess that she also died in this year]
Died, at her home in Miami, on the 23rd inst., Mrs. Eddie Brown in the 80th year of her age.
We have but little data bearing upon the early history of this old colored citizen, but everyone who has lived in Miami any length of time since the 40's knew "Aunt Eddie." They knew her as an honest, industrious, good natured, harmless old woman, who had been faithful as a wife and a mother. Her devotion to her children, her simple but firm religious faith, her kindly disposition and jovial nature, made her many friends. The writer has a warm place in his heart for the old ante-bellum Negro. He was reared with them, they were his playmates in childhood, loyal and devoted defenders of mothers and sisters during the four years of the Civil War. Yes, truly, we are proud to number these old Negroes among our friends. Aunt Eddie was our friend and we mourn her departure.
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MOLLIE BUCKNER
Died, at her home in Miami, Monday evening, January 29, 1900, Mollie Buckner (colored), wife of Henry Buckner. She was a highly respected and hard working woman and leaves a family of six children ranging in age from 3 to 17 years. Her remains were interred at the Baptist cemetery Tuesday afternoon.
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GRANDISON S. BURNSIDE
Died, at the home of John F. Kieffer, Wednesday, January 24, 1900, at 2:30 p.m., Grandison S. Burnside, at the age of 71 years, 9 months, and 28 days.
The deceased was born in Rockingham County, VA, March 26, 1828, and came to Saline County, Mo., with his parents in 1836. He was married four times and two children by his second wife survive him; namely, Mrs. Annie B. Kieffer, of this place, and Benson Burnside, of Everest, Kan. He went to California during the great gold excitement of '49 and remained about two years.
In the early days his was an eventful life. During the war he was a strong Union man and went into the home mititia as a lieutenant and was afterward made captain. In these stirring times he had many thrilling experiences. He had a most wonderful memory for historical events and never forgot names and dates of events that came under his notice. He was taken down at DeWitt, where he remained about two weeks, when he came to Miami and his since been ill at the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Kieffer. His son, Benson, has been at his bedside ever since he became dangerously ill and he has not wanted for the slightest attention. One brother and four sisters survive him; namely, George L. Burnside, of Marshall, and Mesdames R. C. Byers, of Waverly; A. M. Carroll, of Marshall; M. M. Robinson, of Everest, Kan., and Phoebe R. Fulkerson, of Cainsville, Mo. His remains were interred at the Bluff cememtery Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.
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PATRICK CAHILL
Died, of typhoid fever, last Saturday morning, March 3, 1900, Patrick Cahill, aged 67 years. His funeral took place Sunday afternoon from the residence, one mile southwest of Slater, to the City cemetery. The deceased came to his residence from Miami township less than a year ago. Slater Rustler.
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BUFORD BOWEN CASEBOLT
Died August 2, 1900, Buford Bowen Casebolt, of peritonitis, after an illness of several weeks duration with bilious remittent fever. Deceased, the second son of Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Casebolt, was born April 7, 1870. On March 18, 1896, he was married to Miss Landora Dick, and to that union two children were born, Milton Buford and Lester Deane.
Buford was stricken in the full vigor of young manhood, in the morning of this brief existence, when the shadows of the years still fell far to the westward. He had just girded himself for life's battle, manly, prudent and brave. But death cannot come untimely to him who is fit to die.
For Landora, class favorite, now first to suffer, we feel the deepest sympathy. No purer, gentler soul e'er tempered the life of man. May she abide with unshrinking firmness this great sorrow, that the footsteps of the little ones may be turned in the way that the father would have trod, and then, all will be well.
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EVA MARIE CHILCOTT
Died, at her home at 2 o'clock in the a.m., Tuesday, February 27, 1900, Eva Marie, daughter of James M. and Emma Chilcott, at the age of 17 months and 8 days. She had been ill for about six weeks and quite low for about two weeks. The remains were laid to rest at the Baptist cemetery Tuesday at about 3 p.m., Rev. J. W. Ezell conducting the services at the grave.
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MISS FANNIE A. CHILCOTT
Died, at Kansas City, Sunday afternoon, March 25, 1900, Miss Fannie A. Chilcott, daughter of Aaron and Evalyne Chilcott, at the age of 47 years, 7 months, 12 days.
Deceased was born in Virginia and came to Saline county about 25 years ago with her parents. After living here for about 10 years she returned to Virginia, where she engaged in the millinery business. About four years ago she went to Nebraska where she made her home until about three weeks ago, when she came to Miami. She had been in poor health for about four years and in the hope of recovery went to Kansas City last week and entered the German Hospital. Saturday she underwent an operation, from the effects of which she died Sunday afternoon.
Her remains were interred in the Baptist cemetery at Miami at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Elder G. E. Prewitt conducting the last sad rites.
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MRS. J. G. CRAVENS
Gone to Claim Her Reward
Died, at her home near Miami, May 24, 1900, Mrs. Rebecca McCibben Cravens, wife of J. G. Cravens, Esq.
Mrs. Cravens was born in the town of Hillsborough, Ohio, April 13, 1842; married in 1862; joined the Church in 1863; and came to Saline County in 1868. She leaves a devoted husband and nine grown children (five girls and four boys) to mourn her loss.
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OUR DOG, PETER EDMONDS
Peter was a dog and an honored member of our family. He died Aug. 26, 1900, aged 17 years and 4 months. He was fondled, caressed and loved by the children; he was treated with consideration and respect by adults. There is perhaps no feeling of our nature so vague and mysterious as that with which we look upon the lifeless forms of our dead friends. The dignity with which death invests even a dog that loved us inspires us with an awe no living thing can prompt. Our old dog was free from malice, envy and jealousy; he was not selfish, nor was he ungrateful. Surely such a creature as this, coming from the hand of God, was worthy of our love while living, and our tears when dead.
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LILLIAN MAY GRADY
Died, September 2, 1900, at Stillwater, Oklahoma, Lillian, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. K. Grady, after an illness of about two weeks. Lillian would have been one year old on September 13th. The bereaved parents have the sincerest sympathy of the News and this community in this great sorrow.
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JAMES S. GUTHREY
Died, at his home near Excelsior, Morgan County, Mo., January 4, 1900, James S. Guthrey, aged 94 years, 3 months, 13 days. Mr. Guthrey was the father of C. P. Guthrey, our county assessor, and for years was a resident of this vicinity, living on the farm on which James Reynolds now resides. He was highly esteemed and belonged to a family that has been prominent in Saline county for years.
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ARTHUR TIMOTHY HILL
Died, at his home in Slater, Wednesday, March 28, 1900, at 3 o'clock a.m., at the age of nearly 22-years, Arthur Timothy Hill, after 2 1/2 weeks' illness, the result of pneumonia.
The deceased was the son of Dennis and Mary Hill and was born in Chariton County, and for 8 years up to last May lived at Miami, when he moved to Slater, where he drove a dairy wagon for Claude Fields. He joined the Christian Church at this place in 1893, and was a consistent member.
Funeral wervices were conducted at the family residence in Slater by Elder Shelton, and the remains were interred at the Baptist cemetery at this place Thursday, Elder Prewitt officiating.
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MRS. HALLIE INGRAM
Called home, Mrs. Hallie Ingram, daughter of Judge R. and Mrs. Lizzie Smith, was taken from her earthly to her heavenly home April 4, 1900, at her home near Sharon, Mo., after a bried illness of pneumonia.
She was born August 8, 1869, hence was in her thirty-first year. She was married to F. G. Ingram March 4, 1894, and to them were born two sweet little girls, who, with her husband, parents, four brothers and one sister, mourn her loss.
Miss Hallie, as she was familiarly known, had a host of friends who sincerely loved her for her many noble traits of character. As a mother she was patient and tender; as a wife, she was faithful and true; as a daughter and sister, she was devoted and thoughtful. Her greatest pleasure was in seeking to make others happy. In girlhood, while at school in Fulton, she professed faith in Christ and united with the Presbyterian Church, and ever afterwards lived a consistent Christian life. A large circle of friends experienced a personal loss in her death, and extend their sincere sympathy to the bereaved.
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MRS. MARY ANNIE ISH
Mrs. Annie Ish died at her home in this city on Wednesday, November 14, 1900.
Mrs. Ish was born in Culpepper County, Virginia, December 5, 1840. Her maiden name was Willis. In 1857 she moved with her father's family to Missouri. On August 20, 1867, she was married to Judge J. B. Ish, who died March 9, 1890. Mrs. Ish united with the Baptist Church when she was 12-years old, and has been an earnest member throughout life. Her funeral sermon was preached by Rev. Wm. Bell at the Methodist Church yesterday at 1:30 p.m. and interment took place at the family lot on Victoria Hill, a part of the old homestead.
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WILLIAM C. JOHNSTON
[There is no date on this obituary, but it is pasted on the same page as other 1900 deaths, so I am including it in the 1900 items]
William C. Johnston died of cancer of the stomach at his brother's residence, five miles east of Miami, Wednesday, September 5, at 11 o'clock a.m., in the 49th year of his age.
Mr. Johnston was born near Kingston, Ross County, Ohio. In 1871 he moved with his parents to Saline and located near Malta Bend. He was united in marriage to Miss Mary Graves in 1882 and to this union was born one child, which lived only a few years. Rev. Thomas Barbee preached the funeral sermon and interment took place at the Odd Fellows Cemetery. A great many friends were present from all part of the county.
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CHARLES L. LATIMER
Death Results From Injuries Received Last Week
Died, at Kansas City, Wednesday evening, January 31, 1900, at 5 o'clock, at the age of about 60-years, C. L. Latimer, of Marshall.
Deceased was a native of Kentucky. For a number of years he lived on a farm five miles east of Miami, which he owned at the time of his death, but had for several years lived at Marshall. He married Miss Henrietta Hawes, of Kentucky, who with two children survive to mourn his loss. His children are, namely, Jemimi, wife of Dr. Bondurant Hughes, of Keytesville, and Charles, who lives at home.
Mr. Latimer went to Kansas City last week on business and put up at the lodging house of J. H. Casebolt, formerly of Miami, who has long been his personal friend. On Tuesday morning at about 1 o'clock he arose from bed and went out on the street. Mr. Casebolt, hearing him get up and go out, got up and dressed to go see where he had gone. He found a pool of blood near the front steps and about a block away he found Mr. Latimer, with a bad cut over his eye, his nose badly bruised and bleeding profusely, in the charge of a policeman. The police surgeon was summoned and dressed his wounds and he was taken back to Mr. Casebolt's. He was never rational after he received the blow and how he received his wound may be a mystery forever. Tuesday evening he was taken to Dr. Coe's private sanitarium where he remained until he died. His remains were brought to Marshall and will be interred at 2 o'clock today.
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MRS. RHODY B. LYON
Died, at her residence, 4-miles east of Miami, Mo., April 29, 1900, Mrs. Rhody B. Lyon, beloved wife of George T. Lyon, in the 51st year of her age.
Deceased was born in Henry County, Ky., but had lived in Saline County, Mo., since early childhood. She was the daughter of William C. Monroe; her mother the sister of James Erwin. She was united in marriage to George T. Lyon on February 13, 1876. A husband and five children are left to mourn the loss of a devoted wife and an affectionate mother.
Sunday School Teacher at Rest
Memorial and resolutions by her class: Of all sorrows which come to us, the most burdensome one is when the death angel comes and plucks from our home, or community, a loved one, especially one with whom we have been associated as our Sunday School teacher. We esteemed Mrs. Lyon with pride and had full confidence in her teachings. She was punctual, when possible, as a teacher; sympathetic in her judgment, love, and benevolence to her family and many friends. Her death brings deep sorrow to the Church and community.
Signed:
MRS. MARIA EASTIN
STELLA WALSH
CASSIE WALSH
ONA DAVIS
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MRS. JONATHAN MILLER
Died, at her home near Sharon, Mo., six miles east of this city, Tuesday, January 9, 1900, at 12 o'clock noon, Mrs. Jonathan Miller, at the age of 67 years, 9 months and 27 days.
The deceased, whose maiden name was Adeline Whitmore, was born in Rockingham County, Va., April 4, 1832. She was converted and united with the Methodist Church at the age of 17 years and remained a member of that church for 40 years. Some 10 years ago she united with the Baptist Church, making her Christian life 50 years as an active, faithful and zealous worker for the Lord.
She was married to Mr. Jonathan Miller in October, 1854. They moved to Miami, Saline County, in the fall of 1857 and settled on a farm which has been their home unto her death.
She was the mother of ten children; viz; John D., May J.B., Joseph E., Margaret A., Augusta V., Dr. Arthur L., Anna L., Minnie E., Charles E., and William M, two of whom, John D., March 2, 1856, and Margaret A., August 12, 1867, preceded her to the spirit world. She leaves a husband and eight children to mourn her death.
The funeral services were held at the Miami Baptist Church Wednesday, January 10, conducted by Rev. W. M. Bell. The remains were laid to rest by the side of her sister, Mrs. Isaac Myers,[Margaret Ann Whitmore] at the Baptist cemetery in the presence of a large number of sorrowing relatives and friends. The grave dwhen finished was covered with evergreens and the benediction was pronounced by Rev. J. A. Creighton, of the Presbyterian Church.
Items in the Miami News relating to the death of Adeline (Whitmore) Miller
....Mrs. Gussie Morris, of Texas, came to Sharon yesterday, via Slater, to attend the funeral of her mother, Mrs. Jonathan Miller, but was too late to see her buried.
....Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Miller, of Gilliam, were in Miami Wednesday to attend the funeral of Mrs. Miller.
....Mr. and Mrs. James Long, of Fairville, were in attendance at the funeral of Mrs. Miller.
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AMOS RILEY MILLSAPS
Died, about 5 miles east of Miami, Sunday afternoon, February 25, 1900, at 4 o'clock, Amos Riley Millsaps, son of James and Mildred Millsaps, at the age of about 40 years. Deceased was an unmarried man and a member of the Presbyterian Church. His remains were interred at the Sullivan cemetery at 4 o'clock Monday, the Rev. James Rider conducting the services.
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BENJAMIN H. POE
Delirious From Sickness Sends a Bullet Through His Brain
A telegram announcing that Ben H. Poe had killed himself at 6 o'clock Monday morning, January 15, 1900, at Kansas City, came as a shock to the community. For many years he drove the hack between Miami Station and this place. Every man who knew him was his friend. No one ever asked a favor of him that he did not grant if it was in his power. He was noted for his obliging disposition and even temper under all circumstances.
He left here in September and went to Kansas City on account of his health, much to the regret of all. He secured a position as carriage driver for the Depot Carriage and Buggy Company and was prospering and had not been despondent. He was taken ill with pneumonia on Wednesday, and as is usual, became delirious. On Sunday and Sunday night he was raving, imagining among other things that he was about to be taken to the Philippines and protesting that he would kill himself before he would go. It had always been his custom to sleep with a revolver under his pillow. While no one thought of his committing a rash act, he would not allow the gun to be removed. At about 6 o'clock Monday morning, while his wife was bending over him in attendance, in his delirium he suddenly grabbed her. She broke away and ran for help. Before she got out of the room he pulled the cover over his head and shot himself in the temple. Death was instantaneous. Mrs. Poe was nearly overcome by the shock and neighbors rushed to her assistance.
Deceased was born May 4, 1862, near Roanoke, Chariton County, Mo. He came Pleasant Park, Carroll County, at the age of 12 years. He married Miss Martha A. Gentry, of Boone County, March 20, 1881. There were born of this union seven children, four of whom, with his wife, survive to mourn his loss. The children range in age from 15-months to 14 years, and are, namely: Abbie, Roy, Ruth, and Amos. He carried $3,000 life insurance.
The remains were taken to DeWitt Tuesday evening on the 7:40 train. Funeral services were held at Pleasant Park Church at 11 o'clock a.m. Wednesday and his body was laid to rest in the Pleasant Park cemetery. the whole community extends sympathy to the bereaved family.
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MRS, ROBERT RUXTON
Died, at her home in Miami, Mo., Saturday, March 17, 1900, at 5 o'clock p.m., Mrs. Mary Palmore Ruxton, wife of Capt. Robert Ruxton.
Deceased was the daughter of Wm. and Jane Palmore Brown, and was born in Cumberland County, Va., May 1, 1825. With her parents she came to Saline County, Mo., in 1832 and settled in the Mt. Carmel neighborhood.
She was married to Robert Ruxton May 22, 1853, at Mt. Carmel Church. Of this union there were born three sons: Alvin K., of this place; Spencer P., deceased; and William R., of Springfield Mo.
Her remains were interred at Mt. Carmel cemetery Monday, March 19. Her funeral sermon will be preached the first Sunday in April, at the M. E. Church, at this place, by Rev. J. W. Ezell.
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FREDERICK SMITH
Died, at his home in Marshall, Sunday, August 26, 1900, Frederick Smith, aged 87 years. Mr. Smith was born in Switzerland and came to this county when a youth. He was a veteran of the Mexican and Civil wars. "Uncle Fred" was for many years a citizen of Miami where he was well and favorable known. About fifteen years ago he removed to Marshall. A widow and three children survive him.
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LUCY TITUS
The body of Lucy Titus, a colored woman reported to be 106 years old at her death, was brought here from Kansas City yesterday for burial. She was the mother of "Aunt" Martha Washington who died recently.
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MISS ELIZA TURPIN
Miss Eliza Turpin, of Carrollton, was found dead in her bed at her home at that place Saturday morning, March 3, 1900. She was about 56 years old. Deceased was a sister of Mrs. John Robertson, of this place, with whom at one time she lived for about two years, and had many friends here. She was born at Carrollton, Ill., and came to Missouri about 33-years ago, and has lived in the vicinity of Carrollton ever since. She was an active member in the C. W. B. M., and at the time of her death had been traveling in the interest of that society for some months. She lived alone at Carrollton and the time of her death is not known exactly and is supposed to have been the result of heart failure. Her remains were interred at Carrollton Sunday.
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WHITAKER TWINS
The twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Whitaker, Jr., died one on the 14th and one on the 15th of December, 1900. They were born Nov. 19, 1900. Burial at Bethel, December 16.
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MRS. J. L. WILSON
Died, at her home, 5 miles north of Miami, Saturday, Sept. 15, 1900, at 9:50 a.m., Mrs. Elizabeth Jane Wilson, the beloved wife of J. Logan Wilson. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. W. Ezell at the Methodist Church and the interment at the Baptist Cemetery. A large concourse of relatives and friends were in attendance.
Mrs. Wilson's maiden name was Yocum. She was born in Platte County, Mo., June 11, 1841, and was married May 24, 1857; united with the Methodist Church at the age of 17. Whe was the mother of eight children, two died in infancy, the others are married and settled in this vicinity and Kansas.
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MRS. P. M. ZEA
A good woman gone....Mrs. P. M. Zea Dies At Her Home in Miami Tuesday Morning
Died, at her home in Miami, Mo., Tuesday, July 3, 1900, at 6:30 a.m., Mrs. P. M. Zea, at the age of 68 years, 8 months, 8 days.
Mrs. Zea was born October 25, 1831, at Strausburg, Va. She was united in marriage to P. M. Zea on June 16, 1859. To this union were born two daughters, Mrs. Ada A. Winning, wife of J. L. Winning, of Sharon, Mo., and Miss Mary L. Zea, deceased.
Mrs. Zea united with the Christian Church when 17 years old. A short time after her marriage she moved from Virginia to Brunswick, Mo. After a residence of five years in that city she moved with her husband to Urbanna, Ohio; back to Brunswick in 1866, and from that place to Miami in 1868, where she has since resided. In the last years of her life she has been an invalid, in consequence she has been prevented from an active participation in either the service of the church or society. She was a devoted wife; she idolized her children, and loved her flowers. "Now mother and Mary are together."
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A TERRIBLE MURDER
Tom Purcell Shoots and Kills Jim Bailey
Purcell jailed here...
Malta Bend, the Scene of the Crime, is agitated
March, 1900
The most terrible crime known to Malta Bend was committed on the main street of that town shortly after six o'clock Saturday evening, March 10th. Thomas Q. Purcell, aged 21, shot and killed Charles C. Bailey, aged 23.
These two young men come of two of the best known families in western Saline County, and had lived in Malta Bend nearly all their lives. Thomas is the oldest son of W. Q. Purcell, and junior editor of the Malta Bend Democrat. Charles, or "Jim" as he was familiarly called, was the only son of the late Esquire A. G. Bailey, and one of the most popular and well-liked young men of the town.
The difficulty which led to the fearful tragedy commenced on Friday evening, occasioned by Purcell, who had been drinking, imposing on a little boy, and Bailey, taking the part of the little fellow, when Purcell turned upon Bailey, using very profane and insulting language. Bailey, considering the condition of Purcell at that time, did not resent the insults, and walked away to avoid further trouble. Witnesses to this affair say Purcell had a revolver at the time. It is also reported Purcell made threats that he would "kill Bailey if he ever crossed his path again."
On the next evening, at the time mentioned, Bailey was on the way from his home up town. Witnesses state that when passing C. N. Schooley's livery stable Purcell called Bailey in, saying he wanted to "settle their little affair." Bailey accepted the challenge, hot words were passed, and Bailey knocked Purcell down with his fist, then walked off, going on toward the business portion of the town. Purcell quickly recovered and followed Bailey out on to the street, saying,"........."! It isn't settled yet," and drew his revolver. A passer-by, seeing the action, warned Bailey who had his back to Purcell, and at that instant one shot was fired. Bailey turned on his antagonist, seemingly with the intention of wrenching the weapon from his hand, when another bullet was sent with deadly intent. Bailey forced Purcell back into the stable, when two more shots were fired in quick succession. The wounded man again succeeded in knocking down his assailant and secured the revolver. Percy Purcell, a brother next in age to Tom, attacked Jim with a razor, but was prevented from using it by a Negro employee at the stable. Bailey then came out of the stable and walked up the street as far as the front of the Palmer block, when he sank on the steps leading upstairs. Friends soon gathered about him and he was carried to Cox's Drug Store, where Dr. J. R. Brown made an examination and found that one bullet had entered the abdomen on the left side, another had struck about the point of the breast bone, but did not take effect. The young man lived about an hour and ten minutes, and was conscious almost to the time he died.
The Purcell boys were immediately arrested, taken to Marshall and turned over to the sheriff.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. D. L. Lander at the Presbyterian Church on Monday morning at 10 o'clock. The remains were interred in the north cemtery. The widowed mother and four sisters have the truest sympathies of all who know them.
[There is testimony in this case and other articles about the case pasted into my grandfather's scrapbook. If anyone is particularly interested, please contact me at "[email protected]" and I will provide additional data.]
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