January 30, 1880
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
Mrs. M. R. Chapman's clothing caught fire on the place of Mr. R. H. Thomas, near Sparta, from a brush heap in the field and burned her fatally. Her clothing was entirely consumed.

April 9, 1880
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
  The Sparta Ismaelite says: Our community was filled with sad suprize on last Sunday by the death of Mr. Lavoisier Forbes. Although it was not expected that he would ever grow well and strong again, very few thought that he would pass away so soon. He was taken sick on the 4th of last July, since which time his decline has been steady and irresistible. At the time when insidious consumption laid hold on him, he was principal in this establishment. He gave up that job, and after months of confinement to his room gained strenght enough to take a trip to Florida. But the disease had laid fast hold on him, and after a few months he returned home to die. Sunday morning, a few minutes after eight o'clock, he bade his friends and relatives farwell and went quietly out, as one going to sleep.

June 11, 1880
Daily Constitution
Death of Mrs. Dr. Powell
     Last evening, shortly after 4 o'clock, Mrs. Powell, wife of Dr. Thomas S. Powell, of this city, died at his residence. Mrs. Powell's demise was sudden, although she had been in feeble health for some time past.
  She died of an affection of the heart. The news of her death will sadden many a household where her name and character were revered and esteemed. She was a well beloved lady.
  Last night her remains were taken on board the Macon train en route to Sparta for interment.
  The genuine sympathies of the public will be given to Dr. Powell in this hour of his sad bereavement.

June 24, 1880
Macon Telegraph and Messenger
Augusta News: One of the census enumerators in Hancock county came across a family in which there had been thirteen children born at six births - twins five times and triplets once.

July 16, 1880
Daily Constitution
Death of Colonel Whitehead
We regret to learn of the sudden demise of Colonel Whitehead, which occurred yesterday, at his home in Sparta. The colonel was well known in Atlanta where he lived for many years prior to his return to Sparta which occurred about two years ago.

June 27, 1880
Daily Constitution
Milledgeville, June 25. Still dry, dusty and hot. Corn presents a sickly appearance; cotton looking well, but needed rain.
     The nomination of Hancock and English is enthusiastically received.
  Colquitt and Brown stock is improving.
    Benevolent lodge No. 3, F.A. M., whose charter is signed by DeWitt Clinton, grand master of U.S., celebrated St. Johns day, yesterday, with a coalition, and the bill of fare was much more comprehensive than the old saint's daily meat of  "locusts and wild honey." Many of the number spent the day with Daniel lodge No. 85, at Island creek. Colonel Miller Grieve, of this city, made a speech there, which, for historical research, chastens of diction, vindication of the purposes and designs of the order and forcible delivery, is seldom equaled and more rarely surpassed. A bounteous dinner, which none know better how to prepare that the Island creekers, was partaken of by 600 or 800 guests. Baldwin, Hancock, Jones, Putnam and Washington counties were represent. At a late hour the acres of buggies and other vehicles bore their live freight homeward, with "three cheers and one cheer more" for Colonel Grieve, the good matrons and lovely daughters of Island creek, and the worthy brothers of Daniel lodge No. 85.

July 23, 1880
Georgia Weekly Telegraph and Journal & Messenger.
   A Desperate fight occurred at Devereaux station on  Sunday night, between Edgar Simmons and Lewis Butts, both colored, resulting in the instant death of the first. The jugular vein was severed by a pistol ball. Butts was terribly carved.

August 7, 1880
Columbus Daily Enquirer-Sun
Mr. William Jordan, in Carroll county, had a barbecue and reunion of all his children, who amount to 97 in all. Uncle Bill, as he is called, was born in Hancock county, Ga., in 1810, and is 70 years of age. He has cultivated a good large crop this year, doing most of the plowing himself. His wife was born in 1817, and is 63 years of age. She was born in Elbert county. These two old people have fifteen children, of which five are dead. The other ten were at the barbecue. They have 68 grandchildren, four great grandchildren alove, which only leave eight of this large family that are dead. Those who were present say the old man killed meat enough and had plenty to have fed over a thousand people read for his children when they arrived.

August 10, 1880
The Telegraph and Messsenger and The Telegrah Exchange
OLD-FASHIONED CAMP MEETING.
Hancock County's Great Revival - Large Crowds and Deep Interest,
  On Sunday morning a Telegraph and Messenger reported landed at Culverton, in Hancock county, near which thriving little town is being held one of the largest camp meetings organized in middle Georgia for many years. The camp is pitched in a grove several hundred yards to the right of the railroad, and is very comfortably arranged. The tents, as they are still called, are commodious frame dwellings, built of unplaned lumber, most of them two stories high.
  The floors are covered with fresh, sweet straw, and the beds neat and well arranged. In the middle of the grove is a gigantic shed, built of heavy timber and shingled; beneath its wide spreading roof were seats sufficient to accommodate even the crowd of from fifteen hundred to two thousand, which were present on Sunday. In the western side the altar stood, and beneath it lay the traditional horn used to call the worshippers
together. About the grounds we noticed hundreds of vehicles, the larger portion of the crowd present attending from their homes.
  Among the ministers in attendance were Rev. J. O. A. Clark, Rev. Joseph S. Key, Rev. George Patillo, Rev. A. J, Jarrell, Rev. D. D. Cox, Rev. W. A. Dodge, Rev. Green D. Kendrick, Rev. Simon P. Richardson, Bishop George F. Pierce, Rev. Thomas Pierce, Dr. A. G. Haygood, Rev. H. H. Parks, and Rev. W. T. Hamilton.
    Divine service was held at 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and at night, Revs. A. G. Haygood, Jos. S. Key, S. P. Richardson and A. J. Jarrell officiating.
  A large number of colored people were present, attending service and conducting themselves in a most orderly manner.
  At 2 p.m., they were addressed by a minister of their own number in an earnest and enlightened manner.
  the exercises of the morning closed at about 12:30 o'clock, when all adjourned for dinner. The hospital tents were thrown open and private baskets investigated. The bishop entertained large numbers in his own tent. The camp at night presented a beautiful appearances; in addition to the lights under the central shed and the lights of the various tents, fires built upon stands scattered about the grove filled the scene with a soft radiance, through which the forms of many and interested couple, or meditative wanderer, passed slowly to and fro. When the services were all ended, gathered about the tents the crowd in groups spent the remainder of the evening in social converse.
  The meeting will last through to-morrow, though we learn that many will content to abide on the grounds for a week or so to get the benefit of open air life, and the waters of a neighboring mineral spring.

August 17, 1880
Columbus Daily Enquirer-Sun
  Rev. G. H. Patillo tells the Sparta Times and Planter of a remarkable occurrence that he witnessed the other day. While passing the premises of Rev. D. D. Cox he saw a pick suckling a cow. The pig ha reared up against the cow's hind legs, thus having access to the teats. Both seemed to enjoy the novelty of the thing.

August 20, 1880
Columbus Daily Enquirer-Sun
  Mr. A. S. Carmichael, of Sparta, died Monday.

September 21, 1880
Union and Recorder
  Mrs. Rebecca Salter, daughter of the late Judge Linton Stephens, died suddenly in Sparta on Friday morning last.

October 8, 1880
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
Sparta Times and Planter: We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Josiah Carr, which occurred last Sunday morning. She was the daughter of Mr. Henry Collins and a most estimable lady.
   With sorrow we chronicle the death of Mrs. (Mr.) A. B. Buckner. After a lingering illness of several months his life went out quietly, peacefully. Without a struggle his spirit took its flight into eternity. What a fitting death - as he lived so he died. mr. Buckner was a gentleman of sterling qualities, and his death leaves a  void in the community that will be hard to fill. For a number of years he was clerk of the Superior Court and he discharged his duties with efficiency. He was buried with Masonic honors.

October 8, 1880
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
Mr. J. R. Binion, Jr., of Island Creek, died last week. He was the victim of typhoid fever. He was a young man of promise, and his early taking off is sad indeed.

October 20, 1880
Columbus Daily Enquirer
Mr. W. F. Little and Miss Lillie Culver, of Sparta are married.

November 23, 1880
Macon Telegraph and Messenger
Sparta Times and Planter:  Mr. William Grant, an old and respected citizen of this county, died on Saturday the 11th instant. Mr. Grant was seventy-one years of age.

January 31, 1881
Macon Telegraph and Messenger
Sparta Times and Planter: We regret to chronicle the death of Mr. John Boyer, which said event occurred at his residence in this county on the 24th inst. He was one of the oldest citizens of the county, being at the time of his death about seventy-two years of age. He was one of the early settlers who enlisted in the Indian war.

February 1, 1881
Union and Recorder
 From the Times & Planter we learn of the death of Mrs. Mary Boyer, at Linton, on the 17th ult.

February 23 1881
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta, February 21 - Yesterday, at Jewell's Mills, in this county, died Mr. Orlando Jewell, a young gentleman of excellent social standing and generous impulses. For a long time he had been in the clutches of consumption and finally yielded to its grasp. All lament his death.
Hon. George F. Pierce, Jr., left to-day for court. His duties as solicitor of the Northern circuit will be ably performed. Prof. Willoughby Reade made a number of friends by his recent recitations in Sparta.

March 29, 1881
Union and Recorder
  From the "Times & Planter," we learn that a fiendish attempt was made, last Wednesday, upon the person of a respectable young lady, Miss Lizzie Johnson, living about eight miles south-east of Sparta, by a negro man named Felix Barnes. She desperately and successfully resisted his attempt upon her virtue. Her person was considerably bruised by the blows of the villian. The timely appearance of a gentleman in a buggy was all that saved her. The negro fled into a swamp, but was arrested and acknowledged the crime. The next day his body was found in the road at the spot where the violence was committed, his head nearly severed from his body, and several bullet holes through him.

April 5, 1881
Union and Recorder
  Mr. Joshua Barnes, aged 79 years, died recently in the upper part of Hancock county.

April 23, 1881
The Macon Telegraph and Messenger
Linked in Hymen's Chain.
  Yesterday the oft recurring question of "Who'll be the next?" was answered for the Sparta pubic when Mr. Willie H. Bone, of Macon, led to the altar Miss Sallie S. Harris, one of Sparta's fairest flowers. The ceremony took place at the Methodist church at 3 o'clock, Rev. D. D. Cox officiating. Such an event never fails to attract a crowd, and this was no exception to the rule. No attempt was made at display, and yet the concourse of lookers-on was large and the interest manifested was not abated by the lack of it. Unattended Mr. Bone led his charming bride to the altar, and in the presence of the many witnesses the preacher pronounced them husband and wife. The groom is well known in Hancock. where he lived for a number of years. A more genial gentleman than Willie has never been our pleasure to know. Courteousness and affability are characteristics with him that mark a well balanced mind and a heart of noble impulses. The bride is indeed a fit companion for such a noble husband. She is endowed with qualities that will fill her home with sunshine, and bless the life of him with whom her destiny is linked.
  Immediately after the ceremony the happy young couple left on the evening train for the home of the groom's father in Baldwin county, near Steven's Pottery, where a reception will be given them. They are followed by the very best wishes of the entire community. To our young friend and his bride we extend congratulations. In this indissoluable union of hearts may they realize the full fruition of the very sweetest joys of wedded life. Sparta Times.
  Mr. Bone is the energetic and gentlemanly traveling agent of Messrs. Jaques and Johnson, of this city, and one of the most popular "boys" on the road. We extend our congratulations.

June 14, 1881
Union and Recorder
  On Thursday 2nd inst., Hon. Thos. Warthen and Miss Carrie Middlebrooks of Hancock county were married.

June 24, 1881
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
The Sparta Ishmaelite says Rev. Josiah Lewis, Sr., died in that place on the 11th inst., aged seventy-three years, after surviving five strokes of paralysis. He had been in the ministry thirty-nine years.

July 27, 1881
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Died. In Sparta, on the evening of July 26th,Mrs. Seaborn Reese, second daughter of Col. A. J. Lane, of Bibb county.

August 18, 1881
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
Says the Augusta News: A FAMILY OF GREAT LONGEVITY. There recently died in Hancock County a maiden lady, Miss Winifred B. Wilson, who came of a family noted for great longevity. The parents were married in 1797, and the average of their ages was 82 years. They had eight children, the first of whom, Mrs. T. C. Latimer, died at the age of 54. The lady mentioned above was 82 years old, and there are six of the family now living whose ages range from 67 to 80. Their names and ages are as follows: Wm. L. Wilson, 80; Mrs. E. A. Rachels, 78; Mrs. T. C. Howard, 73; Mrs. L. B. Tucker, 71; Mr. R. L. Wilson, 69; Mrs. M. H. Wilkes, 67. the average age of those living is 73 years.

August 30, 1881
Union and Recorder
  From the Times & Planter. Mrs. Wm. Boykin, an aged lady of Sparta, died on  Saturday last.

November 11, 1881
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
   We learn from the Sparta Times and Planter that Bishop Pierce returned from the West last Friday, bringing with him an Indian youth, with the purpose of educating him for the ministry. The young man, whose age we suppose to be about eighteen, is named, we believe, for the Bishop, George Freeman. He is said to be a convert to the Christian religion, giving, unmistakable evidence of his gentleness, piety and devotion to the cause. He entered school at the academy last Monday, where he will purse his studeis until prepared to enter college, when the Bishop will send him to Oxford.

December 23, 1881
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
  Mr. Uriah King, of Linton, Ga., widely known in this county and a very worthy man, died at his home on Tuesday last. He had many friends and relatives in this city (Milledgeville) and county.

February 28, 1882
Union and Recorder
Mrs. Fanny Little and Dr. A. M. Burt were married in Sparta recently.

April 1, 1882
The Macon Telegraph and Messenger
  Sparta, Ga., March 31 - Mrs. A. A. Underwood, who lives about four miles from this place, is critically ill and is not expected to live.
  Mr. and Mrs. R. M. Thomas gave Col. Louis H. Thomas, of Athens, and bride, nee Miller, who had just arrived from Savannah, the former residence of the bride, and elegant reception night before last.
  A ledger which was used here in 1820  was shown here to-day. One of the young men of the place says it is the only ledger in town which has not got his name on it.
  Mr. James Smith is building a court house here which will cost $25,000. He expects to complete it in time for the October term of the court to be held in it. It will be one of the handsomest court houses in the State - two storeis high, and will be a credit to the city and county. It will have two fire-proof rooms for keeping the records of the county init. The county has half enough money on hand now to pay for the building, and the remainder will be derived from the taxes this year without making the rate burdensome.

April 21, 1882
Georgia Weekly Telegraph
Sparta Ishmaelite: Many years ago a woman lived in fine style in this county. She died recently at the poor house, 98 years of age. Her name is Polly Huckabee. The vicissitudes of live are many and wonderful, but the grave makes all things even. The clods of the valley press full as lightly on the beggar as upon the prince. The rough ways and the smooth ways all have a common blending in the dust.

April 22, 1882
The Macon Telegraph and Messenger
  Sparta, Ga., April 20. - The stillness of the town is only broken by the noise of the stone-cutters, as they "peck away" on the granite for the corners of the new courthouse.
  Mr. James Smith, the contractor, is  receiving the pressed brick for the outside of the building, and we hope soon to see a handsome and substantial structure reared in the place of the one which was for so long a shame to our county.
  Miss M. A. Bail is having a fine monument erected over the grave of her uncle, Mr. E. F. Cothern, who for a long time was one of our most prominent merchants, and, withal, a successful business man.
  Judge J. C. Simmons is still to unwell to be able to attend to any business, and his conditions has been several times very critical; but he is a man of great cheerfulness and indomitable will, and these qualities are often as valuable in the patient as skill in the physician.
  Rev. Warren Candler, pastor of the M. E. Church, will deliver the address on memorial ay. We expect a treat, for what Mr. Candler does, he does well. A. H.

May 5, 1882
Atlanta Constitution
HYMENEAL
MEEKER - STEVENS - Married at the residence of Mr. John A. Barry, 93 Washington street, last evening, by Rt. Rev. Wm. Gross, Mr. John A. Meeker, of Athens, Ga., to Miss Emmy Stevens, daughter of Rev. Carlos W. Stevens and Lou Gonder Stevens, late of Sparta, Ga.

May 20, 1882
The Macon Telegraph and Messenger
  Eatonton. To-day our community is about to pay respect to an old and honored citizen, Mr. Henry Rogers, who died at his residence, two miles north of Sparta, last night. Mr. Rogers was, for a long time, a prominent citizen of our county, a wealthy and infludential planter, and one of the first stockholders in the Montour mills. He held, for many years, the important office of ordinary of Hancock, with credit to himself, and to the satisfaction of the citizens of our county.

July 4, 1882
Southern Recorder
Hancock, From the Ishmelite. Miss Lucy Burnett, and Mr. E. S. Kendrick were married in Sparta, at the M. E. Church, on the 22nd inst.

December 9, 1882
The Telegraph and Messenger
  The Ishmaelite has found an old well in Sparta, about what the oldest inhabitant seems to be ignorant: "While a horse was passing across the street in front of the Confederate monument last Saturday, the ground gave way under his foot and a well of something over twenty feet in depth appeared. This altogether unexpected appearance created a considerable stir in town. The well is nicely walled in with rock. There was a thing covering of dirt over it-perhaps a foot in thickness. When this well was dug, or by whom, is a question of general inquiry. It is something remarkable that nothwithstanding the much travel over this part of the street, that this crust of earth should so long have withstood the pressure upon it. Whose well is it?

January 17, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
DEATH IN SPARTA,
Special to The Constitution. SPARTA, January 16. Colonel T. M. Turner, of this place, died last Sunday morning and was buried yesterday. Bishop Pierce preaching the funeral sermon. Colonel Turner was in his seventy-third year and had lived forty-five years a consistent member of the Methodist church. He was a man of irreproachable integrity and sterling worth, and by his activity in business, that of a planter, even down to his last illness, he set a good example to the young men of the country. He had, during his life, accumulated much property and died owning large tracts of land.

February 15, 1883
Columbus Daily Enquirer
-Mr. Milton Bass, an old citizen of Hancock county, died on Sunday night last at 8 o'clock.

April 18, 1883
The Telegraph and Messenger
MACON AND SPARTA
Bound by Another Tie - A Happy Marriage.
   On yesterday morning, at 7:10, a party of gentlemen left Macon to attend to important business in the neighboring town of Sparta. They arrived safely and scattered around the place until the afternoon when they participated in a social affair, which is so well described in the Ishmaelite that we cheerfully accept it:
  Miss Florence L. Little, of Sparta, was married this (Tuesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock to Mr. R. D. Clancy, of Macon. Miss Florence is the eldest daughter of Hon. F. L. Little, of Hancock county, and Mr. Clancy, better known as "Duff", is one of the most jovial and popular young men of Bibb county. The ceremony was performed at the Sparta Methodist Church, by Rev. J. W. Burke, of Macon. No man ever won a more worthy bride, and, from personal acquaintance, we are satisfied that no bride ever won a truer or nobler husband. We trust happiness and prosperity may follow them. They never followed a fairer couple.
  The attendants were Mr. W. D. Williams, of Macon, and Miss Claud S. Simons, of Sparta, Mr. T. C. Parker of Macon, and Miss Yula Reese, of Madison, R. S. Little and Miss Willie Sassnette, of Sparta, Mr. Johnson Clancy, of Macon, and Miss Berta Rogers, of Hancock.
   The church was remarkably handsomely decorated, and the marriage ceremony was performed under an artistically arranged floral umbrella. The bridal party left on the 3:30 train for Macon.

May 8, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta Sunbeam: On Sunday afternoon in company with a friend we visited the grave of one of Georgia's noblest sons, Judge Linton Stephen's, whose gigantic intellect once sparkled with all the dazzling splendour of the noonday sun, and within whom the elements of true manhood were as well developed as the sturdy oak of the virgin forest. Within a neat picket enclosure erected by loving hands not more than thirty paces from the front entrance to his family residence, is the grave of Judge Stephen's. It is not overshadowed by the tall heights of an Italian monument and is unmarked save by a mound over which the smiles of spring have thrown a robe of green. The rose and the jessamine growing in trained luxuriance, mingle their fragrance, and the tall cedars and trailing vines give the scene a quiet loveliness that is in keeping with the cherished memories of the dead.

May 23, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
Death of Uncle Jacob
From the Sparta Sunbeam
     Old Uncle Jacob, who for many years attended to the graves in the cemetery, has laid aside his hoe forever and his old worn out frame has sunk to rest in the soil so often pressed by his own industrious footsteps. Never more will his palsied hand water the drooping flowers which love plants on the graves of the departed, nor train the foliage of trees through which the sighing winds chant a requiem above the graves of the dead; but humble as his grave may be, his own hand planted a living monument above it which nature will be-dew- with her tears and keep clothed in memory's green with her smiles, while the  flowers, offsprings of his gentle care, will waft their fragrance o'er his lowly couch and in voiceless language breathe the sacred sentiment of love and remembrance.

May 19, 1883
Union and Recorder
  Mr. George C. Smith died at his residence in Hancock county, near Island Creek, on Saturday, 19th inst. He was buried in the family grave-yard on his homestead. He leaves a wife and a large family of children to mourn their loss. He joined the Baptist church at Island Creek in his youth and retained his membership in that church 'till his death. He was 52 years of age.

June 1, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta Ishmaelite: Mr. Alonzo Birdsong was killed by the 11 o'clock train on the Macon and Augusta railroad between the Culverton depot and his residence on last Monday night. His body was found at the stock gap about two hundred and fifty yards east of the Culverton depot in a fearfully mangled condition. The coroner has gone out to hold an inquest, and some think the fact will be developed that he was killed and laid on the track to be run over by the train as a blind. This is a tragic termination of a sad life, and the life and death are a solemn lesson to the young men of Hancock. Alonzo was a bright boy-and at school a brilliant youth, the son of one of the first families of the county, but in early youth he acquired an evil habit, that has clouded his life and has been indirectly the cause of his death. In the stock gap was a flask of whisky, and on the gap there was blood, and beyond the gap lay the body of a young man, who in mind was gifted by nature far above the average of his fellow men. Behold the history of life! Not this is not all-beyond the body at home is the wife and two little children waiting for the husband and father who will never come. Alonzo was about twenty-nine years of age open handed, generous, honest, and of a kindly disposition. The one defect in his character was his thirst for sting drink, and the evils which necessarily sprung therefrom.

July 17, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta Sunbeam: Jewell's factory was sold on last Tuesday for $18,000, having been bought by Colonel W.L.L. Bowen son-in-law of Mr. D.A. Jewell. We have not learned what disposition Colonel Bowen will make of the property, but presume that the factory will continue in operation. This factory has a national reputation and is invaluable to Hancock county, and we hope that its future may be attended with prosperity.

The Sparta Sunbeam says that on Thursday afternoon the town was thrown into a flutter of excitement over a very quietly conducted matrimonial event that deprived Sparta of one of her fairest and most lovely daughters. Mr. F. H. Neary, formerly a practical attorney of Sparta and now a civil engineer on a railroad being built by Jay Gould and others in the state of Mississippi, and Miss Pierce Stewart were the contracting parties.

July 27, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
 Sparta Ishamelite: On last Tuesday night shortly before ten o'clock the barn of Hon. J. W. Moore in Culverton was seen to be on fire. No one had been in the barn that night, and this fact taken in connection with the location of the flame when first seen, indicates rather pointedly that the fire was the work of an incendiary. The loss will amount to between five and six hundred dollars with no insurance.
     The many friends of Bishop Pierce will regret to learn that he is in very feeble health. A recent trip by rail in the heat and dust so irritated and inflamed his throat that he was unable to speak without great effort for several days.

July 28, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta, Georgia
Death of Jas. B. Edwards
Special to The Constitution
Sparta, July 27 - Mr. Jas. B. Edwards, the oldest citizen of our town, died here night before last and was buried yesterday afternoon. He was a man of irreproachable moral character and business integrity, possessing the confidence of all who had dealings with him He was a bachelor and in the eight seventh year of his age The Edwards house, now kept by Miss Ball, was named for him.
  A military company has been organized and a bazaar for its benefit will be given on the 7th proximo in the new courthouse, at which time the convention in the interest of the projected railroad will convene.

August 21, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta, Georgia. DEATH. Special to The Constitution
Sparta, August 20 Mrs. L. G. Stevens, formerly of this place, but lately of Athens, died last Friday night in that city and the body was brought here yesterday for burial, accompanied by Mr. John Meeker, the son-in-law of the deceased.
      Miss A. E. Rechter, the former telegraph operator, since the strike has been sent to Eufaula, Alabama. Her place here is filled with success by a pupil of hers, Herschel Turner.

August 30, 1883
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Death of an Infant
The infant son of Mr. W. H. Bone was carried over to Sparta for burial yesterday morning. He died Tuesday night. The afflicted parents returned to the city yesterday afternoon.

September  20, 1883
Atlanta Constitution
The Sparta Ishmaelite says: "Little Lovick Pierce, son of Mr. Lovick Pierce, of Sparta, died of laryngitis on last Monday night. He was a bright little fellow of strong individuality and fine promise.

November 13, 1883
Union and Recorder
Mr. Haygood, an aged and infirm man, died at the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. Fred Butts, in the city, on Saturday last, about noon. He remains were carried to the old homestead in Hancock county, for burial.

February 5, 1884
Union and Recorder
Mrs. Mattie Collins wife of Mr. Henry M. Collins died at the residence of her husband, near Powelton, on the night of 24th inst. Mrs. Collins was a daughter of J. R. Whaley, and was one of the most estimable ladies of our county.
  Married, at the residence of the bride's father, on the 10th of Jan., last, Miss Angeline C. Irby and Mr. W. R. Cook, Rev. James M. Hall officiating.

March 20, 1884
The Macon Telegraph and Messenger
Sparta, Deaths
March 19 -Miss Stephens, an old maiden lady who kept house for Mrs. Remington, of the Edwards House, died yesterday about 5 o'clock, of consumption. She will be buried this afternoon in the cemetery here.

April 1, 1884
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta, March 31 - Mrs. T. Martin, of New York who has been quite sick here at the home of her brother, Hon. W. J. Northen, is now some better. Her son, Mr. Thomas Martin, of Augusta, came up Saturday.
  Mr. W. B. Moore has left Sparta and is drummer for Este & Wilson, grocers and real estate agents of Macon.
  Rev. Mr. George, of the Episcopal church, preached his last sermon here yesterday evening.

April 29, 1884
Atlanta Constitution
COLONEL JOHNSTON'S FUNERAL
The Service to Occur at the Residence -An Executive Order Passed.
     The funeral of Colonel Mark Johnston will take place to-day at ten o'clock. The services will be held at Colonel Johnston's late residence at West End, and he will be buried at Oakland cemetery. The funeral will be conducted by the Rev. Howard Courtney, who is the pastor of the church to which Colonel Johnston belonged. The following pall bearers have been selected: J W Warren, G I Orr, Rebert U Hardeman, Thomas C Howard, Judge Richard H craig, George W Adair, W F Siston, R P Howell. Hon. Mark Johnston, Jr. son of Colonel Johnston, has arrived from Milledgeville.
    Mr. Oliver T. White is expected to arrive today, Mr. C. P. Culver of Hancock county, arrived Sunday at 5 o'clock. Colonel Richard M. Johnston, of Baltimore, a brother of Colonel Mark Johnston, will not be present. Sunday several hundred people visited the house to view the remains, showing the high esteem in which Colonel Johnston was held.
   Colonel Johnston was born in Hancock county and would have been 67 years old had he lived until next July. He was graduated at the university of Virginia and practiced law awhile in Macon. He and Judge Ab. Powers were partners at one time. Afterward he and John Forsyth were co editors and proprietors of the Columbus Daily Times. He went to  Cartersille, which was then in Cass county, and he and Colonel Abda Johnson were partners. He represented his county twice in the senate at a time when each county had a senator. he was a brother of Richard M. Johnston and belonged to that class of old citizens, the last of whom are now rapidly passing away.
   Yesterday the governor passed the following order:
    State of Georgia, Executive Department, Atlanta, Ga, April 28, 1884: Ordered, that the offices at the capitol be closed from the hour of 9 o'clock a.m. to 2 o'clock p.m. to-morrow in respect to the memory of our late friend and co-laborer, Mark Johnston, giving to alian opportunity of attend his obsequies. he has closed his earthly labors and now rests from the severe affliction of body that for so long a time excited the anxiety and sympathy of those who loved and admired him. We who were his daily associates well knew his lofty traits of character and appreciated the rare virtues of his life and disposition and now bear witness to the great loss we sustain in his death.
HENRY D. MCDANIEL
By the governor.
J. W. WARREN,
Secretary, executive department

May 20, 1884
Atlanta Constitution
Died of His Injuries
Sparta, May 16 (Special) Master Hardy Culver, who shot himself last Saturday afternoon died last night.
   The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lovick Pierce died yesterday at 6:30 a.m., and was buried this morning at nine.

May 21, 1884
The Telegraph and Messenger
May. 20 - Mr. James D. Long, of Warren county, and Miss Yilla Amoss, of this county, were married at the residence of the bride's mother, Mrs. John Amoss, near Devereux Station, this morning at 8 a.m. The groom is a popular gentleman and a progressive young farmer while his bride is a most charming and popular young lady. The best wishes of a host of friends go with them to their new home.

July 9, 1884
The Telegraph and Messenger
SPARTA. June 8 - Mr. John W. Moate, of Devereaux, died at his home last night at 10 o'clock, of typhoid pneumonia. He had suffered constantly since about thirty days ago, though his case was not thought to be hopeless until within ten days past. Mr. Moate leaves a wife and eight children to mourn their irreparable loss, while the whole community loses one of the best men who has ever lived in their midst. He was of inestimable value to his neighborhood, being a large merchant and most kind to many farmers and others who will surely miss him most sorely. Mr. Moate was a prominent and useful member of the Methodist church and in his death that church loses one of its bright and shining lights.

August 26, 1884
Atlanta Constitution
Deaths in Hancock
Sparta, Ga., August 25. (Special) On Friday night, Mr. G. W. Bass of this county, died, after a protracted illness, and on the following morningMrs. Frank Brinkley, a resident of the same community, departed this life. Yesterday about noon, the country lost one of its most gifted artists in the death of Mr. J. F. Mendes, of our town. He was a native of Holland, where for many years he studied crayon portrait drawing under the best masters. The fact that he was but little known is due to a number of other causes and not to the inferiority of his work. Among the best portraits found in his studio is one of Dr. R. B. Nisbet, of Eatonton, Ga.

September 10, 1884
Dublin Post
Death of Bishop Pierce.   The death of Bishop George F. Pierce, at Sparta, Ga., on the 9th, inst., at 9 o'clock a.m., was the cause of many said hearts throughout the country.
  Bishop Pierce was born near Greensboro, South Carolina, in the year 1811; was sent to Athens University when fifteen years ld, and graduated in 1829. He joined the Georgia Conference in 1831, the year of its organization, being one of its first members. The first year of his ministry was crowned with flattering success, one hundred and fifty having united themselves with the church under the influence of his teachings. The third year he was appointed to the Savannah circuit, where he met Miss Annie N. Waldron, whom in married February 4th, 1834, Rev. Richard I. Wynn, now of Texas, officiating.
  Thirty years ago he was elected to the high office of Bishop by the general Conference of the Methodist Episcopal church, south, which convened in Columbus. He has conformed to the arduous duties of the important office ever since, oft continues exposing himself to hardships in order to advance his Master's cause. For over  fifty years he has, by the daily walk and kind works, pointed the transgressor to the Cross of Christ.
  In the death of Bishop Pierce the country loses one of its noblest and purest men, and the Methodist church sustains an irreparable loss.

November 12, 1884
Atlanta Constitution
Death of Mr. John Henry Baker. Sparta, Ga, November 11 (Special) Mr. John Henry Baker, of Augusta, died this morning at his residence. He was in the fifty-eighty year of his age, and had been a prominent merchant in Augusta, and then in Sparta, until old age rendered him too feeble for work and he retired from business.

December 12, 1884
Atlanta Constitution
   Mrs. Anna Pierce, widow of Dr. Ham Pierce, and sister-in-law of the late Bishop G.F. Pierce, died at the residence of Mr. Lovick Pierce,  in Sparta,  Sunday night,  after a long illness. Mrs. Pierce had been in Sparta only a few months and was confined to her bed all the time. Her remains were interred in the new cemetery, Rev. Mr. Morton officiating.

December 24, 1884
The Macon Telegraph
A Sad Death in Sparta
Sparta, Ga., December 23, 1885 - Mrs. R. H. Moore, of Culverton, died at four o'clock this morning. Mrs. Moore was a daughter of Hon. John L. Culver, former representative of this county in this Legislature. She was a lady of much worth; and leaves many friends who join with her bereaved husband and orphaned children in mourning their irreparable loss.

January 5, 1885
The Telegraph and Messenger
A Line or So From Sparta.
  Sparta, January 24 - Robert Rhodes, a very excellent young man, died at his house, near this place, last night.. His disease was peneumonia, of which he suffered but two or three days. With the exception of this there are no other cases immediately near here, though the weather promises to develop much of it.
  The contested election case between Dr. J. T. Andrews and J. T. Riley for the clerkship of the Superior Court has not terminated yet.

January 21, 1885
Columbus Daily Enquirer-Sun
The Hancock county poor house and not the new jail, as has bee reported throughout the state, has been destroyed by fire.

February 2, 1885
The Telegraph and News
Sad Death at Sparta
    Sparta, GA, February 7 - Recovering somewhat but crazed from excessive grief over the death of her father, which occurred some days ago, Miss Sue Broome on Friday afternoon swallowed about forty grains of morphine. She died this afternoon at 4 o'clock.

February 22, 1885
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta, February 21 (Special) The funeral of Mr.David Dickson took place yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock. He was buried in the garden of his own home. The coffin was of unpainted pine, made at one of the shops here in Sparta, and was covered with common white alpaca. The corpse was dressed in an elegant suit of black broadcloth and black silk velvet, but wore no shoes. The feet of the deceased were crossed, his right arm lay at his side, his hand clenched with the exception of the index finger, which pointed towards his feet, the left hand lay on his breast, and held a beautiful pocket handkerchief, and in the right pocket of his pants was a pocket-knife, a pocket-comb and a toothpick. These details about his burial were arranged by Mr. Dickson years ago, and were communicated to his nephew, Mr. Jeff Worthen, that they might be observed. The funeral was largely attended by both white persons and negroes, and the services were conducted by Rev. Messrs. Timmens and B.H. Sasnett, both of the M.E. church.

March 27, 1885
Atlanta Constitution
Sparta Ismaelite: Mrs Nancy Seay, formerly  Mrs. Amoss, widow of the late Henry Amoss, of Hancock county, met a horrible death at the residence of her daughter Mrs. Copelan, on the 16th inst. The two ladies went into a new ground where some hands had been burning brush, to look after its condition, after the hands had gone to a funeral, when the dress of Mrs. Seay took fire. Mrs. Copelan did all in her power to put out the flames and was herself badly burned in the endeavor. Mrs. Seay lived about four hours after the burn.

April 2 1885
Atlanta Constitution
Mrs. Gabriel Martin is probably the oldest person in Hancock. She is the widow of Private Gabriel Martin of the war of  1812, and is in the neighborhood of 100 years.

April 7, 1885
Union and Recorder
   Hancock. (Ishmaelite) Mr. W. T. Birdsong and Miss Lena H. Stevens were married in the Methodist church in Sparta last Wednesday evening. Rev. T. H. Timmons officiating. The happy couple left on the next train for the Exposition.
Z. T. Allen, Miss Mattie Carns, little Olen Christian, a son of John R. Christian, and a negro man, all died in Atlanta within a week's time and were brought to Hancock for interment. The first three were buried in Sparta and the last one carried to Mt. Zion.
  Mrs. Betsie Lary died at the residence of her son, Mr. James Lary, in this count last week, age 102 years. She was supposed to have been the oldest resident of the county.

April 12, 1885
Weekly Telegraph and Messenger
HANCOCK COUNTY GRANITE. Something About the Mullally Rock Quarry near Sparta.
Sparta Ishmalite. A day or two since the writer rode down to the Mullally rock quarry to see how the work was progressing. Mr. Sam Denning carried us around and showed us how they split out huge blocks from the immense rock. It is perfectly wonderful how they can split the granite into any desired thickness. To the question as to what was thought of the quality of the granite, Mr. D. replied: "It has been examined by experts and pronounced the equal of any in the United States." He pointed us to several samples of the granite that had been dressed and exposed to the weather for twenty five years, and they hadn't the slightest appearance of rust or crumbling away about them. They show at a glance the superior quality of the granite from this quarry. Our county jail is built of this stone, most of the stone in our cemetery was taken from this quarry, which has supplied most of the granite that has been used in and about Sparta, where durable work has been desired.
  Pointing to a large, two-story gin house that had been overhauled and fixed up, Mr. Denning said: "There is our hotel, in which we can comfortably accommodate 100 boarders." The working forces at the quarry numbers about sixty laborers. They have a well-equipped blacksmith shop, and all the facilities for conducting the work of quarrying and shipping the granite with dispatch.
  Mr. Denning informed us that they were progressing finely with their railroad, which they expected to finish in a few days. This will enable them to load the granite on the cars right at the quarry.
  "From all appearances, it seems that you have come to stay some time, " we remarked.
  "Yes we have come to stay for a while, at least. We have paid one year's lease on the quarry, and have no idea but that we will keep it at least five years. We are constantly needing rock for our contracts and can find nothing equal to this so I can't tell how long we will be with you."
  The Messrs Denning have gone to much expense to develop and open this quarry of valuable stone to the public and soon will be prepared to supply all demands, loading their cars to the yard. Samples of the granite have been polished and will be placed on exhibition in the city of Washington and in other centres. Its superiority over other stone in general use in the country is recognized by all experts who have made an examination of it. And ti will not belong before this fact becoming generally known will insure the development not only of this quarry but of others in this county of the same quality to their fullest capacity.

April 14 1885
Atlanta Constitution
Milledgeville Recorder: We were informed by Mr. Williams who teaches school in the Island creek settlement that a few days since three small negro children, died very suddenly on the plantation of Mr. Henry Fraley, and at the time they supposed it was miningitis (sic) that caused their death, but it was afterwards discovered that they had parched and eaten some corn, that had been soaked in a solution of strychnine for the purpose of killing crows; the mistake was a terrible one with terrible consequences.

May 6, 1885
The Telegraph and Messenger
Sparta, May 5 Mr. Irwin Martin, a highly esteemed and worthy citizen, died of pneumonia at his home, near this place about 4 o'clock this afternoon. Mrs. Cumbie, an old lady, was buried here this afternoon. She died of dropsy.

March 28 1886
Atlanta Constitution
DOCTORS DISAGREE
An Altercation in Sparta Between Members of the Same Profession.
Sparta, Ga., March 27 (Special) Yesterday morning a serious difficulty occurred between Drs. Darden and Rhodes at Medlock's store, in the southeastern part of this county. It is not exactly known how the difficulty began, though four gentleman were present when the blows were struck, but it is said to have started with very trivial words, one of them talking about the practice he had, the other about the money he invested in bonds. They fought with pocket knives, and were parted three times before finally quieted. Dr. Darden was cut twice on the head and several times on different parts of his body. One of the stabs would have been fatal, it being aimed at this neck, had not the thickness of his coat collard broken the force of the blow. His wounds are not serious. Dr. Rhodes was cut very slightly and is recovering very rapidly. Drs. Rhodes and Darden were partners in the medical profession, and were both very popular and successful physicians.

June 28, 1886
The Macon Weekly Telegraph
Death of Mrs. Caldwell.  Mrs. Emily Caldwell died in Macon yesterday afternoon at her late residence, corner Second and Hazel streets, after a short illness. Her remains will be taken to Sparta this morning for interment.

July 7, 1886
Atlanta Constitution
Deaths In Georgia
Major F. B. Hayes, of Sparta, died yesterday.

September 2, 1886
Atlanta Constitution
NINE SHOCKS IN SPARTA
SPARTA, GA., September 1. (Special) We had nine separate shocks extending over the space of one hour and a quarter. The first shock was so violent that houses rocked on their foundations, windows rattled, doors swung on their hinges, books and other things fell from shelves and tables, and water slashed out of buckets and chickens even fell from their roosts.
  (Note - this was the Great Charleston Earthquake of 1886)

November 23, 1886
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Married in Georgia
   At Sparta, Thursday, Mr. Marshall Richardson and Miss Effie Andrews.
   In Hancock county, Mr. Jesse K. Beall and Miss Evie K. Johnson. In the same county, Mr. Robt. H. Mitchell and Miss Sarah Chapman.

February 17, 1887
Atlanta Constitution
Deaths in Georgia
   Mr. James M. Hunt, Jr., of Sparta, died on Sunday last.
 

June 11, 1887
Atlanta Constitution
Deaths in Hancock
Sparta, Ga. June 10 (Special) Some days ago Mr. J. F. Myers died after a long and painful illness.
    Captain John R. Binion, a former representative from our county, was reported yesterday as being very ill, and the physicians said he could not live but a short while longer - perhaps only a few hours.
  Mr. James Archer, one of our wealthiest planters, died day before yesterday, at quite an advanced age.

June 16, 1887
Atlanta Constitution
Binion's Turn Came Next
From the Milledgeville, Ga., Chronicle
    Mr. E. Binion, of Hancock county, living near Island creek, came over yesterday morning for a coffin for Captain John Binion of the neighborhood. Only a few days before this Captain Binion came here for a coffin for a relative and was caught in a rain returning home, which gave him pneumonia, from which he died.

June 30, 1887
Atlanta Constitution
Death of Mrs. Sasnett
Sparta, Ga., June 29 (Special) Mrs. Mary Ann Sasnett died here this morning, after a protracted decline. She was seventy years of age, and was highly respected by every one. She was the widow of the late Mr. Richard P. Sasnett and the mother of Mr. Harry Sasnett, of Savannah, and the mother-in-law of Judge Frank L. Little, of Sparta.

July 20 1887
Atlanta Constitution
DEATH OF DR. ALFRIEND
A Prominent Physician of Sparta Passes Away.
Sparta, Ga., July 19 (Special) Dr. E. D. Alfriend died very suddenly last night about 9 o'clock. He had been sick only about 24 hours. His death was caused by congestion of the lungs and brain. Dr. Alfriend was a very popular and skilled physician. In fact he had a most wonderful natural talent for both medicine and surgery and had also a somewhat literary turn of mind. He was a useful citizen, genial and kind hearted and possessed, to a very high degree, that element of character all true physicians should have-sympathy for his fellowman in their afflictions. He married Miss Mary Pierce, the next to the youngest daughter of the late Bishop Pierce; but at the time of his death had been a widow for some years. He left no children, his only child having died when only a year old. Now the question is universally asked in our community, who will be able to fill Dr. Alfriend's place as a physician.

July 31, 1887
Atlanta Constitution
From the Washington, Ga. Gazette
(excerpt about General Toombs escape after the surrender. Told by Charles E. Irvin who accompanied  General Toombs as far as New Orleans. " General Toombs and Major Luther Martin had long been warm friends and Martin treated him like a brother and kept him at his house as long as he would stay. Martin had been paroled at the surrender and he gave Toombs his parole, and from that time on Toombs went by the name of Major Martin.)"

 This interfered with the general's plans, and he turned his face southward. Irvin came on to this place with instructions to follow Toombs down to Old Town. Irvin was to inquire of Mr. Guss Bell, Mr. David Dickson, Judge Linton Stephens or Mr. Gonder.  A day or two passed and Irvin arrived at Old Town. Mr Guss Bell knew nothing, and he went then to Sparta to see Judge Stephens Both men took Irvin for a detective and it was with great difficulty that he could make himself know. Judge Stephens knew the Irvin family and asked the names and ages of every member. The Judge had not seen the general. Irvin rode hundreds of miles back and forth over the country. he finally got to David Dickson's and asked about Major Martin who was riding a gray mare. Dickson was suspicious and said he knew nothing of him. Irvin asked for directions to Gonder's, and Dickson told him there was no such man in that part of the country. Irvin was completely non-plussed. Dickson invited him to get down and stay with him. After a while Dickson concluded that Irvin was the right man and he direct him to Mr. Gonder's, tell him that Major Martin was there. Mr. Gonder was absent, and Mrs Gonder was sure Ivin was a detective who was on the track of Toombs. She vehemently protested that Martin had not been there. Irvin dismounted and went in any way. After remaining some time he was able to prove that he was a friend. She then told him that Major Martin and Mr. Gonder were over at Colone Jack Smith's and there Irvin found Toombs. They remained there several days and all went fishing on the Oconee river.

   Colonel Smith put them across the river, and they went on, hoping to reach the Florida coast and get out of the country that way. The went on and stopped at Mr. Joseph Dee's in Wilkinson county. Mr. Dee told then he was right in Sherman's track and had very little left, but what he had they were welcome to. They went in and took supper, but did not make themselves known, though General Toombs knew them. Then travelling was done that day. That night after all had retired, Miss Dee went to her brother and said: "Joe Dee, are you a fool" That man is General Toombs." She said she had heard him make a speech t Toombsboro seventeen years before,, and had not seen him since.  Very early next morning Mr. Dee came into General Toombs's room and related what his sister had said, and he was overjoyed to know he had the great Georgia in his house. A negro man on the place also recognized him, he having heard him make the speech at Toombsboro.

   Mr. Dee told General Toombs the negro was very trusty and he piloted him and Irvin through the country for a day or two. They went to Mr. Hughes in Twiggs county, where they stayed for some time. Mr. Hughes knew the general and showed him every possible attention.
   Mr. Irvin says that the elegance of the homes at which they stopped and the whole__ hospitality of the people left sweet memories that will never be forgotten.
FOILED AND TURNED BACK
    Leaving Toombs at Mr. Hughes's, Irvin made his way to Macon to see General Gustavus Smith and Colonel DeGraffenried, two distinquished confederate officers. They sent Toombs word that he yankees had men at every ferry on the Ocmulgee river looking for him and it would not do for him to attempt to cross. They urged him to go back up to the mountains by all means and stay there till affairs had quieted down. To the meanwhile, the report was industriously circulated that Toombs had escaped to Cuba. While in Macon, Mr. Irvin encountered Mr. Gabriel Toombs at the Brown house. Mr. Toombs was very greatly surprised to see him, having thought his brother and Irvin were out of the country.
   Irvin went back to Toombs, and , relating what Smith and DeGraffenried said, they concluded to go back to the mountains. While at Colonel Hughes's a wounded confederate soldier came up and said he recognized Toombs as he passed along the road on old Alice, and telling him that had certain doctor had recognized and threatened to betray him. The soldier said he would fix the doctor if Toombs thought he would have any trouble from him, but nothing ever came of  it. A servant remarked to Mrs. Hughes that Major Martin  "was either President Davis or just as great a man."

August 23, 1887
The Enquirer-Sun
Death of Rev. B. F. Blow. Rev. B. F. Blow died at the family residence on Third avenue, at 3  o'clock yesterday afternoon.
   Mr. Blow was born in Hancock county, Ga. July 5th, 1824, and was licensed to preach in 1856. In 1878 he became a member of the Alabama conference, where he labored actively until he became enfeebled in health, and was then placed upon the list of superannuated ministers. Not being willing to retire altogether from labor in the Master's vineyard, he accepted a position as colporteur, when he followed very successfully, considering the frailness of his health. Of late, Mr. Blow became partially paralyzed, and his friends realized that the end was near.
    Mr. Blow's death was calm and peaceful, as his life has been. Truly, a good man has gone to his final rest.
   Mr. Blow was the father of Mr. John Blow, bookkeeper for M. Joseph, and his wife still survives him
   The funeral will take place from St. Luke church, at 10 o'clock this morning. The deceased was a Mason, and will be buried with the honors of that order.

September 1, 1887
Atlanta Constitution
An Example and an Incentive.  The Augusta Chronicle tells the story of the progress of Mr. C. A. Hill, a leading young farmer of Hancock county, Ga., which is at once an example and an incentive. Seven years ago, when a mere stripling, he was a "wage hand" on a rich man's farm, working from daylight till dark for $8 a month. He had to tie a big stone to his back to balance his plow, but despite his light weight and still lighter salary he kept his plow in the ground and operated the ball cord over his patient Kentucky mule with untiring earnestness. For three years he following this routine, his wages being increased every year. At last one cold Christmas morning the rich man called him to his desk and asked him how he would like to farm the next year on shares. The young employee was of course delighted, and a bargain was at once closed. At the end of that year, despite a long drought that ruined all the neighbors' crops, our young hero's panned out a net income of about twelve hundred dollars. One more year of still better success and the ambitious young farmer concluded that he would invest some of his spare change in a plantation of his own. An adjoining farm just suited his pile, and he soon had the deed in his own name. A fine buggy and  horse were added to the list of farm implements, and one or two additional mules kicked up their dangerous heels in the lot. The drought came and freshets followed that literally lifted other people's soil off their farms, but at the end of each year young Hill's cotton crop sized up three-fourths of a bale to the acre, and his barns were full of corn and other stuff, which some farmers have to send West for, that he had to add sheds to them. Today Mr. Hill owns one of the best farms in Hancock county, with a plenty of cash money to run one three times  as big, and doesn't want any rich man to adopt him or will him a fortune.

September 29, 1887
The Macon Telegraph
Marriage Near Sparta
Sparta, September 28 - Mr. J. R. Sassnet and Miss Anna Stevens were married at 3 o'clock this afternoon in the Presbyterian Church at Mt. Zion, in this county. The church was beautifully decorated, and quite a crowd were in attendance, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather. The ceremony was performed by Rev. B. H. Sasnett. After the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Sassnett were tendered a reception by the bride's parents.

October 11, 1887
Union Recorder
~excerpt~ Departed this life, at her home, near Carr's Stataion, Hancock county, Georgia, Mrs. Johnnie LaRoque West, consort of Emmet R. West, in the twenty-second year of her age. Losing her father when but a child, she was adopted by her uncle, John LaRoque, of Albany, Ga....Mrs. West was a daughter of Dr. John T. Lamar, and grandaughter of the late Geo. W. Lamar, of Augusta, Ga.   W. Carr's Statiom, Hancock County, Ga., Sept. 30th, 1887.

November 17, 1887
The Columbus Enquirer-Sun
Died in Macon. Frank, the infant son of Prof. and Mrs. Don. Q. Abbot, of Macon, died Tuesday night and was buried at Sparta yesterday. Prof. and Mrs. Abbott have a host of friends here who sympathize with them in their bereavement.

December 27, 1887
Union Recorder
  Miss Addie Collins, daughter of Mr. Sam'l Collins of this county, and Mr. John Carr, of Hancock county, were married on Thursday last. The bride and groom are both popular young people, and have our best wishes for a happy life.

January 18, 1888
Macon Telegraph
Mrs Lula Cherry, wife of Mr. George W. Cherry, died Monday at the residence of her father, Mr. Wm. Grimes, in Hancock county. Mrs. Cherry was formerly a citizen of Macon. She was in the 26th year of her age.

May 15, 1888
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Sparta, May 9 (Special) Mary Yarbrough, infant daughter of W. M. Yarbrough, died this morning at 5 o'clock. She was ill about two weeks of typhoid fever, complicated with difficult dentition. The sadly bereaved parents have the deep sympathies of the whole community.

September 21, 1888
Atlanta Constitution
THE STORM IN HANCOCK
Great Damage to Railroads-Several Bridges Washed Away
From the Sparta, Ga., Ishmaelite
   The railroad between Milledgeville and Warrenton is worse damaged than ever before it its history., There was a landslide near Carr's station, and the overhead wagon bridge fell in. The culvert at the Mason place, beyond Culverton, was washed out. There were heavy landslides in the Bass cut. The bridge spans  over Folsom creek were damaged. A portion of the bridge over the Ogeechee was washed away; and two or more trestles between the river and Warrenton met a similar fate. Besides all this there were numerous minor washouts. The passenger train was caught between two destroyed trestles between Mayfield and Warrenton. It is reported that the railroad authorities are taking no immediate steps to repair the damage and restore communicaiton-a statement which seems incredible. At the reported rate of progress the road will be reopened for travel some little time before Christmas.
    The loss to the county in the way of bridges is very heavy. Information has been received of the loss of Harris's, Long's, McCook and Culver's bridges. Full returns will no doubt  increase the list. The loss of gin and fishpond dams and of plantation bridges is greater than was ever known before. W.W. Steven's gin house on the Ogeechee was washed away, together with his shops, and his mill, which had stood the floods of sixty years, was turned half around. Culver's mill dam was broken and the mill badly damaged. Harris's mill is reported to have been damaged. The water was several feet deep in the second story of Mr. William Steven's mill.
    Large quantities of low-ground corn and cotton have been ruined. In some places these crops have been sixteen feet under water. It is impossible to give all the details of destruction in this direction. The cotton crop, generally, has been seriously damaged. Cotton that was open was beaten out, and thousands of the bolls which were cracker will rot. It is impossible to tell, just yet, what will be the extent of the damage; but the conjecture of some places it as high as thirty per cent. Altogether the outlook is discouraging.

October 19, 1888
The Macon Telegraph
SPARTA. Marriage of Mr. W. P. Beman and Miss Eugenia G. Carey - Personal.
  Sparta, Oct. 18 - Last evening the Presbyterian church was crowded to its utmost capacity with the relatives and friends of Mr. Williard P. Beman and Miss Eugenia G. Cary, who were then and there united in marriage, Rev. Mr. Dixon officiating. The church was tastefully decorated and brilliantly lighted. The wedding march was played on the organ by Mr. Emmett Kendrick. There were four couples in attendance, namely, Miss Mamie Charlton of Savannah and Dr. A. J. Avery, Miss Ellen Richter of Eufaula, Ala., and Mr. Ed Alfriend, Miss Mary Cary, sister of the bride, and Dr. Robert Wiley, and Miss Katy Beman, sister of the bridegroom, and Mr. C. S. Cary, the bride's brother, though Mr. Cary went in with the bride and the bridegroom with his sister, and then changed when they met before the pulpit. As the bridal couple went out of the church tiny Miss Louise Little went before them and strewed their way with roses. After the ceremony the bridal party took tea at the house of Mr. C. S. Cary.
  At 10 o'clock Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Beman left on a short, bridal tour, carrying with them the good wishes of their many hundreds of Hancock friends, for both are highly esteemed here and the match is pronounced by everyone as a most suitable one. The bride is the niece of Mr. J. C. Simmons, former banker of this place, as well as of Mr. Sid B. Simmons, one of our most prosperous merchants, an Mr. Merell Simmons of Union Springs, Ala. The groom is a proseperous farmer of Hancock, and is the nephew of Co. Hal Beman, formerly of the firm of Beach & Beman, of the New York bar, and once of our county. His grandfather was the celebrated Dr. C. P. Beman, so popular as an educator.
  Miss Ella Richter will visit friends in Madison, then in Columbus and then return to Alabama.
  Miss Charlton will remain here as the guest of her cousins Mr. and Mrs. Sid B. Simmons, until after the Hancock fair and will then return home.
  Mr. Ed Wilson of Macon is in our town.

November 5, 1888
Columbus Daily Enquirer
Mr. R. A. Geeslin and Miss Emma Hitchcock were married at Sparta a few days ago.

November 24, 1888
The Macon Daily Telegraph
Marriage at Sparta.
  Sparta, Nov 23 - At the house of A. P. Harper, yesterday afternoon, were united in matrimony Ben W. Butts and Miss Cora Harper, both of our county. The ceremony was performed by Rev. N. B. Binion in the presence of a large concourse of friends and connections of both contracting parties. A reception was tendered the happy pair last evening by Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Culver. The occasion was much enjoyed by the large gathering of friends at Mr. Culver's hospital home. Several more marriages are soon to take place in this community.

November 28, 1888
The Macon Daily Telegraph
Marriage at Sparta.
  Sparta, Nov. 27 - This morning at 10 o'clock Miss Ruth Pierce, daughter of the late Bishop Pierce, was united in matrimony to Mr. Will H. Ferguson, of Senoia, Ga. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Don Abbott, of Macon. A large assemblage of kinspeople and friends witnessed this union of heats and destinies, all wishing the utmost of happiness and joy for both. The groom is merchandising in Senoia, whither he has lived since his graduation from Emory college in 1886. He is a man of fine character and ability, and much esteemed by his college classmates and associates, while the bride is deservedly a favorite with all her associates and friends. She will be much missed by her doting parents, connections and friends. The bride was the recipient of many costly and valuabe presents.
  Mrs. Bishop Pierce is seriously ill, though somewhat improved at this time.
 

March 21, 1889
Macon Weekly Telegraph
  Capt. S. A. Pardee of Sparta, Ga., came to this town in 1822 and has lived there ever since. He was born in New Haven, Conn. in 1802. He is Sparta's oldest citizen, and a staunch democrat.
  Eddie Chappell's sickness is due to an singular accident. In running after a robin at Sparta, he stepped on some object which gave his foot a sudden twirl. This caused the bone in his leg to split, from the consequences of which he has suffered very much. It was some time before the cause of his troubles was found out.

April 11, 1889
The Macon Telegraph
Death of an Infant. The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Bone died at 11:30 o'clock last night. The remains will be taken to Sparta this morning for interment.

April 12, 1889
Atlanta Constitution
Burial of Mrs. Roberts. Milledgeville, Ga., April 11 (Special) Mrs. S. D. Roberts, an aged Christian lady of this city, was laid to rest in the city cemetery on yesterday afternoon. Mrs. Roberts was the mother of Mrs. Wootten, of this city, and Messrs. Sterling and William Roberts, of Sparta, and leaves a host of friends and relatives throughout the state to mourn her loss.

April 14, 1889
Daily Enquirer-Sun
  Young Eli Barnes, on trial for the killing of Barney Fair, in Hancock county, was found guilty of murder and recommended to mercery. Judge Lumpkin sentenced him to the penitentiary for life.

April 25, 1889
Columbus Daily Enquirer
Mrs. W. H. Bone, of Macon, is dead. Her remains were carried to Sparta Tuesday morning for burial.

May 25, 1889
Atlanta Constitution
BUSINESS IN SPARTA
Buildings in Progress-The Early Sale of the Montour Mills.
Sparta, Ga. May 24 (Special). Mr. R.A. Graves has added forty feet to this store on Broad street, and when completed with shelves and counters will be one o the best stores in Sparta. He purposes fitting up the rear end with the necessary appliances for running his .exchange and banking  department.
     Victor Freeze is pushing his new furniture store also to completion, and when finished will keep a first-class furniture outfit. Both these stores are of best brick and evince progress in our town.
  The prospect is good for an early sale of the Montour mills. If so, we shall have a considerable accession to our population, and a new impetus given to our growth. It is confidently expected within the next twelve months that a first-class educational system will be adopted for our town which will  put us abreast with the best communities in the state.

June 27, 1889
The Columbus Enquirer-Sun
Mrs. Pierce, wife of the lamented Bishop Pierce, died at her home in Sparta day before yesterday after an illness of several months. She was a good woman, and held the highest respect and esteem of a large number of Georgias. She was buried by the side of her late husband yesterday.

October 1, 1889
Atlanta Constitution
Death of a Noted Man in Sparta
Sparta, Ga, September 30 (Special) The Methodist church here was crowded yesterday with people who came to attend the memorial services held in honor of the late William Stevens, who was a member of that church. The deceased came from England about fifty years ago, and from great poverty amassed a fine fortune in the use of which he was generous in aiding many deserving persons and causes. The persons who bore testimony to his worth, do so in the following order: Judge F.L. Little, Hon. J.A. Hawley, Hon. W.J. Northen, Lovic Pierce, R.H. Thomas, H.L. Middlebrooks and H.I.Orgain. Nothing but 'character of the most worthy description could have evoked the tributes which these gentlemen in turn, bestowed upon him. His integrity, his charity, his modesty, his fidelity to every trust, whether public or private; his courage in the assertion of conviction and the discharge of duty; his loyalty to friendship, and his love of the church, all found fitting portrayal. The talk of the pastor, Rev. A. W. Quillian, was a very fine and feeling one and touched the hearts of all present. The services were interspersed with songs and feeling one and touched the hearts of all present. The services were interspersed with songs by the congregation happily selected and rendered, and were altogether impressive and useful in making prominent a life of active goodness, in which there was not much of profession

December 30, 1889
The Macon Telegraph
SHOT HIS FRIEND DEAD. Mr. Gunn Accidentally Kills Mr. Humphrey at Mayfield, Ga.
Warrenton, Dec. 29 (Special) Mayfield was the scene of a very unfortunate killing Wednesday. From parties who were present we learn the following particulars: A crowd of young men were engaged in practicing at a target with a pistol. Among the crowd of young men were Mr. Tom Gunn and Mr. Walter A. Humphrey. When mr. Gunn's time came to shoot, the pistol snapped. While thus engaged the pistol was discharged and the ball struck Mr. Walter Humphrey in the right side only about three inches below the nipple.
  He sank to the ground with a groan and expired in less than ten minutes. A physician was sent for, but before he could get to the wounded man he had breathed his last.
  Mr. Gunn was frantic with grief and said repeatedly that he would have much preferred to have killed himself.
  The coroner of Hancock county gathered the particulars from eye-witnesses and the evidence all pointed to a purely accidental killing, so it was not considered necessary to hold an inquest. The young man's remains were then borne to the home of his aged mother near the scene of the killing.
  His two brothers, who had left on the train for Rutledge only about thirty minutes before the accident occurred, were notified as soon as a message could reach the nearest telegraph station, and they returned Wednesday night to find stiff in death. The killing occurred about noon. At last reports Mr. Gunn was bitterly bewailing the unfortunate termination of life at his hands.