March 3, 1890
The Atlanta Constitution
BURGLARS IN IRWINTON,
And Exchange Pistol Shots with a Citizen
Irwinton, Ga., March 2, - [Special] On the night of the 25th instant L. Baum & Company a store in Toomsboro was burglarized, and but for the timely interference of Mr. N. B. Baum the safe would have been blown open and what money it contained carried off. A negro who was living near heard the noise and went down to Mr. Baum's who lived only about two hundred yards from the store, and gave the alarm. Mr. Baum, with his pistol, quickly ran for the store. On his way, however, he fired off his pistol in order to give the alarm to his clerks. The burglars, too, heard the report of the pistol and made a retreat for the door, at which place, in the act of going on they were seen by Mr. Baum, who began firing at them. The burglars, who were still on the inside, quickly closed the door and began firing back at Mr. Baum through the door. Shots were exchanged alternately until Mr. Baum's pistol was empty, when the villains jumped out the door and made their escape. Drills, sledge hammer, powder, etc., the terrible implements of their thievery, were captured. Three or four men have been arrested on suspicion, but after careful investigation the men were released, Mr. Baum being satisfied they were innocent.

THE RASCALS CAUGHT
THE ARREST OF TWO ROBBERS IN MACON
They Are Identified as the Men Who Attempted to Rob the Store of Mr. Baum, in Toomsboro
Macon, Ga., March 2 - [Special] Last night about eight o'clock Chief-of-Police O. T. Kenan, Lieutenant C.M. Wood and Officers Morrison and Patterson arrested two white men who gave their names as J.E. Rogers and W. A. Hart. They claimed to be from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and St. Paul, Minnesota, each respectively. They were arrested on suspicion of being the men who attempted to rob the store of L. Baum and Co., at Toomsboro, on Wednesday night. The particulars of the affair, in brief, are as follows: The attempt was made to rob the store at 10 o'clock p.m. A Negro heard the thieves at work and went to the house of Mr. N.B. Baum and notified him. When Mr. Baum arrived at the store he found it slightly open, which indicated that the robbers were on the inside. Baum fired one shot towards the door, in order to deter the thieves from coming out and also a signal for assistance. One of the thieves poked his head out of the door and Baum fired at him. The robbers then closed the door and fired through it several times at Mr. Baum, and Baum fired at them. The thieve finally escaped. No one was hurt by the firing. An outfit of burglars' tools and a railway map by Rand, McNally & Co., and some memoranda were found in the store by Mr. Baum where they had been left by the thieves in their hasty departure.
     Chief Kenan telegraphed to Mr. Baum last night of the capture of Rogers and Hart as the supposed thieves. This afternoon Mr. Baum and others came from Toomsboro and identified Rogers and Hart, to the best of his ability as the ones who had tried to blow his safe and rob the store. The evidence was conclusive that the Rand McNally & Co. map book found in Baum's store was the property of Rogers, writing in it compares exactly with writing found on the person of  Rogers. A similar book was found in Hart's pocket. It seems Hart has been sailing under the alias of Mooney. The real name of Rogers is thought to be H. L. Smyser. The following endorsement was among Roger's effects:
UNION PACIFIC RAILWAY COMPANY, WYOMING DIVISION, OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT, CHEYENNE, Wyo., September 3, 1888. - This is to certify that H.L. Smyser has been employed in the capacity of helper, foreman and yardmaster at Green River  on the Wyoming division of the Union Pacific railway, from May 17, 1888, to August 28, 1888. Entered service at Green River as helper May 1st, 1888, promoted to foreman of engine June 1, 1888 and to yardmaster June 18, 1888. No suspension; resigned on above date. Conduct, capability and service satisfactory. [Signed] C.E. Wurtle, Superintendent.
     Rogers seems to be quite intelligent. Rather good looking and dresses well. These two men have been doing a good deal of safe blowing in Georgia. yesterday Rogers pawned a watch at Blowenstein's for twenty-two dollars. The men had other watches in their possession. The men will be carried to Toomsboro tomorrow morning. A reward of $100 was offered for their arrest.

March 10, 1890
The Atlanta Constitution
Irwinton, Ga., March 9 (Special) Miss Lovie Lindsey, daughter of Mr. Green Lindsey, who lives near the town, came near being the victim to a serious accident. She had been ill for several days, and while standing near the fire fainted and fell into it. Her sister happened to be near and helped her out.
  Rogers and Hook, who were committed for the Toomsboro burglary, are being guarded every night for fear that some of their gang will try to get them out.

March 17, 1890
The Macon Telegraph
Married. GORDON - FITZPATRICK - In this city on Feb. 17, by Rev. Father Winklereid, Mr. John J. Gordon of Savannah, Ga., to Miss Lizzie G. Fitzpatrick of Gordon, Ga. No cards.

March 25, 1890
The Macon Telegraph
A Sudden Death. News was received in the city yesterday of the sudden death of Mr. Thomas C. Whitehurst, who was found dead in bed at his home on the  Whitehurst place, near Macon, yesterday morning. The deceased was about 45 years of age, and leaves two daughters, both of whom are married. He was running a large plantation this year, having eleven plows in the field. His life was insured with R. H. Fanders for $5,000. Mr. Whitehurst was well known in Macon.

March 28, 1890
The Macon Telegraph
MAJ. TODD DEAD. Stricken With Paralysis, He Passes Away Surrounded by His Family
 One week ago Maj. J. J. Todd of this city was enjoying the best of health in spite of the many years that he carried so lightly.
  Yesterday morning at his home, No. 141 Park place, surrounded by his family, he passed away in a peaceful manner.
On Thursday of last week he received a slight stroke of paralysis. At first the fears of his physicians were aroused and as the days passed by they found him growing weaker and weaker
  The remains will be carried to his old home, Gordon, this morning, where the funeral will take place to-day. The gentleman was well known in Macon.

April 6, 1890
Macon Weekly Telegraph
THE RAINBOW LED TO MONEY. Old Legend Becomes a Verity to an Irwinton Woman.
Irwinton, April 5 (Special) One day last fall, while picking cotton, Ellen Powell, a negro woman, lost a bag from her person containing $3 in silver. She was working for Mr. N. Hughes, who superintends the plantation of Mr. N. B. Baum, near Toomsboro. One day last week, after a thunder cloud had just passed, she was at work in the same field knocking down cotton stalks. Seeing a beautiful rainbow across the field, and thinking at the same time of the lost money, Mr. Hughes told Ellen to go to the end of it and she would find her money. She took him at his word, and just in front of her, about 100 yards or more, where the end of the rainbow appeared to be, she looked on the ground and found her lost money. It was covered lightly over with sand and the bag was nearly rotten, but contained all the money, and the woman was made to rejoice.

April 10, 1890
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Irwinton Superior Court, The Lawyers in Attendance-Notes of a Fine Old Town.
Irwinton, April 9 - Your correspondent came over to this ancient capital of Wilkinson county, which is perched like an eagle's eyrie upon the summit of one of the loftiest hills in Middle Georgia, on Monday last.
  A half dozen or more buggies, wagons, phaetons and other nondescript vehicles met the passengers on the Central railroad from Macon at "Commissioner," better known as McIntyre Station.
   They were all of them filled chock full with lawyers, witnesses and spectators, all alike bound for Wilkinson Court.
  Irwinton is three and a half miles from the railroad, and the route winds through a picturesque and broken country.
   The farmers were busy planting their cotton crop, and as far as could be seen the stands of corn were excellent.
  Upon entering the village, which contains some 250 inhabitants, the first object that challenges the attention of the visitor is the MASSIVE BRICK CHURCH  erected in 1854 by the contributions of all the evangelical denominations. Under the terms of the original compact this sacred edifice was to be used in common by the several religious organizations of the town. This agreement has been faithfully carried out, and Irwinton presents the unique and pleasing spectacle of an entire community worshipping in peace and harmony together every Sabbath, for near two generations, each in turn celebrating the ordinances and rites of its peculiar creed without offense to anyone. It continues to be the only white house of worship in the place.
    The town was settled in 1808. The oldest inhabitant probably and one of the most respected, is JUDGE T. N.BEAL, for many years ordinary of the county, but now engaged in merchandising. He has lived here fifty-two years and is thoroughly conversant with all the events that have transpired during that long period.
  The great want of the town is a branch railroad or dummy line to Commissioner. It was thought that this was assured several years ago, but from some cause the enterprise fell through. Two institutions, however, the community has just right to be proud of. One is the admirable boarding house of Mrs. Baum, which has no superior in the interior of the state. The other is the excellent academy, presided over by a talented Mercer boy, Professor J. W. Overstreet. His school numbers over seventy scholars, many of whom come from the surrounding counties, and he is a most capable and popular educator.
    SUPERIOR COURT. I found the superior court in session, with His Honor W. F. Jenkins holding the scales of justice with steady hand and equal poise.
   The docket, both civil and criminal, is unusually voluminous, and it is not probable that an adjournment can be reached before the latter part of next week. But Judge Jenkins is dispatching business with remarkable celerity, and is a most industrious, clear-headed and able expounder of the law. On the criminal side here are two murder cases, four for burglary, and two for arson.
   Solicitor-General Lewis is a vigilant and brilliant prosecuting attorney and the interests of the state are safe in his hands.
  The case of the receiver of Baum of Toomsboro vs. Cannon, and the action for divorce by Monroe Jones of Bibb, from his wife, Emma, were both continued, the latter in consequence of the illness of counsel.
  MACON'S REPRESENTATIVES  are Col. W. A. Lofton, Hon. Nat Harris, Washington Dessau, Esq., Dupont Guerry, Esq.,  and Messers. Turner & Willingham, Joe Hall and  J. Blount.
  Milledgeville sends Senator Robert Whitfield and R. W. Roberts, Esq., Sublin C. L. Griner, Madison C. F. McHenry, Savannah T. N. Cunningham, counsel for Central railroad, while Irwinton more than holds her own with her two able barristers, F. Chambers and J. W. Lindsey, Esqrs.
  TWINS TO THE FRONT.   As an evidence of the health and fecundity of old Wilkinson your correspondent would say that he came upon two members of twins to-day in the same store. One was Mr. H. D. Miller, a bachelor, who has a twin married brother in the vicinity, the father of a family, and the other Mr. George McCullar, 62 years old, who also has a surviving twin brother.
  Jethro Dean of this county raised nine children, all of whom are living, the eldest nearing his 85th year and the youngest 52 years old. They are all married and have a numerous progeny. No death has ever occurred in the family.
  Who will say that Wilkinson county ought not to fill up with settlers and young married folks? H.H.J.

April 14, 1890
Macon Weekly Telegraph
LUMBER IN A BLAZE. Large Saw Mill at Irwinton Consumed - A Forest Fire.
  Irwinton, April 14 (Special) Mr. D. M. Eady had his saw mill destroyed by fire on last Saturday night. The mill was located on the suburbs of town, and on the evening before when the hands stopped work the fire was drawn from the furnace and left lying near a pile of trash and water poured on it until it was thought to be extinguished. It was left in this condition, but between the hours of 9 and 12 o'clock, it rekindled and the entire mill and fixtures except the boiler were consumed. The loss is estimated at $850 or more.
  On Thursday last a destructive fire did considerable damage to property in the country about eight miles from this place. The fire started on the plantation of Mr. Ive Davis, destroyed things as it went, for a distance of four miles in length and two miles wide. The damage in property lost is not known, but it is thought to be very heavy.

April 17, 1890
The Macon Telegraph
Avant-Holland
Irwinton, April 16 (Special) The most recent event in society circles here was the marriage of Mr. Robert Avant of Milledgeville, to Miss Birdie Holland, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Holland, residing near this place, on last Tuesday. Many friends of the contracting parties were present, and at the hour of 10 o'clock the couple entered the parlor, which was beautifully decorated, and made one by Rev. Carl W. Minor of Mercer University.
  The friends and relatives present to witness the marriage were: Messrs W. L. Jones of Macon, Thomas Minor of Milledgeville, Mrs. Annie Perry of Cordele, Mr. Horace Holland of Tennille, and Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Miller, Col. J. W. Lindsay and daughters, Misses Gertrude and Annie; Mr. Isaac Taylor and daughters, Misses Maria and Sallie May; Messrs. R. L. Spears, George Pettis, J. F. Kemp, Sammie Holland, Misses Iva Hatfield, Mattie and Emma Easons, Annie Rutland, and your correspondent.
  Many handsome presents were presented to the bride, among which were a plush album; from Mr. Samuel Holland; a silver carving set and plus case from Mr. W. L. Jones, and a pickle stand from Mr. Thomas Minor. The ceremony being over, the happy couple, accompanied by a few friends, left for McIntyre, and in a short time thereafter departed for Milledgeville on the north bound train, where a reception awaited them at the home of the groom.
   Others, consisting of a few people and friends of the family, were left behind to dine and spend the evening with Mr. and Mrs. Holland and their accomplished and lovable daughters.

May 31, 1890
The Macon Telegraph
Irwinton, May 30- (Special) Mr. J. F. Porter, who lives on Turkey creek, about twelve miles from here, had his barn and contents destroyed by fire last Tuesday night. Before the perpetrator applied the torch, the mules, horses and cows, which were confined in the stalls attached thereto, were turned out and saved from a cremated death, everything else being a total loss.
Mrs. Mat. Price, who resided with her brother, Mr. Hiram A. Hartley, died yesterday at 12 o'clock. She had been in feeble health for several months.
  Mr. J. S. Peavy of Dooly county was married to Miss Eula Kinney of this county last Wednesday at the home of the latter's father, Mr. Wash Kinney, near Liberty church.
  Preparations are now being made for a grand exhibition at Talmage Institute, to come off about three weeks from now.
   The heavy rains for the past week have caused the farmers to stay close around home, and many of them are seen to "tote" a drooped head on account of being so badly behind with their farm work. The day laborers are said to be very scarce, and in some sections of the country they cannot be had. It is said that the present outlook for a crop is very good.

June 22, 1890
Macon Telegraph
IRWINTON'S GALA WEEK. The Brilliant Commencement Exercises of Talmage Institute
Irwinton, June 21 (Special) The closing exercises of Talmage Institute were brilliant and highly entertaining. Rollin Ellis, Esq., of Macon, made the address, which was a masterly effort of the young, brilliant and gifted speaker. The most cultured of his large and orderly audience were charmed with the speaker's address.
  In the afternoon of Thursday a speaking contest for medals took place between the members of the primary department. In this contest, Miss Adeline Baum, Carl Oliver and Harry Grady were the winners.
  On Thursday night, a contest between the girls of the main department came off, in which Misses Lillie Hatfield,Bertha Baum and Dott Wood carried off the prizes.
  At the conclusion of the recitations two farces entitle "Box and Cox" and "From Punkin Ridge," were played. These literally "brought the house down."
  Friday night, a declamation contest between the boys of the main department occurred. The contest was close, and the victor, Mr.
J. N. Todd, may well be proud of his medal. After these speeches, followed a drama, entitled "Social Glass," which was one of the best plays ever presented in Irwinton.
  Miss Lizzie Smith was awarded the medal in the music department in charge of Mrs. Annie Hughes. To show their appreciation for their kind and painstaking assistant, Miss Ola Baker, Leo and Adeline Baum presented her with a beautiful ring.
  At this point, Professor Overstreet announced that his connection with Talmage Institute, as its principal, would cease. At the conclusion of his address he was presented with a beautiful cane from the pupils as a token of their esteem.

July 7, 1890
Macon Telegraph
A Prolific Family. We met at Dexter last week, says the Eastman Times-Journal, Mr. S. K. Passmore, and in conversation with him found that he sprang from a very prolific family. He says that his father had been married seven times, and was the father of thirty-three children, the eldest now being 78 years old. This family was raised in Wilkinson county. Mr. Passmore is 36 years old and is farming near Dexter.

July 11, 1890
The Atlanta Constitution
The oldest inhabitant of Wilkinson county found by the census enumerators is a negro found in the county poor house named Bill Fountain. He is returned at 107 years.

July 13, 1890
The Augusta Chronicle
THEIR ANNUAL REUNION
THE THIRD GEORGIA REGIMENT
WILL MEET AT IRWINTON
An Interesting Programs For The
Survivors On July 31 Great
Crowds are Expected
The Southern Appeal
A program arranged for exercises at the annual reunion of Survivors Association of the Third Georgia Regiment at Irwinton and is as follows:
   1. The veterans will be received at McIntyre Station C.R.R., as the train arrives going east and west, at 12 n. on the 30th and escorted to Irwinton.
   2. On arrival in Irwinton the visiting veterans will be assigned homes and dinner will be served at 2 o'clock p.m.
   3. A business meeting of the Survivors will be held at the courthouse at 3:30 o'clock p.m.
   4. On the assembling of the association, an address of  welcome will be extended the veterans, in behalf of the town, by it's mayor J. W. Lindsey, to be responded to in behalf of the veterans by Captain C. H. Andrews of Company D. The association will then be called to order by it's president for the transaction of their business.
   5. At 8:30 o'clock p.m. there will be a social entertainment for the amusement of the veterans and visitors.
   6. At 8:30 a.m. on the 31st, the association will assemble at the courthouse to complete the business of the association.
   7. At 10:00 o'clock a.m. the procession will be formed in front of the court house and marched to the grove, where further exercises will be held.
   8. At the grove, the soldiers will be received in behalf of old soldiers and citizens of Wilkinson Co., by Sergeant F. Chambers of Company F, to be responded to in behalf of the Survivors' association by Honorable H. C. McCallan, of  Company H.
   9. A recitation - "The Georgia Volunteer" by Miss Lizzie Snead, daughter of Gen. Claiborne Snead of Augusta, and first daughter of association.
   10. An oration by the annual orator, Col. B. B. Nisbet, of Eatonton, Ga.
   11. Music, composed of songs and melodies suitable for the occasion, will be supplied under the supervision of Miss Mary L. Jones, of Atlanta, Ga. daughter of Major J. F. Jones and second daughter of the association.
   12. The program may be varied as necessity required. After these conclusions dinner and barbecue will be furnished by the committee. W. F. Cannon, Chairman
   In addition to the above we learn that arrangements have been made with the Central and Georgia railroads, and different branches thereof for transportation of the veterans and friends for four cents a mile for round trip upon the certificate plan. A large crowd is expected at the Irwinton reunion of this old battle scarred regiment. It was among the first regiments to enlist in the late war, having eleven crack companies from different counties of the state and had in the first year of its service frequently one thousand muskets in line, with the gallant Col. A. R. Wright in command.
   After participating in every important battle in the Army of Northern Virginia, it surrendered at Appomattox with more muskets than some brigades, viz. one hundred and fifty, while its battle flag, saved from touch of hostile hands, was brought home, and will be at Irwinton, as every preceding reunion, wave over the boys in Gray who so well illustrated Georgia upon the field of battle.

August 18, 1890
Union Recorder
  Mr. Flournoy Branan was brought home by the C. R. R., a corpse, on Monday last. He was conductor on a freight train, which, in running backwards, passed over a cow, derailing the cab with fatal results to Mr. Branan, the conductor.

September 2, 1890
Union Recorder
THE GUN WENT OFF. A BALDIN COUNTY CITIZEN KILLS HIMSELF BY ACCIDENT.
  A distressing accident occurred last Wednesday afternoon in the eastern part of this county,  by which Mr. John Thomas Temple lost his life.
  The facts of the killing as received in this ciy are as follows: Mr. Temple had loaded his shot gun to kill hawks which were troubling his fowls. He was leaving the house and had reached the porch when he bethought him of something he had forgotten. In setting the gun down for the purpose of returning for the forgotten article, the hammer struck against the edge of the step with sufficient force to discharge the gun, the entire load entering the right side of the unfortunate man just below the nipple. Death ensued almost instantly.
  Coroner W. S. Scott was promptly notified and held an inquest. The jury rendered a verdict of accidental killing.
    Mr. Temple was about 40 years old and leaves an afflicted wife to mourn his untimely death.
   The remains were taken to Wilkinson county on Thursday for interment.

October 8, 1890
The Atlanta Constitution
A WOMAN'S INCONSTANCY.
Young Married Man Returns to Learn of His Wife's Union with Another. From The Middle Georgia Progress.
Married to another man!
  Such was the information a young benedict  received concerning his wife, in Ordinary Newman's office, last Tuesday.
  It was hard to believe, but it was there in black and white on the ordinary's record of marriages, nevertheless.
   The name of the young man, who, no doubt, has suffered on account of his wife's inconstancy, is Thomson. He formerly lived in Wilkinson county, but moved to this county a short time ago, and took up his abode near Oconee.
THE FIRST MARRIAGE.
   Two years ago Thomson wedded Miss Carrie Sutton. The couple lived together apparently happy and contented.
  Not many months ago he left his wife and went to southwest Georgia, for the purpose, we learn, of seeking more lucrative employment. It is reported that his domestic relations were entirely harmonious when he left, and he told his wife that he would be back soon. Constant correspondence was kept between them, and it is not probable that he had the faintest idea of what time would bring forth.
THE ROMANTIC SEQUEL.
  On Saturday, September 20th, last, a couple was married near Deep Step, in this county, by Justice Avant, of the ninety-ninth district. Mr. Avant in returning the license to the ordinary, wrote: "I Married them in the road!"
  The names of the contracting parties were Matthew Durden and Miss Carrie Sutton. Of course, neither Ordinary Newman nor Justice Avant knew anything of the former circumstances of the couple, and the license was issued and the ceremony performed in compliance with the law.
  Now comes the really pathetic feature of the story.
  Last Tuesday a neatly dressed young man not over twenty-three years of age, entered Judge Newman's office.
  Several people were in the office at the time and the young man walked up to the ordinary and asked him if he had issued a license for Matthew Durden and Carrie Sutton.
  Judge Newman promptly replied in the affirmative.
  The young man's face turned to an ashen hue. He almost gasped for breath, and in an excited tone exclaimed: "My God, that was my wife!"
  The presence of those in the office prevented Ordinary Newman from questioning the young man.
  He left the office without saying another word.
  His situation is an embarrassing one, and he deserves sympathy.
  We have not learned what steps he will take in the premises.

November 7, 1890
The Atlanta Constitution
Conductor Salter Dead. Savannah, Ga, November 6 (Special) Mr. W. H. Salter, for many years a conductor on the Central railroad, died this morning at his home on West Broad and Gaston Streets. Mr. Salter was born in Wilkinson county fifty years ago. He served through the war with the Third Georgia regiment in the Carswell Guards.

November 25, 1890
The Atlanta Constitution
Misfortunes Never Come Singly. Irwinton, Ga, November 24 (Special) Last Saturday the death of Mrs. Nimrod Burke occurred near New Providence, about fourteen miles from this place. Her burial took place the Sunday following. While the family of the deceased were attending the ceremonies at the burial ground, it was discovered that the residence of Mr. Burke was on fire. The fire gained considerable headway before anyone could reach the house, but fortunately most of the household goods were saved. Mrs. Burke was one of the oldest citizens in this county, and was a most estimable old lady.

December 2, 1890
Union Recorder
  Miss Stella Miller, daughter of Mr. J. J. Miller of Wilkinson county, and Mr. J. M. Holland, of Florida, were united in marriage on the 25th inst., at the residence of Mr. A. D. Nisbet, Rev. D. McQueen officiated. They left on the Georgia road for his home.

The Gordon Press
Gordon, Georgia. Thursday, January 1, 1891
Volume XVII, Number 1, Page 1
IN MEMORIAM
It has pleased God in his all wise providence to call from our midst one that we love and respected - yet His will, not ours, be done.  Mr.John Martin departed this life on the 12th of December, after an illness of five long months with that dreadful disease consumption.  Through it all however, he bore like the man that he was, and with that Christian spirit indicative of a good man, and never murmured.  He passed through the valley of death without a doubt or fear.  Mr. Martin was not a member of any church, but gave the Missionary Baptist the preference over all others.  We fully believe he was a converted man, and that he had good reasons for not associating himself with the church.  Mr. Martin was a very popular young man, and set a good example for his associates.  He was born on the 4th day of April, 1863.  Twiggs County, GA.  W. T. E.

The Gordon Press
Gordon, Georgia
Thursday, January 1, 1891
Volume XVII, Number 1, Page 2
Georgia, Wilkinson County. All persons having demands against the estate of Susan Faulk, late of said county, deceased, are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned, according to law, and all persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment; this Oct. 28, 1890. F. M. Faulk, admr S. Faulk, dec'd.

January 14, 1891
The Weekly Telegraph
A NEW DEAL AT GORDON
Improvements Inaugurated by the Recently Elected Council.
Gordon, Jan. 10 (Special) At the recent election for city officers, the following ticket was elected: Mayor, C.E. Frazier; aldermen, J. W. Bridges, J. G. Pearson, C. M. Hooks, W.W. Lee, and R. M. Butts. At a meeting of the council C. M. Hooks was elected mayor pro tem., and J. E. Osborn town marshal. The new board has gone to work with a vim and the good effects of their administration can already be seen. The streets are being put in thorough order, lights are being placed on the streets and many other improvements are soon to be made.
  Work on Gordon's new artesian well will be commenced within the next fortnight, all the necessary arrangements having been made to that effect. Citizens have closed a contract with Mr. L. B. Clay of Bartow to do the work. It is thought that pure water will be found at a depth of about 800 feet, and an excellent flow obtained.
  Mr. C. E. Frazier is having a very large and convenient store house erected on the W. J. Bridges lot, which he recently purchased.
  Mr. J. G. Pearson, one of the leading merchants of this section, has just associated with himself as partners Messrs. L. W. and W. W. Lee. These two gentlemen are prominent citizens of our county and are men of considerable means. The firm will be known as Lee, Pearson & Lee and will greatly increase their stock, doing business on a very extensive scale.
  The spring term of Gordon Academy will commence next Monday, the 12th instant, and from present indications the attendance will be very large. Mr. J. Averett Bryan, who has considerable reputation as a tutor, will have the school in charge. It is not yet definitely known whom he will choose as assistants.
   Merchants are all in good spirits. Their trade for the past three months has been very satisfactory, and they are greatly encouraged by the present outlook for an immense increase.
   A number of boarding students have made arrangements to attend our school the present years.
  Gordon already boasts of the best kept hotel on the Central railroad between Macon and Savannah, and the recent improvements made on the building adds greatly to its appearance.

January 21, 1891
The Weekly Telegraph
Miss Sidney Adams. Milledgeville, Jan. 18 (Special) Miss Sidney Adams, one of Jones county's most beloved ladies, died Wednesday, in this city. She was quite a favorite among her associates, and her sad death was a source of regret to the entire community.

February 10, 1891
Union Recorder
    Miss Lula Beck died at the Asylum on Saturday, January 31st, with that dreadful disease, pneumonia. She was stricken down the Tuesday previous and lived only a few days. She was a good girl and made many friends. She was a good attendant and gave perfect satisfaction, at the asylum where she was employed for several years. She was loved by all who knew her. Her many friends will miss her. She was buried on SUnday, the 3rd, ins., in the old family cemetery in Wilkinson county.

February 12, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
THE LAST OF BETTIE WEST
The Coroner's Inquest - Her Body Sent to Gordon for Burial
Coroner Knight impaneled a jury and held an inquest over the remains of Bettie West yesterday morning. This was the woman who was found dead in her house near the East Tennessee railroad depot on Tuesday evening.
  Dr. Carroll of East Macon was called as an expert witness to determine the cause of her death. He testified that he was called to attend the woman two weeks ago, and found her suffering from heart failure. He thought the fatal end had been hastened by drinking.
  After a short deliberation the jury ordered a verdict to the effect  that the woman Bettie West had died from heart failure, induced by the excessive use of alcoholic stimulants.
   Her body was sent to Gordon yesterday, where some of her relatives are living, for burial.

February 24, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
DEATH FROM HYDROPHOBIA. An Estimable Lady of Wilkinson Bitten By a Dog.
  A said case of death from hydrophobia was reported yesterday in Macon.
   Mrs. Cordelia Roberts of Wilkinson county, on the 12th inst. heard a noise in the chicken house, and on going out to investigate found a dog there. She attempted to drive it out with a stick, and the dog attacked her, bit her badly in three places and worried her until her husband, hearing the noise, came in and killed the savage brute.
  Dr. Butts of Gordon was sent for, and after treating her wounds he examined the dog, but did not think there was any danger of hydrophobia.
   Everything was going on well till Monday, 16th, when Mrs. Roberts went to get some water, at sight of which she went into convulsions, which continued at intervals till 1 p.m. on the 16th inst., when she died.
    Mrs Roberts was a very estimable lady. She was about 30 years old and leaves a husband and four of five small children.

March 3, 1891
Union Recorder
~excerpt~ It is with a heart full of sadness that we chronicle the death of our dearly beloved brother W. B Shepherd; he died at his home in Wilkinson county, January 26th, 1891. Wiley, as be was familiarly called, was born June 2nd 1857, was married January 13, 1889.
  He united himself with Liberty Baptist church during a series of meetings in August 1887, since which time he has been a consistent member. He had been a sufferer of one of the most fatal diseases, consumption, for about two years. But he bore it bravely and was indeed submissive to the will of God.
.....His funeral services were conducted by Rev. Carl W. Minor, after which time his remains were interred in the family cemetery.

March 19, 1891
The Atlanta Constitution
Death of Captain John Gibson.
Thomaston ,Ga., March 18 [Special] Captain John Gibson, for many years a merchant of this place, and also county treasurer died yesterday at Toomsboro, at the home of his son-in-law, Mr. B.S. Jackson. The remains were brought here today for burial.

The Gordon Press
Gordon, Georgia. Thursday, March 26, 1891
Volume XVII  Page 2
Bloodworth News. On the 19th inst., Mr. W. E. Jones and and Miss Hopie Thompson were joined together in the holy state of matrimony, By Rev. A. W. Patterson. We wish the happy pair a successful journey through life.  Jack O'Sprat

April 2, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
ITEMS FROM IRWINTON
The Loss of Two Valuable Citizens Regretted
Irwinton, April 1 (Special) Mr. R. L. Mayo, a prominent young man of this place, died on Sunday night from concussion of the brain, caused by striking his head against a fence.
  Mr. Mayor leaves a host of friends who will miss him.
  Mr. James Bush of this county died on Monday last from la grippe.

April 26, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
Unusual Freak of Lightning. From the Gordon Press.
  Last Thursday evening, during a slight thunder storm, Mr. John Kennington, living about two miles from Gordon, was standing on his front porch watching the clouds, when he spied a buzzard about 300 yards high trying to soar above the clouds. The buzzard was flying with all ease, when suddenly there came a heavy clap of thunder and a terrible flash of lightning, and the bird fell to the ground, dead, having been struck by the lightning. It fell within thirty feet of where Mr. Kennington, with several members of his family, was standing. The body of the buzzard upon examination was found to be badly burned and its feathers singed. This is on record, and is certainly one of the strangest freaks of the lightning we ever known or heard of.

April 28, 1891
Union Recorder
Married, at the residence of the bride's father, near Gordon, Wednesday last, Miss Lillian Gainey and Mr. Arthur Macon, of Richwood, Ga.

May 23, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
Stephensville, May 22 (Special) N. W. Isler, and old and very much respected citizen, died at his home near here yesterday evening. He was 83 years old.

May 27, 1891
The Weekly Telegraph
Death at Irwinton.
Irwinton, May 19 (Special) Mrs. G. T. Rutland died at her residence in this place at 6 o'clock this morning. She had been lingering in the last stages of consumption for some time. She leaves a husband and three little children beside a host of friends to mourn her death.

June 3, 1891
The Atlanta Constitution
DEATHS IN GEORGIA
Irwinton, Ga. June 1 (Special) On Saturday afternoon, Mrs. T. A. Harmon, the wife of our eloquent Methodist minister, died suddenly of heart disease.
  Mrs. Ella Robinson, wife of Mr. E. C. Robinson, of Jackson, died at her residence, near Toomsboro, on Thursday, May 28th.
  The death of the six year old son of Mr. L. S. Hall, who was smothered in a gully by sand caving in upon him, is announced.

June 15, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
AN OCTOGENARIAN
Death of an Aged Minister in Twiggs County Yesterday.
Lamar Clay, the undertaker, sent a fine casket to Twiggs county yesterday evening for the remains of the Rev. C. G. Johnson.
  Mr. Johnson died yesterday afternoon at his home, about seven miles from Jeffersonville. He was in his 82d year and was a faithful minister and highly respected citizen.
  The funeral services will be held near the home of the deceased at 4 o'clock this afternoon.

June 16, 1891
Union Recorder
  Married in Wilkinson county, on the 10th inst., at the residence of the bride's father, Mr. Richard Hatfield, Mr. James R. Torrence and Miss Mattie A. Hatfield.
  And at the residence of Mr. A. J. Gibson, on the 11th inst., Mr. B. K. Smith, of Wilkinson county, and Miss Annie E. Gibson of Baldwin County.
  W. R. Fenn, officiating

June 23, 1891
Union Recorder
  Mr. Ed. A. Perkins of Macon and Miss Theresa Solomon of Gordon were united in marriage last Wednesday morning. The ceremony took place at the Baptist church in Gordon the Rev. J. M. Waller of Alabama, officiating. The church was filled to its utmost capacity with the friends and relatives of the beautiful bride and popular groom. After a visit of three weeks to the Springs and Seaside resorts they will locate in Macon. The Union-Recorder tenders congratulations and good wishes.

June 25, 1891
The Atlanta Constitution
Badly Hurt. Irwinton, Ga, June 24. [Special] D. B. Baum, while out riding last week, was seriously hurt by falling out of a road cart. Mr. Baum has a host of friends who are anxious to see him at his post again. Mr. Baum run over a small rut and was thrown violently out on his side. Up to this writing he is doing nicely.

August 14, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
RESTING BY THE WAY. Mrs. J. Methvin and Mrs. J. Avant, missionaries to Indian Territory, are taking a short vacation among their relatives in Georgia. These ladies are daughter of T. N. Beall of Irwinton and visit their old home after an absence of six years spent in faithful services. They will arrive at the residence of their brother, Mr. A. A. Beall, on Huguenin Heights, on Saturday 13th inst., and leave on Monday, 17th, for their field of labor.

August 18, 1891
Union Recorder
Death of Mrs. George Chambers
Mrs. Sarah M. Chambers, wife of Mr. George Chambers, died in this city last Tuesday night, after a long illness. She was a daughter of the late Rev. B. B. Shepherd of Wilkinson county. She leaves a husband and five children and many relatives and friends who mourn the loss. Her funeral took place at 5:30 o'clock Wednesday afternoon, from the Baptist church of which she was a member for many years.

August 18, 1891
Union Recorder
A Long and Useful Life
A special to the Macon Telegraph from Mcintye, Aug. 11th has this to say about one of our old friends: Mr. Caswell Branan was born in Morgan county, August 10, 1807, moved to Wilkinson county when 7 years old, and is now 84 years old.
  He celebrated his anniversary today by giving a grand reunion dinner, which was enjoyed by brother, sisters, children, grand and great-grandchildren.
  Mr. John Branan, the brother is 74 years old, two sisters, Mrs. Mongtomery 83, and Mrs. Ethridge 77 years old. One sister, Mrs. McCook, who lives in the neighborhood, is in her 91st year. She was unable to be present owing to an accident. Mrs. Temples, another sister, is in her 71st year.
  Mr. Branan had nine children, six   of whom are living, twenty-six grandchildren and thirteen great-granchildren.
  Mr. Branan married Miss Gracie Herndon, June 14, 1832, and she died in 1881. They began the battle of life within 200 yards of where he now lives. He is in good health and does manual labor on his farm, and has a fine prospect of celebrating many more birthdays. He has never united with any church, although he has always lead a strictly moral life, never uttered an oath, was never intoxicated nor used tobacco, in any form.
   He was a subscriber to the Federal Union, now the Union Recorder, about fifty years ago, and has been a constant reader ever since.
 

August 22, 1891
The Macon Telegraph
Gordon Press: Perhaps one of the quickest courtships and marriages that has occurred in this or surrounding vicinity in quite a long time was that of Mr. Will Massey, who lives near Gordon, to Miss Lucy Bennett, of Perry, at Jeffersonville, on last Saturday night at 10 o'clock. The Press is informed that these young people were introduced on Thursday nigh last at a social gathering. They did not know each other, but a few hours before it was mutually agreed that they had  "met their fate" am to put all doubts at rest, if any existed, they hiked themselves away to a minister, accompanied by a select number of friends, and were made one.
Gordon Press: A negro boy about 14 years of age, who lives on Mr. V. W. Thorp's plantation, near Gordon, was shot and very seriously wounded one day last week while attempting to extract a shell from a breech-loading shot gun. The shell had been in the gun for some time and had become fastened in such a manner that the gun could only be about half unbreeched. The boy tried to open the breech wider, and in doing so struck the cap of the shell in some manner, causing it to explode. The result was he received the full charge in his throat, exposing the windpipe and also severely injuring his right eye. Fortunately the shot had been previously extracted, else the negro's life would undoubtedly have paid the forfeit of his carelessness.

August 25, 1891
Atlanta Constitution
THREE GOLDEN WEDDINGS
Celebrated at One Time in One Family in Wilkinson County.
  A few days ago at the country home of Mr. D. J. Ryle, near Gordon, Wilkinson county, there was a memorable gathering.
  Over one hundred persons of all sizes and ages, from the babe in arms to the old patriarch of near four score years.
  And they had met to celebrate the golden wedding of three couples, all closely connected to the Ryle family.
   Just fifty years ago, at the same place where the celebration occurred last week, Mr. D. J. Ryle was married to Miss Louisa Gardner, and at the same time his sister, Miss Sarah F. Ryle, was married to Mr. John Lewis.
  Among the attendants  at the wedding were Miss Priscilla Gibson and Mr. Charles Ivey. A few days later they were married. Miss Gibson is first cousin of the Ryles.
  For fifty years they have lived peaceably and quietly, honored by all who knew them. Each of them has raised good-sized families and now have large numbers of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
  When the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage come on they determined to celebrate their golden weddings together.
  Their children were scattered all over Georgia and Florida, but they were written to be present. And on August 12th more than one hundred of their offspring and near relatives gathered at the old Ryle homestead.
  A gentleman who was present describes the gathering as being a remarkable one. Many touching scenes were witnessed. Sisters and brothers who had not met in twenty years met and wept for joy.
  There was present among the visitors Mr. and Mrs. Gardner, who had been married forty-five years. Mrs. Gardner is a sister of Mr. D. J. Ryle and Mr. Gardner is a brother of  his wife. Five of Mr. Ryle's sisters were also present an his two brothers.
  A magnificent repast was spread and all those assembled enjoyed the hospitality of the Ryle household.
  The aged couples walked over the familiar places where they, in the first dawning of love's young dreams fifty years ago, first told their mutual love. It was touching to hear them talk of those days, and the fire and zeal of youth returned to them again as they recalled the far past.
  But the tenderest of all was the parting.
  They held each other's hands long as they each went their several ways, for they felt that they would never meet again on earth, surrounded as they were that day. They knew it, and they felt it, and the tears came into their eyes as they parted.
  Each of the three couples was the recipient of many handsome gifts.
  Mr. D. M. Ryle, of this city, son of Mr. D.J. Ryle, presented his father with a handsome gold watch and his mother with a fine pair of gold spectacles.
  It was a memorable occasion, and it is safe to say that another like it never occurred in the country.

August 31, 1891
Macon Weekly Telegraph
DEATH IN WILKINSON
Irwinton, Aug. 30 (Special) Mr. L. A. Hall, a prosperous farmer living near this place, died suddenly Friday evening. He had been unwell for about five days, but, feeling much better on Friday, he went out in his cotton patch for a walk and was found dead about fifteen minutes afterward.
  Mr. Hall was one of Wilkinson's best citizens and most prosperous farmers. He leaves a host of friends, who extend their warmest sympathy to his bereaved family. He was about 65 year old.

September 10 1891
Macon Telegraph
Two Deaths in Irwinton
Irwinton, Sept. 9 - (Special) Mr. Virgil C. Branan, a promising young clerk of the McIntyre Alliance store, died at his father's home, near this place, on yesterday, of typhoid fever. He had been sick for some time, and his death was not unexpected. Mr. Branan was a very steady and pious young man and was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him. He leaves a host of friends, who extend their warmest sympathy to his bereaved family.
   Mr.B. I. Smith, of the firm of Smith & duPree of Nicklesville, died on yesterday of a congestive chill. Mr. Smith was a prominent merchant and farmer and one of Wilkinsons' best citizens.

October 11, 1891
The Atlanta Constitution
TRIED TO BREAK JAIL, But a Faithful Prisoner Wrote a Letter Which Gave Them Away.
Irwinton, Ga., October 10 (Special) As the grand jurors were in the act of inspecting the jail a startling discovery was made, and, had it not been for Dennis Barrett, the negro now in jail for selling whisky, no doubt the scheme would have been carried out.  On nearing the jail Dennis succeeded in handing the following note to some one, and requested that it be handed to Sheriff Fountain:
  Mr. I. F.Fountain sir you had better come and lock around if you want to cepe the boyes en hear.
  I hate to tell you be case you will lock me up en the sel and i will have no plase to exsise.
G. D. Barrett
  After noting the contents of the letter the grand jurors proceeded with their inspecting tour.
  Going up stairs in the jail it was discovered that the ceiling had been ripped off and that one log had been sawed in two and another half in two. The work was done very quietly and nothing wrong was suspected . If this deduction had not been made our jail would have been vacant. It is not known how they obtained the saw nor how long the struggle for liberty has been thought of.
  Wilkinson county evidently needs a new jail, and the grand jury should recommend the building of one at once.
  While Mr. Fountain is a careful officer and takes every precaution to prevent the escape of prisoners, it is by no means impossible for the inmates to break jail.

Oct 12, 1891
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Shooting Near Gordon.. A Family Quarrel May Terminate Seriously.
Gordon, Oct. 11. (Special) A serious shooting scrape occurred about five miles from Gordon yesterday afternoon about 6 o'clock, in which Mr. Jack Adams was seriously if not fatally wounded. The particulars, as gathered by the Telegraph correspondent, were as follows:
  Mr. Jack Adams was so unfortunate as to lose his house and its entire contents a few nights since by fire. His father kindly furnished him material to rebuild it, and it was while engaged in this work, together with his father and Mr. Tom Vinson, that the difficulty began. It seems that Mr. Vinson, who is a brother-in-law of young Adams, had a fuss with the older Adams, in which his face was slapped by the old gentleman, who it is said has an almost ungovernable temper when thoroughly aroused.
 After this occurred Vinson left for home, but before doing so swore terrible vengeance upon his assailant.
  No attention was paid to the threat at the time, and when the day's work was completed father and son started upon their return home with no expectation whatever of what was soon to occur. They had not proceeded far before they were met by Vinson who had a shot gun in his hand which he leveled upon the older Adams as soon as they were near by, at the same time exclaiming:
  "Now, d---n you, I will get revenge."
   The son realizing the imminent peril of his father, sprang from the wagon and seized the would-be assassin's gun and fired both barrels into the air. Vinson then pulled a pistol from his hip pocked and with an oath, aimed it also at the old man but the son again came to the rescue and caught the weapon in his band but in the scuffle over its possession it was discharged the bullet entering his abdomen and making a very dangerous wound.
  A runner was immediately dispatched to Gordon after a physician, Dr. R. M. Butts hastened to the bedside of the wounded young man and up to the present time he is reported resting very easy with but little chance for recovery.

November 13, 1891
Macon Telegraph
TRULY AN INFERNAL FIEND. HE BURNS A HUMAN BEING FOR THE FUN IN IT.
After Robbing the House of Mr. J.M. Knight, Some scoundrel Kills Mrs. Knight and Burns Her Up in the House.
Irwinton, Ga. Nov. 12-(Special) – The Irwinton World will contain the following tomorrow:
 The most horrible crime ever committed in this county occurred last Wednesday morning about 10 o'clock, six miles from this town.
 Mrs. J.M. Knight, a prosperous farmer's wife, was the victim.
Never has such indignation and excitement prevailed in this section.
 Mrs. J.M. Knight was brutally murdered and a torch applied to the house to shield the crime of the villains.
HOW IT HAPPENED
 Mr. Knight and two of his sons were off at a neighbor's about three-quarters of a mile, grinding cane, leaving Mrs. Knight at home to attend to domestic affairs.
 While at the mill grinding cane, the male members of the family were attracted by a heavy volume of smoke in the direction of their home. They hurried to the scene, reaching there only in time to see the wife and mother lying upon her face upon the floor of the kitchen, with an outstretched arm surrounded by the angry flames. She was no doubt dead, and every effort to rescue the body proved fruitless. The entire dwelling and kitchen were in flames, and the framework was tumbling in.
THE WELL ABLAZE
 A rush for water was made, but the framing around the well was found to be burning. The fire about the well was soon extinguished, and water was then continually applied to the spot where the body of Mrs. Knight was last seen in order to prevent her bones from burning.
THE BONES SAVED
 By a continuous application of water to this one spot, the bones of the victim were prevented from being burned into ashes. As soon as possible they were raked from the hot ashes and placed in a heap upon a sheet on a box, where they were tenderly cared for by friends of the family.
FOUL PLAY
 Every indication points to foul play. The hair of this lady was gathered up together with the bones. Upon investigation by Dr. J.S. Wood of this place, the hair was found to be clotted with blood, which prevented it from burning. It is supposed that the blood was caused by a heavy blow upon the back of the head.
Submitted by Terry D. McLeod

November 14, 1891
Atlanta Constitution
ROBBED AND SLAIN
A Terrible Crime Reported from Wilkinson County
A WHITE LADY PUT TO DEATH,
And the House, with Her Dead Body, Burned, in Order to Hide All Trace of the Crime
Irwinton, Ga., November 13 (Special) News reached here of one of the most brutal murders that has occurred in this county for many years.
Mrs. J.M. Knight, the wife of a prosperous farming living about five miles from this place, was murdered in her house, which was afterwards robbed, and burned to the ground.
  The Curling Smoke
  Early in the morning Mr. J.M. Knight, accompanied by his two grown sons, went over to a neighbor's living about three-quarters of a mile away, to assist in make syrup. At 10 o'clock they saw smoke in the direction of their home and they left immediately, reaching home in time to find it enveloped in flames.
The Murder Discovered
   Rushing into the house, they found the body of Mrs Knight lying in a pool of blood, but the flames had gained such headway that they were unable to reach the body. There it remained until the house was burned. Several trunks had been rifled and their contents scattered over the rooms. A pair of pants that were saved had been robbed of a small amount of money which had been left in the pockets.
The Work of Burglars
  Its is supposed that after Mr. Knight and his sons had left, the burglar entered the house, but was surprised by Mrs. Knight, returning from the cowpen, where she had been milking; and that the burglar killed her and burned the house in order to hide all proof of his guilt.
   A hatchet and chisel which had been left by Mr. Knight on the porch were missing. The hatchet was found near the body of Mrs. Knight and the chisel near one of the trunks.
Taken from the Ruins
    A part of gentlemen from this place went over to the scene of the tragedy. The remains of Mrs. Knight were taken from the ruins. Nearly the entire body was consumed, except a part of her back and head. Her hair being clotted with blood, was not burned.
  No clue to the perpetrator of this fiendish act has been found as yet.
  The murderer made off with about one hundred dollars.

November 19, 1891
Atlanta Constitution
   A reward of $250 was offered for the murder of Mrs. James Knight, which occurred in Wilkinson county, on November 11th.  The circumstances of this murder are particularly horrible. Some unknown fiend set fire to the house of Mr. James M. Knight, a well known citizen of the county named, last week
The house was burned down, and in it Mrs. James  Knight was burned to death. A communication giving the horrible details of the affair was received yesterday at the executive, and in it the opinions expressed that the house was first robbed and then burned down. The family of Mrs. Knight has raised $500, which is offered for the capture of the fiend. The county officials added $250, and the $250 offered by the governor makes a smug reward of $1,000.

December 16, 1891
The Weekly Telegraph
WERE LOOKING FOR A ROPE SO HALL WAS SPEEDED AWAY TO THE MACON JAIL. Alleged Murderer of Mrs. Knight Burned to Death- Butchered Her and Burned the House - Tried to Kill the Officers.
  There is a man in the Bibb county jail who narrowly escaped lynching at the hands of the people of Irwinton yesterday.
  Fox Hall, a negro charged with the murder of Mrs. Jane Knight, on November 11, last, one of the most atrocious crimes ever committed in Wilkinson county.
  Mrs. Knight was murdered at her home about eight miles from Iwinton on November 11, last, by having her head chopped open with an axe. The murdered then robbed the house and set fire to it, but the building was saved and the body of the murdered lady recovered.
    The murdered escaped, but since then the officers and citizens of the county have been persistent in their efforts to ferret out the fiend.
   Fox Hall was suspected from the first. Another Negro saw him sneaking through the cane patch near by just before the house was set on fire.
  Shortly after the fire broke out Fox Hall was seen leaving the premises. Several days before the murder he went to the house at different times ostensibly on business, and it is believed hen then found out that Mr. Knight had a considerable sum of money there.
  About $80 of this money was stolen by the murderer.
  Hall spent money freely after the murder, although it was known that he had only marketed two bales of cotton, a large portion of the proceeds of which he paid out at the time.
  These circumstances, which were brought out from time to time, led Sheriff Fontaine (Fountain) to order the arrest of Hall, and Friday night Deputy Simpson, Mr. H. T. Hogan and Pete Palethorpe of Macon, sent to the negro's home about a half miles of the scene of the murder.
   SHOT AT THE OFFICERS.
  Here another came near being added to Hall's crimes, for as soon as he recognized the officers he sprang for his gun and fired twice. One of the loads narrowly missed Deputy Simpson and Detective Palethorpe narrowly escaped the other. Hall then ran to a rear door and escaped.
  The officers at once put bloodhounds on his track and hunted him all night and until yesterday morning.
   At about 11 o'clock yesterday morning Sheriff Fontaine was called from his residence and was surprised to confront Fox Hall, who stated that he wished to surrender. He was taken at once to the jail, but as soon as it became known around town that Fox Hall had been arrested feeling began to spring up, and trouble was feared.
  Sheriff Fontaine discovered it and at once slipped his man away and brought him to Macon.
   VOWS HIS INNOCENCE.
  Hall stoutly affirms his innocence, but he can give no account of himself. On November 11 he claims to have been in two or three different places, whereas the contrary has been proven.
  In regard to his actions in shooting at the officers on Friday night he says he feared being lynched, in that he had heard that Mr. Hogan, who was a brother-in-law of the murdered lady, had said that he would hang Hall when captured.
  He says he went at once to surrender as soon as he thought it was safe to enter the town.
  Sheriff Fontaine believes firmly in the guilt of Hall, and says all the evidence necessary to hang him is available.
Submitted by Terry D. McLeod
 

December 23, 1891
The Weekly Telegraph
New from Irwinton.
Irwinton, Dec. 15.  (Special) Last Friday night an attempt was made to arrest Fox Hall for the murder of Mrs. James Knight, but he outran the posse and Saturday morning he gave up to the sheriff. If there is any proof sufficient to convict him, it is not know to the public.
Mrs. M. R. Chappell, wife of Col. I. S. Chappell of Dublin, Ga., and daughter of the Rev. W. S. Baker of Irwinton, died today at 1 o'clock. Her remains will be brought to Irwinton tomorrow for interment.

February 28, 1892
Macon Weekly Telegraph
MRS. CHOATE DEAD. Mrs. C. E. Choate died at Gordon, Ga., at a late hour Friday night. Her remains were brought to Macon, and will be interred at Riverside cemetery today.

March 8, 1892
Union Recorder
  Death of Mr. G. A. Lord. Mr. George A. Lord died of pneumonia at his residence near the Asylum, last Tuesday after an illness of three days. He was a native of Wilkinson county and had filled the position of Attendant at the Asylum acceptably for a number of years. In the vigor of young manhood, when least expected, he was seized by the grim monster and hurried to the grave. He possessed a kindly nature that fitted him for the care of the demented and made for him friends of all whom he associated. He discharged his duties with an admirable cheerfulness meeting the obligations of life with a promptness and fidelity worthy of a more exalted position. His sudden death was a sad shock to his relatives and friends. He leaves a wife and little daughter who have the sympathy of the community in their sad bereavement.
   The funeral services were held at his residence at 2 o'clock p.m. Wednesday, Rev. J. D. Chapman officiating, and he was buried in the cemetery in this city.

April 26, 1892
Macon Telegraph
Yesterday morning Mrs. L. F. Etheridge died at her home, near Mike Daly's store, on the Houston road.
  Mrs. Etheridge was a lady of about 50 years of age, and she leaves a husband, who is now lying at the point of death himself, and several small children.
  Her body was shipped by Undertaker Keating to Ivory (sic), Ga., where it will be interred today.

May 1, 1892
Macon Telegraph
Last night at 8:45 o'clock, Mrs. Bethany Saunders (sic Sanders) died at the residence of Mr. John W. Hooks, on Pine street. Her body will be shipped to Gordon for interment at 11 o'clock, and her friends and acquaintances are invited to call at Mr. Hook's before that hour.

June 1, 1892
The Weekly Telegraph
THINK HE'S BOB FLOYD
A Strange Tramp Arrested Near Unadilla
Unadilla, May 29 (Special) Considerable excitement was created this morning when n it was reported that Bob Floyd, one of the Florida express robbers had passed Pinehurst and was making his way toward Macon. He was recognized by two young men at Pinehurst, and they immediately started  in pursuit. Their man gave them the dodge and in looking for him in a thicket they passed him, and came on to Undadilla. He was seen, however, by a Unadilla man, and a posse was soon organized and started in pursuit. The man was found resting in the shade near the place where he was last seen, and was arrested by the two young men from Pinehurst. He was brought to Undadilla, where they all boarded the train for Arabi, to which place they carry the man to be identified, as they are not sure he is the right man.
  The man says his name is Payne, and that he was raised in Wilkinson county, Ga. He had no letters nor papers of any kind to prove his identify, but had an express receipt for a satchel, which he had sent to Macon from Richmond, in the name of Payne.
  He claims to have worked in Macon in one of the factories. He had a lantern and some money, but was tramping. There is a look of guilt about him.

June 21, 1892
The Macon Telegraph
Irwinton, June 20 - (Special) Col. R. L. Story, near Ball's church, died very suddenly at his home yesterday afternoon of heart failure. He was a gentleman loved and respected by all who knew him, a consistent member of the Methodist church, a devoted husband and a kind father. He leaves a wife and six children to mourn his death, besides a host of friends.
   There is to be a Masonic festival at this place next Friday. A large crowd will be present and a pleasant time is anticipated.
(Buried Holliman-Hatfield Cemetery)

June 29, 1892
The Weekly Telegraph
Social Happenings at Irwinton. Irwinton, June 27 (Special) Friday evening a dance was given by the Irwinton Social Club at the court house. Everything passed off nicely and all expressed themselves as having spent a delightful time. Among those present: Dr. Summerland and Miss Effie Leonard of Dublin, at the Baum House; Dr. A. B.Simmons and Miss Ernestine Lindsey of Savannah; Mesrs Ed Davis and J. P. Stetson of Macon, the guest of Hugh Chambers.
    Sunday night an unexpected marriage took place at the church. The contracting parties Mr. J. M. Buckston and Miss Annie Rutland. The groom is from Waycross. Miss Rutland is one of Irwinton's most estimable young ladies..

July 13, 1892
Macon Telegraph
MRS. R. C. JEFFERS Passes Away and Illness of Several Months.  Mrs. R. C. Jeffers died at 2 o'clock yesterday at her home, No. 1514 Second street, after a lingering illness.
    She had been slowly dying with the dread disease, consumption, for several months. Her husband died last Saturday and was buried in the old family burial grounds in Milledgeville, where they both spent their lives until last year when they came to Macon to live. The remains of Mrs. Jeffers will be taken to Milledgeville today and placed beside those of her husband. She was 55 years of age at her death. Her maiden name was Miss Rachel Barnes, and was born at Toomsboro in Wilkinson county. She was a lovable character, a sweet Christian lady, a fond and devoted wife and mother.
   She leaves three sons and three daughters to mourn her loss.

July 28, 1892
Americus Times-Recorder
~excerpt~ Dr. J. E. Hall, one of the oldest and most respected of Americus' citizens, died yesterday morning at 4 o'clock. He has been in feeble health for many months, and his passing away was not entirely unexpected.
....The funeral occurred yesterday afternoon at 4:30 o'clock from the residence. He was a prominent Mason, and that fraternity had charge of the exercises. Dr. Campbell conducted the ceremony.
Dr. John E. Hall was born in Wilkinson county, Ga., Januray 19, 1827. About 1850 he located in Newnan, Ga., and remained there several yeas as a druggist. A few years before the war he moved to Americus where he has since resided.
  He married twice, his two wives being sisters of the late Col. Wm. Toole. He leaves a wife and four children, who are Capt. Lyman Hall, of Atlanta; Robert B.,
W. Stovall, and John E. Hall, jr.
   His entire career has been in the drug business with the exception of a few years in which he was a partner in the firm of Toole, Schumpert & Co., in the grocery business.

August, 1892
The Macon Telegraph
A Prominent Man Dead. News reached the city yesterday of the death of Mr. C. B. Mathis at his home in Gordon, Ga. Mr. Mathis was a very prominent citizen of Gordon and was well known in Macon. His death will be greatly deplored by all who know him. A handsome casket for the remains was shipped to Gordon yesterday by Undertaker Keating, and the funeral will take place today.

August 2, 1892
Union-Recorder
Death of Mr. Chesley Bloodworth
  Mr. Chesley Bloodworth died at his home in this county last Thursday night, at 11:55 o'clock. For two years past he was afflicted with Dropsy, and for the past twelve months was unable to leave his house, and required watchers at night. He bore his affliction with great patience and resignation.
  Mr. Bloodworth was a native of Wilkinson county, but has been a resident of this county for more than 40 years. He was in the seventy-first year of his age, and enjoyed the respect of all who knew him. He was an industrious and successful farmer, a kind neighbor, a loving husband and kind father. He leaves seven children, two sons and five daughters, and twenty one grandchildren to mourn their loss. His wife preceded him to the grave just two years. His children are all married except  one daughter. His children are Robt. W. Bloodworth and Jos. T. Bloodworth, and Mrs. Cleopas Ivey, Mrs. John L. Martin, Mrs. W. A. Torrence, Mrs. James Finney, and Miss Dealphia Bloodworth.
  Mr. Bloodworth was buried at the Salem church cemetery near his residence, last Saturday morning at 9 o'clock. A large number of relatives and friends gathered to pay the last sad tribute of love and respect to his memory.

August 21, 1892
The Columbus Enquirer-Sun
Mr. P. F. Payne, residing in Vineville, near Macon, has suddenly disappeared from his quarters, leaving no trace of his whereabouts. His mother, a widow lady, living near Irwinton, Ga., is very uneasy about him, and fears something unusual has happened to him.

December 12, 1892
The Atlanta Constitution
The Fire Alarm in Irwinton
Irwinton, Ga. December 11. (Special} About 2 o'clock this morning the alarm of fire was given, when the barn belonging to Colonel J. W. Lindsey, of this place was discovered wrapped in flames. The barn and contents were totally destroyed. As it happened, his horse and buggy were not in the barn, as he had driven out to the country yesterday. The loss is estimated at about $500. No insurance.

February 18, 1893
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Mrs. Roach, an elderly lady, 61 years of age, died yesterday morning after an illness of several years. She was born in Ireland and had lived in Macon for four years. The remains will be taken to Gordon for burial at 11 o'clock today.

March 3, 1893
The Macon Telegraph
Remains Sent to Gordon
   Mr. J. W. McCook, an employee of the Manchester mills died yesterday morning after a brief illness, leaving a wife and several children. The remains will be sent to Gordon this morning for interment.

March 16, 1893
The Constitution
Notes from Cool Springs.
Cool Springs, Ga, March 15 (Special) Cool Springs is now a resort for tourist. Several gypsies camped here for two or three days for the purpose of resting themselves and their stock. After taking in the sights of the city-and two or three parties who swapped horses with them, they took their departure Monday morning.
  We hear some talk of a millinery establishment being opened up here. We hope the rumor will soon develop into a reality.
   Mr. W. T. Rogers captured a twenty five pound turtle. His turtleship was sauntering along the road and proved an easy victim.

March 15, 1893
Macon Telegraph
MRS. CALHOUN HAS HER BABY. Accompanied By Her Brother She Arrived in the City Yesterday Morning. A WARRANT OUT FOR MR. SMYTHE. Her Brother and Father Will See That She Keeps and Properly Cares For It - She Takes It to Her Home In Wilkinson County.
   True to his promise to Detective Patterson, Mr. Alonzo Long, brother of Mrs. Alice Calhoun, the woman that left her babe to perish in the wood pile near the Macon and Dublin depot, Sunday afternoon, arrived in the city yesterday morning, accompanied by Mrs. Calhoun.
    After arriving here the brother and sister lost no time in going to the police headquarters, where they were referred to Chief Kenan, who held a conference with them in his office.
  mr. long stated to Chief Kenan that his sister's disgrace was deeply deplored by the family, and if she was allowed to go free and take the child home,. he would pledge his word that he and his father would see that she took good care of it, and would do all in their power to right the wrong that she had been committed.
  Mrs. Calhoun also told the chief that she would be glad to take her child and raise it, and that she did not want to abandon it, but could not bear to take it home with her, and thought that if she put it where she did that some one would find it and place it in good hands where it would be properly raised and cared for. She further said that if she had wanted to destroy the child she would have dropped it in the river, where, in all probability, it never would have been found.
  When asked who the father of the child was she refused to tell, but her brother spoke up and said that be believed him to be a man named Smythe, who clerked in a store near their home and who boarded at their house.
  Chief Kenan would not accept what the brother said be believed, and wanted to know who really was the father of the child and insisted on an answer from Mrs. Calhoun, and finally she acknowledged that Smythe was the right party. Chief Kenan then called in Mayor Price and Recorder Freeman and told Mr. Long to lay the case before them, as he offered to have their advice before acting.
    Mr. Long then stated that if his sister was not placed under arrest and was permitted to take the child home he and his father would see that she cared for it properly. Mrs. Calhoun made the same promise, and, acting under the advice of Mayor Price and Recorder Freeman, she was told that she might go the the Home for the Friendless and get her child and take it home.
    The woman seemed greatly relieved when this announcement was made to her, apparently being rejoiced at regaining the child she less than one week ago abandoned.
    Before Mr. Long and Mrs. Calhoun left the chief's office one of the King's Daughters arrived and accompanied them to the Home for the Friendless, where the child was turned over to its mother, who seemed overjoyed at receiving it.
   It was with some reluctance, however, that the King's Daughters surrendered the child, as they were not fully satisfied that its mother would be a proper person to raise it.
    One noticeable thing that impressed everyone who saw the brother and sister was the great difference in their appearance. Mr. Long was a good-looking, well-dressed young man, with pleasant, agreeable manners, while Mrs. Calhoun had the appearance of being a very commonplace woman.
  Before leaving the city Mr. Long had a warrant issued for the arrest of Smythe, which he said he would have served as soon as he arrived home. No words were exchanged between the brother and sister while here, but it was noticed that he did not let her get out of his sight, and they boarded the Macon and Dublin train together yesterday afternoon on their return to their home.

March 20, 1893
The Atlanta Constitution
John A. Perry, the talented editor of The Irwinton World, has captured a charming bride in the person of Miss Nina Hatfield.

March 28, 1893
The Macon Telegraph
Gordon, March 28 (Special) Robert Simmons, a colored youth of Macon, formerly of Gordon, was run over by the Savannah bound passenger train last night and received such injuries that he died at this place this morning about 9 o'clock. The supposition is that he was riding on the trucks.

May 9, 1893
The Macon Telegraph
Death of a Little Boy.
Gordon, May 8 (Special) This morning at 10 o'clock little Roscoe, the 3-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Rozar of this place, died after seven days of intense suffering. He was attended during his illness by two faithful physicians and a large circle of devoted relatives and friends, who nursed him most tenderly to the end.
  He was a remarkably bright and lovable little boy, and the entire town is filled with gloom on account of his death. All hearts go out in sympathy for the heartbroken parents.

May 18, 1893
Macon Weekly Telegraph
GOT ANOTHER GUN,  But It was a Little Too Light for the Purpose After All.
  Mr. Jack Fountain, the clever ex-sheriff of Wilkinson county, was on his first raid.
  It being customary to take guns along on a raid, Mr. Fountain was handed one of Uncle Sam's carbines. Taking a good look at the ugly gun, he said it was entirely too large for him to hand, in fact, that kind of gun had gone out of fashion. Deputy Nelson suggested that he go out in town and borrow a lighter one, and acting upon that advice he started out on the hunt, and, meeting a friend, was told where he could get one by going over to East Macon.
  After a walk of about two miles he returned with a fine feather weight; and said" "Now, boys, I have the best gun in the crowd," and passed it to one of his brother deputies.
  Upon examination it was found to be a parlor rifle.
  "Well, confound that fellow. He told me that he had killed wild turkeys 200 yards with that gun," said the discomfited deputy, and grasped a government carbine, with which he is liable to do good service, if ever the occasion demands.
  Jack Fountain is one of the best fellows on earth. He weighs about 225 pounds, and raiding is a new thing to him.
 

June 4, 1893
The Atlanta Constitution
A Rattler's Deadly Work
McArthur, Ga. June 3 (Special) Mr. J. S. Brady who was bitten by a rattlesnake died near here about 4 o'clock p.m.  yesterday, died at 3 o'clock this morning, only living about eleven hours after having received the fatal virus. Dr. J. B. Reynolds, of Lumber City, Ga., did all in his power to save him, but the deadly poison had done its work before he reached him.
  Mr. Brady was a cypress timber contractor, formerly of Wilkinson county, Georgia, where his father and brothers now reside. He had lived here but comparatively a short time, but he had endeared himself to our people by his sterling integrity of character and his uniform uprightness in all his dealings.
(Buried Ebernezer Church Cemetery)

June 10, 1893
The Atlanta Constitution
A cypress timber contractor from Wilkinson county was bitten by a large rattlesnake while picking blackberries and died eight hours after being bitten.

July 6, 1893
The Macon Telegraph
Danville, July 5 (Special) Mrs. William H. Arnold, a highly respected and Christian lady, died last Saturday. Her husband has the sympathy of the community. They have lived together a long time and have reared a very interesting family.
   Mr. Thomas D. Tindall is quit sick and not expected to live. He has fever.
  Mr. Samuel W. Yopp and William H. Champion are at their respective homes very sick and some uneasiness is felt for them. They are fond of fishing and have literally lived in the ponds and lakes since spring, hence the stubbornness of the fever.
  Mrs. Wright Sheffield of Wilkinson is dead. She was quite old and leaves a large family behind. Her husband died twenty or more years ago.
  Mrs. Matthew Fowler, mother of Messrs. John, Daniel, Erasimus, William and Matthew, Jr., died yesterday, aged about 70. She will be buried at their family burial ground. She will be greatly missed. A strong mind, an energetic person, a pure heart has left us.

July 18, 1893
Atlanta Constitution
Macon, July 17
  George W. Ethridge, a well-known young man, died today. The body will be sent to McIntyre for interment.

July 23, 1893
Macon Telegraph
Gordon, July 25 (Special) The social event of this summer months will be the marriage of Mr. R. S. Nelson, a popular fireman of the Central railroad, to Miss Attie Bridger, both of Gordon, at 3:30 o'clock tomorrow morning. They leave on the Nancy Hanks for Macon and and thence for Cumberland Island, where they will remain for a few days.
  Mr. Bryant McAdams, near here, is a model farmer. He has three acres of corn that will yield fifty bushels to the acre, beside the usual amount of upland corn, that is good also. He has enough hogs around him to furnish meat for two such families. He has a pig that has been in the pen all his life. It will be a year old in November and will weigh 300 pounds gross. He expects him to net this much by the time he is a year old.

September 26, 1893
Union Recorder
Mrs. John Johns died at her home in Wilkinson county last Wednesday night.
  Mr. James Eady, of Wilkinson county, had his right arm badly torn in a gin, on the 16th.
   Mr. A. T. Smith, son of Mr. Archie Smith, died at his home in Wilkinson county a few days ago. He was about thirty years of age and leaves a wife and child.
  Mr. J. W. McCook, of Iveys, called to see us last Tuesday and paid his subscription for the year 1894, which is the 24th year he has taken the UNION RECORDER. He has not lost a day by sickness since 1862. He married his second wife last July. He is a good  citizen. Long may be live.

August 2, 1893
Macon Telegraph
The Irwinton tells this alligator story: Dan Moye, colored, is no more, having departed for parts unknown by the alligator route. Last Saturday while Dan was rafting timber down on the river, he was knocked from the raft by an alligator and has not been seen since. The particulars, so far as we can learn, Dan and several other negroes started down the river with a raft of timber. After proceeding for several miles the raft came apart and each Negro was trying to float it together. Dan was off to himself on a stick of timber, and was endeavoring to replace it when he saw a very large alligator coming towards him. He yelled to the crowd to shoot, as the 'gator was between Dan and the raft. Suddenly the alligator struck Dan with its tail, knocking him from the stick of timber, and that was the last seen of Dan Moye. It is said that the 'gator would measure twelve or fourteen feet in length.

October 4, 1893
Macon Telegraph
BART BAUM'S BICYCLE.
The Only One in Irwinton and Furnishes Much Amusement.
From the Irwinton World.
   Bart Baum has a bicycle and it furnishes all the necessary amusement for our little town.
   It isn't everybody that can ride a bicycle and few know the trials of a beginner.
   Wednesday evening several members of the masculine gender mounted the wheel and were unceremoniously let down, irrespective of selected spots.
  Bart himself is sole proprietor of this two wheeled dumb brute menagerie, and is as particular in mounting this vehicle as he would be in placing his foot in a stirrup attached to a girthless saddle on a Texas pony-even if the machine can't eat three meals a day and kick a dashboard over the moon.
  While Irwinton does not possess a big theatre building, Bart never fails to entertain a large audience by his wonderful "out-of-sight" maneuvers on the wheel. In short, he gives an open air concert and entitles his farce, "The Ups and Downs of Mortal Man,"
   Bart is sole manager and star actor in the play. He touches the wheel and the wheel does the rest. In fact, there are but two acts, which are put down on the programme in the following very appropriate manner:
ACT 1 - Bart on the Bicycle.
ACT 2 - Bicycle on the Bart
  While the farce itself is short, the repeated encores and Bart's return to the wheel and the wheels return to Bart makes it an interesting and very laughable spectacular.
   Another exhibition will be given on next Monday afternoon at 4:30.
  Remember, the performance begins at 4:30 sharp.

November 16, 1893
The Weekly Telegraph
WAS CRAZED BY FRIGHT. Is the Terrible Fate of Reuben Davis of Wilkinson County, WHO SPENT A NIGHT ALONE Among the Ghosts Which Nightly Parade the Cells and Corridors of the Wilkinson County Jail - Strange Scenes.
   Irwinton, Oct. 11. (Special) One night alone in Wilkinson county's Siberian jail made a raving maniac out of Rube Davis, a colored boy, who previously had an unusually intelligent appearance.
  Court adjourned last week and the prisoners all received their respective sentences, Rube getting $25 and costs for a minor offense.
  Monday morning a Stephen's pottery guard came over and carried away two prisoners - J. J. Wood white for cattle stealing and "Si" Carswell, colored, for stealing cotton. Rube Davis remained in jail alone awaiting the arrival of a gentleman who had promised to pay him out.
  Rube, like the majority of negroes, is very superstitious, and begged piteously that he be sent along with the guard in preference to remaining alone in our dilapidated, odorific, insect exterminator or Siberian jail.
  Sheriff Hughes, thinking Rube would soon find a friend to pay him out, persuaded the negro to tough it out for a night or so.
   As the shadows of night were creeping upon the quiet little city, the sheriff's brother visited the jail and found Rube in an uneasy condition, still begging to be removed from the jail, saying that he was afraid to be incarcerated alone even for one night. But there was no other alternative and darkness found the negro trembling with fear.
  The night grew on and each succeeding hour preyed upon Rube's superstition until he was a raving maniac. It is not known just what happened at the jail that night, but it is now supposed the negro howled and mourned piteously for release as it is said the county bloodhounds created a considerable disturbance by wailing and barking in their efforts to warn the people that something was wrong at the jail.
  Tuesday morning when the sheriff visited the jail for the purpose of feeding the negro he was horrified to see Rube in an almost nude condition and acting in a manner that almost caused the blood of the sheriff to curdle in his veins.
  The maniac had tied the blankets in hard knots and was tearing them asunder with a single stroke of his teeth, as if the heavy strong material was brittle thread.
   The negro was speechless but beckoned the sheriff to enter. The invitation was no inducement to the plucky sheriff, who said he would rather fight a regiment of Missouri regulars than to tangle up with a single blue gummed crazy negro.
  Assistance was soon secured, however, and the manic was removed to the court house, where he is now being properly cared for. It is necessary to keep him bound securely with strong ropes to guarantee the safety of the guards.
  The best medical skill is being employed, and it is thought with proper attention the negro will recover his mind.
  A HAUNTED JAIL
  Washington county can take a back seat when it comes to a genuine sensational ghost story.
  For the past six months it has been whispered by the different prisoners that our jail is haunted; and, to tell the truth, the structure does look more like a ghost factory than a jail for civilization. It is a small wooden building, with dark and gloomy dungeons with scarcely any ventilation, and the inside o the jail itself is almost completely shut off from light. In fact, our jail is a disgrace to humanity.
    Several years ago a white man by the name of Holland was placed in jail here for safe-keeping, having been adjudged insane. Growing tired of darkness the hanged himself with blanket strings, and was found dead the following morning dangling from the trap door to the upper story.
  Since or before that time, as the case may be, another instance man was found dead in a cell.
  The tragic death of Holland and the mysterious death of another having occurred within the walls of the jail have caused no little uneasiness among the offenders who have been so unfortunate as to sleep beneath the roof of this dilapidated, ancient, barbarian structure.
  It is told by several prisoners that the shadows of the dead can be seen parading the cells and the corridors of the jail at all hours of the night and at early dawn.
  These reports come so straight and so earnestly from the eye witnesses that the superstitious readily accept every word of it, and many are those who believe the story.
   We cannot vouch for the existence of the ghosts in our jail, but we are forced to give the matter some credence, it having been brought to our attention more than once.
  It matters not whether the rumors have the slightest foundation, a single night has transformed an intelligent colored boy into a raving, dangerous maniac. J. A. Perry

November 16, 1893
Macon Weekly Telegraph
DON'T NEED PROTECTION
Uncle Ben Vinson's Neighbors Are Welcome, But He Can Do His Own Fighting.
Gordon, Ga., Nov. 10 (Special) A dastardly attempt was made last Saturday night to rob Mr.Ben Vinson, a farmer residing about three miles from Gordon.
   Mr. Vinson is 68 years of age, and he and his wife, who is 70 years old, have lived alone for the last twenty years on their own farm, in the enjoyment of peace and the greatest plenty, honored and respected by all their acquaintances. He is an exemplary farmer, makes all ordinary provisions at home, and buys nothing but cloth, sugar, coffee and tobacco, such articles as he cannot profitably produce. His cotton crop is a surplus, and be bales it up and sells all along during the year, a bale at a time, as he needs money. He has several sons and sons-in-law who have uniformly adopted his wise plans and are in the enjoyment of like prosperity and independence.
  If all farmers were like "Uncle Ben," as he is familiarly called, it would not be left to New York speculators to fix the price of cotton, and they would not now be awaiting with bated breath their decrees.
    Mr. Vinson had just returned from Macon, where he had sold two bales of cotton and bought a wagon load of goods, which he brought back with him. Fatigued by his journey he had retired to see rest and enjoy the sweet sleep of the righteous. About 9 o'clock a terrific banging was heard at the door. The old gentleman reached up over his head and seized his gun, which was suspended upon hooks in the wall and which was always kept well charged and ready for emergencies.
  After much violence the door was forced open and it was followed by two men. Mr. Vinson, who was ready for then, discharged one barrel of his gun. This load, as afterwards appeared, took effect in the casing above the door.
   The would-be robbers fled precipitately. Down he pulled again, but the cap failed to ignite from weakness of the hammer. At the next trial the charge went off and found lodgment in the gate. The gun was a muzzle-loader, and to get her ready again required time. The old soldier, for he once fought in Hood's corps, says he poured a handful of powder and without putting in any wadding poured in shot until they ran over the top of the muzzle. He then went out, as he puts it, to "cannonade" the premises. From all accounts he woke the echoes with the next report of his gun. In his night gown and with gun presented, he perambulated the grounds thoroughly, but his enemies had been put to flight and were nowhere to be seen. The hoary-headed  old veteran was master of the situation. He says there were three in the party, two at the door and one stood at the gate. He does not have any conjecture as to who they were, but is satisfied from their procedure that they were young.
   His neighbors have volunteered their services to stay with him at night. He tells them they are welcome, he has plenty for them to eat and good beds for them to sleep on, but so far as fighting is concerned he can do that for himself. He is in town today and has just armed himself with a revolver.

December 27, 1893
Macon Weekly Telegraph
PETTICOAT PICKWICK CLUB.  "A Bevy of Milk-White Maidens" Band Themselves Together
  Irwinton, Dec. 26 (Special) The conversational german given by the Petticoat Pickwick Club of Irwinton at the Banner house on Christmas night was the most enjoyable entertainment that has occurred in this neighborhood during the holidays, and the young ladies that gave it deserve a great deal of credit for taking so much pains to make it a success.
  Twenty couples were invited and after their arrival twenty subjects were announced for discussion, each to consume three minutes. After each subject the partners changed, thus each gentleman talked to each young lady three minutes upon one of the subjects. After the discussion of all the subjects a vote was taken for the couple that were the best conversationalist present. Several ballots had to be cast on account of ties, but at last it was announce that Dr. N. T. Carswell and Miss Ola Baker were the successful competitors. An ornamental painting on unpolished glass was awarded to Miss Baker and two very pretty scarf pins was the prize given Dr. Carswell.
  The programmes were very pretty, being of pink and blue celluloid, hand painted and bearing the very appropriate motto
'Thou to few words all sense must give."
    After the german the guests were invited into the commodious dining room of the hotel where delightful refreshments were served in abundance. At 11 o'clock the guests departed, declaring the entertainment to be the greatest success of the season.
   The Petticoat Pickwick Club is in itself such a novelty that it deserves some mention here. It is composed of a "bevy of milk-white maidens" who have joined themselves together for mutual benefit and protection and have declined eternal independence of everything that wears pants. They attend their meetings unaccompanied by escorts and carry the "social swim" all their own way, not even allowing the young men the pleasure (?) of furnishing the refreshments for their entertainment's. The boys think that such a club is an estimable benefit to any town.

January 2, 1894
The Macon Telegraph
DEATH AT IRWINTON
Irwinton, Jan. 1 (Special) A gloom was cast over our town yesterday afternoon by the death of Mr. William I. Chambers, one of the oldest and best citizens of Wilkinson county.
 Mr. Chambers was in his 82nd year, and up to the past few days had scarcely ever known a day's sickness. He is the father of Senator F. Chambers, from this district, and Messrs. Andrew and Oscar Chambers of Macon. He was for a number of years treasurer of this county, and had the confidence and love of every person who knew him. His funeral will occur at the family burying ground near here to-morrow afternoon at 3 o'clock. It will be attended by a host of relatives and friends.

February 5, 1894
The Atlanta Constitution
Irwinton World: Mr. J. J. Youngblood living near Ivey, is a model farmer. Since the big snow and sleet in last February he has raised and killed 4,700 pounds of pork and has not sold one pound of cotton. He will not at present prices. He says he has very little use for money, as he has little to buy. Certainly old Wilkinson county farmers are seeing the errors of their way and are fast determining to live at home and board at the same place.

February 13, 1894
Union Recorder
In Memoriam - Miss Minnie Parker
  Miss. Minnie Parker was born August 27th, 1876, and died on January 17th, at Unadilla, Georgia, in her eighteenth year. She had been for some years attending our schools in Milledgeville. Last January she left the G. N. & I. College, where she was much beloved to begin at Unadilla, Ga., a millinery business. Into this business she had fully entered, with fair prospects of a fine success, when just before Christmas she was stricken with the fell disease which proved too powerful for her strength. she wrestled with this disease for six weeks, hoping to live, but will to submit to the Divine will. She was patient in sickness, ripening every day for entrance into the higher life with the saints on high. Naturally sympathetic, her heart in sickness went out for the loneliness of her widowed mother. As the end drew near her heart grew ripe and her faith strong. She felt that her Lord was with her. Her father, when she was quite young, went on before them to glory. She felt assured that to die was gain, and asked her mother what message she had to send her father. She passed away on the morning of the 17th of January peacefully but triumphantly in the faith of Christ. Her remains were buried at Liberty Baptist Church, Wilkinson county, Ga. She is now
"Asleep in Jesus! blessed sleep,
From which none ever wakes to weep;
A calm and undisturbed repose,
Unbroken by the last of foes."
  About four years ago she was baptized into the fellowship of the Liberty Baptist church. She has since lived for the Lord and now she has gone to be with Him forever. J. D. C.

February 14, 1894
The Atlanta Constitution
SHE EXPECTED A YOUNG LOVER,
But He Said He Was Rich and She Finally Consented.
Jeffersonville, Ga., February 12 - (Special) Near New Providence, in Wilkinson county, about eight miles from this place, there occurred rather a romantic and sensational marriage on Saturday last:
    MissEula Collins is an exceedingly pretty girl of about  sixteen and of a romantic disposition  Sometime since she advertised in The Constitution for gentlemen correspondents. Among the answers to this advertisement came a letter from far-away California, which resulted in a correspondence between Miss Collins and the writer, Mr. Graham. The correspondence progressed and an engagement was the result. On Thursday last Mr. Graham got off the train at this place and was met by Miss Collins and her brother, as per arrangement previously made by the correspondents.
    Instead of being young and dashing, Mr. Graham proved to be about sixty-seven years of age, and, of course, the young lady was much disappointed, but the trio went out together to the country home of the Collinses and there Miss Collins flatly refused to ratify the engagement. It looked as though Mr. Graham would have to return to the Golden State alone.
     Mr. Graham represented himself as a man of wealth, and the parents of Miss Collins being poor and unsophisticated, finally persuaded their daughter to marry him. Yesterday morning the couple passed through Jeffersonville on their way to Macon, where they will spend a few days, after which they will return to the Collins home. It is thought they will leave for California, after a brief sojourn in Wilkinson county.
  Mr. Graham brought no credentials with him, so far as learned, and his own word was all the evidence that was produced as to his character and wealth.

Note: Eula E. Graham, 25,  is in the 1900 Census as a widow with daughter Flossie G. Graham, age 5. She was living with her parents Eugene and Sarah Collins in the High Hill District.

March 23, 1894
The Macon Telegraph
WEDDED SIXTY-FIVE YEARS. The Oldest Married Woman in Georgia Died in Rutland District Yesterday. MOTHER OF FIFTEEN CHILDREN. Leaves a Husband, Large Number of Children, Grand Children and Great-Grand Children to Mourn Her Death.
  Mrs. Epsy Barnett Barfield died at her home in Rutland district yesterday at 1 o'clock p.m. of old age. She will be buried this afternoon at 4 o'clock in the family burying ground in Rutland district.
  The death of Mrs. Barfield dissolves what was perhaps the oldest couple in Georgia, she and her husband, whom she leaves behind, having been married sixty-five years on the 15th day of January.
     Mrs. Barfield was 87 years of age and her husband is several years her senior. Fifteen years ago they celebrated their golden wedding, at which were present over fifty grandchildren and a large number of great-grandchildren.
  Mr. and Mrs. Barfield were the parents of fifteen children, ten boys and five girls, a majority of whom are now living. These are: John, Sampson, George, Frank and Marion of the Rutland district, Lee of Dooly county, Samuel B. of Macon, James S., who was a professor in Gresham High School ten years ago, but who has since died; Mike, who was killed while defending Macon from Stoneman's attack on Macon, and Robert of the Rutland district; Mrs. Georgia Ann Buzbee, who died thirty-eight years ago; Mrs. J. D. Whitened of Rut land district, Mrs. America Heard, who is also dead; Mrs. J. F. Dupe of Rome and Mrs. Matte Dupe, deceased, who was the wife of Col. C. M. Dupe and the mother of Mr. Earnest Dupe of Machine. Two other grandchildren- Messrs. J. R. and Lee Barfield-live in this city.
   Mrs. Bar field's maiden name was Baronet. She was born in Wilkinson county, and her family is one of the most prominent in that county.
    The Barreled family has long been prominent in this section and is also known as one of the largest, there being a large number of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren.
    Mrs. Barreled was a devout Christian throughout her long and useful life, and her death is deeply mourned by the community.

April 8, 1894
Macon Telegraph
FIRE NEAR IRWINTON. A Colored Farmer Suffered Serious Loss by the Fire Fiend.
Irwinton, April 7 - The barn and stables of Shade Coats, a hard working colored farmer who lives about three miles from here together with a mule and wagon and about ninety bushels of corn and other stock food, was consumed by fire Thursday night. It is thought that this is the work of an incendiary, but no one is yet suspiscioned of the deed. Sheriff Hughs took the county bloodhounds out to the scene of the fire in hope of getting a track of the perpetrators, but so many people had walked over the ground in the neighborhood of the barn hat it was impossible to use the dogs.
  Shade is a good honest negro and his loss is a heavy one, especially at this season of the year.

April 9, 1894
Weekly Telegraph
Irwinton, April 5 (Special) Mrs. S. W. Hayfield, one of the oldest and most highly respected ladies of this county, died here on yesterday afternoon in her 82nd year. She was the mother and grandmother of some of the best families in Wilkinson county and a host of relatives mourn her death. Her funeral will take place this afternoon.

June 5, 1894
Union Recorder
Mrs. Sarah Allen, widow of the late Wiley G. Allen, died at the home of her son, J. E. Allen, last Thursday night. The funeral was preached by Rev. A. S. Avant on Saturday morning and she was buried by the side of her husband at Snows.

September 10, 1894
Macon Weekly Telegraph
FELL AT HIS SISTER'S FEET. Horrible Tragedy on a Macon and Dublin Railroad Train Friday Afternoon.
WAS COLD BLOODED MURDER.
W. A. Stuckey Shoots J. I. Taylor Five Times at Close Range and Then Jumps From a Rapidly Moving Train - Captured.
From Daily Telegraph, Sept. 9
   Passengers on the Macon and Dublin train that left Macon at 3:10 Thursday afternoon were witnesses to a sensational tragedy that has seldom been paralleled in the annals of crime in Georgia.
  The principals to the blood curdling affair were W. A. Stuckey of Wilkinson county and J. I. Taylor of Dublin, Laurens county.   Taylor is now a corpse at his home in Dublin and Stuckey is at the point of death in Laurens county jail but may possibly recover.
  The tragedy occurred at Turkey creek, ten miles this side of Dublin. Taylor was sitting near the front end of the ladies coach. Stuckey's wife, who is Taylor's sister, was sitting by his side and Stuckey occupied a seat behind them. As the train was crossing Turkey creek Stuckey arose from his seat, and walking forward to the seat occupied by his wife and Taylor, caught Taylor at the collar from behind and, without a word being spoken, shot him five times. Taylor fell to the floor of the car at his sister's feet a corpse and Stuckey jumped from the train while it was running thirty miles an hour, still clutching the smoking empty pistol.
  After the shooting the train went on to Dublin, where the lifeless body of Taylor was taken to his home and a posse found to pursue Stuckey. The place where he jumped from the train was first visited, but no trace of him was found. The posse continued their search and finally met a negro man who told them that Stuckey had gone to his hone, about a mile from the road, and after telling him that the conductor had kicked him off the train, hired him to take him in his wagon to Haskins' crossing. He had done so and was returning home when he met the posse. The posse then pushed on the Haskins' crossing, which is fifteen miles this side of Turkey creek, where the affair occurred, and there they found Stuckey in a critical condition, his right arm being broken in several places, a large hole in his head and his hole right side partially paralyzed. He was carried to Dublin and placed in jail, where he is now under treatment of the doctor, with little hope of recovery. All of his injuries were sustained by jumping from the train.
   The beginning of the trouble between Taylor and Stuckey, who are brothers-in-law, dates back to last March, when Stuckey returned home to Wilkinson county after several days' absence in Macon as a witness in the case of the United States vs Ben Pope, who was charged with illicit distilling. After arriving at him Stuckey accused his wife of improper relations with a man named Smith while he (Stuckey) was absent in Macon. Mrs. Stuckey denied the charge and left him, going to the home of her brother in Dublin. After her return, however, he forced her, by means of threats of personal violence, to openly acknowledge to her neighbors that was true that she had improper relations with SMith, and then as soon as this had been done to his satisfaction he beat her severely with a shotgun, striking her so hard that the barrels were broken from the stock. More dead than alive Mrs. Stuckey ran away from him and again sought shelter with her brother in Dublin, to whom she related what had happened. Her brother advise her to sue for divorce and alimony, Stuckey owning considerable property. The hearing of the divorce case is set for next Thursday at Dublin. Last week Stuckey wrote his wife a letter saying what he had said about her was false and if she would come back he would treat her as a lady. He letter begged her not to report him to the government for making and selling whiskey, for if she did he would be compelled to hire witnesses to swear against her. He also asked her to let him have their little son, Robert. In the meantime, however, Taylor had sent word to Messrs. George Thomas and George White, United Sates deputy marshals in this city, to come to Dublin and he would escort them to the distillery operated by Stuckey. The deputies went down to Dublin Wednesday night and Thursday morning Taylor went with them to make the arrest. When the party started to Stuckey's house Deputy Thomas asked Taylor if he had a pistol. Taylor replied no, that he never carried a pistol. Deputy Thomas insisted on his carrying one, telling him it was a dangerous mission and a dangerous community into which he was going. Taylor said he had been there many times without a pistol and was not afraid to go again. Deputy Thomas then informed him that he would deputize him to assist in making the arrest. Taylor consented to this and the part moved on. After a number of places had been visited where Stuckey had been running his still the party finally found a copper still and 100 gallons of whisky in Stuckey's crib, which is about thirty yards from the house.  Deputy George White then arrested Stuckey and brought him to Macon. On Friday he was given a preliminary hearing before Commissioner L. M. Erwin and placed under $300 bond. Taylor was the principal witness against Stuckey. After the trial Commissioner Erwin, who anticipated trouble between Taylor and Stuckey, charged Stuckey not to have anything to say to the witnesses after leaving the court. Stuckey said he would not and all parties interested in the case took the 3:10 Macon and Dublin train for Dublin, and it was while on the way home that Stuckey did his murderous deed, and came near, if he did not fully succeed, in killing himself.
  An effort will be made to have the case tried before Judge Speer in the United States court.

November 15, 1894
The Weekly Telegraph
ADMINISTRATORS SALE
Georgia, Wilkinson County. Under and by virtue of an order from the county of ordinary of Wilkinson county, I will sell before the court house door in Irwinton, in said county, on the first Tuesday in December next, for cash, the following described real estate, to wit: One hundred and fifteen (115) acres of land, more or less, known as the "W. J. Chambers" place, in and adjacent to the town of Irwinton, bounded on the north by lands of Mrs. Laura Hatfield, west by lands of the estate of E. J. Gilbert, deceased, south by lands of John Simpson and east by the the road leading from Irwinton to Dublin. Also one store house and the lot on which it is situated in the town of Irwinton, bounded by Main street on the west, store house and lot of Mrs. James T. Hughes on the north and lot of W. N. Pace on the south, said lot being Twenty-four feet front and fifty-five feet back. Sold as the property of W. J. Chambers, deceased, for distribution and payment of debts. F. CHAMBERS.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, November 30, 1894
Volume 1 Number 1, Page 2
MILLER-BAKER.     On Wednesday, Nov. 21st, at the residence of the bride's father, Miss Ola Baker was married to Dr. D. P. Miller, of Arabi.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. C. F. Morgan and only a few relatives and friends were in attendance.
     As soon as the marriage was over the happy young couple left on the afternoon train for their new home at Arabi.
     Dr. Miller is an old Irwinton boy and has many warm friends here.  About two years ago, her removed to Arabi, Ga., where he was won the high esteem of the people, both as a man and as a physician.
      Miss Ola is one of smartest and best little women middle Georgia ever produced.  She is the daughter of our county school commissioner and for several years, at different times, has been employed as an assistant teacher at Talmadge Institute, where
she made an enviable reputation as a teacher.
       Upon the young people of Irwinton, Miss Ola has left an impression that time can never efface and her bright presence will be greatly missed from their circle.
       THE BULLETIN takes pleasure in extending to them its best wishes for their future welfare and happiness.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, November 30, 1894
Volume 1 Number 1. Page 2

HOW SIX WERE MADE THREE
      On last Wednesday afternoon, Mr. Walter Branan was united in marriage to Miss Annie Burke, a daughter of Mr. Daniel Burke, at the home of the latter, near Boxwood, this county, Rev. Spivey officiating.  After the marriage was performed, the newly married pair departed to the home of the groom near Gordon, where they were to witness a double wedding.
      Mr. Charles Bragg, of Jones County, was married to Miss Eva Branan, the daughter of Mr. C. H. (or B., can't really tell with the print) Branan and Mr. J. R. Bragg to Miss Ola Palmer, a niece of Mr. Branan, Rev. Mr. Spivey officiating.
      After the marriage of these two couples, the six happy young people, together with their guests, were given a sumptuous feast.  At a late hour the festivities ended, and the newly made couples each left for their respective homes.
       A coincidence of these marriages is that each of the young people were in some way related, therefore no new kinfolks were added to either of the families connected.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, December 7, 1894
Volume 1 Number 2, Page 2
ANOTHER GOOD CITIZEN PASSED AWAY
     Mr. Andrew Spence died on the night of the 4th Inst. and was buried with Masonic honors, at the burying ground of old Mt. Nebo church.
      Mr. Spence has been in feeble health for several years and, for that time, has lived a very retired life.  He is well known to all the older citizens, having served as one of the county commissioners, and filed other positions of public trust.  He was true to
every trust reposed in him, and has left, and has left the world better for his having lived in it.  We extend sympathy to his loved ones, who mourn for him, but not without hope.

December 27, 1894
Macon Weekly Telegraph
MARRIAGE AT DAMASCUS.
Damascus, Dec. 21 (Special) One of the happiest marriages that ever occurred in this section was consummated last evening by Miss Felix Vivien Hightower and Professor Alfred Fraseur, Rev. T. D. Ellis officiating.
  The affair was one of elegance and richness. The church was prettily decorated with smilax, ivy, roses and japonicas.
  The bride is the youngest daughter of Hon. Lee Hightower, representative of Early county. She bears the sterling qualities of her father, together with his distinguished men. The groom is professor of the Damascus High School, and has proven himself one of our country's best educators. Many costly presents were received on the occasion. The wedding pair will spend the holidays at Gordon, Ga., the home of the groom.

Excerpts from THE BULLETIN
Friday, January 11, 1895 No. 7
Irwinton, GA
Marriages: On last Sunday morning at 10 o'clock at the home of the bride's father, near Stephensville, Mr. Robt. Christian was married to Miss Nora Dominy, Rev. W. D. Dowell officiating.
*******
On last Sunday afternoon at 6 o'clock Mr. Jesse Pierce was married to Miss Minnie Billue.  The marriage occurred at the home of Mr. J.F. Billue, father of the bride, and the ceremony was performed by Rev. W.D.Dowell, of Gordon.
*******
On last Sunday morning at 10 o'clock, Mr. Cuyler Adams was married to Miss L. Rodgers, at Cool Springs.  Rev. Mr. Rodgers officiated.

Excerpts from THE BULLETIN
Friday, January 18, 1895 No. 8
Irwinton, GA. Obituary:
On the 26th of Sept., 1894,  Mr. W. B. Etheridge, one of the oldest and best citizens of Wilkinson County died at the home of Dr. John Temples of McIntyre, from an attack of Bright's disease, which lasted only a few hours.  He was taken sick around noon and died before sunset.  His remain were interred into the family cemetery, near Friendship Church, amid a host of sorrowing relatives and friends.
******
William B. Etheridge, was born in Jones County, Georgia, October 10th 1822 and was the youngest member of a large family.  His father died when he was quite small, and upon him fell the support of his widowed mother, whom he cared for until her death.  When about twenty-one years old, he married Miss Elizabeth Demming, the daughter of William Deming, a primitive baptist preacher, of Jones County.  In 1861, Mr. Etheridge moved to Wilkinson County and the following year he entered the confederate service, as a private, and remained in the army until the close of the year. After the war he returned to this county and remained here until his death. The greater part of his life he devoted to farming, though he held several positions of trust in the county.  He was the father of ten children, four of whom survive him.  His wife died in 1880, and a few  years afterwards, he removed to McInyre, where he spent the remainder of his life in the mercantile business.
From early manhood, Mr. Etheridge had been a member of the primitive Baptist church, and during his whole life he showed an unceasing  faith in the doctrine that he professed.  He was held in high esteem by everyone who knew him, and he is greatly missed by all his friends and neighbors.
--A Friend
(Note: see Lewis Family Cemetery)

January 23, 1895
Macon Telegraph
WEDDING IN JEFFERSONVILLE. Rev. E. J. Coates left on the Macon and Dublin train Monday to officiate at the marriage of Mr. J. R. Wimberly, Jr., of Jeffersonville to Miss Bessie Burke of Wilkinson county.

February 7, 1895
The Atlanta Constitution
STUCKEY ON TRIAL
He Shot and Killed His Brother-in-Law Taylor. A THREATENING LETTER TO HIS WIFE.
Just Before the Murder Stuckey Wrote Her, Acknowledging That He Had Deeply Wronged Her.
Dublin, Ga. February 6 (Special) The trial of W. A. Stuckey for shooting to death his brother-in-law, Ira Taylor, on a car of the Macon, Dublin and Southwestern railroad last September, is in progress here. It took two hours to select a jury. Ex-Judge Roberts, Colonel Harlow Burch of Eastman; Colonels Phil Howard and J. M. Stubbs defend Stuckey, while Solicitor Lewis is assisted by Colonels Griner and ex-Representative Hightower. Nearly 100 witnesses are to be examined and from appearances the trial will last all the week.
  Directly opposite Stuckey sits his aged mother, noting anxiously every phase of the proceedings. Close to her is Mrs. Gainey, a cousin of Stuckey; Mrs. Patrick and Miss Anna Ward, who is to be a witness in the trial.
    The tragedy occurred at Turkey creek, ten miles from this town. Taylor was sitting near the front end of the ladies coach. Stuckey's wife, who is Taylor's sister, sat by his side and Stuckey occupied a seat behind them. As the train was crossing the creek the latter arose from his seat, and walking forward, caught Taylor by the collar of his coat from behind and without a word shot him five times. Taylor fell at his sister's feet a corpse. The murderer jumped from the train while it was running at the rate of thirty miles an hour.
  After the shooting the train proceeded to Dublin, where the lifeless body of Taylor was taken to his home and a posse at once formed to pursue Stuckey. The place where he leaped from the train was first visited, but no trace of him was found. The posse continued their search and finally met a negro man who told them that Stuckey had gone to his home about a mile from the railroad, and after telling him that the conductor had kicked him off the train hired the negro to taken him in his wagon to Haskin's crossing, which was fifteen miles from the creek where the bloody affair occurred. There they found Stuckey in a critical condition, his left arm dislocated in several places, a large hole in his head and the whole right side of his body partially paralyzed. He was conveyed to town, placed in jail and medical aid was summoned. He lingered between life and death for several weeks. The physicians said it was a miraculous recovery and the patient attracted considerable notoriety. When the doctors considered him cured he was released on a $5,000 bond.
   The beginning of the feud between Taylor and Stuckey, who were brothers-in-law, dates back to last March, when Stuckey returned to his home in Wilkinson county after several days' absence in Macon as a witness before the United States court in a case of illicit distilling. After arriving home, Stuckey accused his wife of improper relations with a young man named Smith while he, Stuckey, was absent in Macon. Mrs. Stuckey, a vivacious and pretty young woman, denied the charge. She was exasperated that she at once left her home and went to her brother's home in this town. After remaining apart some time, Stuckey opened communication with this wife, and finally, by making promises to treat her right, induced her to live with him again. After her return, however, it is said that he forced her by means of threats of personal violence, to openly acknowledge to her neighbors that it was true that she had improper relations with young Smith. As soon as this had been done to his satisfaction, he beat her severely with a shotgun, striking her so hard that the barrels were broken from the stock. Some say this did not happen at all. More dead than alive, Mrs. Stuckey ran away and again sought shelter with hr brother in Dublin, to whom she related what had happened. He advised her to sue for divorce and alimony, as Stuckey was wealthy. The hearing of the divorce was set for Thursday, the day the tragedy occurred. The week preceding the murder Mrs. Stuckey received the following letter from her husband:
  "Redhill, Ga., August 13. - Mrs. Estelle Stuckey. Dear Wife- I write you another letter asking you why you are treating me like you are. You know I love you, Estelle. If I had back the way I treated you, I could not be persuaded by my mother, or by any one else to treat you so again, Estelle. I want to see you and talk privately with you, but I know you won't let me have that privilege; but I want you to take my word once more and I will do what I say if you will come back to me. I will treat you well and never tell another lie on you or want you to tell one for me.  Estelle, all I have told is false, and you knew it was at first, but I was persuaded by my mother to do what I did, and to treat you as I have; but I am sorry I did it, and if you will forgive me and settle with me, I will tell the people I was in the wrong and not you. Estelle, you have never mistreated me in any way in the least, and I did not have any cause to tell what I told on you and I would have not done it for anything had it not beef for mother. Estelle, I love you, and swear for me I can, for I want my child, and that is all the way I can get him. Answer this letter yourself, as I have written you two and have not got any answer to any of them. You read it carefully and then tear it up."

February 8, 1895
The Atlanta Constitution
STUCKEY GETS TWENTY YEARS.
Found Guilty of Voluntary Manslaughter for Killing Taylor
 Dublin, Ga., February 8 (Special) Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, the usual throng of spectators were present when court opened this morning. Stuckey, his faithful mother, Mrs. Gainey, Miss Ward, Mr. Nelson Stuckey, uncle of the prisoner, and five brothers sat surrounding the accused. Colonel Griner resumed his argument for the state, speaking a little over an hour. Colonel John M. Stubbs followed in behalf of the prisoner. In the midst of his address he scathingly rebuked a young member of the bard named  Hollifield, saying that he justly deserved the condemnation of all right-thinking people, that he had made a bad beginning in his honorable profession of law and that it would stick to him so long as he lived. Stubbs accused Hollifield of questioning Stuckey and then make known his confession to the prosecution. Colonel Stubbs berated Hollifield for fifteen minutes. The remarks caused a flutter of excitement, the members of the bar commenting on the language used.
   Hollifield was a state's witness on Thursday and testified to a conversation he had with Stuckey recently.
  Judge Hart's charge to the jury was concise and pointed. At 11 o'clock the jurors retired and discussed the case until 5 o'clock, when they came down, desiring instructions connected with the latter part of the judge's charge. Judge Hart gave them the desired information and they returned again to deliberate.
  The jury in the Stuckey case reached a verdict a little before midnight. After considerable wrangling they brought in a verdict of voluntary manslaughter.
   Judge Hart, after asking the prisoner why sentence should not be imposed, sentenced him to twenty years at hard labor in the penitentiary. Stuckey leaned on his cane, faltering at times, while sentence was being passed. His counsel asked for bond and it was granted in the sum of $5,000. The prisoner could not give it tonight and he will have to remain in charge of the sheriff for the night. When his mother was informed of the sentence she expressed deep grief. Stuckey, it is thought, will get a new trial. He will give bond tomorrow.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, February 8, 1895
Volume 1 Number 11, Page 2
GORDON NEWS
Mrs. Stevens died at the home of her son, Mr. J. B. Stevens, last Saturday night.  She was buried in the Gordon cemetery Monday morning, the funeral service being conducted by the Methodist pastor.  Mrs. Stevens was 86 years old, and had lived the life of a christian since the days of her childhood.  She is missed by her many friends and relatives.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, February 8, 1895
Volume 1 Number 11, Page 2
BLOODWORTH NEWS
    Mr. R. B. Patterson doesn't speak to his poor friends, as he is the proud father of a fine boy, which makes him forget the hard times.  [He will be all right in a few days, as it will soon be "squally time" ere many midnights pass away. Eb}]

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, February 8, 1895
Volume 1 Number 11, Page 2
Last week, Mr. Joe Burke was married to Miss Annie Stevens.  For the want of particulars, we can but wish for them a happy and a prosperous life.   

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, February 15, 1895
Volume 1, Number 12, Page 2
TOOMSBORO CLIPS
Mr. Daniel Loyd died near here on last Thursday.  He was, perhaps, the oldest man in the county, being 101 years old when he died.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, February 15, 1895
Volume 1, Number 12. Page 2
DIED FROM A BURN
Little Tommie McArthur, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. J. McArthur died on the 7th of this month, from the effects of a burn that it received the day before.  His suffering was great during his sixteen hours that he lingered after the burn.  He was buried in the family graveyard the next day.
    "A loving one from us has gone,
      A voice from us is stilled.
     A place is vacant in our home,
      That ne'er can be filled."
                        FRIEND

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, February 22, 1895
Volume 1, Number 13. Page 2
BLOODWORTH BUDGETS
Mr. A. Y. Patterson is wearing a yard and a half smile now, it's a boy.
Mr. Iverson Golden has erected a chair factory at Denson's mill.
Mrs. R. O. McCook, of Crawford county, who has been visiting relatives near here, returned home last week.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, March 1, 1895
Volume 1, Number 14, Page 2
MR. ISAAC TAYLOR IS DEAD
    Last Sunday night at 9 o'clock, Mr.Isaac Taylor breathed his last.  He has been troubled with heart disease for sometime, but his death was sudden, and a great shock to the entire community.  He had just retired and he called to his wife but it was too late, he had passed away, and was in the presence of God.
     Mr. Taylor was about sixty-four years old.  He was married to Miss Sophia Paulk, who, with six daughters and a son, now survive him.
     Mr. Taylor was a member of the Irwinton Baptist Church, where his funeral services were conducted by
Rev. T. J. Holm's on last Tuesday.
      There never was, perhaps, a better known man in Wilkinson County than Isaac Taylor.  He was an industrious man, always at work when not sick and even going when it would have been safer and more advisable for him to have remained at home.  But he was never too busy to give a pleasant greeting to his fellow beings, and father Time will have to turn many a
boyish lock to silver and to the grave, and totter in old age the forms of our little ones, ere the name of Isaac Taylor shall be sounded no more.  We have known Mr. Taylor since we best knew anyone and, as all other children, we grew fond of him, and strange it will be to hear the jolly laugh of him no more.
      It was a characteristic of Mr. Taylor and his good wife to be kind and compassionate to those who were sick or in distress, and the many kind sets shown the public, of this community by Mr. Taylor shall never be forgotten.
      It seems hard to have your loved ones torn from you, and it seems as unjust to take a man that is needed so, but as well today as tomorrow, we all must die.  The old men are one by departing, the young men are growing old, and the boys are becoming men - the world moves on.  But thanks be unto God, there is a heaven beyond where no one grows old  or dies.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, March 1, 1895
Volume 1, Number 14, Page 2
IN MEMORIAM
Thomas M. Freeman died at his home near Toomsboro, Geo., January 23th (not sure of the second number, appears to be a 3 but there is a th after it), 1895. He has just passed his 61st birthday December the 9th.
      Brother Freeman was a rare man in these days.  He was industrious, careful, economical, and yet liberal.  He was an earnest man, full of zeal and of good works.  His whole life was an inspiration to honest, earnest effort.  His _______ few years before his death were never free from public trust, and his private interests multiplied, but he was true to every obligation and left the world with hands unstained.
       He was the man to whom the neighbor went for council and for help; and no man in all that section would have been so muched missed as he.
       In his domestic and church relations, he was equally painstaking and prompt, always gently and kindly seeking to discover the right, and ready to do it.  He leaves a wife and ten children to mourn their loss.   And though the day we buried him was one of the most inclement; the large church would not hold the people.  Brother Freeman was honored by all and loved by many.  The church and citizenship here suffer a great loss in his death.  Will these boys, who are honored by his name, keep it as unsullied as they have received it.  We devoutly pray that they may.
          W. S. Baker

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, March 8, 1895
Volume 1, Number 15 Page 2
Mt. CARMEL COMMENT
     Mr. Dawson Kingery is so infatuated with his sweetheart that it is taking effect of his mind.  He went to the lot the other morning, put the bralle and gear on himself and trotted off to the field to plow.  She says that he can't come to see her anymore.

Excerpts from THE BULLETIN
March 8, 1895 No. 15
Irwinton, GA. Mt. Carmel Comments: On last Thursday there was a quilting given at the residence of Mr. D.A. McCook, in honor of his son Euphrates who is now twenty one.

March 12, 1895
Atlanta Constitution
The Gwinnett Bulletin says that for many years the people of Wilkinson county have borne the name of being as peaceable and law-abiding a people as any in the state. The number of crimes that have been committed in that county during the last ten years is remarkably small, and such a thing as murder or assassination has been almost unknown. But the mysterious shooting ofOwen Holliman at his home near Ball's church on last Friday night does not speak well for that section of the county. It has been rumored that the shooting was the work of whitecaps, but there has been such an air of mystery about the whole affair that it is impossible to get an authentic account of the matter. The Bulletin calls for a rigid investigation, and the people are moving in the matter of clearing up the mystery.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, March 22, 1895
Volume 1, Number 17, Page 2
Last Friday night Mr. Wilson Branan dropped dead at his home, near Gordon. He was sheriff of this county a good many years ago.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, March 22, 1895
Volume 1, Number 17, Page 2
MASONIC RESOLUTIONS
Note this is the main portion of it.  I left out the all the Masonic information about moving it before the committee and all that.  Please note he died on the 26th.  I was uncertain of the date on the other obit.
     Brother Thomas M. Freeman received and deserved the respect and love of his lodge.  By his industrious habits and great energy, he accumulated much of the works goods, with which he was ever ready to assist a worthy brother when in need.  He was a zealous and active member of the methodist church for a number of years.  He was an affectionate husband, a loving
father, a worthy mason, a christian.  He has joined the mighty throng that has crossed over the river and on the other shore he is resting from his labors in the shades of ever lying trees.  He did not reach the full allotment to man - three score and ten - yet his
life was one full of honor for one of his station in life, and he was ready for the call of the Master.
     Brother Freeman was born December 9th, 1833 and died January 26th, 1895.  Though he is no more we will forever cherish his honorable and virtuous life in our memory.  We pray that his devoted wife and children may ever received heaven's richest blessings.      W.B. Freeman, J. M. Shepherd, J. M. Boone

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia. Friday, March 22, 1895
Volume 1, Number 17, Page 2
MCINTYRE MENTIONS
Old uncle Tom Temples is very ill at his home near here, and at this writing, he is not expected to live through the week.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia. Friday, March 29, 1895
Volume 1, Number 18, Page 2
MCINTYRE MENTIONS. Old "aunt" Harriet Parker, a colored inmate of the poor house, died last Friday night.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia, Friday, March 29, 1895
Volume 1, Number 18, Page 2
MCINTYRE MENTIONS
     Miss Maud Criswell, daughter of Mr. Lee Roy Criswell, who lives just across the creek, eloped last Tuesday night with Mr. Tom Barlow, of Macon.  The young couple had been sweethearts for a long time, but Mr. Criswell was utterly opposed to the match, and last week he had his daughter write a letter to Tom ordering never to put his foot in her father's house again.  But this did not dishearten the ardent young lover, and on Sunday night he came down from Macon to fix matters.  On one knew of his presence in the neighborhood - at least no one who opposed his suit - and the arrangements for the elopement were made without arousing the suspicion of any of the family.  Shortly after supper on Tuesday night, Miss Maud slipped out of one of the back windows of the house and was joined by Mr. Barlow, who had a horse and buggy waiting for her, and in a few minutes they were speeding away to safety. They had been gone only a few minutes when Mr. Criswell missed his daughter, and soon he had the whole neighborhood searching for her.  But their search was fruitless, Mr. Criswell said he was determined to find his daughter, so he left for Macon Wednesday morning, but it is thought that the couple has gone to Wadley to spend their honeymoon, so the irate father will have time to cool off before he finds them.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia, Friday, March 29, 1895
Volume 1, Number 18, Page 2
LIGHTFOOT STEPS.     We regret to chronicle the illness of little Newnan and Rosa Lou Smith, youngest children of Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Smith.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia. Friday, April 19, 1895
Volume 1, Number 21, Page 2
JURY LIST FOR OCTOBER TERM
The following is a list of jurors drawn to serve at
the October term of the Superior Court:
                    GRAND JURORS:
B.F. Ryle Sr.                    H. A. Hartley
J. M. Boone                     J. M. Shepherd
J. Frank Williams              J. S. Burke
J. W. Batchelor               J. T. DuPree
James Davis                     J. G. Pearson
Bentley Outlaw                W. T. Walls
J. F. Burke                       J. H. Duggan
W. O. Hall                       J. B. Butler
W. H. H. Ashley              M. J. Cannon
W. A. Jones                   J. H. Pennington
H. F. Rutland                   N. B. Rawls
Anderson McMullen         J. T. Pierce
R. L. McNair                    M. D. Simpson
G. J. Lindsey                    E. W. Lingo
R. S. McArthur                R. Smith

                PETIT JURORS
W. B. Lavendar               A. H. Nesbitt
J. R. Rawls                      J. J. Butler
J. E. Simpson                   J. S. Wood
J. F. Williams                   T. S. McArthur
M. E. Wheeler                 W. H. Outlaw
John Smith                       R. F. Crutchfield
J. H. Beck                       J. A. Alexander
J. H. Bateman                  J. L. Freeman
Will A. Jones                    J. R. F. Miller
Jas T. Lingo                     A. T. Kingery
W. L. Freeman                S. A. Hatfield
J. E. Lord                       B. R. Vinson
H. G. W. Bloodworth      B. J. Brown
S. P. Hornsby                  J. R. Taylor
L. Q. Ellington                  B. F. Bloodworth
J. N. Shepherd                 J. W. Brundage
F. P. Langford                 C. A. Potter
C. H. McCook

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia. Friday, April 19, 1895
Volume 1, Number 21, Page 2
STEPHENSVILLE SAYINGS. Mrs. Lonie Wynn, an aged lady who had been sick for several months, died on the 5th inst.

THE BULLETIN
Irwinton, Georgia. Friday, April 26, 1895
Volume 1, Number 22, Page 2
MCINTYRE MENTIONS
    Mr. Thomas Temples is still very low at his house near here.
    Mrs. Maude Barlow came down from Macon last Monday to visit relatives near this place.
     Elopements are becoming quite common in this neighborhood.  Last Sunday monring, Miss Leila Tarpley, the daughter of Mr. Luther Tarpley, who lives several miles from this place, ran away with a young man who answers to the cognoman of John Knowles.  The girls parents have been quite wrathy about the affair, but I suppose they have become reconciled by this time.

May 9, 1895
Atlanta Constitution
Mr. Charles Ivey died at his home at Ivey, Ga., this morning. He was an uncle of the Ivey brothers, of Macon, and father of Mrs. A. H. Rice, of Macon. He was born in Martin county, North Carolina, in 1816, and went to Baldwin county when quite young. He was a Primitive Baptist and highly respected by all who knew him. One of the last acts of his life was to build, almost unaided, a church near his home, which bears his name. He was in the seventy-ninth year of his life when he died.
(Buried Mt. Ivey Cemetery)

June 3, 1895
Macon Telegraph
DIED AT 110. Gordon, June 1. (Special). Old Isaac Solomon, probably the oldest negro in the negro in the county, died here this morning. According to his own account he was almost 110 years old.

July 2, 1895
Union Recorder
BAD WRECK AT MIDWAY, A Horrible Scene on the Central Railroad Near This City. TWO KILLED AND SEVERAL WOUNDED. A Heavily Loaded Service Train Plunges Through the Baggage Car of Another Train.
  There was a very serious wreck on the Central Railroad,  two miles from this city, last Tuesday morning between 5 and 6 o'clock resulting in the killing of Mr. Tom Allen, of Iveys, a section foreman on the road, who had both legs crushed, and Bob Smith, colored, who had a leg crushed and also received internal injuries, Bob Jossie, colored, also had one leg crushed and the other badly injured, and a finger mashed off his right hand. His right leg was amputated and on Wednesday he was doing well with some hope of recovery-other negroes on the construction trail were injured but not seriously.
  The freight train that arrives here at 5:30 a.m. had stopped at Midway station to shift some cars, when a service train loaded with the heavy new steel rails, whick are being laid between this city and Gordon, approached the station, which is on a steep grade. A baggage car had been left on the main track by the freight train, while freight cars were being placed on the side track. When the engineer of the service train, which was being backed up to the station, saw a car on the track he reveresed his engine. a coupling pin broke, and the car rushed down the grade and plunged through the baggage car. The cab of the service train, in which were Mr. Allen and a number of negroes, was torn into splinters.
   As soon as news of the wreck reached the city, Dr. I. L. Harris, local surgeon for the road went to the scene of the wreck. He was accompanied by Dr. T. M. Hall, Dr.H. D. Allen, whose Invalid Home is near by, and Drs. O'Daniel and Jones of the Lunatic Asylum staff, also hurried to the scene of the disaster.
    Mr. Allen was carried to the home of his brother-in-law, Mr. Zeb Smith, near by, and the negroes were carried to the chapel. The physicians in attendance did everything possible to alleviate the suffering of the mangled men.
   Mr. Allen expired about 2 o'clock, a few mintures before the arrival of his wife and children. Bob Smith died about one o'clock. Bob Jessie is putting up a brave fight for life. An inquest was held by Coroner Scott, and the verdict, was, an unavoidable accident.
  BURIAL OF MR. ALLEN
  Mr. Allen was buried in the Midway cemetery at 11 o'clock, a.m., Wednesday, with Masonic honrs. He was a member of the Gordon Lodge, and made the request that he be buried by th Masons. On the death of Mr. Allen, Mr. E. T. Alling, Master of Benevolent Lodge, of this city, telegraphed to the Master of Gordon Lodge, who replied that the Masons from Gordon would attend the funeral the following day. Benevolent Lodge met at 9 o'clock Wednesday morning and proceeded to Midway to attend the funeral, where they were joined by Gordon lodge at 11 o'clock-and the two lodges united in paying the last sad tribute of respect to a worthy brother, whose sudden death they deplored. The attendance at the funeral was very large. After singing, reading of the scriptures and a funeral sermon by Rev. Mr. Griner, of Gordon, the Masonic burial service was read in an impressive manner by Worshipful Master Alling.
    Mr. Allen was an upright man and enjoyed the respect of all who knew him. He leaves a wife and 3 children.

July 30, 1895
Macon Telegraph
  Dr. J. W. Huckabee, president of the Lewiston Clay Works, and Miss Stella Massey, daughtr of Mrs. Dr. Massey of Ridge, near Gordon, were united in marriage on Thursday last at 5 o'clock in the afternoon. The ceremony was followed by an elaborate supper tht was partaken of by the large number present.

July 30, 1895
Macon Telegraph
   DROWNED IN A POND. Charlie Carswell Lost His Life Near Gordon.
   Gordon, July 29 - Charlie Carswell, aged 18 years, while bathing in Ryle's mill pond yesterday, was drowned. It is supposed that he was seized with a cramp. He only arose once and called for help. He was rescued about an hour later without an effort at resuscitation.

August 7, 1895
Atlanta Constitution
Mrs. E. J. Carswell. Jeffersonville, Ga., August 6 (Special) Mrs. E. J. Carswell, relict of the late William E. Carswell, Wilkinson county's wealthiest citizen, died at the residence of her son, Captain Carswell, near this place today. This most estimable lady leaves two sons, a daughter and a large number of grandchildren.

August 7, 1895
Atlanta Constitution
 Information was received in Macon today of the death of Mrs. W.E. Carswell this morning at 6 o'clock at the home of her son, Captain W. E. Carswell, in Twiggs county, near Jeffersonville. She was the grandmother of Mrs. Alexander Proudfit, Mrs. Mark O'Daniel and Messrs. Thomas and Joe Napier, of Macon. She was eighty three years old and one of the best known and most esteemed ladies of middle Georgia. She possessed considered wealth. Her husband was the late Captain W. E. Carswell, a large planter.

August 20, 1895
Union Recorder
Death of Mrs. Julian E. Perry
  Mrs. Mamie E. Perry, wife of Mr. Julian E. Perry, died in Atlanta last Tuesday afternoon. She had been in ill health for some time, and had left her home in Cordell and gone to Atlanta, where she had been under treatment at the sanitarium of Dr. J. B. S. Holmes. Mr. Perry and Mrs. Hiers, her sister, accompanied Mrs. Perry to Atlanta and were with her when death came and accompanied her remains to this city.
  The remains of Mrs. Perry reached this city last Wednesday afternoon on the M.G.&A.R.R., and were laid to rest in the city cemetery, Rev. J. M. White officiating.
  As Miss Mamie Holland she was well known in this city, having resided about ten miles from this city in Wilkinson county, and has many friends here who lament her untimely death.
   Mrs. Perry was a beautiful woman and a devoted wife, with a lovable disposition towards all, winning for herself many friends in Cordele where she lived after her marriage. The bereaved husband has the sympathy of everyone in his sad loss.

August 29, 1895
Union Recorder
  Mr. Roger Branan and MissLizzie Smith were united in marriage, at the residence of Mr. Merritt Wheeler, in Wilkinson county, last Sunday afternoon. Miss Smith is a graduate of the G. N. & I. College, and has many friends and relatives in this city. Mr. Branan is a promising young farmer. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Mr. Dewel, of Gordon. The attendants were Mr. Ben Finney with Miss Katie Wheeler, and Mr. Charley Byington with Miss Dewel. The Union Recorder extends congratulations and good wishes.

September 3, 1895
Atlanta Constitution
John T. Lingo
Irwinton, Ga. Setember 2 (Special) Captain John T. Lingo, a prominent planter of this (Wilkinson) county, died at his residence near this place yesterday after ten days' illness of inflammation of the stomach and bowels. He had long been identified with the leading citizens of our county and was regarded as an honorable, upright citizen, a leader in the alliance movement and at the time of his death was a member of the state populist executive committee from the tenth congressional district.
(buried Irwinton City Cemetery)

September  13, 1895
Atlanta Constitution
JUDGE T. N. BEALL.
Irwinton, Ga. September 12. (Special) Judge T. N. Beall, a highly respected and honored citizen of Irwinton, died at his residence here yesterday. He was the oldest citizen of the town, having passed his seventy-fifth birthday. He had resided in the town since 1837 and was for a number of years ordinary of Wilkinson county and had during his long term of years held many offices of honor and trust. For nearly sixty years he had been a leading member of the Methodist church and there are few of the older members of the South and North Georgia conference who have not partaken of his hospitality. He was unanimously pronounced a good man. His remains were buried here today.
(buried Irwinton City Cemetery)

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, September 13, 1895
Volume 1 Number 42, Page 2
Mr. Thomas N. Beall was born on the 5th of March in the year 1820.  He died on the 11th of September, 1895, about 3 o'clock PM.  He joined the Methodist Church when he was about twenty years old, living up to his duties all the days of his life.  The greater part of his life was spent at Irwinton in the mercantile business.  He held many offices of public trust, being ordinary for twelve years.  But it was not as an officer of the law, but as a man that walked with God that he is most honored and loved.  He leaves a large family of sons, daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  He was buried at 4 o'clock Thursday afternoon in the Irwinton Cemetery.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, September 13, 1895
Volume 1 Number 42, Page 2
Mrs. Manderson Dead
       Mrs. Elvira Manderson died at her home near Toomsboro on the first day of September 1895.
       She was seventy-seven years old and had been a widow for eighteen years.  She was buried at the Ebenezer cemetery, the services being conducted by Rev. J.M. Boone.  She was a member of the Baptist church for twenty-seven years.
       Until half an hour before her death she was as well as an old lady her age could be, laughing and talking with the family.  She was taken suddenly but we all know it was for the best.
        Rev. W. D. Dewell will preach her funeral on the fourth Sunday in this month.

September 23, 1895
Macon Telegraph
A NEGRO'S VICTIM. Mr. J. H. Stanley Dies in Wilkinson County.
  Irwinton, Sept. 21 (Special) Mr. J. H. Stanley, the young man who was assaulted in this county of the night of the thirteenth by Dave Cumming, a young negro, and stabbed in the head, died yesterday about 11 o'clock after much pain and suffering. Mr. Stanley is a young man of splendid habits, and a good citizen. He leaves a young wife and two small children. the cause that led to this unfortunate affair was but a trifle.
   The school at Shady Grove Academy had its closing exercises Friday night, the 13th, and Mr. Stanley attended with his family in a wagon, and the negro, Dave Cumming, and others did likewise. After the exercises closed and all were on their way home going up a hill, a horse in front backed, that caused the other teams to back. This negro's buggy being in front of Mr. Stanley's wagon, backed into his wagon and his buggy wheel was crushed. This offended the negro, Mr. Stanley passed around him and came on home. The negro got up three of his friends and followed Mr. Stanley on home, called him out an demanded pay for the broken wheels' Mr. Stanley refused, and words were passed when the negro struck him over the head with his knife, penetrating the brain. He fell paralyzed and never spoke and has remained unconscious all the while. The negro fled. Warrants are out for all four - Dan Cumming, John Cumming, Arthur Holloman and John Rogers.

September 25, 1895
The Macon Telegraph
THE KILLING OF STANLEY. One Accessory Held on the Commitment Trial.
Irwinton, Sept. 24. (Special) The negroes, John Cumming, John Roger and Arthur Holliman, who were charged with the murder of Arthur (J. H.) Stanley, who died on the 20th, were arrested last Saturday and brought to this place Saturday night, and placed in jail, and a commitment trial was held here yesterday before Justices T. J. Hatfield  and J. W. Brooks. The prosecution was represented by
J. W. Lindsay and the defendants by Col. J. E. Hightower of Dublin. The testimony clearly disclosed that Dave Cumming, who had not then been arrested, struck the blow that killed Mr. Stanley and that while all the defendants were there, the evidence failed to commit them with the act of killing, except Arthur Holloman. It was in evidence that after Dave Cumming had struck Stanley he jumped back like he was going to run, when Arthur Holloman rushed up and urged Dave to hit him again, and both of them advanced toward Mr. Stanley like they were going to do so, and it was prevented by Miss Stanley, who came up alone with others when they all ran off, Arthur urging Save to run and get away. The court dismissed John Cumming and John Rogar, and committed Arthur Holloman to jail to await trial for murder.
  The officers of the district, with whom warrants had been placed, have failed to make what seemed a reasonable effort to arrest Dave or try to hunt him. Mr. B. W. Raffield, J. W. Worthy, Isaac Worthy and Mr. Troutman, on last Saturday, as a posse, under Mr. Raffield as special bailiff, to hunt up and capture Dave Cumming. They soon got on his trail. They followed him to Chancey, in Dodge county, and succeeded in arresting him Sunday night and brought him to this place last night, where he is now in jail awaiting commitment tomorrow. This is one of the worst dastardly murders ever committed in this county, and what makes it more aggravating is the indifferent manner in which three officers treated it, and finally sought, through their friends, to excuse themselves by trying to raise a fear that if the negro had been captured he would be lynched, when there were no grounds for any such fear.

October 1, 1895
Union Recorder
Mrs. Ann Hogue, wife of Mr. E. J. Hogue, died at Gordon last Friday morning, after along and painful illness. She was fifty-one years of age. Her remains were brought to this city and buried Saturday morning, at 10 o'clock, from the residence of Rev. J. V. M. Morris, Rev. J. C. Griner of Gordon circuit, officiating. The preacher paid a beautiful and touching tribute to the christian resignation of the deceased and exhorted his bearers to prepare for death.
   Mrs. Hogue was a consistent member of the Methodist church and was sustained by the consolations of religion in her severe affliction. During her long illness she received tender nursing from the loving hands of husband and children, who look hopefully forward to a happy "gathering home" when life's duties are done.

October 12, 1895
Macon Telegraph
STUCK A KNIFE IN HIS HEAD. Sheriff Pearce Denies That He Justified Mr. Stanley's Slayer.
  Sheriff E. C. Pearce returned to Macon yesterday with the negroes charged with the murder of Mr. W. A. Stanley last month.
  That had been taken to Dublin for trial.
  The negroes were not tried because of the illness of Col. Howard of counsel for the defense. The case was continued by Judge Hart for the term.
  According to Sheriff Pearce, Dave Cummings, one of the negroes, acknowledges inflicting the fatal stab in Mr. Stanley's head, but says it was done in self-defense.
  The sheriff denies the report in the newspapers that he ever said the negroes were justified or that they killed Mr. Stanley in self-defense. The report was published that the sheriff on turning the negroes over to the jailor at Macon said: "here are the negroes who killed a man, but they did it in self-defense," Judge C. C. Balkcom and Jailer Millirons made affidavits yesterday that no such statement was ever made by the sheriff in their presence. Judge Balkcom happened to be at the jail at the time the statement is alleged to have been made.
  The negroes are Dave Cummings and Arthur Holloman. On his way home from a school commencement, Mr. Stanley accidentally drove against and broke the wheel of a negro's buggy, the night being dark. It was about 12 or 1 o'clock at night. Soon after he reached home, several negroes drove up to his gate and called him out. A quarrel arose about paying for the wheel. A deadly stab was inflicted in the top of Mr. Stanley's head. Dave Cummings says that he did it, but that Mr. Stanley was cutting at him with a knife. To substantiate this contention, Cummins (sic) shows a scratch on one of his wrists.
  The grand jury indicted three negroes. One of them is out on bond.
  Messrs. Whitfield & Allen of Milledgeville and Roberts & Pottle of Milledgeville and Col. Howard of Dublin have been employed for the defense.

October 31, 1895
Macon Telegraph
MRS. HUGHES' DEATH. She was the Widow of a Prominent Wilkinson County Gentleman.
Mrs. Elmira Hughes died at Jeffersonville, in Twiggs county, yesterday morning in her 78th years.
  Mrs. Hughes was the widow of Hon. Haywood Hughes, a large slave owner and leading citizen of Wilkinson county before the war. She was the mother of Mrs. J. F. Balkcom, and of Mrs. W. T. Reynolds, whose death occurred about three years ago. Mrs. Hughes leaves a large number of relatives in this and other counties, being the step-mother of Mrs. Frank Chambers and Mr. E. W. Hughes.
  The funeral will take place today at the family burying ground in Jeffersonville.

November 16, 1895
Savannah Tribune
Stuckey Goes to the Penitentiary
  W.A. Stuckey has been placed in jail again, the supreme court having affirmed the decision of the lower court. He had been sentenced to twenty years' imprisonment at hard labor for murdering Ira Taylor, his brother-in-law, a little over a year ago in a passenger coach of the Macon, Dublin and Savannah railroad.
  Previous to the murder Stuckey was considered to be a law-abiding citizen and had amassed considerable property. Since the tragedy his land and other effects have been turned into money to defray the expenses of his trial, and today he is utterly penniless and a physical wreck.

December 20, 1895
Columbus Daily Enquirer
  The editorial brethren in Irwinton do not appear to be on the most friendly terms. Editor Carswell, of the Bulletin, and Editor Lydy, of the Guide, have been making faces at each other for some time. On Monday a fierce fistcuff occurred between them. Editor Carswell had in a recent issue of his paper frankly expressed his opinion of his contemporary and dismissed him from further notice. In the following issue of the Guide, Editor Lydy, in no complimentary way, paid his respects to Editor Carswell. When they met on the street there was blood in the eyes of both belligerent's and there was an old fashion collision, fist and skull. No serious injuries were received by either of the principals. The Guide is a Populist paper while the Bulletin is Democratic.

December 24, 1895
Union Recorder
Mrs. Winnie McCook died at the home of her son, Mr. D. A. McCook in Wilkinson county, last Sunday night. She was 95 years of age. She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, and was greatly beloved by all who knew her. She will be buried at Snow's Cemetery today at 2 o'clock.

December 31, 1895
Union Recorder
      Mr. Archie Smith died at his home in Wilkinson county last Thursday morning. He seemed to be doing well and fast recovering  from the injuries he sustained in this city by being thrown by his mule. His appetite was good and he was walking about the house, but exposed himself and took cold which settled in his wound and death followed. He was 81 years  old and a wonderfully active man for one of his age. He was a useful and reliable citizen and will be greatly missed. 

Union

January 5, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
DEATH OF LINWOOD NELSON. He Was  a Promising Young Man of Gordon and Well Liked.
Gordon, Jan. 4 (Special) Master Linwood Nelson died here this morning at 4 o'clock from an attack of fever. He was taken sick Thursday and was never conscious again.
    Linwood was the youngest son of Mr. Richard Nelson of the place. He was a very promising lad, just entering into young manhood.
  His father, mother, grandmother, five brothers and his friends mourn his death.

January 5, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
  At Danville yesterday Mrs. W. J. Holloway died. She was a most estimable woman, with a large circle of friends, who will greatly mourn her loss.

January 19, 1896
The Atlanta Constitution
MURDER NEAR TOOMSBORO
Warren Powers Assassinated by Some Unknown Person
Toomsboro, Ga., January 18 (Special) Warren Powers, a colored preacher, who resided seven miles south of this place, was called to his door last night at 7 o'clock and shot by an unknown person. He died instantly.
  The circumstances pointing to Phabe Dixon, colored, who lives on H. A. Hall's place, a few miles distant. He was arrested and placed in the hands of the sheriff to await the coroner's inquest.

January 21, 1896
The Knoxville Journal
Georgia Preacher Assassinated.
Louisville, Ky., Jan. 20 - A special to the Courier Journal from Toomsboro Ga, says: News has been received here of the mysterious assassination of the Rev. Warren Powers, a well known country preacher, near Hall's Station, this county. Powers was called to his door at night and shot, falling dead in the arms of his wife. The suspicions of the officers here have been directed to a man named Dixon, a member of Powers' congregation, and he under arrest. It is said that last Sunday Mr. Powers preached a strong sermon against the marital infidelities of some of the community, and Dixon took the sermon as applying to him.

January 21, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
Master Commissioner's Sale of Central Railroad Property
 In the Circuit Court of the United States for the Eastern Division of the Southern District of Georgia.
The Central Railroad & Banking Company of Georgia vs. The Farmers' Loan & Trust Company of New York et al., and other consolidated causes. In equity.
 Under and by virtue of a decree of the court in the above stated cause, rendered on the 19th day of October, 1895, the undersigned, as master commissioner, will put up and expose for sale before the county courthouse of Bibb county, in Macon, Georgia, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., on Thursday, February 6th, 1896, all the right, title and interest of the Central Railroad & Banking Company of Georgia in the following property, to wit:
IV
In Wilkinson County
  A tract of land at Gordon, on north side of Central railroad track, containing 33 acres, more or less; described in deeds from M. B. Perkins, March 10, 1873; John H. Ray, October 7, 1874; and David Solomon, October 7, 1874. See Book B, page 733; C, pages 200 and 198.
   A tract of land at McIntyre, on both sides of the Central railroad main line, being portions of lots 100 and 113, in the Fourth District of Wilkinson county, containing 202½ acres, more or less. See deed from Milton C. Murphy, Aug. 23, 1856, in Book A., page 206.

January 28, 1896
Union Recorder
Death of a Confederate Soldier.   Mr. Henry Goodman received a telegram last Thursday night announcing the death of his brother, Mr. Solomon Goodman at his home in Hartford City, Ind.
  Mr. Goodman was a brave young Confederate soldier, and was a member of the 14th Georgia Regiment. We have heard him spoken of as one of the bravest of the brave, always ready for duty. Captain Newell says on one occasion he beheld him and his brother Henry, of this city, leading the 14th Georgia in a charge.
  Mr. Goodman was in ill health several months before his death. He leaves a wife and eight children to mourn their loss.

February 18, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
HIS ELDEST SON. - The many friends of Mr. W. P. Duncan will regret to learn that his eldest son (John Willie) died of pneumonia Sunday night at the home near Toomsboro. Mr. Duncan is one of the popular drummers for A. R. Small.

March 6, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
DEATH OF MR. J. C. CARSWELL. Irwinton, March 5. (Special) Mr. J. C. Carswell, one of our best and most respected citizens and farmers, died at his home near this place at 10 o'clock last night. He had been confined to his room about ten days. Mr. Carswell was in his 72d year. He was born and has resided in Wilkinson county all his life, except for about two or three years, when he resided in Atlanta.
   His wife, two sons and two daughters survive him.

March 26, 1896
The Atlanta Constitution
 Death of Mr. Richard Nelson
Gordon, Ga. March 25 (Special) Mr. Richard Nelson, one of the most prominent citizens of this section, died at his home here yesterday. Mr. Nelson was one of the most prominent republicans of the state and stood high in the councils of his party, having held the position of deputy collector of internal revenue for nineteen years under the administrations of Presidents Garfield, Arthur and Harrison. He entered the confederate service at the age of twenty-one and served throughout the war.
(Buried Gordon City Cemetery)

April 10, 1896
Tifton Gazette
  WILLIAM M. AVERA. The subject of this sketch was born in Wilkinson county in the year of 1834 (month and day not known to the writer) and died at his home in Berrien county the 21st day of March 1896, aged 62 years. He was first married to Miss Harriet Jones and to them were born eight children, four boys and four girls, all living but one. After the death of his first wife he married Mrs. Martha Ann Dearing, of Savannah, living happily together to his death without offspring. He fought bravely through the late civil war and came out without being seriously wounded. A short time after the war he joined the Primitive Baptist church and was baptized bY Elder Richard Tucker at Flat Creek church, Berrien county, and remained strong in the faith to his death. He was a hard working man and by his untiring industry and economy he accumulated a good property, notwithstanding the many heavy losses had by fire. May he rest in peace.

April 12, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
DEATH OF MRS. GOODLOE
She Died at Her Home on Columbus Road Friday Night.
Mrs. A. G. Goodloe, nee Miss Annie Jenkins, died at her home on the Columbus road Friday night, after a short married life. The surviving husband has the sympathy of his many friends in Macon.
   The remains were taken to Toomsboro yesterday for interment today.

April 26, 1896
Macon Telegraph
FIRE IN GORDON. The Bucket Brigade Save a House From Destruction. Gordon, APril 25 (Special) the residence occupied by Mr. J. T. Thompson caught fire this afternoon and the blaze was well under way when the fire department arrived. It was thought the house would be destroyed, but the heroic work of the bucket brigade som got the flames under control. The citizens of Gordon are under obligation to the colored people, who did valuable service in que4nching the fire and otherwise rendering assistance.

May 15, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
A BAND OF INCENDIARIES - In Wilkinson county, near Ivy, a night or two ago, two negro boys struck fire to the barn of Mr. Beck, burning the entire contents of the building, including three fine mules. The boys are now in jail at Milledeville. They say they were hired by a negro woman to commit the crime. The woman has been arrested, and is also in jail.

June 29, 1896
The Macon Telegraph
MR. RYLE IS DEAD. His Remains Were Carried to Lewiston for Interment.
  Mr. J. R. Ryle, who has been so ill for the past three weeks at his home on Main street, East Macon, died Saturday night at 10 o'clock. He had been suffering from lung troubles for some time, and his death was not a surprise. He has seven children, two of his sons being in business in Savannah. Mr. Ryles was a highly respected gentleman. He was 65 years of age, and had been living in East Macon a long while. His remains were carried to Lewiston last night to be interred in the old family burying ground. The funeral arrangements were in charge of L. McManus.

August 1, 1896
Macon Telegraph
MRS. VINSON DEAD - Mrs. Lucy Vinson, an old and much respected lady, died Thursday at Adams Park. Mrs. Vinson was 85 years of age. The funeral took place yesterday.

August 18, 1896
Union Recorder
  Mr. Joshua Walker, one of Laurens county's oldest and most prominent citizens, died at his home at Laurens Hill on Friday morning, 7th inst. He had been sick for several weeks with typhoid fever, but was thought to be better early Friday morning - so much so that one of his sons, Mr. Joseph P. Walker, who had been at his bedside for several days, left for his home in Milledgeville, but on reaching Jeffersonville, he was handed a telegram informing him of his father's death. His death was made peculiarly said on account of the condition of his family. He had two sons just recovering from a long spell of typhoid fever, and his wife and young daughter, who had been constant watchers at the bedside of the sick, had just succumbed to the dread disease. His remains were interred at the family burial ground, near Stephensville, Saturday, witnessed  by a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends.

August 21, 1896
Macon Telegraph
CLIFFORD LEE DEAD. He Was a Very Popular Young Man, Well Known in Macon.
    Mr.Clifford Lee, son of Dr. Lee of Gordon, died at Dr. Moore's sanitarium last night.
    Mr. Lee's death is supposed to have been the result of an accident, he having been struck with a ball while playing baseball last Saturday at his home in Gordon. It was not until Sunday tht Mr. Lee felt any serious results from the blow. At that time he complained of being unwell and his father did all he could to relieve him of the instense pain from which he suffered. Other physicians were called in, but as no relief could be had, the young man was brought to Macon and place in Dr. Moore's sanitarium for the purpose of performing a difficult operation upon him.
  Owing to the weakened condition of Mr. Lee, he could not stand the operation and died shortly after it was performed.
   Mr. Lee was an unusually promising young man. He was a student of Mercr at the last session and won a speaker's place. All Macon extends sympathy to Dr. Lee and his family in their bereavement.

August 26, 1896
Macon Telegraph
  Arabi, Aug. 25 - Dr. D. P. Miller died here Sunday night from kidney disease. He leaves a wife to mourn his death. The remains were coveyed to Wilkinson county and interred in the family burial ground.

September 8, 1896
Union Recorder
STORE BROKEN OPEN And the Would be Robber killed by a Spring Gun.
    Last Wednesday night the store of Mr. William Harper, at Midway, was broken open with intent to rob. Mr. Harper keeps a spring rifle in his store set to shoot along the line of cords run out from it. On this occasion its aim was good and its work fatal. It was late Thursday morning before Mr. Harper went to his store, where he found the door broken open, the gun discharged and a pool of blood on the floor. The victim, however, was gone.
    In the meantime, Dr. H. D. Allen was sent for to attend a negro by the name of Reuben Carswell, at Harrisburg, and found him suffering from a gunshot wound in the side. Carswell said he had been shot by unknown parties while going along the railroad.  The wound proved fatal and the negro died Thursday night.
    At the inquest held by Coroner Scott, Mr. Harper stated that the rifle was loaded with a buckshot which he had trimmed to fit the barrel. The same ball was found in the body of Carswell after death.
    Sufficient evidence was obtained to warrant the arrest of Henry Owens in the attempted robbery, and he was arrested by Deputy Sheriff Perry and lodged in jail.
   Carswell had only been in the neighborhood a few days and came from Wilkinson county.

October 13, 1896
Union Recorder
~excerpt~Death and Burial of Miss Pansy Howard.
  One of the saddest events in the annals of the Georgia Normal & Industrial College occurred last week in the death of Miss Pansy Howard, one of the students boarding at Atkinson Hall. Miss Howard was among the new students who entered the college at the opening of the session about a month ago. At that time she was a perfect picture of healthy, robust, joyous girlhood. She was taken sick  Sunday afternoon and died at 3 o'clock on the following Saturday morning. The terrible malady by which she was attacked obdurately refused to yield to treatment although three skilled physicians were in constant attendance and she had the very best of nursing and attention. She was the daughter of Mr. Gordon Howard, a citizen of Wilkinson county and well known in Milledgeville. Her mother died some years ago and for the past several years her home had been with her uncle, Hon. S. A. Reid, of Macon, a prominent lawyer and member-elect to the next Georgia legislature. She was just 16 years old and was a member of the Sophomore class. Death's untimely frost rarely falls upon a fairer flower. She was a remarkably bright, handsome, and lovable girl, and in intellectual endowments, she was far above the average..Her uncle, Hon. S. A. Reid and her brother, Mr. Gordon Howard, of Macon, and her father, Mr. Howard and here uncle, Dr. Geo. Crawford, of Wilkinson county, were with her from Wednesday evening until her death, early Saturday morning.
  The funeral took place at 4 o'clock Saturday afternoon from the Baptist church in this city and was one of the most impressive occasions of the kind ever seen in Milledgeville...over three hundred G. N. & I. C. students in line all dressed in the college uniform...The funeral services were impressively conducted by Rev. Jno. A. Wray of the Baptist Church. ..She was laid to rest in the burial lot of the distinguished Jesup family who were closely related to her on her mother's side...

Atlanta Constitution
Luther Hall's Daughters.
Misses Estelle and Alice Hall, daughters of the last Luther A. Hall, spent Friday night in Macon on their way to Eastman, their home, from Toombsboro, where their father was buried. The young ladies tell a sad tale of the last days of their father's illness and said his chief desire was to die a free man on account of his family. In every lucid moment he would ask about the pardon the president had been asked to grant, and at last died without knowing that it had been refused.
  The Misses Hall also stated that their father proclaimed his innocence to the last.

November 21, 1896
Atlanta Constitution
SHOT A PLANTER IN THE HEAD
    Four Negroes Arrested on Account of the Death of Mack Hughes
Irwinton, Ga. November 20 (Special) Mack Hughes, a farmer living about seven miles north of this town, left his wife and children yesterday morning after breakfast to go about a mile on his plantation, where he had hands sowing oats. He did not return for dinner and a search was instituted.
    Three negroes in the wood near where he had been sowing oats reported that he came to them and left about 11 o'clock. Soon after leaving they heard him say" "Don't shoot me! Don't shoot me!"
   They heard two pistol shots but did not investigate.
   Hughes was found dead within 100 yards of where the negroes were at work with a pistol ball in his head and with his pistol loosely in his hand. The negroes made conflicting statements and the coroner ordered the arrest of four, who were near at the time of the shoot and who gave conflicting testimony.

January 28, 1897
The Macon Telegraph
J. F. and Iverson Branan Dead.   Gordon, Ga., Jan. 14. Mr. J. F. Branan, a very highly esteemed citizen, died late Monday night and was buried yesterday by the Masons at the family cemetery.
  About the same time the people were dispersing, the news came that Mr. Iverson Branan, the only brother of Mr. J. F. Branan, was dead, and his remains will be interred at the same place today. They were the sons of Mr. Caswell Branan, who is in his 90th year. They were 62 and 60 years, respectively.

March 2, 1897
Union Recorder
  Many hearts in Georgia are saddened by the death of Rev. E. J. Coates which occurred at his home in Macon last Tueday from two strokes of paralysis. He was a well-known Baptist divine and highly esteemed and beloved.

March 15, 1897
Unon Recorder
  Mr. William M. Counsel (Council) died at his home in Wilkinson county, near the line of Baldwin, last Thursday, after an illness of a week.
  Mr. Counsel was a prosperous young farmer, and was well-known and had a large number of friends in this city, who regret to learn of his death. He leaves a wife and child to mourn his death.

April 2, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
TRAIN PLUNGES INTO A WASHOUT. One of Crew Instantly Killed and Two Seriously Hurt. CLOUDBURST CAUSED WRECK. Central Fast Freight Drops Through the Track Near Oconee. FLAGMAN BRAGG'S NECK WAS BROKEN. Engineer Ryan and Fireman Grady Escape with Injuries Which May Result in the Death of Former.
  Macon, Ga., April 1 (Special) J. S. Bragg, of Macon, flagman on the Central railroad through freight train No. 42, from Macon to Savannah, was killed last night in an accident caused by a washout, and his body was brought to Macon this afternoon at 5 o'clock for interment tomorrow afternoon from the Second Baptist church, of which he is a member.
  The ill-fated train left Macon last night at 8:30 o'clock for Savannah with the following crew:
  Conductor A. N. Brannan, Engineer W. O. Ryan, Fireman Hugh Grady, Flagman J. S. Bragg.
  When two miles beyond Oconee and about forty-eight miles from Macon, the engine plunged into a washout on the track. The engine and nine cars were wrecked, the cars piling upon each other in water. The cars were loaded with cotton and mixed merchandise. The accident happened on a level, the water washing the dirt from under the track and leaving the rails and cross ties suspended, and in a place so that they appeared to the engineer and fireman to be perfectly safe. The first intimation they had of anything wrong was when the engine plunged into the washout.
  Considering the great flood of water submerging the country, at the scene of the wreck there must have been a sudden cloudburst. Rain did not commence to fall in that vicinity until 9 o'clock last night. At the time of the accident, Flagman Bragg was sitting on the engine, having gone there to get warm and dry his clothes after leaving Oconee. He was acting brakeman and had gotten soaking wet.
  WHen the engine plunged into the washout Bragg was thrown off and the first car next the other engine turned over upon him. His neck was broken. It was about fifteen hours after the accident before his body was found and taken from the debris.
  Engineer Ryan had his left leg broken and head injured. He is not fatally hurt. Ryan is about sixty years old, and has been with the Central road a long time.
  Fireman Grady was slightly hurt. No one else was injured.
  All of the crew live in Savannah except Bragg, whose home was in Macon. The accident happened at 11:30 o'clock, and as soon as the news reached Macon Superintendent Hoge went to the scene of the wreck, while a wrecking train went down early this morning. Passenger trains have been transferring today, but the wreck will be cleared tonight and trains will run through on schedule. Engineer Ryan and Fireman Grady have been carried to Savannah.
  The wife of Flagman Bragg went to Atlanta yesterday morning to visit her sister, Mrs. Tom Avery. She was telegraphed early this morning of the death of her husband, and she returned to Macon today. They had been married about thirteen months. Mrs. Bragg was Miss Alma Matthews, of Macon. The deceased was a brother-in-law of Chief L. M. Jones, of the Macon fire department, and a brother of George Bragg, conductor on the Central railroad, and Conductor Bob Bragg, of the Macon Consolidated Street railway. He was twenty-five years old, having been born in Wilkinson county, February 29,  1872. He was married in February, 1896. Bragg had been an employee of the Central railroad five years; he was a most excellent man, respected by all who knew him.

April 14, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
HYDROPHOBIA KILLS TWO
MAD DOG BITES PEOPLE, HOGS  AND CATTLE GENERALLY.
Seven-Year-Old Child, Grown Man, Swine, Fowls and an Ox Die in Great Agony
Gordon, Ga., April 13 - (Special) The seven-year-old son of Joseph Bloodworth, of Ivey district, this county, died yesterday of hydrophobia.
  The child was bitten by a mad dog five or six weeks ago while returning home from school. He began to show symptoms of the rabies last Wednesday and gradually grew worse until the end came.
  Jack Gooden, of near Stevens Pottery, was bitten the same day by the same dog and is dying of hydrophobia.
  The dog bit several hogs, a goose and an ox, all of which have died of hydrophobia.

April 15, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
ANOTHER MAN BITTEN BY DOG
James Ryle Attacked by Mad Dog. Gooden Still Living.
Gordon, Ga., April 14 (Special) Gooden, who was bitten by a mad dog near here, is still living. The dog which bit him has been killed.
     James Ryle, living near Steven's pottery, was bitten by another mad dog this morning.
  The dog, which bit Ryle, is still at large.

April 15, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
ARE SCARED OF HYDROPHOBIA
RABID DOG SCATTERED DEATH AND TERROR AROUND
Two Persons  Have Died and Others Are Watching Wounds Carefully.
Gordon, Ga, April 16 (Special) A reign of terror pervades this entire section and every man within three miles of Gordon, armed with guns and clubs, is devoting his time to dog killing.
   No such panic has been known here in years as that now existing. Hyrdrophohia is the dread of all.
   Two persons have died with the rabies within five miles of this place within the past five days. Each one was bitten by the same dog and there are at least six others whose flesh were lacerated by the same fangs.
  The dread among these and their friends is something terrible. They are being carefully watched and no few of them are now quite ill through fear.
 A messenger has been sent to Dahlonega for a madstone and its coming is being impatiently awaited.
   The same dog bit several others before he was killed and for that reason the people here are trying to exterminate the canine tribe. Cattle, sheep and horses were bitten and by count there are now near here  ten carcasses, every one the direct result of the dog bite.
   It is believed here that the dog came from Washington county, where a mad dog was killed several days ago- the same dog that bit Chief Rawlin, of Sandersville, who has gone to New York for treatment.
(Note: Madstone - : a stony concretion (as a hair ball taken from the stomach of a deer) supposed formerly in folklore and by some physicians to counteract the poisonous effects of the bite of an animal (as one affected with rabies) dictionary.com)

April 30, 1897
Macon Telegraph
Mrs. Dr. G. A. Massey died at Gordon yesterday and will be buried toay. She was well known and greatly respected. Rev. J. G. Harrison went to Gordon yesterday to conduct the funeral services. Mrs. Massey was the mother of Mrs. J. R. VanBuren, Mrs. Dr. Huckabey and Mrs. William Fitzpatrick.  

May 4, 1897
Union Recorder
A Country Home Destroyed by Fire.
  The home of Mr. J. D. Penningon, near Bloodworth, in Wilkinson county, was destroyed by fire last Tuesday morning about 8 o'clock. After breakfast the family left home and it is supposed the fire originated in the cook room. When Mr. Pennington, who was at work in the field, discovered the fire, his house was in a blaze, and it was impossible to do anything to suppress the flames. The house, furniture and clothing of the family were all destroyed. The house was a comfortable five room cottage. There was no insurance and the loss is about $1,000.00. Much sympathy is felt for the unfortunate family. In their distress they found a temporary home with Mr.
J. U. Parker.
  A melted twenty dollar gold piece was found in the ashes in the building.

May 27, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
FOUND KAOLIN IN A GULLY. This Led To Investigation and Interested Capitalists.
Probable That Northern Men Will Start Works to Manufacture Wares from the Kaolin
Macon, Ga., May 26 (Special) A large deal has just been closed, or is likely to be closed, in the way of opening up an extensive kaolin industry in Wilkinson county.
   Parties have been here for several days negotiating for the purchase of property, the title to which rests in the two minor children of Colonel Thomas C. Taylor, of Hawkinsville.
    It is rather queer the way in which the property became of public note. the wife of Colonel Taylor was the daughter of a Mrs. Smith, of that county, who died leaving two children. Some time after the death of Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Smith became very ill and died and the property naturally reverted to the children of Colonel Taylor.
  Soon after this sad occurrence efforts were made by parties who had found out about the existence of the kaolin beds on the Smith property to purchase the land at a very much reduced price, and, falling in this, they opened up negotiations with Colonel Taylor to find out what he would take for the property at so much per acres.
   If afterwards developed that there was a gully extending across the entire tract of land within 400 yards of the Central railroad track near Lewiston, exposing a natural produce of kaolin that was almost perfect in its purity.
     Colonel Taylor knew nothing of the kaolin, and paid very little attention to anything except the collection of the rents on the property as a plantation, but after receiving letters from New York, Boston and other large manufacturing centers he decided to investigate the matter.
      The talk now is that parties from the north and west will probably purchase the kaolin interests and may establish a manufacture of wares from that product in Atlanta. Specimens of kaolin, as taken from the quarry referred to, are as white as snow and bear all the polish of porcelain in its purity.

(Note. Thomas C. Taylor was married to Seaton C. Smith, July 28, 1878 in Wilkinson County, Ga. She was the daughter of
 Christianna Elizabeth Whitehurst Smith, who died April 15, 1896, and John Seaton Smith of Baldwin County, Ga. who died 1859 in Baldwin County, Ga of typhoid fever. Thomas C. Taylor was the son of Thomas and Gracie Taylor of Wilkinson County, Ga.)

July 13, 1897
Union Recorder
~excerpt~ In Memory of Mr. Caswell Branan,
  The dear old father in Israel, whose name heads this short memorial, was indeed a remarkable man. He was one of the early settlers of this section of Georgia, and was among the last ones of that generation to pass over the river of death.
  He was born in Morgan county, Georgia, August the 10th, 1807, and died at his home in Wilkinson county on March 15th, 1897, where he had lived since quite a boy. He was 89 years, 7 months and 15 days old. He was confined to his bed five short weeks with that dreadful disease, paralysis; we all thought then the weeks were very long, but we were quite mistaken.
  His remains were consigned to the silent tomb on the next day in the family burial ground near the old homestead, Elder W. F. Rogers, conducting the burial services. He was married to Miss Gracy Herndon when they were both quite young, who preceded him to the grave 26 years, one month and six days. They raised a family of nine children, all of whom proceeded him to the grave, except for two lovely daughters, that are left to pay the same debt sooner or later. He had 32 grand-children and 24 great-grand-children.
  He also leaves one brother and sister that will soon follow him, their days are nearly numbered...

September 21, 1897
Union Recorder
  Mr. Henry Beck, a young man residing near Ivey Station, in Wilkinson county, shot himself accidentally last Saturday morning, about 5 o'clock. He was out squirrel hunting, and while engaged in loading one barrel of his gun, the other one was discharged, load entering his chest near the heart. He is son of Mr. J. M. Beck, and is well known in this city. The news was brought to this city Saturday, and it was said he was dangerously wounded. Later reports bring with it the death of young Beck which occurred Saturday.

October 13, 1897
Macon Weekly Telegraph
BOILER EXPLOSION. A Boy and Man Injured at Hall's Ginnery Near Irwinton.
Irwinton, GA. Oct 12. The boiler of the steam ginnery of Mrs. R. C. Hall six miles south of here, exploded yesterday afternoon about 3 o'clock while everything was in full operation. A little boy of Mrs. Hall was scalded from his knees down, and Mr. Ira Knight, a customer, who was sitting near, had his thigh broken by a flying piece of iron. The explosion tore up the machinery and steam connection pretty badly.
  It seems that two boilers were being used, furnished steam for one engine and the connection of the boiler that exploded was closed without the knowledge of anyone. Loss is about $300.

October 31, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
BURIED GOLD CAUSES LAWSUIT
Brother Sues His Sister for a Part of a Fortune
THE FATHER HID HIS WEALTH
Daughter Dug Up the Yellow Metal After His Death
SHE WANTED TO KEEP ALL, IT IS CHARGED
Case is Now Pending in the Wilkinson Superior Court at Irwinton
Irwinton, Ga., October 30 - (Special) The October adjourned term of Wilkinson superior court is in session here this week. The case of C. C. Parker vs. Mrs. Vasti Helton has ben dragging along slowly for the past two days. It is a suit brought to recover $13,000 in gold.
  W.C. Parker, the father of both plaintiff and defendant, was a rich old gentleman who believed in keeping his money buried. After his death several pots of gold were discovered buried around the premises.
  His daughter, then Miss Vasti Parker, now Mrs. Helton, was the only one of the children unmarried.
  As soon as the old gentleman died William Helton, who is fond of gold and fishing, called upon Miss Parker, who is about fifty years old, and they were soon married. It is claimed that Mr. Helton now has in his possession a pot of gold worth $13,000. There is a large family and it is divided on the question, some siding with the brother, some with the sister.
    J.M. Hughes, brother-in-law to the parties, testified, or made affidavit, that he assisted Mr. Helton in digging up this pot of gold and putting it in another burial place. He then told the plaintiff about the find and told where the gold was buried. When search was made it was show that the money had again been removed, and instead of finding the gold, pieces of broker jar and The Constitution bearing the address of W. F. Helton was found.
   Mack Hughs, the principal witness for the plaintiff, was mysteriously murdered just before the case was to be tried in November of 1896. The jury is now out on the case. Old man Parker was worth nearly $100,000.

November 10, 1897
The Macon Telegraph
    Mr. Frank Johnson, of Adams Park, who is not only popular with all of the people of Twiggs county, but with a large number of friends in Macon, died at his home at Adams Park yesterday morning at 8:30 o'clock, after a brief illness with malarial fever.
   Undertaker Keating sent down a magnificent casket for the remains yesterday morning.
  Mr. Johnson was 28 years of age and was a young man of fine character and genial manners.  He was the son of the late Rev. C. G. Johnson, a divine greatly beloved in his day. Mr. Johnson was one of ten brothers, nine of whom survive him. He also leaves a mother, 55 years of age, and a wife and one child.
  The funeral will take place from his late residence, this morning at 11:10 o'clock and the interment will be in the family burying ground in Twiggs county.
  News of Mr. Johnson's death will be learned with deep regret by his many friends in Macon and elsewhere.
(Note: buried Asbury Church Cemetery)

November 11, 1897
Tifton Gazette
   In memory of Mrs. C. E. Overstreet, who died suddenly near Mr. Jonathan Walker's, Sept. 2nd, 1897. She was the daughter of Henry and Sallie Pickle, born in Wilkinson county, Ga., March 15, 1844. She was for about 34 years a member of the Missionary Baptist church, and took great pride in the name of Baptist. She was married to W. T. Overstreet Nov. 9, 1881, and was the mother of only one child, which died in infancy. Hers was a lonely life; being a cripple, she suffered greatly. Thought we mourn not at those who have no hope, for blessed are those who die in the Lord. Sharing her bereavement with her kindred and  friends. J. J. F. G.  

November 14, 1897
The Macon Telegraph
Dublin, Ga. Nov. 13 - Invitations have been received by the many friends of Mr. R. F. Duse in his city to his marriage  to Miss
Allie May Freeman of Toomsboro, which occurs on November 24. Mr. and Mrs. Duse will be at home to their friends at the residence of Mr. N. B. Baum on Jackson street after November 26. Mr. Duse is the proprietor of a large furniture establishment in this city and is deservedly popular with all who know him. The bride-to-be is one of the most attractive and popular young ladies of Wilkinson county. She will receive a cordial welcome to Dublin society.

November 17, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
FARMER HELD UP AND ROBBED
Masked Men with Shotguns Robbed Davis of $162
Irwinton, Ga., November 16 (Special) Thomas Davis, a farmer living seven miles from this place, was held up by two unknown men yesterday and made to give up an express package containing $162 which he had just taken from the express office at McIntyre
  Davis called at the express office last Saturday inquiring in the presence of a number of persons if the package had come and was informed it had not. It is believed that some one in the crowd heard the inquiry and then planned the robbery, knowing he would return for the package Monday.
  Monday, Davis again called at the express office, received the money and started home. After traveling for two miles it was necessary for him to get off the horse to let down some bars. This was near the edge of a swamp. As soon as he alighted from his horse a man rose up within three feet of him. covered him with a double barreled gun and demanded that he turn the money over to his partner who was standing near by. Davis hastened to comply with the demand and the two men then quickly disappeared in the swamp, leaving no trace behind.
  The men were disguised, having sacks pulled over their heads. It is believed that the robbers are men living in the neighborhood and knew Davis was expecting the money.

November 27, 1897
The Atlanta Constitution
MATRIMONIAL EPIDEMIC
Irwinton, Ga., Nov. 26 (Special) MissAttie Freeman of this place, and Mr. R. F. Deese, of Dublin, were united in matrimony last Wednesday. It was a pretty church wedding.
  Miss Gertrude Williford, of Irwinton, and Mr. Charlie Spears, of Danville, Va., will be married at the Methodist church next Monday evening. It will be one of the society events of the season.
  There are others to numerous to mention. This is one of the worst years the farmers have ever experienced. Men who have always worked hard and saved a little, are being closed down upon. Many of them have turned over to the sheriff their last mule, the last bushel of corn, and are without money or food. It is one of the saddest and darkest periods in the history of the county. The short crops and low price of cotton have put a hard finish on the times.
  Everybody is watching the race for mayor in Augusta. Pat Walsh is the favorite here, of course.

December 22, 1897
The Macon Telegraph
GAYETY AT IRVINGTON
Amusements for the Young Folks- A Popular Couple Married!
Irwinton, Ga., Dec. 21. While the heads of families in this place are much depressed in spirit the young folks are having, as usual, a ?? time.
   There never was a more sober and orderly set of young men in any community than this-no drinking before going to entertainment's, and no pistols carried to revenge some imaginary wrong that has or might happen.
  The much talked-of marriage of Mr. Rufus Lewis and Miss Sallie May Taylor occurred this morning at the Union church. The whole town and community turned out to do them honor. The church was handsomely decorated. The bridal party was beautifully attired. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. S. Holmes, the pastor of the Baptist church at this place. The groom is one of the sturdy young farmers of this county, and the bride is one of the most prominent young ladies of the town. Everybody bespeaks for them a happy and prosperous life. Immediately after the marriage the bridal party left for the home of the groom's father, five miles out on the farm, the home of the groom's parents, where dinner was served.
  A messenger has just come in for a doctor to go to Miss Lela Taylor, one of the bridal party, stating that a horse had ran away with her and driver, and had hurt her considerably. Particulars are not obtainable at this time.

Contributed by R. Elizabeth Brewer

December 25, 1897
The Macon Telegraph
   Gordon, Ga., Dec. 24 - Christmas will be ushered in with the usual Christmas tree festivities at the Methodist church tonight, where the children will be made happy by the reception of presents. The ladies have spared no pains to make it a perfect success and this annual entertainment will be perfect in every detail.
   Tomorrow night there will be a masquerade party at the home of Col. and Mrs. W. A. Jones, the very announcement of which insures the participants all the pleasure that is usually found at masquerades. Mr. and Mrs. Jones, that whom there are no better hosts, will exert themselves in the interest of their friends and visitors.
   The marriage of Mr. Brit Kennington, Jr., to MissViola Ryals is announced for Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock. Mr. E. L. Carswell, as best man, and Miss Susie Ryals, sister of the bride-to-be, as first lady, will stand up with them. The ceremony will be performed by Rev. W. C. Bruton, the new pastor of the Methodist church. The couple are very popular young people and their prospect are very bright.

December 30, 1897
The Macon Telegraph
WILLIAMS-WOOD. A Marriage of Unusual Interest at Irwinton.
Irwinton, Ga., Dec. 29 - The crowning episode of the town has been the marriage of Professor Marvin Williams of Senoia and Miss Mamie E. Wood, this morning. Professor Williams is one of the best educators of this state. With all his accomplishments and bright prospects he is certainly fortunate to have won the heart and affections of such a promising young lady as Miss Mamie Wood. She is the oldest daughter of Dr. and Mrs. J. S. Wood ot this place.
   The marriage took place at the home of the parents of the bride, at 10:30 a.m., in the presence of a host of relatives and friends, Rev. W. L. Barker performing the ceremony.

December 31, 1897
Augusta Chronicle
MATRIMONIAL BOOM. Cupid Doing Big Business at Irwinton - Material Running Short.
  Irwinton, Ga., Dec. 30 (Special) Irwinton is still on a matrimonial boom. Eight or ten weddings have taken place in this little town in the past few weeks.
  Professor Lithard returned from Wrightsville with his bride.
  Yesterday at 12 o'clock, at the residence of the bride's father, Dr. J. S. Wood, Mr. Marvin Williams of Senoia, and Miss Mamie E. Wood were happily married. Professor Williams is principal of the high school at Senoia, and is a model young man. He is the son of Rev. A. M. Williams, presiding elder of the Dalton district.  The bride is the sweetest and most lovable young lady ever know in this place. She is everybody's friend. It was sad to her friends to have her leave us.
  The sensational wedding of the season was the marriage of Mr. Barney Cannon and Miss Sadie Lewis. There were parental objections on the bride's side of the house, and the match came off after a most exciting run away. The bride's father, Mr. W. G. Lewis, lives about five miles from here. Mr. Otho DuPree, Mr. Cannon's best man, went to the home of Mr. Lewis and carried the young lady for a ride. They met Mr. Cannon at a neighbor's home, and there Miss Lewis got in the buggy with Mr. Cannon, an drove at a rapid pace. Mr. DuPree came to town and secured the license and the ordinary, Mr. H. F. Carswell, met them at the appointed place and made them man and wife. In a few minutes after the young couple returned to town, Mr. Lewis, the bride's father, came over and it seemed for a few minutes as if there would be trouble. This is the third attempt they made to break the match.

January 4, 1898
Union Recorder
Mrs. Mary E. Adams, wife of Mr. Robert F. Adams, died at her home in Jones county, on the 19th ult. She was buried at the old family graveyard near Byington's mills in Wilkinson county. She was seventy years of age. An excellent christian woman has gone to her reward.

January 21, 1898
Weekly Banner
Drowned While Helpless. Irwinton, Jan. 18. James Lard (Lord), son of Mr. J. Lard (Lord), was drowned in Commissioner creek about three miles from this place
yesterday morning. He was subject to epileptic fits, and it is thought he was taken with one of them while looking after the water gates at his father's mill.

January 31, 1898
Atlanta Constitution
AN AGGRESSIVE POSTMASTER. He Shoots Dr. Jenkins, Who Had Given Him Some Trouble.
Sandersville, Ga., January 30.- (Special.) Mark W. Pournelle, merchant and postmaster at Toomsboro, Ga., shot and seriously wounded Dr. Jenkins, that place, Saturday evening.
   Pournelle has recently moved to Toomsboro from this city, he having been appointed postmaster at that point. Dr. Jenkins had some feelings in the matter, and has annoyed him no little in the past few weeks, and finally some circulars were issued, in which he called Pournelle a thief, etc. As soon as these were seen and read by Pournelle he accosted Jenkins, when the difficulty arose with above results. The public feels that Pournelle acted in self-defense and that Jenkins was in the wrong, all the way through. Jenkins is still alive, but is badly wounded.

February 6, 1898
Macon Telegraph
Holloman-Gallemore. Jeffersonville, Ga., Feb. 5. Miss Mattie Gallemore was quietly married at the home of her mother, about five miles east of the village, on last Wednesday, to a Mr. Holloman of Wilkinson county.
Note: Married to Thomas Jefferson Holliman per grave inscription.

February 24, 1898
Macon Telegraph
Miller - Massey.   Gordon, Ga., February 23. At the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Z. T. Miller, near Gordon, Miss Daisey Miller was married to Mr. Orren Massey by Dr. J. C. Solomon of Dublin, Ga., in a beautiful and impressive manner. The attendants were: Annie Edwards of Milledgeville and Clair Fitzpatrick of Thomasville, Bessie Fitzpatrick and Morgan Massey, Lutie Fitzpatrick of Midway, Ala., and Eugene Finney, Pearle Solomon of Jeffersonville and Bayard Massey, Hattie Van Buren of Griswold and John Edge of Macon, Ga., Kate Fitzpatrick of Tarversville and Ralph Morgan, Lucile Fitzpatrick of Tarversville, the maid of honor, and Taylor Miller, the best man.
   The bride had seven bouquets of violets connected with a large bouquet which she gave away to her several bridesmaids as souvenirs.
  The presents were beautiful and very many, and most serviceable. The bride was charmingly dress in street costume. She is one of the most charming and accomplished young ladies in Middle Georgia.
  The groom is a handsome young man, and a most successful planter.
  The bridesmaids were young and beautiful.
  Miss Julia Butler played the wedding march (Mendeleshons) in an exquisite manner. During he ceremony "Then You'll Remember Me," was swiftly and sweetly played. The whole affair was grandly impressive.
  The dining room was darkened and splendidly decorated with hanging vines, tightened up with many candles set in old fashion silver sticks. The table was gorgeously loaded with a feast fit for the gods. The bride's cakes were embossed with clusters of grapes and bunches of blue ribbon. Everything was arranged in perfect taste.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, May 6, 1898
Volume IV, Number 24, Page 2
Mrs. A. E. Wahlen (Walden) died at her home in this place last Wednesday afternoon about four o'clock.  She has been in very feeble health for several years.  She was 57 years old, and had been a sirlet member of the methodist church for a number of years.  She leaves only one child, Mrs. W. N. Pace.  She was buried in the cemetery here yesterday afternoon at three o'clock.
(Note:This person is Ann E. Lasseter, wife of Linson Walden.  Both are buried in the Irwinton City Cemetery, Irwinton, GA.  Their daughter was Eula Walden, wife of W. N. Pace. She is buried in the Irwinton City Cemetery, also. Algernon Cannon)

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, May 6, 1898
Volume IV, Number 24, Page 2
Mr. Alex Tarpley, who lived about seven miles from here, died last Wednesday.  He was about sixty-one years old, and was an upright man.  He was the son of Mr. George Tarpley who was the clerk of the Superior court in this county for a number of years.

May 10, 1898
Macon Telegraph
Mrs. Maude Barlowe was divorced from her husband, Timothy Barlowe, and her maiden name restored; it was Miss Maude Carswell of Wilkinson county. She alleged cruel treatment or neglect.

The Bulletin
Irwinton, Georgia
Friday, May 13, 1898
Volume IV, Number 25, Page 2
GEORGIA-WILKINSON COUNTY. In obedience to an order passed at the regular May term 1898 of Wilkinson court of Ordinary, notice is hereby given to all the heirs at law of Mrs. Mary A. McCook, late of Wilkinson County deceased, that M. M. Sanders, of said county, as the nominated executor of what purports to be the last will of said deceased has died with the paper alleged to be the last will and testament, and petitions the probate thereof in solemn form of law.  All parties at interest therefore, whether in this state or beyond the limits thereof, are hereby notified that s aid application for probate will be heard on the first Monday in June 1898 in said Wilkinson court of ordinary, and without legal objections are filed these will be proven in solemn form of law and ordered to record the last will and testament of Mary A. McCook, deceased.
Given under my hand and official signature, this May 2, 1898.  B. F. Carswell, Ordinary Wilkinson Co. GA  ( or either H. F. Carswell)

May 31, 1898
Macon Telegraph
DEATH OF DAVID B. MILLER. Irwinton, Ga., May 30. Mr. David B. Miller, one of our best citizens, was buried in this place yesterday. On last Tuesday morning out on his plantation, one of his hands came across him speachless and apparently paralysed. He was carried home but was never able to speak. At 8 o'clock Saturday morning he died. Mr. Miller was a good man. He was in his 61st year. He leaves his wife and son, J. F. Miller, with a host of friends to mourn his death.

June 6, 1998
The Macon Telegraph
SHOT TO DEATH. One Negro Man Kills Another About His Wife Near Gordon.
Gordon, Ga., June 5. Yesterday morning Joe Fountain shot and instantly killed Perry Roberson, two miles south of this place, the cause of the same being Roberson's fascination for Fountain's wife. Fountain armed himself with a double-barreled gun and Saturday morning went to the house of Roberson, and finding him there, fired the contents of one barrel into him, completely disemboweling him. Fountain went immediately and gave himself up to the sheriff. All are negroes.

June 30, 1898
Macon Telegraph
~excerpt~ McIntyre, Ga., June 29...The friends of Mr. W. L. Hetton (Helton) will be pained to learn of the dath of his little 5-year-old son, which occured very suddenly a few days ago from what appeared to be congestion of the brain. (note Vemey C. Helton, is buried in Mt. Nebo Church Cemetery, died Jun 19, 1898)
   Three boys from our midst belong to the First Georgia volunteer regiment, viz: T. E. Walden, Henry Adkins and Walter Todd....

July 8, 1898
Macon Telegraph
SMALLPOX AT GORDON. Gordon, Ga., July 7. Minnie Brantley, colored, who has been teaching school at Haddock's Station, came home sick last Monday and the developm,ents prove it to be a genuine case of smallpox.
  Information was sent to the county authorities at Irwinton and they claim that they have no authority to interfere. Our pople are very anxious about it, but say they had as soon have it as to be vaccinated.

July 22, 1898
The Macon Telegraph
FOUND DEAD IN BED. Gordon, Ga., July 21 - Deana Yates, a notorious woman on the suburbs of the town, was found dead in her bed this morning. The screams of her infant attracted the attention of some negro woman passing. They opened the window by force and found her dead. No inquest yet, but it is supposed death was from natural causes.

August 12, 1898
Macon Daily Telegraph
  At the residence of Mr. W. H. Wood, 1020 Oglethorpe street, yesterday afternoon at 5 o'clock, Miss Nellie Truman and Mr. John H. Bush were married. Miss Truman was reared in the city and Mr. Bush was formerly of Gordon, Ga. He now holds a good position with the McCaw Manufacturing company. The ceremony was performed by Rev. John E. Briggs.

August 12, 1898
Macon Telegraph
RAN AWAY AND MARRIED. Mr. Luke Davis and Miss Hallie Lord Surprised Their Friends. Toomsboro, Ga., Aug. 11. Last night Mr. Luke Davis and Miss Hallie Lord, daughter of Mr. P. C. Lord, ran away and married and left on the train this morning for Macon, which will be their future home.
  Their marriage was altogether unexpected by their parents.

September 30, 1898
Macon Telegraph
   AUGUSTUS PENNINGTON DEAD. He Was an Old and Honored Citizen of McIntyre.
    McIntyre, Ga., Sept. 29. We are pained to chronicle the death of an old and honored citizen of this county, Mr. Augustuus Pennington, who died at his residence on Friday, September 23, of typhoid malarial fever.
   Ge was interred at Nunn and Wheeler's church with Masonic honors on the 24th inst., in the presnce of a large concourse of sorrowing friends.
   Had mr. Pennington lived till December 14 he would have been 73 years old. He was a native of Jefferson county, where he has relatives who survive him. Early in life he removed to Wilkinson county, where he has ever since resided. He was twice married, was the father of six sons and six daughters by his first wife, all of whom have grown up, honored and respected citizens, and all are still living except three daughters. He leaves a widow and six minor children, all sons.
  He was deacon of Liberty (Baptist) church for forty consecutive years. He joined the church at the age of 19.
  He was magistrate in his militia district almost continuously for forty-two years and has for many years been an officer of Irwinton (Masonic) lodge, ow which he became a member in early manhood.

October 16, 1898
Macon Telgraph
YOUNG TEMPLES' SAD DEATH. He Took an Overdose of Morphine to Relieve Pain.
    McIntyre, Ga., Oct. 15. Our community was painfully startled on last Thursday by the unexpected death of our young friend Bletcher Temples, youngest son of
Dr. John Temples of this place.
   He had returned from Griffin on the night before and while on the train was seized with a severe pain the the region of his heart, and on rising from his seat would have fallen had not assistance been given him by a gentleman present who noticed his condition. The paroxysm passed off, however, but he continued to have return of the pain in his chest at intervals, and wishing to allay them, he went into his father's office for some remedy, and not having had much expierence in taking medicines, always having been strong and healthy heretofore, it is thought that he must have taken an overdose of morphine, as the bottle containing that drug was upon examination found out of place and part of the contents missing.
    When his condition was first observed by his wife he had become unconscious. She at once summoned the assistance of his father and other friends, who endeavored with all the appliances at their command to resuscitate him.
  Soon finding it impossible to arouse him, three other physicians were sent for, but they did not arrive for three hours after his alarming symptoms first appeared. With their combined efforts, continued unremittingly for three hours, they were unable to restore him to consciousness, and at 10:30 p.m., he breathed his last.
  Mr. Temples was loved by all who knew him. Possessed of a most sunny disposition, he always had a pleasant word for everyone he should meet, and his death comes as a sad shock to his relatives, some of whom live in distant portions of this state, but all of whom upon being dispatched for, were present this morning at his interment, which occurred at the old family burial ground four miles from this place.
  Mr. Temples had just entered his 22nd year, and leaves a heart-broken young wife, who was Miss Della Parker of this county.

November 18, 1898
Macon Telegraph
WEDDING AT McINTYRE. McIntyre, Ga., Nov. 17. Maried at the residence of the bride's father, Mr. John T. DuPree,Mr. Alex H. Stephens and Miss Ollie DuPree.
  Mr. Stephens is one of Tennille's most thorough-going and popular young merchants, and of Miss DuPree it may be said that she is one of the most charming and accomplished young ladies of Wilkinson county.
  The best wishes of very many friends go with them today, as they leave on their wedding tour.
 

December 24, 1898
Macon Daily Telegraph
PROF. ROZAR'S DEATH. Sidney Hudson Thrown From His Horse and His Hip Dislocated.
  Gordon, Ga. Dec. 23 - Professor A. R. Rozar, well-known to the people of middle and southwest Georgia as one of the best educators in the state, died here at 3 o'clock this morning. Mr. Rozar was a sober, upright man. He was 49 years old, and during his period of active and useful life was never known to take a drink of whisky. He leaves a wife and three children and a brother, Mr. A. H. Rozar of Allentown, Ga., all of whom were with him at the time of his death.
Sidney Hudson of Ivy was thrown from his horse this morning. In falling his foot was caught in the stirrup and he was thrown violently against the ground and his hip dislocated. He suffered great pain for two hours, when the dislocation was reduced. He is doing well now.
  Messrs. T. A. Parker and H. W. Hall, two of Gordon's citizens, have gone up to Macon this evening.

January 3, 1899
Atlanta Constitution
SUICIDE OF A YOUNG MAN.
His Friends at a Loss as to the Cause of His Deed.
Milledgeville, Ga., January 2 (Special)  News reached this city this afternoon of the suicide of Mr. Charles Parker at his home in Wilkinson county. Mr. Parker had been employed by Peter J. Cline, of this city, in the dry goods business for the past three or four years. On last Saturday afternoon he left the store to go to his home on a visit for a few days. It was reported that he was to be married this afternoon to a young lady of that county, and it was supposed that this marriage was postponed by the young lady and that was the cause of his suicide, but this was contradicted by a reliable person, who says that if Mr. Parker had not committed suicide the wedding would have come off this afternoon. This leaves the people at a loss to know the cause of his conduct.
  Since Mr. Parker has been in this city he has made a host of friends, and this will be a sad surprise to them. He was about twenty-six years old and the eldest son of a prosperous farmer of Wilkinson county. His father was sent to the legislature from that county about six year ago.

February 15, 1899
 Macon Telegraph
NOTHING LIKE IT BEFORE
Irwinton People Never Dreamed of Seeing so MuchSnow and Such Bitter Cold.
Irwinton, Ga., Feb. 14. This community is now enveloped in the worst snow and freeze that the oldest inhabitants ever witnessed. The fall of sleet began in the morning of Sunday and continued thus for about an hour. Then the snow began and continued until in the afternoon, and when it stopped was to the depth of eight inches on a level. The wind began blowing from the northwest and it became so cold that all outdoor passing was stopped, and yesterday morning the thermometer was zero, and occurrence that was never before known. All day the wind has been blowing. The snow drift is fearful.

February 22, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
Gordon, Ga, Feb, 21 - Mr. William Liles and Miss Ella McDaniel were made man and wife at the home of Mr. J. G. Pearson's last Sunday at 10 o'clock by the Rev. J. H. Logan, pastor of the Baptist church here. The two young people have been lovers for several years, but the young man was objected to by her parents, and he was forced to decoy her off. They are very popular young people and the best wishes of the whole community will follow them to their new home.

February 22, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
Mrs. Littleton Branan, mother of Mr. C.M. Branan, died at the home of her son at this place this morning. She was about 75 years old.

March 23, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
Irwinton Bulletin: The 16-year old daugther of Mr.W. M. Pace, residing within a few miles of Gordon, was shot last week by her brother, about 12 years of age. Miss Pace and her two brothers were in the room alone and one of the little boys picked up his father's gun that was place in the room, and was looking at it. The muzzle of the gun was pointing in the direction of his sister when, from some cause, the gun fired, the load entering the shoulder of Miss Pace. The wound, we understand will not prove fatal, nor will amputation be necessary, but the use of the arm is probably lost.

April 14, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
ORDINARY CARSWELL DIES.
Wilkinson County Loses a Faithful Servant.
Irwinton, Ga., April 13. Hon. H. F. Carswell, ordinary of Wilkinson county, died this morning at 8 o'clock. He has been a patient sufferer for three months. His relatives and friends had fully prepared themselves for this sad event. His funeral will be held from the Baptist church in this place at 3 o'clock tomorrow, April 14.

April 30, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
MR. VALENTINE DEAD
He was One of Bibb County's Highly Respected Citizens
Mr. W. N. Valentine, an old and honorable citizen of this county, succumbed yesterday to the dreadful disease consumption that has been preying on his constitution for several years.
  Mr. Valentine was a kind father, husband and friend, one man of whom it can be said numbered his friends by his entire acquaintance. He was 67 years old and leaves a wife and large family of children and grand children.

April 30, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
~excerpt
  "Yesterday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock Ora B. MacDaniels, a young white man in the employ of the Acme Brewing Co., met a horrible death.
  MacDaniels was caught in the revolutions of a shafting and death was almost instantaneous."
  " Coroner Hollis, Mr. Wolff and a reporter of the Telegraph conveyed the tidings to Mrs. MacDaniels, at her home at 109 Cedar street. She was completely prostrated at the news being in delicate health.
    The deceased leaves a young wife and two small children, one a boy 3 years old and a little girl of 18 months. The family is in destitute circumstances, and the cost of the interment, which is in the hands of Mr. Keating, will be defrayed by Mr. Block.
  Telegrams have been sent to the brother of the deceased in Fort Valley and to his father in Gordon. Also, to Mrs. J. W. Grider of Columbus, a sister of Mrs. MacDaniels. "

May 4, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
NEGRO MAY DIE. He Had a Difficulty at Gordon and His Skull Was Fractured.
Gordon, Ga., May 3 - In a difficulty Monday between Mr. W. A. Jones and Jack Gilbert, colored, the latter was seriously hurt, having his skull fractured. The trouble arose over a dividing line between them. Mr. Jones told him that he must move his fence so as to disenclose his lands, whereupon the negro became maddened and rushed on to Mr. Jones. He was only thwarted in his purposes by being knocked down by a stunning blow by Mr. Jones. After this he got up and started off and fell over the brick wall that bounds the railroad cut at this place, the lick from Mr. Jones or the fall from this wall fracturing the skull, which necessitated an operation for relief of compression, known as trephaning, which was performed this morning between midnight and day. He is quiet at this writing, but grave fears are felt for his recovery.

May 5, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
THE NEGRO DIED. The Fight at Gordon Has Resulted Fatally. Gordon, Ga, May 4. Jack Gilbert who was hurt by Mr. Jones Monday afternoon, a report of which appeared in this morning's paper, died yesterday, never regaining consciousness. A coroner's inquest was held today and after three hours' deliberation the following verdict was the result:
  "We, the jury, on oath, find that Jack Gilbert, the deceased, came to his death from a combination of causes, to wit, that W. A. Jones death the said Jack Gilbert a blow on the head with an axe handle, which stunned him severely, after which the said Jack Gilbert walked away and fell from a high wall with great violence, and this accident we believe was the final cause of his death. We believe that W. A. Jones acted in self-defense and was therefore justifiable in what he did."

May 28, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
STOLE A BRIDE. But He Will Hardly Be Punished For It.
Gordon, Ga. May 27 - There's nothing true than that love laughs at locksmiths; also a parental objections. Mr. J. J. Hall, formerly of this place but now near Toombsboro, came up on Wednesday with his fine horse and buggy, and, in spite of objections, carried away Miss Alice Lavender. Nothing has been heard of them since, and the fact that they left together and that he showed the marriage license to some of his best friends is proof sufficient that they have been made man and wife. Miss Alice is well known in Macon, as she was reared there,.
    Mr.J. W. Hickman, an ex-Confederate soldier and a paralytic for more than twenty years, died near here Friday night.

June 18, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
IVEY NOTES. Fine Rains Have Fallen There Recently
Ivey, Ga. June 17 - Mr. S. P. Hornsby still holds the fort as postmaster, railroad and express agent, and carries in stock a general line of merchandise.
  Dr. E. T. Gilmore is our resident physician and  finds it distressingly healthy. His son, Mr. Mirabeau Gilmore is studying pharmacy.
  Mr. J. H. Bateman is sawing lumber and finds ready sale for all he can cut at remunerative prices.
   Mrs. P. F. Ivey is critically ill at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H. K. Byington. No hope of recovery is entertained by her relatives. She is the mother of Mrs. A. H. Rice of Macon.
   Fine rains have fallen here recently. One or two good seasons will insure a good crop of corn. No fruit this year. We will have to fall back on watermelons and "sich."

June 29, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
Farmer Dixon Dead. He Suddenly Expired of Heart Failure Yesterday Near Toomsboro. Toomsboro, Ga. June 28 -
Mr. J. A. Dixon, a wealthy farmer, living four miles out in the country, fell dead at 2:10 p.m. today. Heart failure is given as the cause of his death.

July 11, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
  Marriage at Toomsboro
July 10. Mr. W. H. Tanner and Miss Myrtle Pannelle, oldest daughter of Mr. William Pannelle, were married at the residence of her parents Sunday evening at 2 o'clock by Rev. Father Green of Macon. Mr. Tanner is a valued employee of the Central Railroad and a young man highly respected by all who know him, and numbers his friends by the score, and will some day in the near future, from his honest dealing and courtesy, command a high position in railroad circles.
Submitted by R. Elizabeth Brewer

July 12, 1899
Macon Telegraph
DEATH OF A VETERAN. Mr. James Holloman Had a Good Many Friends.
McIntyre, Ga., July 11. - Many friends will be pained to learn of the death of Mr. James Holloman, who has resided for a number of years within four miles of this place. Though he had been suffering for some time with a lingering and painful disease, his sudden death was a surprise to his immediate family, who thought his condition, from his own statements, was rather improved. He was an old and highly honored citizen of this (Wilkinson) county. He leaves two sons, D. P. Hollomon and E. J. Hollomon, and two daughters to mourn their loss. He served in the Confederate army during the entire war between the states.

July 25, 1899
Union Recorder
Mr. R. G. Smith, of this city and Miss Winnie McArthur, were united in marriage last Tuesday morning at the home of the bride's parens, Mr. and Mrs. J. J. McArthur, in Wilkinson county. Mr. Smith is engaged in the sewing machine business with Mr. Walter W. Stembridge and is a young man of excellent character. The bride is quiet a charming young woman is is very popular where she is known. The Union Recorder joins their friends in wishing them much happiness.

August 12, 1899
Atlanta Constitution
BODY SENT TO IRWINTON. Funeral of George  Chatfield Occurred There Yesterday.
The body of George Hughie Chatfield, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. John P. Chatfield, who died in this city Tuesday, was sent to Irwinton, Ga. yesterday for interment. The deceased was the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. G. T. Chatfield, of Edgewood, and Mr. and Mrs. Hughie, of Jonesboro.

August 14, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
JEFFERSONVILLE ITEMS. Jeffersonville, Ga. Aug. 13. 
   Judge J. E. McDonald died at his home near Ripley last Monday morning. His death was a great shock to his family, but not unexpected, as he has been quite sick for the past three or four weeks. Judge McDonald was born in Wilkinson county and reared in Twiggs and wa about 63 years of age at the time of his death. His death will cause univesal sorrow among a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. Judge McDonald was a member of Twiggs lodge No. 164, F. and A. of this place and for four or five years was worshipful master. The funeral arrangements were in  charge of the lodge. The lodge met at 10 o'clock on Tuesday morning, Worshipful Master Dr. D. J. Slappey presiding. Rev. E. J. Pettis of Liberty Hill lodge acted as marshal and a procession was formed and marched to the Baptist church where Rev. George Thorpe of Dry Branch conducted the funeral service. Afterward the line of march was taken up to the cemetery, where the Masonic ritual was impressively read by Worshipful Master J. G. Slappey. The last sad rites were paid to our deceased brother and friend. Upon the casket of our brother we placed the white apron, the emblem of innocence, the glove, the symbol of friendship and above his grave we planted the evergreen sprig of acacia fit type of immortality. Quite a number of Masons from Liberty Hill lodge and from Cool Springs lodge, Danville, participated in the funeral and burial services. A large crowd witnessed the funeral and burial services. Brother McDonald was a teacher by trade and practice. He was perhaps in the school room two-thirds of his live and was considered a good disciplinarian. He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss. He never connected himself with any church, but expressed an abiding faith in our Lord and Savior, and just before his death he often spoke of going home. The widow and sister have the heartfelt sympathy  and earnest prayers of the lodge.    

August 28, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
    Toomsboro Has a Respectable Class of Negro Citizens.
August 27. Professor A. V. Floyd, Jr. has just finished his free school term here to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. His examinations were extra good. His concert Friday night was grand. His many white friends went down and spent the evening most pleasantly. Since Professor's Floyd's stay with us about two years there has been the greatest change in the  manners of his pupils. He not only instructs the young but is an advisor to the older heads, and he is held in the highest esteem by them. While he is only a young man he has good advantages. We have the best  colored people here in Georgia. You never hear of stealing by them, nor of rape or other crimes, bu they area law-abiding people.
Submitted by R. Elizabeth Brewer

September 9, 1899
Atlanta Constitution
Gin House and Contents Burn
Toomsboro, Ga, September 8 (Special) Thomas E. Freeman's ginhouse and outfit with several bales of cotton and his milling plant were burned yesterday evening. Loss, $1,500, partially covered by insurance.

September 11, 1899
Atlanta Constitution
Toomsboro - Mrs. James Stevens, an aged lady, died this morning at the residence of her son in-law L.R. Cason, in this place. She had just entered her eighty-eight year. She had been confined to her bed five years and was almost totally blind.
(buried Stevens-Cason Cemetery)

September 12, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
Mrs Cummins Dead. She Died Yesterday at the Home of Her Daughter
   Mrs. Bridget Cummins, the mother of Mrs. T. M. Donnelly, died yesterday at 11:30. Ireland was her native country. She was born in 1835, and was 62 years of age. In 1860 she and her husband came to America, and settled in Wilkinson county, near Gordon. She was a woman possessed of many womanly adornments, of a noble character, much loved by all who knew her. She spent the last few years of her life in suffering, and was an excellent example of untiring patience.
  The funeral will take place this afternoon from the residence on Oglethorpe street at 3:30 o'clock, and from St. Joseph's Catholic church at 4 o'clock.

September 19, 1899
The Macon Telegraph
Georgia, Bibb County - James L. Anderson, administrator Augustus N. Burke, late of said county, deceased, has applied for leave to sell 500 acres of land situated in the 23d district of Wilkinson county, Georgia, also 75 acres of land situated in the 26th district of Wilkinson county, Ga., belonging to said estate, for the purpose of paying debts and distributions. Leave to sell will be granted on the first Monday in October, 1899, unless objections are filed. C. M. Wiley, Ordinary.

October 1, 1899
Macon Weekly Telegraph
McIntyre Loses About $2,000 - Rain Is Needed.
McIntyre, Ga., Sept. 30 - One of the largest fires that we have had in this section in some time occurred yesterday about 2 o'clock. It was the gin house of Messrs. D. P. Holloman & Bro. There was no one on the place when the fire broke out, except Mrs. Holloman and her little son. As soon as she discovered it ,she gave the alarm by the means of a bell and in a few minutes all the neighbors in the settlement gathered to the scene, but availed nothing, as it was too late. The whole house was in a blaze in a few minutes after Mrs. Holloman's discovery, and burned to the ground in a very short time. There were about eight bales of cotton piled near the gin house, which burned nearly up before they could be dragged out of the violent heat. There were several bales burned entirely up. The total loss was in the neighborhood of $2,000. The Holloman Bros. have the deepest sympathy of the people in this section. They are two of its best citizens and thriftiest farmers in our county and notwithstanding the heavy loss, the building will be replaced at once.
  Rain is badly needed in this section at this time, as we have not had a good rain in the past six weeks. Cotton seems to be very backward this season.  The crop is about one-third short, but the farmers all seem to be in good heart, as they are getting more for their cotton than they expected, and most of them are holding it, as the price continues to increase.
  The Oconee Lumber company, which is a business that started up a few miles from here, is making good headway. They have their tram road surveyed and part of the tract laid. It will extend from Ivey station to the Oconee river, which is a distance of about twenty miles. The mill will be between the two places. They will soon have their machinery down and started up in full force.

October 6, 1899
The Atlanta Constitution
SENTENCED TO THE SCAFFOLD
Mack Cannon To Be Executed At Irwinton
Irwinton, Ga., October 5 (Special) Wilkinson superior court convened last Monday, his honor, Judge John C. Hart, presiding. His charge to the grand jury was highly complimented by all, and many claim it the best they ever heard. Through his energy and promptness during the week a heavy docket is now about clear. The jail had nine inmates, with many others out on bond; all of the former were disposed of and sentenced many pleading guilty, and all negroes. Among the number were Mack Cannon and Mary Brisco, charged with murder. The latter received a life sentence, while the former was sentenced to be hanged on October 27th. Mary was the wife of John Brisco, while Mack was employed by John as a hand. The two became lovers and plotted to kill John, and one night last April, while  John and his wife Mary slept in bed, Mack Cannon took an ax and struck John a mortal blow on the head, after which the two took the body to a branch nearby and buried it, returning to the house and sleeping in the same bed where the murder was committed. A few days later after they disappeared and search was made for the missing man, when his body was found as stated above. The sheriff pursed the murderers, and found them living with Mary's mother in Putnam county. When arrested they freely confessed the crime, and have since been confined in jail at this place.

October 10, 1899
Union Recorder
  Miss Sallie Temples died at the home of her step-father, Mr. H. M. Williams, near Stevens Pottery, Wednesday morning, the 4th inst., after an illness of several months. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. John Pettigrew at Camp Creek church, Thursday afernoon, and her remains laid to rest in the cemetery. She was a member of the Baptist churrch, and led a consistent christian life. Her death carries sorrow to the hearts of all who knew her.
(Note: Sallie Temples was the daughter of Emily P. Gibson and Erasmus Temples.)

October 30, 1899
Macon Weekly Telegraph
Toomsboro, Ga.
Happy Marriage at Toomsboro - the Groom From Jeffersonville.
    At the beautiful country home of Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Duncan, on Thursday evening, the 26th inst., occurred a happy marriage of much interest. Mr. S. C. Jones of Jeffersonville and Miss Mockie-Lou Rawlings were joined in wedlock by the Rev. W. S. Ramsey of Dublin, the attendants being Mr. Henry Denson of Allentown and Miss Willie Cason of Toomsboro, Mr. J. O. Moore and Miss Rosa Dickson of Macon, Mr. James Chambers of Macon and Miss Mary Wimberly of Jeffersonville, and Mr. J. N. Horne and Miss Carrie McCallum of Jeffersonville. The bridal party entered the delightfully decorated drawing rooms while Mendelssolm's Wedding March was rendered ny Miss Jennie Shepherd, and beneath a horse shoe of superb roses and lovely chrysanthemums the bride and groom pledged their troth. After congratulations the many friends and relatives present partook of the bounteous hospitality of Mr. and Mrs. Duncan.
     the groom is a prosperous planter of Twiggs county and the bride is the charming sister of Mrs. W. P. Duncan, and is one of the most popular young women of this community. The bridal couple departed on the northbound train at late hour for Atlanta and the East.
Submitted by R. Elizabeth Brewer

November 2, 1899
Macon Telegraph
Gordon, Ga., Nov. 1 - Mr.Sherwood Liles, probably the oldest man in this community, died last night at the age of 83 years. He was the father of W. D. and Ch. H. Liles, both well known in Macon. Mr. Liles had been a patient sufferer for fifteen years. He had not walked a step in two years. He was always pleasant and seemed to be awaiting his summons. The family has borne his troubles with great patience.

December 12, 1899
Union Recorder
  Mr. Robert Stevens died last Wednesday morning at his home near Stevens' Pottery, after an illness of several days with pneumonia. He came to the county  from Wilkinson about three years ago; engaged in farming and was meeting with success. He leaves a wife and two small children. His remains were carried to Wilkinson county for burial.
  Mr. Stevens was a good and useful citizen and many friends regret his death.