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CAIRNS, JAMES/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 15, 1920 James Cairns, agede 65, was instantly killed this morning by the Chicago & Alton palace train due here at 5:40 a.m. Cairns, a sweeper at the Glass Works, was on his way to work and was crossing the track at the Plum street gate when the train hit him. His body was crushed and mangled by the impact of the locomotive. Mr. Cairns was in the employ of the glass company about two years. He went to work at 6 o'clock every morning. He had his home with his wife at 314 Danforth street. Mr. Cairns leaves his wife, four sons and three daughters, all of them of mature age. The three daughters, Mrs. Lizzie Bauer, Mrs. Nellie Hauter and Mrs. Harold Laux all live at Brighton. One son, Charles Cairns, lives at Wood River. The three other sons are William, Edward and Donald. He leaves several brothers and sisters also. He had lived in Alton about four years and part of that time was employed by the Springman Lumber Co., two years ago he went to work for the Illinois Glass Company. Besides his wife, sons and daughters, Cairns is survived by three brothers, Charles and Edward of Alton, and Alexander of Alton; and by two sisters, Mrs. Agnes Lyes of Chesterfield and Mrs. Elizabeth Spencer of Decatur. The three sons reside out of the city, William in St. Mary's, Mo., Edward of Antral, Wash., and Donald of Carlinville. Funeral arrangements are incomplete, awaiting word from the son residing in Washington. *********************************************
CALAME, LOUIS F./Source: Alton Telegraph, January 22, 1891 Mr. Louis F. Calame died very unexpectedly last Wednesday night (January 14) apparently without pain, not even a struggle. Grandpa Calame was born in Switzerland, 1814. During his boyhood, he lived on the farm with his parents, but in early manhood he learned the trade of watchmaking, in which business he was successfully engaged until the year 1849, when he came to this country, locating in Wood River township, where he lived nine years. He then removed to this neighborhood (Melville), and has resided in the house where he died ever since. Mr. Calame was an earnest Christian believer, and though the summons was sudden, he was prepared for the change. The funeral took place at the Melville church Monday, the 18th, Rev. O. C. Dickerson conducting the services, Rev. J. W. Flint, of the Alton M. E. church, assisting. A large audience was in attendance. The pall bearers were: N. Challacombe, Thos. Levi, Henry Meyers, Augustus Baker, George Norris and John Dressler. The funeral march was rendered most beautifully by Miss Lillie Howard. ************************************************
CALDWELL, CHARLES/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 1, 1922 Youth of 18 Is Electrocuted at Dairy Here The fact that he had his rubber soled shoes repaired by tacking on leather soles was the reason for a fatal outcome of a contact by Charles Caldwell with an electric switch at the plant of the Walnut Grove dairy yesterday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock. The boy, who was the 18 year old son of David Caldwell, employed at the plant, accidentally touched the interior of a safety switch at a time when his hand was wet, and he was standing on a moist place on the floor in the dairy department. Even with all this, he might have escaped injury but for the fact that he had his worn out rubber soles repaired by use of leather, which furnished an excellent ground for his otherwise insulated body. According to officers of the plant, the lad had been around the plant off and on all of his life. His father has been employed there for many years. Recently he has been working steady in the plant. Yesterday afternoon he was standing near the open safety switch, the lid of which had been left ajar, and was leaning against the box. In some way his hand slipped down and came in contact with the points of the switch and he received the full effect of a 440-volt current. This would not have been fatal but for the fact that the young man's hand was wet, as he had just come from the cellar and was handling containers that were wet. When he came in contact with the switch point, he screamed and Jack Rowe, who was close by, made a dash for 20 feet and pulled the main switch to release the lad. It is said that he was in contact only a few seconds. Immediately when he was released from the electric current, he fell to the floor and apparently he died instantly. Efforts were made to revive him by the use of artificial respiration. Dr. Mather Pfeiffenberger said that when he arrived the lad's heart had ceased beating and it was too late to be of any service in reviving him. The father was out driving a wagon at the time the accident occurred to his son. The funeral will be held at two o'clock Thursday afternoon from the family home at 712 Ridge street, Rev. S. D. McKenny of the Cherry Street Baptist church will officiate. Interment will be in Oakwood cemetery. ************************************************
CALDWELL, EBEN M./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 8, 1919 Former Banker and Manufacturing Manager at Elsah Dies Eben M. Caldwell died at 8:30 o'clock this morning at the family home, where he was taken last Saturday on his return from a stay in a hospital in St. Louis. Mr. Caldwell had been in bad health a long time. His condition showed no signs of improvement, and in the belief that a surgical operation would be beneficial, he went to St. Louis a number of weeks ago and underwent a surgical operation. He stood up well under the operation, but the help that had been looked for failed to materialize. He came home Saturday and soon thereafter he collapsed and the end came this morning. Mr. Caldwell was born in Alton, April 26, 1866, and all his life he had passed in Alton. He was the son of Charles Caldwell, for many years president of the Alton National Bank. He worked as assistant cashier of the Alton National Bank until seven years ago, when he became president and manager of the Western Whiting Plant at Elsah. He continued in the latter position until his last sickness began to develop. His bad health of the past few years began to manifest an alarming phase about nine months ago. Since then his decline was steady. For thirty-seven years he had been a member of the First Baptist Church and a leading worker there. His efforts in the church had gained for him recognition as one of the most effective of the members. He was deeply interested, especially in the Men's Bible Class of that church, and his services as a public speaker at religious gatherings were in much demand in this vicinity. He served as superintendent of the Sunday school for a number of years, and was a deacon in the First Baptist Church at the time of his death. In 1901 he married Miss Lillian A. Blair, who, with two daughters, Harriet B. and Myra M., survive him. He leaves also two brothers, C. A. Caldwell of Alton, Martyn R. Caldwell of Denver, and Mrs. Hannah Flagg. The time of the funeral has not been set, as word is awaited from distant relatives. Announcement of the funeral will be made later, and conforming to the wishes of Mr. Caldwell, it is requested that flowers be omitted. **********************************************
CALDWELL, FRANK E./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 10, 1920 Soldier Killed in France The body of Frank E. Caldwell, who died on November 28, 1918 at Le Mans, France, while he was a cook in Co. E of the 333rd Infantry, will arrive in New York on August 15, the parents of the young soldier have been informed. The date the body will arrive here is not known. The young soldier entered the army only a short while after his discharge from the navy, where he had served for some time. He was one of four brothers in the service, all sons of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Caldwell of 710 East Sixth street. He died of pneumonia, after the signing of the armistice. He saw active service at the front.
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 20, 1920 The body of Frank Caldwell, who died overseas in the service of his country during the war, arrived in Alton this morning and was taken in charge by Undertaker Bauer. The remains were in a sealed casket that was flag draped. With the body was Private Elwell, who had been detailed to escort it home. The casket will be taken to the home of the parents, and there will remain until the time set for the funeral services, Monday morning at 9 o'clock from St. Mary's church.
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 23, 1920 A vast crowd attended the funeral of Frank E. Caldwell, which was held this morning at 9 o'clock from St. Mary's Catholic church. During the past few days many people have visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Caldwell on East Fifth street, where the body of the young soldier was in the casket. Caldwell died in 1918 in Le Mans, France, and his body was just sent home. Requiem High Mass was celebrated by the Rev. Joseph Meckel, pastor of St. Mary's church, with the Rev. Henry B. Schnelton as Deacon, and the Rev. George E. Faller as sub-deacon. The Rev. Fr. Kippling was Master of Ceremonies. The pallbearers were selected from members of Alton Post of the American Legion. The casket was wrapped in an American Flag. Interment was in St. Joseph's cemetery. **********************************************
CALLAGHAN, ANN/Source: Alton Telegraph, April 17, 1913 Mrs. Ann Callaghan, widow of Dennis Callaghan, died Tuesday night at her home, Powhattan and Washington avenue, in Upper Alton, after a long illness, aged 83. She had lived many years in the vicinity of Upper Alton but had in recent years moved into town. She leaves two sons, Timothy and John Callaghan, members of what was a large family of children. The funeral will be Thursday morning at 9 o'clock from St. Patrick's Church. *********************************************
CAMELIA, ELLEN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 27, 1922 Funeral services for Miss Ellen Camelia, who died Monday night at the home of her mother, Mrs. Minnie Camelia, 1722 Bozza street, will be at 2 p.m. at the family home, tomorrow. Interment will be in Oakwood cemetery. Miss Camelia was a member of the Women's Benefit Association of the Maccabees. Miss Camelia, who was 22 years old, had been ill for some time. *******************************************
CAMPBELL, JESSIE C./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 11, 1920 Former Upper Alton Mayor - Gillham School Principal Dies Jessie C. Campbell, for ten years principal of Gillham School, and an instructor in schools of Madison county for 29 years, died at 1 a.m., at his home, 2610 Humber street. He was 54 years old. His illness, a few days ago, became serious, and since Saturday he has been hovering between life and death. Friends and relatives hoped for the recovery of the man who for years has been prominent in the religious, educational, and civic life of Upper Alton, and general sorrow was caused today when news of his death became known. Mr. Campbell was born in Fosterburg and lived in Alton for 40 years. He taught in various schools of Madison County for 29 years, and was principal of the Gillham School here for ten years. Mr. Campbell had long been a prominent figure in Upper Alton. Before the annexation of Upper Alton to the city of Alton, he was a leader in the political life of the village. He was mayor of Upper Alton from 1900 to 1911. He also served three terms as alderman in Upper Alton. He was once the Democratic candidate for county superintendent of schools. Mr. Campbell was a member of the College Avenue Baptist church, and was prominent in many of the activities of that church. He was connected also with many fraternal organizations, holding membership in the Odd Fellows, Modern Woodmen, Court of Honor, and the Junior Order of American Mechanics. Mr. Campbell was married on Sept. 23, 1890, to Miss Fannie Harris of Alton. He is survived by his widow, and two sons, Merle E. Campbell of St. Louis, and Leroy Campbell of this city. Funeral services will be conducted at the home at 2 o'clock, Thursday, by the Rev. David T. Magill, pastor of the College Avenue Baptist church. Interment will be in the Upper Alton cemetery. ******************************************
CANIPE, UNKNOWN/Source: Alton Telegraph, February 13, 1902 Mrs. A. J. Canipe, one of the most prominent residents of Bethalto, died suddenly Monday morning at her home in Bethalto after a brief illness from heart disease. She was 75 years of age. Mrs. Canipe complained of feeling ill yesterday morning, but rose and ate some breakfast. A short time afterward she suddenly expired. She leaves her husband and two children, Miss Emma and Henry Canipe, both of Bethalto. ******************************************
CANNELL, HORACE D./Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, January 11, 1895
Horace D. Cannell, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas Cannell, died at the family home Saturday morning after a
weeks illness with stomach troubles. Horace was a bright lad of 11
years, his death is a severe shock to his family and friends. The
funeral was private and took place Monday morning from the family
home. The services were conducted by Rector Crittenden, of St.
Paul's Episcopal church, who spoke feelingly of the bright young
life so unexpectedly cut off. The pall bearers were Clay Butler,
Mather Pfeiffenberger, Andrew Pepler and Charles Klunk.
CANNELL, WILLIAM/Source: Alton Weekly Courier, June 17, 1853 Buried - On yesterday the funeral of William Cannell, a young Englishman, took place. The deceased had been in this country some two years, and for several months past had worked in the machine shop of the Piasa Foundry. He was an excellent mechanic, and a worthy, moral young man, who was highly esteemed by his numerous acquaintances. Being an Odd Fellow, his sick bed was surrounded by friends and comforts, and his funeral was solemn, appropriately conducted and well attended. The deceased had the exclusive control of the manufacturing of the new steam engine for the Courier office. He was progressing rapidly with it, after an entire new and beautiful pattern, arranged by Mr. Guild, one of the proprietors of the Foundry, when sickness stopped the work, and death has stilled the arm of the skillful artist. He labors no more. *************************************************
CAPES, JOSEPH JASPER/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 13, 1921 Joseph Jasper Capes died yesterday at his home on Missouri avenue, at the age of 50 years. He is survived by his wife and two children. The arrangements for the funeral are incomplete. ***********************************************
CAPES, RILEY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 27, 1921 A Friend To the Poor - Caretaker of Milton Cemetery If all the poor people of Alton and vicinity for whom Riley Capes did a favor were to assemble tomorrow afternoon at Milton Cemetery, Riley Capes would have one of the biggest funerals ever seen in Alton. He died yesterday morning in a hospital in St. Louis where he was taken a few days before, suffering from a sickness he contracted in a logging camp on the Missouri River where he had been working for the past six or seven years. He was 64 years old. When anything for the benefit of the poor had to be done and nobody else cared to do it, Riley Capes was always a volunteer. For years he took care of Milton Cemetery. There was nobody else to do it, there was no pay in the job, and Riley did all the grave digging, and helped fill in the graves for the poor folks who were taken there because they didn't have money enough to pay for burial space in any other cemetery. According to Riley's friends it would take a long story to make a beginning of an account of what Riley Capes did. He was poor himself and he had a sympathy for poor folks and he was always doing something for them. He kept himself poor by his never ending services, as he never asked nor expected any compensation for what he did. Nobody ever heard anything discreditable to Riley Capes, though he lived here for many years. His heart was filled with kindness, and perhaps the highest tribute that could be paid to Riley was that he kept himself poor being good to other people. The Salvation Army will have charge of his burial tomorrow at Milton Cemetery. *************************************************
CARHART, GEORGE W./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 15, 1923 Old Soldier Answers Taps This Morning George W. Carhart, for 76 years a resident of Alton, and a life-long resident of Madison county, died this morning very unexpectedly at the home of his son, Daniel C. Carhart, 2326 Edwards street. The death of Mr. Carhart came without any warning there would be a fatal termination of a slight illness with the grippe from which he had been suffering just a short time. Last Monday he was down town, as he usually was, and on Tuesday he went to Upper Alton to see some friends. That afternoon he was not feeling well and stayed in the afternoon. Wednesday he did not try to leave the house, but was up and around until about 6 o'clock in the evening, when he went to bed. A doctor said that he was suffering from the grippe. This morning he was ready to get up at 6 o'clock but was persuaded to stay in bed. A half hour later his son, Daniel, was in the room talking to him. A few minutes after that the aged man was found lying dead across his bed. Death must have been very quick. The indications were he had attempted to rise as he had said he would do, and in doing so he collapsed and expired instantly. The passing of Mr. Carhart removes a man who had a wide acquaintance in Alton, and a very large number of good friends. He was born in Edwardsville and came to Alton when he was two years of age. He served in the Union army during the war and after his return he worked about 25 years for the Crowe grocery store on State street. Later he went to the glass works and worked there 28 years. Two years ago he retired from work on account of his advanced age and since then he had been enjoying himself going about with his old comrades of the Civil War and with other friends. Daily he made trips down town to meet his friends and he would foregather in the G. A. R. headquarters with the other old soldiers who meet there almost daily to enjoy social companionship. There was not the slightest thought that "taps" was about to sound for the old soldier, and his sudden death was a great shock to the old soldiers who had known him. He was commander of Alton post G. A. R. at the time of his death. Mr. Carhart was a man of many good qualities. In his long career in Alton he had lived a life that had merited for him the high position he held in the esteem of all who knew him. Three years ago he was bereft of his wife by death. That was a sad blow to Mr. Carhart, but he bore up under it bravely. His children are Miss Emma Carhart of Los Angeles, Mrs. Charles Norman, Miss Elizabeth Carhart, Frank and Daniel Carhart of Alton and Mrs. William McHenry of Elizabeth, N. J. ****************************************************
CARHART, MARY CONSUELLO [nee BALL]/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 12, 1920 Mrs. George Carhart, aged 70, died this morning at 5 o'clock at the family home on Seventh and Langdon street, after an illness which extended over a period of three years. Last summer Mrs. Carhart was very low for weeks, but rallied. Two weeks ago her fatal illness began and for several days death was expected. Mrs. Carhart was born in Delhi, Ill., but spent practically all her life in Alton. Her maiden name was Miss Mary Consuello Ball, being a member of a well known Alton family. She was prominent in church and social work and will be greatly missed by both family and friends. She was the wife of George W. Carhart. Two years ago on the 29th of January, Mr. and Mrs. Carhart celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Had she lived until the 30th of this month, Mrs. Carhart would have observed her 70th birthday. She was a member of the First Methodist church, and until her illness prevented her, she took an active part in all church work. She was one of the most active members of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. Mrs. Carhart is survived by her husband, George W. Carhart, 7 children and three sisters. Fourteen grandchildren also survive. The children are: Miss Emma Carhart of California; Mrs. Charles Norman of Norman Place; Mrs. Blanche McHenry of Elizabeth, New Jersey; Miss Elizabeth Carhart of Alton; Richard Carhart of Nova Scotia; Frank Carhart of Newark, New Jersey; and Dan Carhart of this city. The sisters are: Mrs. Bertha Cowan of Seattle, Wash.; Mrs. Theo Hinckell of Millers, Nevada; and Mrs. Dora Degnan of St. Louis. No funeral arrangements will be made until relatives at a distance can be heard from. *************************************************
CARR, CHARLES/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 10, 1921 Charles Carr, aged 56, a well known resident of Alton, died at his home this morning at 9 o'clock, six hours after he had been stricken with paralysis of the brain. Mrs. Carr had gone to Decatur to attend a sick sister, and was not at home when her husband was stricken and died. His death was a great surprise to everyone in his family circle. He had not been feeling well the night before, and about 3 o'clock he called for help. When his daughters, who were in the house with him, went to him, he told of a change coming over him and they summoned a physician, who said that he had suffered a paralytic stroke. His condition became worse very rapidly. Mr. Carr was for years a foreman for the Illinois Glass Co. at their Alton plant, and for the last six years had been a foreman at the Wood River refinery of the Standard Oil Co. Beside his wife, he leaves three children - Mrs. James Keith, Mrs. Leonard Elble and Archie Carr. He leaves also three brothers and three sisters, John Carr of Alton, Mrs. John Hessenauer of Alberta, Canada, Mrs. John Cassella of Alton, Mrs. T. H. Postelwaite of East Alton, Jonas and Carl Johnson of Alton. The funeral arrangements have not been made. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery. **************************************************
CARR, MARY FANNY (nee MARSH)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, October 11, 1923 Mrs. Mary Fanny Carr, aged 79, died last evening at 9 o'clock at her home, 1403 Henry street, from paralysis. She had never shown any sign of rallying from the stroke which she sustained Sunday, and her death had been looked for at any time, ever since Monday morning when she was taken worse and became unconscious. Mrs. Carr died in the house where she was born and where she spent the greater part of her life. Only during the years when Mr. Carr was living and the family made their home at Eighth and Langdon streets and during the period when she was away at school, had Mrs. Carr lived elsewhere. Her mother, Mrs. Marsh, who lived to a great age, required her attention - and Mrs. Carr went to make her home with her some time after Mr. Carr's death, remaining there after her mother's death. Mrs. Carr was stricken with paralysis Sunday morning just as she finished dressing herself for church. She had planned to attend services in the First Baptist church where she had held membership sixty-one years, and where she was a regular attendant when her health would permit her to be there. She fell on a back stairway Sunday morning at her home, and in the fall she fractured her collar bone. Paralysis was the cause of her fall. She was rendered helpless on her right side by the stroke and at no time was any hope of her recovery held out by the attending doctor. Mrs. Carr was a member of an old Alton family. Her maiden name was Marsh, and the family had been here for many years. She was deeply devoted to her home and to her church. She was a woman who was highly prized as a friend by all who knew her well and was a neighbor who was loved and esteemed by all who lived near her. Her husband was H. M. Carr, who for years was a member of one of the most prominent business houses in the city. He was the junior member of the firm of Pierson & Carr, which for years conducted a dry goods store where the Young store is now. Mr. Carr was one of the most highly esteemed of Alton's business men and was very successful. He died nineteen years ago. Mrs. Carr attended school at Suffield, Conn., in her girlhood days and that was the only period she was away from Alton for a long time. She was an only child and she leaves but one son, Louis M. Carr of the Alton National bank. The funeral will be held Friday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock from her late home and services will be conducted by Rev. M. W. Twing. Interment in City cemetery will be private. Friends are asked to omit flowers. ******************************************************
CARROLL, EMMA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 7, 1923 Dies 3 Months After Sister Grief over the death of her sister is thought to have hastened the death today of Miss Emma Carroll, who died at Alton Woman's Home. She was 78 years old. The death of her sister, Miss Lillie Carroll, on Feb. 1, last, brought great grief to Miss Carroll. Recently she contracted a cold, which was not thought serious, but grief over the loss of her sister is believed to have contributed to the seriousness of her condition. She was born in Alton and lived here all her life, during which she made many friends who loved her for her uprightness of character and willingness to be of service to those who needed her help. She is survived by two brothers, George of Alton and A. T. of Harbar, Mich. Funeral services will be conducted at the Lock undertaking parlors tomorrow at 2 p.m. by the Rev. Father M. A. Tarrent of the Cathedral. Interment will be in the City Cemetery. The funeral will be private. **********************************************
CARROLL, LILLIAN CORNELIA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph Old Resident, Alton Native, Passes Away ... Spent Whole Life in One House on William Street Miss Lillian Cornelia Carroll, a lifelong resident of Alton, died this morning in St. Joseph's Hospital, where she had been taken for treatment when her health broke down. Death was due to a complication of diseases. The beginning of her illness was last August when she was stricken with a slight attack of paralysis while she was attending services in St. Paul's Episcopal Church where she had been a member since girlhood. She never was well since that time. About two weeks ago she became much worse and two days ago she was taken to the hospital for treatment. She was born and reared in the home where she spent all of her life, and she seldom was away from that home over night in all the years of her life. To that home her mother had come as a bride about 83 years ago and there the aged mother had lived all the rest of her days, tended by the hands of her faithful daughters, Misses Lillian and Emma Carroll. After the death of the mother, Miss Lillian and Emma continued to live there with their brother, George Carroll. The beautiful devotion of the two sisters to their mother was marked by all who knew the family and at the time of her death six years ago, at the age of 94, the two sisters were left without the one who had been the chief cause of their concern in life. The two sisters in the little old home always welcomed any who came to call and it was a most hospitable place to all visitors. Miss Carroll is survived by one sister, Miss Emma, and two brothers, George of Alton and Gus, living in Michigan. The funeral will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. from the Lock undertaking parlors and will be private. Rev. F. D. Butler will have charge of the services. Interment will be in City cemetery. **********************************************
CARROLL, WILLIAM/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 15, 1921 Death Strikes As He Was Preparing to Milk Cows...Body Found Two Days Later, Trampled by Cattle Frantic for Food William Carroll, aged 63, of Alton, was found dead in a stable at the home of Bert Killam, Saturday night at 11 o'clock. He had been dead since Thursday evening, it is supposed, as he was last seen alive Thursday afternoon. His body was in such condition when found that it was impossible to hold a funeral over him, and he was buried Sunday afternoon in the Medora cemetery, brief services being conducted by the Methodist clergyman, Rev. Matthews. It was said today by Lee Carroll, a son of the deceased, that his father owns a farm near Medora and he frequently went up there to look after his interests. When the family of Bert Killam planned to go to St. Louis to spend three or four days, they engaged Mr. Carroll to look after their stock. They had three cows and several horses, and Mr. Carroll was to see that the stock was fed and watered and the cows milked. He had all the stock tied in the barn at the time of his death, and was in the act of starting to milk the cows when he fell over dead. It is supposed heart disease was the cause as he had some slight attacks of that trouble. He fell between two cows and lay there. The cows trampled the body considerably becoming uneasy at going so long without food and water and not being milked. It happened that the Killam family arrived home Saturday night at 11 o'clock, and not finding Mr. Carroll, an investigation was made and his decomposing body was found mutilated by the cows' hoofs in the stable. Word was sent here to his family, and two sons and a son-in-law went to Medora, made arrangements for immediate burial and had the service Sunday afternoon at the cemetery. Mr. Carroll is survived by his wife and two daughters, Mrs. Edward Bennett and Miss Alta Carroll, and two sons, Lee and Frank Carroll, all of Alton. The family reside at 717 East Sixth street. He leaves also two grandchildren, Ralph Bennett and Helen Carroll and one brother and two sisters. **********************************************
CARTER, UNKNOWN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 19, 1921 Mrs. John Carter died this afternoon at 1 o'clock at the home of Mrs. Eliza Hill at 633 Alby street, following a stroke of paralysis which she suffered Sunday. Mrs. Carter has long been a resident of Alton and for the past few years has lived at the Hill home. She was over seventy years of age. She leaves three sons, Sam and Robert of Alton, and Lee of Stockton, Calif., and one daughter, Mrs. Henry Allen of Jerseyville. The body will be taken to Jerseyville Wednesday morning for interment. **********************************************
CARY, JOSEPH W./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 8, 1922 Retired Jewelry Merchant Dies Joseph W. Cary, retired business man, died Sunday at 7:45 a.m., at his home on Twelfth Street, following an illness of four days. Death was due to a complication of diseases. He was 84 years old. Mr. Cary, notwithstanding his advanced age, was in good health until recently. He became ill Thursday of last week, and even then his condition was not thought alarming until Saturday when fears for his recovery were felt. Development of pneumonia, and a stroke, Saturday, rendered his condition serious, and Sunday morning the end came. Mr. Cary, during his business career, showed what industry will accomplish, and typified that ideal American, to whom rising in the world is part of his life. Entering business when 17 years old, he rose until he became the head of a great firm. Joseph William Cary was born January 6 1838, at Portland, Conn. He came to Alton in 1855 at the age of 17, and engaged in the jewelry business with his uncle, William Cary. Industrious application to his duties and a steadfast determination to master the details of the business soon made of him a leader in his profession, and it was not long until he purchased his uncle's interest and conducted the business himself. In the early 80s, seeding wider fields, he went to St. Louis and entered the firm of Steidman and Lange, a jewelry supply house. The firm later became known as J. W. Cary & Co. Five years ago, Mr. Cary retired. Mr. Cary, in 1863, was married to Miss Ann Fay, a native of Alton and a daughter of Thomas Fay, prominent in the pork packing business in the earlier history of Alton. Of this marriage, two children were born, of whom one - Mrs. W. B. Robinson, survives. The other daughter, Nellie Cary, died when ten years old. Mrs. Cary died more than 20 years ago. Mr. Cary is survived also by a sister, Mrs. H. W. Ibbotson of Brooklyn. It is not known if Mrs. Ibbotson will be able to make the journey to Alton, because of her advanced age. Death of Mr. Cary removes from Alton a well-known and greatly respected citizen. During his business career he made many friends by his affability. His competitors regarded him as one to be feared always in competition, but one with whom honor came first. The funeral of Mr. Carey will be held Tuesday afternoon at 4 o'clock. Mr. Cary went to school in Alton and there are still here some of those who went to school with him. He was devoted to outdoors sports and was known as an expert at sailing a yacht. He formerly kept a fast sailboat on the Mississippi, but for the past twenty-five years had confined his sailing to the times when he would be spending his summer vacation at Harbor Beach, Mich. He was planning only last week for going to Harbor, Mich., for the summer, and was looking forward with great pleasure to having an outing there with Frank R. Milnor of Alton, whom he had known from boyhood. ************************************************
CASNER, ALTA ZARA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 4, 1921 Mrs. Alta Zara Casner, a resident of Alton for a number of years, died Sunday evening at 6:30 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Chris Wohnlich on Rogers avenue, after a four days illness with pneumonia. The deceased is survived by her husband, W. L. Casner, one daughter, Mrs. Chris Wohnlich, and one son, Frank; also 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday afternoon with interment in Oakwood cemetery. ************************************************
CASNER, FRANK/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 21, 1923 Frank Casner died last evening at 7:05 o'clock at his residence in the Elwell addition just east of the C & A cut off after an illness that started at noon last Wednesday. His death occurred in his new home that he built last August. Mr. Casner was 46 years old on the 5th of last September. The death of Frank Casner comes as a great surprise to his friends. He had won a battle for his life during a period of illness that extended over a period of almost three years. He was one of the first employees of the Federal Lead company when the plant was started in Alton and he worked many years at the plant. When his long sickness started three years ago last February he attributed his trouble to lead poisoning. Many times during his long illness he gave up hope for his recovery as did his relatives and friends and attending physicians. About the most hopeless stage of his long sickness came early last summer and when he was convinced he could not get well he did recover and his strength came back to him in a manner that surprised everyone. Feeling that he was a well man he decided to build a new home on a lot he had bought in the W. W. Elwell tract. He did much of the work himself in building the new home and in the fall he and his family occupied their new home. In March, Mr. Casner contracted a cold and grip followed. He improved from the attack but he did not fully regain his strength and he continued in a weak condition. The first of this week he complained much of feeling weak and on Wednesday at noon he went to bed. His strength left him quickly from that time on and death came last evening soon after 7 o'clock. The young man was born in Ashley, Ill., and came to Upper Alton with his father, Franklin Casner, when he was 5 years old. He went to school here and lived in Upper Alton since that time. He leaves his aged father and one sister, Mrs. Stella Casner Wohnlich. He also leaves his widow, Mrs. Margaret Niederkorn Casner to whom he was married 19 years ago last January, and two sons, Joseph and Clarence Casner. The funeral will be held Monday morning at 10 o'clock at St. Patrick's church and burial will be in Greenwood cemetery. ************************************************
CASTELLO, UNKNOWN CHILD/Source: Alton Weekly Courier, June 21, 1855 A child about two years old, son of Mr. James Castello, was run over by a load wagon, near the school house on State street, yesterday afternoon, the wheels of the wagon passing over and crushing the skull, and forcing out the brains, causing instant death. The driver, a young man from Jerseyville, was walking behind the wagon and did not see the child. An inquest was held over the body and the jury returned a verdict setting forth the facts mainly as stated, and censuring the driver for culpable negligence in driving his team. It is a long time since we have been called to chronicle so shocking an occurrence. We learn since writing the above, that the driver was arrested and examined before Justice Pinckard, who discharged him. This dreadful accident, we hope, will serve as a warning to careless drivers, especially in the streets of the city. *************************************************
CHALLACOMBE, HAROLD/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 17, 1922 Deadly Anthrax Claims Victim After a Week Harold Challacombe, the 6-year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Challacombe, of Challacombe, was dying from anthrax this afternoon at St. Joseph's Hospital. The dread disease, one that is prevalent among cattle and is recognized as incurable both in man and beast, made its appearance in the boy last Tuesday. He was complaining of a toothache and soon what was taken for fever blisters appeared around his mouth. His case continued to grow worse, and he was brought to St. Joseph's Hospital in the hope that something could be done for him that would save his life. The disease was diagnosed an anthrax. He has since continued to grow worse and today had reached a stage that made it seem impossible that he could last through the day. Anthrax is a disease which rarely appears in a human being. When it does, it is, as a rule, contracted from some horse that had the disease. Member of the family said today that they had no knowledge of how the boy became exposed to the deadly malady. Mr. and Mrs. Ray Birkenmeyer of Fidelity, grandparents of the little victim of anthrax, are in town watching the development of the little patient. Mrs. Challacombe is a niece of Mrs. Jesse Rich of Phinney avenue.
Anthrax Case Patient Dies in Hospital Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 18, 1922 The condition of Harold Challacombe, who has been a patient in St. Joseph's hospital suffering from the dreadful anthrax, continued very bad all night last night and morning, and he died at 1:10 p.m. Doctors who had viewed the boy did not believe that there was a chance for the lad to recover. There is a treatment for the disease which has been attended with some success, but the ideas had advanced far when it was diagnosed, after he had been brought to St. Joseph's hospital. The disease was suspected, and surgeons gave warning of their suspicions on the arrival of the patient here, but it was not until a microscopic examination of his blood had been made that the diagnosis was certain. The germs of the disease were shown plainly in the speciment of blood that was examined under a powerful glass, and extreme cautions were taken from that time on to guard against anyone becoming infected by the germs. Members of the family reiterated today that they have no idea as to how the disease happened to afflict the boy. They do keep sheep on their place at Challacombe, and often sheep have been known to have the disease, but so far as the family know there has been no sickness of any kind among the sheep. Medical books refer to the disease as one that is sometimes contracted by human beings who handle hides and pelts of animals which have been afflicted. Dogs and cats seem to be immune, as well as all cold blooded animals. The boy was believed to be dying yesterday afternoon, but he continued to live during the night, and this morning. He was delirious and the symptomic development of the case was reported to have been rapid. The death of the child this afternoon followed a period of complete collapse characteristic of the disease. The parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Challacombe, have another child. ************************************************
CHALLACOMBE, KATE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 16, 1921 Mrs. Kate Challacombe, widow of Aaron Challacombe, died this morning at 9 o'clock at the home of her son, Norman Challacombe, 1805 State street, after a long period of disability due chiefly to her age. She was 78 years old. Mrs. Challacombe had experienced difficulty in getting around owing to a crippled condition due to a fall, about a year ago. She had previously suffered very serious injuries by falling at her home on State Street, but she recovered, showing remarkable rallying power. She was a good mother to her family and in the neighborhood where she lived she was generally admired and loved. Her chief interest had centered in her home, but she was also always interested in her neighbors and friends. She was a member of the Beem family in Alton, and she leaves two sisters residing here, Misses Annie and Elizabeth Beem. She leaves also two sons, Norman and Allen Challacombe, both residents of Alton. She was a member of the Baptist church and the funeral services Friday afternoon will be conducted by Rev. M. W. Twing, pastor of the First Baptist Church. Mrs. Challacombe was born near Pittsburg, Pa., but was reared in Alton, having come here at an early age and she was married here. ****************************************************
CHALLACOMBE, NANCY GLORIANA (nee CARSON)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 8, 1920 Head of Four Generations Passes Away Mrs. Nancy Gloriana Carson Challacombe, aged 91, and the oldest of four generations, died at her home on Locust Hill, at Challacombe, Ill., where she has resided for 70 years of more. She was the widow of Nicholas Challacombe, who died ten years ago. Both were well known in Alton. Mrs. Challacombe is survived by three sons: W. J. Challacombe of Challacombe; Nicholas of Everett, Wash.; and Wesley of Carlinville; and by four daughters: Mrs. Mary Hartwell; Mrs. Anna Searles; and Mrs. Dora Butler of Challacombe, and Mrs. Mabel Birchard of Everett, Wash. Mrs. Charles Beall is a granddaughter. Mrs. Challacombe leaves a large number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The Challacombe family is one of the best known in this part of Illinois, Mr. and Mrs. Challacombe going there to reside following their marriage, March 27, 1847. Their holdings are large, covering a great tract of land. Mrs. Challacombe was born in Franklin, Tenn., of Scotch parentage. Her death is the third in the family this year, the others being her brother, Gideon Carson, and her brother-in-law, Horace Warner, bot of whom died in January at their home near Challacombe. The funeral will be held from the home Friday afternoon, and burial will be in Summerville cemetery. Many from Alton plan to go out to attend the funeral. ************************************************
CHALLACOMBE, WILLIE M./Source: Alton Weekly Telegraph, January 7, 1875 Died in this city [Alton] on the 5th inst., of scarlet rash, Willie M., son of Capt. A. and Mrs. Kate Challacombe, aged four years and four months. ***************************************************
CHALLACOMBE, EDITH M./Source: Alton Weekly Telegraph, January 7, 1875 Died in this city [Alton] on the 30th inst., of cholera infantum, Edith M., infant daughter of Capt. A. and Mrs. Kate E. Challacombe, aged 2 years and 9 months. **************************************************
CHALLENGSWORTH, BERTHA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 1, 1922 The funeral of Mrs. Bertha Challengsworth, wife of Harry Challengsworth, was held this afternoon at 2 o'clock from the family home at Fosterburg, and was attended by a large number of relatives, friends and neighbors. ***********************************************
CHALLENGSWORTH, HELEN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 5, 1922 Helen, the five year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Challengsworth of 402 Belle street, died Sunday morning from the effects of blood poisoning, which began with a bite of a mosquito. The attending surgeon diagnosed the trouble as being due to infection, and finally it became necessary to resort to a surgical operation in the hope of giving relief. The operation did not halt the spread of the infection, which progressed until finally it proved fatal, involving vital organs of the body. She had been in St. Joseph's hospital where she was taken for the surgical operation that was depended upon to halt the spread of the trouble. The bite was on the child's ankle. It may have been scratched by the child herself, and infection thus introduced into the wound. The funeral was held today and burial was in the Fosterburg cemetery. The family formerly lived at Fosterburg. The funeral was held from SS Peter and Paul's Cathedral, with the Rev. Peter Smith officiating. Music for the funeral was furnished by Mrs. J. B. Cahill. *********************************************
CHAMPION, EDWARD/Source: Alton Telegraph, Thursday, May 8, 1902 Edward D. Champion, aged 65, died Thursday at his home on Fifth street, near Market, after a long and painful illness with dropsy. He was a well-known fisherman and had lived in Alton many years. **************************************************
CHANEY, JOHNSON/Source: Alton Telegraph, July 25, 1862 The corpse of the late Johnson Chaney, who was killed by the accident on the Terre Haute, Alton & St. Louis railroad, on Wednesday night last, arrived in this city last evening and was buried this morning in the City cemetery. Mr. C. had long been a resident of this city, and his relatives and friends feel deeply his untimely death. **************************************************
CHAPMAN, LOUISE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 12, 1922 A decline in health which has extended over a period of several years today resulted in the death of Miss Louise Chapman, member of an old and well known Madison county family. The end came this morning at 7 o'clock at the Chapman residence on Hillsboro Avenue. For several weeks her steady weakening helped relatives to become reconciled that the end was near. The funeral will be private. Services will be conducted Friday morning at 10 o'clock from the Chapman residence. Rev. Thomas Dyke of St. Andrews Episcopal church will officiate. Burial will be at Woodlawn cemetery. Miss Chapman was a native of Alton, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Chapman, long time residents of the county. She had made her home in the same residence since 1861. She spent a quiet and home life, finding the greatest joys in her home. When young, she was artistically inclined, and did a great deal of portrait and other painting. Several sisters and brothers survive. They are Mrs. W. H. Hall, Miss Etta Chapman, Joseph and C. E. Chapman, Edwardsville; Mrs. M. W. Clark, Los Angeles, Calif.; Mrs. George F. Fritz, Black Hawk, Colo.; and Mrs. A. C. Atchison, St. Louis. ****************************************************
CHAPPELL, LUELLA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 7, 1919 Mrs. Luella Chappell, 39 years old, died this morning at 8:05 o'clock at St. Joseph's Hospital, following an operation last Saturday. Mrs. Chappell has been complaining for years but became seriously sick only recently. Her condition became alarming last Friday and she was taken to the hospital. She lived at 27 East Fifth street. Mrs. Chappel was born at Elsah, Ill. and lived in Alton for nine years. She is survived by her husband, Ephraim Chappell, and three children: Mildred, Harold and Virgil, all of Alton. She is survived also by her mother, Mrs. J. A. Terry of Grafton, Ill., and two brothers, Langford Vanderslice of Harrisburg, Pa., and Ramsey L. Vanderslice of St. Louis. Funeral arrangements have not been made, word being awaited from the brother at Harrisburg. *************************************************
CHAVER, UNKNOWN/Source: Alton Weekly Courier, January 17, 1856 A colored woman, named Mrs. Chaver, was burned to death in Hunterstown, the lower part of this city, on the 9th. The weather was excessively cold and she was ironing, standing near the stove, when her clothes caught fire and she was so badly burned as to cause death in a short time. *************************************************
CHILD, GEORGE B./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 26, 1922 Descendent of Pilgrims Brought to American on the Mayflower Dies Funeral services were held Thursday for George B. Child, 71 years old, who died at Hardin, Ill, this week. He was descended from one of the Pilgrims who came over on the "Mayflower." Child was the last descendant of the old Colonial family. He died in the armchair brought over by his Puritan ancestors. His father, Benjamin Child, emigrated from Massachusetts to Illinois in 1835, going to the present site of Hardin, known at that time as "Child's Landing." Later, Benjamin Child donated this land to Calhoun County, and he named it Hardin, after Gov. Hardin of South Carolina. For 38 years the postmaster of Hardin was a member of the Child family. Benjamin Child was appointed postmaster in 1847, and with the exception of one year during Buchanan's administration, continued in the office till his death in 1872, when his son, George B. Child, succeeded him. George B. Child was the first Republican elected in Calhoun County to the office of sheriff or to the legislature. He served as sheriff in 1882, and in the legislature in 1890. ***********************************************
CHILDESS, WILLIAM/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 11, 1920 William Childess, aged 49, died at his home, 1608 Joesting avenue, last night. His death was caused from a complication of diseases. Childess is survived by his wife, Rose Childess, three daughters, Mrs. Katherine Semelroth, Mrs. Dean Downey, Miss Jean Childess and one son, Donald. The funeral will be held tomorrow afternoon at three o'clock from the home. Burial will be in the City cemetery. **********************************************
CHRISTMAN, JEANETTE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 19, 1919 Mrs. Jeanette Christman, wife of John M. Christman of Upper Alton, died at St. Joseph's hospital this morning a few minutes after 3:00 o'clock. The end came peacefully with the husband and sister, Mrs. Walter MacNair, of Chicago, and other relatives at the bedside. Mrs. Christman underwent a surgical operation ten days ago. When the operation was performed the surgeons discovered that in addition to the trouble they sought to eradicate, Mrs. Christman was suffering from a cancer of the stomach. This, they found, they could not remedy with a further operation. Then began a heroic fight for life, and the many friends of Mrs. Christman in all parts of the city were in deepest sympathy with the stricken woman in her efforts to overcome her affliction. Since Monday, however, the physicians held out no hope and the relatives and immediate friends awaited the end. Mrs. Christman, by her friends and acquaintances, was accounted as one of the most remarkable women in the city. Stricken several years ago with blindness, she did not permit the affliction to interfere with her activities in any way. In her domestic life, as well as her religious and civic activities, she overcame every difficulty that her apparent affliction placed in her way. She was one of the most active members of the College Avenue Baptist church in Upper Alton, and was equally active in the councils of the Daughters of Rebekah. In public and private charity she was most interested. As a result of her many and varied activities she had come in contact with many who became her friends, and when the news was given out that she had undergone a surgical operation at the hospital, inquiries were daily made from every quarter as to her physical progress. The funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock. The members of the family had planned to have a simple service at the family home on Walnut street, but the suggestions were so numerous that the service be held at the church that the decision was reached to have the funeral from the College Avenue Baptist church, where she worshipped so many years. The pastor, Rev. David T. Magill, will officiate. The body can be viewed at the home until 2:30 o'clock on the day of the funeral, and friends are invited. The casket will not be opened at the church. Interment will be in City cemetery. ************************************************
CHRISTY, MRS. E. M./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 26, 1921 Commits Suicide By Shooting Self Mrs. E. M. Christy, who fatally shot herself yesterday noon at her home, 130 Ninth street in Wood River, died about three hours after the shooting. She had evidently carefully planned the suicide and it is said that she was mentally unbalanced. She used a Winchester 30-30 rifle. Lying flat on her back on the bed, she hoisted the rifle so that it was perpendicular to her body and with one toe she pulled the trigger, discharging the weapon. The ball passed through her body, through the mattress and into the floor. At the time of Mrs. Christy's suicide she was attended by her mother and a sister who had come to see her and were preparing to take her back to her home in Iola, Kan., for a visit. She had been in ill health for a month or so, the attending physician, Dr. Vaughn, said. He said that he did not know definitely the cause of the sickness. The suicide is attributed by those who knew Mrs. Christy to her bad health and worry over her condition, which caused mental derangement. Neighbors said that Mrs. Christy was a woman who was much admired and there was great surprise over the suicide. It was said that when her mother and sister were in the house with her, Mrs. Christy retired to her bedroom and quietly made the arrangements for destroying her life, and that the first warning the mother and sister had was the shot. They ran into the room to find Mrs. Christy mortally wounded with a bullet hole through her body in the abdomen. They called for surgical help but nothing could be done for her. The jury impaneled by Deputy Coroner STreeper found a verdict of accidental death. The husband testified his wife had been sick since Christmas. He said he kept the gun loaded in the house for protection, and that he had never known her to handle the gun. ************************************************
CHRISTY, OSCAR/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 3, 1921 Drowns at Illini Island, Body Identified Through Dental Charts Identification was established yesterday afternoon of the body held in the morgue at St. Louis found floating in the river, as that of Oscar Christy, drowned Sunday at Illini Island, five miles above Alton. In order to complete the identification, Dr. Jeans, who had done some work on his teeth, took the dental charts with her to St. Louis and examined the mouth, checking all the fillings and absolutely identifying the body as that of the Alton traveling man. An inquest was held this morning in St. Louis, the body having been found on the Missouri side of the river and making it necessary that the inquest be held there. The body was placed in a sealed casket and will be brought to Alton for the funeral, which will be held Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the home on Bluff street, and will be under the auspices of Piasa lodge No. 27, A. F. & A. M., in which the deceased had been a member. The body will be entombed in the Grandview mausoleum. It was learned that there was but one body found floating in the river, the report that there were two being due to the fact that the body of Oscar Christy was reported from two places and confusion was caused. The pallbearers at the funeral tomorrow will be H. W. Weiner, A. E. Elliott, C. D. Tompkins, Fred Hart, Leo Ernst, Walter Smith, William Stofft Jr., Seymour Landau. Mr. Christy held membership in the Masonic Fraternity, the Elks, the United Commercial Travelers, the Egyptian Hustlers, and belonged to a side organization of the U. C. T., the Bagmen. He was for several terms head of the Alton Poultry Association. ************************************************
CLAMPITT, THOMAS J./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph Resident of Alton for 60 Years Dies Thomas J. Clampitt, 61 years, died Saturday night at the home of is daughter, Mrs. James Hart, 278 Madison avenue. Mr. Clampitt was born in Belleville and came to Alton when a year old. For a number of years he was a drayman in Alton, being one of the leaders in that business before the advent of the automobile. He was later a watchman for the Chicago and Alton Railroad. In his residence here, Mr. Clampitt made many friends who became attached to him because of his willingness to be of service to others, and to them his death is the cause for grief. He is survived by three daughters, Mrs. James Hart and Misses Nellie and Catherine Clampitt, all of Alton. Funeral services will be at 9 a.m. tomorrow, at SS Peter and Paul's Cathedral. Mr. Clampitt had been confined to his bed for two years, but his death was unexpected. Even after becoming bedfast, he retained his hearty appetite, and Saturday night had eaten a hearty supper as usual. Shortly afterward he fell asleep, and when members of the family entered the room, he was dead. ***************************************************
CLAPP, ELMAS A. SR./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 11, 1923 Elmas A. Clapp Sr., died this morning at 10:10 o'clock at his residence, 610 State street, after an illness of two weeks. Death was due to a complication of diseases following a breakdown from kidney trouble which developed into uraemic poisoning. Two weeks ago today was the first time he had not gone to his place of business in East St. Louis in nearly forty-three years, except for a brief period of ten days when he unwillingly took a vacation, an experience he had never gone through before and one he never repeated. He had no desire for a vacation. It is said of him that during the ten day vacation he once took, he was so dissatisfied with not being at work that he was glad to get back on the job. Kindly, genial, the soul of good humor and radiating good cheer wherever he went, Mr. Clapp was a man who was generally beloved by those who knew him, and he had a very wide circle of acquaintances. His devotion to his family was like that to his work, all absorbing. He never would leave his home in the evenings unless some special business called him out, and he spent all of the time he had away from his work at home with his family. Clear up to the last, this courteous gentleman was full of pluck in his fight against the malady which, he must have realized, was closing in fast and would leave him but a short time to live with the family. Members of the family say that he came home early, two weeks ago Wednesday, and was expecting to be feeling better and able to go to his work two weeks ago today. But he was too sick. For the next few days it seemed that he would not live but a few hours, but he rallied and seemed to be recovering when complications developed. One trouble after another appeared and the last forty-eight hours of his sickness he was not able to recognize any of those who attended him. There had been some hope a few days before that he would recover but all hope was dissipated with the sudden change for the worse. Mr. Clapp was born in St. Paris, Ohio, and had he lived until the tenth of next June would have been 70 years of age. He was connected with railroad work practically all the time in his life he was working. He became the agent for the Big Four Railroad at Catawba, Ohio, in 1876, and stayed there three years, going to Milford in 1879. He was married while staying at Catawba and there the couple first set up housekeeping. Two years after going to Milford, he was transferred to East St. Louis and given the position of live stock agent for the Big Four and that position he held up to the time of his death, a period of nearly 41 years. It was February 1, 1881, he came to Alton and soon afterward Mrs. Clapp followed him with their two daughters. Their son was born here. Mr. Clapp was a member of the Alton Board of Education for six years, and he was a much valued member of that body. Those who sat with him in the school board used to enjoy the bright remarks with which he would sometimes enliven the board meetings. He had a gift of humor which was greatly enjoyed by all his fellow members on the board. All his working career after he moved to Alton Mr. Clapp was a commuter, going between Alton and East St. Louis, and attending to the duties of his position in East St. Louis. The death of Mr. Clapp followed immediately on the receipt of other distressing news by his wife. She had just received a message telling her that her eighty year old brother, E. W. Roberts, of Kenton, Ohio, who was otherwise crippled, had fallen down a flight of twenty-two steps and suffered serious injuries which had made it necessary to take him to a hospital. The condition of her husband made it impossible for her to go to her brother, who was greatly attached to her. Beside his wife, Mr. Clapp leaves two daughters, Mrs. A. C. Harris of Alton, Mrs. Leigh Wyman of St. Louis and Elmas Clapp, Jr., of Massilon, Ohio. He leaves also three granddaughters and three grandsons, each of his children having a son and a daughter. He leaves three brothers, Daniel and Mark Clapp of Washington, D. C., and Oren Clapp of Omaha. At the time of his death only his wife and daughter, of his family, were with him. The funeral will be Saturday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the family home and services will be conducted by Rev. Edward L. Gibson of the First Presbyterian church. Friends of the family are invited to attend the services at the home. The interment will be private. The omission of flowers is requested. *******************************************************
CLARK, EMMA J. (nee FAHNESTOCK)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 30, 1920 Mrs. Emma J. Clark, widow of William P. Clark, died very unexpectedly Wednesday evening at 10:15 o'clock from heart trouble at her home, 508 William street. Mrs. Clark had been suffering from heart trouble for a few days, being taken sick Monday, but it was not supposed that there was anything seriously wrong with her and her family were not at all alarmed. Wednesday evening she was so much better that at 10 o'clock some of the members of the family had left her bedside and gone to their homes. A few minutes afterward she was suddenly stricken and died almost instantly. A neuralgic affliction of the heart was given as the cause of her death. Mrs. Clark was born in Munsey, Pa., March 27, 1845, and was in her seventy-sixth year. She was married February 12, 1867, to William P. Clark, who died January 20, 1903. She leaves five children: Miss Bessie Clark, Mrs. H. E. Scott, Mrs. James Vine, W. C. Clark, all of Alton; and Preston Clark of Chicago. When a child Mrs. Clark came to Madison County with her parents and she lived there until after her marriage to Mr. Clark. Her maiden name was Fahnestock. She lived at Bethalto a number of years, and twenty-five years ago moved to Alton to spend the remainder of her life. Beside her children she leaves nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Clark was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church, and was a regular attendant at church services there until about two years ago when she fell, while on her way to church, and fractured a leg. She never was able to get around with great facility after that because of her age. The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home, and burial will be in City Cemetery. Rev. Edward L. Gibson will have charge of the services. *******************************************************
CLARK, MIRAN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 30, 1920 Upper Alton Resident, In Madison County Since 1854, Dies Miran Clark, one of the best known old residents of Upper Alton, died at 11:30 this noon at the home of his son, W. A. Clark, at the corner of Washington and College avenues. Mr. Clark would have been 80 years old next Saturday, April 3. The death of the old resident followed a long illness and a long period of total disability. Last Decoration Day he was taken to Oakwood Cemetery to attend the services of the day by his son in an automobile. Only one time since that day was Mr. Clark down stairs, and that was in August when he was taken out for a brief ride. After that he did not care to be disturbed, but preferred to remain quietly in his home. During the past week his condition was very bad and his death has been looked for at any time. Miran Clark was born in Aurora, Ind. in 1840, but he went with his parents to St. Louis when he was very young. His father was a steamboat builder and the family lived in St. Louis until 1854. During that year they came to Madison County and located southwest of Bethalto on the farm known as the Clark place. Mr. Clark was married in 1868 to Miss Mary S. Wood and she survives. Mr. Clark raised his family on the farm southwest of Bethalto, but in 1892 they moved into Upper Alton, and have lived here ever since. Two sons, W. A. Clark of Upper Alton and Ira Clark of St. Louis survive, and also one daughter, Miss Birdie Clark of Upper Alton. One brother, James Clark, of Brown street, and one sister, Mrs. Silas G. Cooper of East Alton, also survive. Since the death today of Mr. Clark two members of the old family survive - Mrs. Cooper and James Clark. W. A. Clark stated this afternoon that the funeral arrangements would not probably be complete until tomorrow. **************************************************
CLARKE, GEORGE R. "WINDY DICK"/Source: Alton Telegraph, Thursday, March 25, 1897 George R. Clarke, better known as "Windy Dick," of this city, was probably hanged at Grand Center, South Dakota, yesterday, under an alias of John Kelly. He was tried and convicted under that name, and just before being hanged, stated that his name was George R. Clarke of Alton, Illinois. Chief of Police Kuhn endeavored to place him, and has concluded that he is none other than our own "Windy Dick" of local unsavory reputation. ***************************************************
CLAYTON, MINNIE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 13, 1919 Mrs. Minnie Clayton died at her home on Brown street Wednesday afternoon at 4 o'clock following a month's illness. Mrs. Clayton was taken ill with influenza about a month ago, and never recovered fully. She was able to be up and around until a short time ago when she suffered a relapse. Mrs. Clayton, who was 58 years of age, is survived by her husband, William Clayton, and 4 sons, Chauncey, Frank, George and William. One son, George, is with the A. E. F. in France. The deceased was a member of the Mutual Benefit Society. No funeral arrangements were made today, awaiting word from relatives not in town. *************************************************
CLAYTON, MRS. SUSAN D./Source: Alton Weekly Telegraph, January 7, 1875 Died near Upper Alton on December 21, 1875, of typhoid pneumonia, Mrs. Susan D. Clayton, in the 66th year of her age. ***************************************************
CLEVELAND, LON/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, October 17, 1921 Father Killed in Rail Tragedy - Sons Are Spared Lon Cleveland, aged 55, a resident of Wood River, was killed by a Chicago & Alton train No. 31, Sunday morning at 9:30 o'clock as he was crossing the track about 350 feet north of the North Wood River crossing. Some track workers had left some discarded railroad ties on the right of way, and Cleveland was carrying them across the track to his home for use as fuel. His two sons were with him, helping with the moving of the ties. The two boys saw the danger and jumped off the track just in time to avoid being hit. The father, though he saw his danger, was a trifle slower in moving and the hesitation cost him his life. The train was stopped and the body taken to the railroad station at Wood River, where the agent, Frank Dotson, took charge of it and notified Deputy Coroner Streeper. Dotson witnessed the accident but was too far away to give any alarm that would have the man. He did not realize at first, after the accident, that the two boys had escaped with their lives, as it appeared that all three of them must certainly be run down by the oncoming train, so close was it to them. Cleveland leaves his wife, two sons and two daughters. The funeral of Mr. Cleveland will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Lock Funeral Parlors on State St. Burial will be in City Cemetery. The minister of the Wood River Methodist Church will officiate. ***************************************************
CLIFFORD, CHARLES/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, Monday, May 16, 1932/Submitted by Myra Ann Best
Charles Clifford, 84, a retired stone
mason, died Sunday at 10:30 p.m., at his residence, 802 Danforth
street, following an illness of six months. His condition for the
past three weeks had been serious and his death not unexpected.
Clifford was born in England but had been a resident of Alton for 73
years. He had followed the trade of a stone mason until 12 years ago
when he retired. The death of his wife occurred in1921. Three
daughters, Mrs. Rose Thomas of Alton, Mrs. Lydia Murphy of Wood
River and Mrs. Carrie Hodge of Coured Lane [sic], Idaho, survive. He
also leaves 14 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and one
sister, Mrs. Joseph Rain of Alton. The funeral will be held
Wednesday at 2 p.m., with rites at the Streeper funeral home. The
Rev. J. G. Reynolds, pastor of the Elm Street Presbyterian Church,
will officiate. Burial will be in Godfrey cemetery. In the days when
the village of North Alton existed, Mr. Clifford was prominent in
affairs of the village and after the annexation of North Alton to
Alton he was an unsuccessful candidate for mayor of Alton, being
defeated by Edmond Beall.
CLIFFORD, JOHN B./Source: Alton Weekly Telegraph, July 30, 1874/Submitted by Myra Ann Best
CLIFFORD---At Buck Inn, (Greenwood),
Illinois, on the 26th inst., Mr. John B. Clifford, in the 31st year
of his age. He leaves a wife and two young children to mourn his
loss.*
CLIFFORD, THOMAS E./Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, September 11, 1893 After months of intense suffering, Mr. Thomas E. Clifford passed away at 4 o'clock Saturday afternoon. Death came to him suddenly, despite his long illness, as only a few moments before the end came, he was talking to some friends and had scarcely finished eating a peach when he gasped and died. He would be 39 years of age the 28th day of October, and besides his two half brothers, Messrs. J. G. and Emmet Melling, leaves numerous relatives in this city. The funeral took place this morning from the Cathedral, where a requiem high mass was celebrated, to Greenwood cemetery, and the obsequies were attended by a large number of his friends. The pallbearers were L. A. McGinnis, William Conian, William Batterton, Harry F_lloy, Frank Pieper and J. T. Callahan. ***************************************************
CLOUGH, JESSE T./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 31, 1921 Pioneer In Asparagus Business Dies Jesse T. Clough died Sunday night at the Clough homestead on Amelia street in Upper Alton after nearly twenty years suffering from rheumatism, which finally completely disabled him and then caused him to lose his eyesight completely. The death of Jesse Clough removes one of the old residents of Upper Alton. It is probable the largest part of the people in that section of the city never knew Mr. Clough because of the fact that he was confined to his home more than twenty years by total disability and never got out. Even many people who used to know him when he was able to be out at his work had not seen him in the past twenty or twenty-five years since he ceased to get about. He lived at the old homestead with his two sisters, neither of the three being married. Jess Clough was known many years ago in this locality as an asparagus raiser. He was the original big shipper of asparagus in this locality. He and Albert Draper engaged in the asparagus business jointly on the Draper farm on the east limits of Upper Alton, and they set a patch of forty acres to "grass." Mr. Clough had complete charge of the big asparagus farm, and during the long number of years that he operated it he employed thousands of workers - men and women - to cut, pack and ship the product. He continued at this work until about twenty-two years ago when he became disabled from rheumatism and never worked again. After he became disabled he was cared for by his two devoted sisters who have given their lives over to his care. The following was written by an Upper Alton minister concerning the life of Mr. Clough: Jesse T. Clough, son of Samuel and Lucy T. Clough, was born in Upper Alton, Ill., November 28, 1854, and was aged 66 years 6 months and 1 day. Mr. Clough's parents settled in this city in an early day, about 1837, where they resided all their life; they were among the well known people of this city for many years. Jesse Clough is also well known throughout this city. In his youthful years he was very industrious, trust-worthy, and loved by all who knew him. He met his affliction in the strong years of his manhood, which was about 18 or 20 years ago. He bore his affliction with an unusual amount of patience, often saying what is the use of fretting or worrying others, since it cannot be helped. His severest affliction came to him about six or eight years ago, when he lost his eyesight entirely. Up until this time, he was a great reader of the daily news, and current events, well posted on things of the country. Oftentimes his sisters, who were his never failing companions, would read to him and help him to occupy his mind, and thus the years have passed away. He possessed the spirit of patience, thankfulness and gratitude for all favors conferred upon him - one of his oft quoted phrases, "I thank you; I thank you." He is survived by two sisters, Miss Georgeana and Miss Diadema Clough. Volumes could be written with reference to their special and undivided and never failing attention to this, their beloved brother. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Cates, pastor of the Wesley Methodist Church, assisted by Rev. Morrison, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, at the residence, 2517 Amelia street, Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. Interment in Oakwood Cemetery. **************************************************
COLBERT, MINNIE C./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 12, 1921 Mrs. Minnie C. Colbert, aged 57 years, died this morning at eleven o'clock at the Nazareth home after suffering from a paralytic stroke. She is survived by her husband, George A., and two sons, Lolbert Colbert of Olinburg, and John W. of Grenada, Miss. The funeral arrangements have not been made as yet. ************************************************
COLLINS, D. D./Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, Wednesday, January 13, 1892 D. D. Collins, one of the early settlers of Collinsville, died Monday evening [Jan. 11] at 9 o'clock after an illness of three weeks. He was 77 years old. The funeral will take place Friday. *************************************************
COLLINS, FLORENCE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 13, 1919 Mrs. Florence Collins, wife of Claude Collins, died last night at their home, 612 Ridge street. She was 18 years old. She leaves her husband and an infant daughter, two weeks old. The funeral will be Saturday morning at 10 o'clock. ************************************************
COLLINS, JOHN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 23, 1921 John Collins, a negro, died yesterday at St. Joseph's Hospital of bullet wounds received in a quarrel with Harrison Beechem, also colored, at the plant of the Federal Lead Co. last Friday night. The two negroes engaged in an argument over a board bill, it was said, and Beechem fired several times at Collins, three of the bullets entering Collins' body. Beechem, who has been held under $5,000 bond to the grand jury on a charge of assault with attempt to kill, will be held without bail when the coroner's jury has held an inquest. He was held under bond pending the developments in Collins' condition. An inquest will be held by Deputy Coroner Streeper some time after Thanksgiving. Collins' body has been shipped to Collinsville. Collins in a dying statement, blamed Beechem for his plight, and asserted the only trouble the two men ever had was over the board bill, due to Beechem. ***********************************************
COLLMANN, HARM H./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 12, 1922 Harm H. Collmann, aged 72 years, died Wednesday evening at eleven o'clock at the family home near Bethalto, after an illness of one year, suffering from a tumor of the stomach. Mr. Collmann was born in Germany on April 19, 1850, during the year 1869 he came to Bethalto, where he made his home until his death. For the past fifteen years he has resided on the farm owned by Tom Belt. Last fall he purchased a farm. The deceased is survived by his wife, six sons, John of Dallas, Tex.; Herman of Pierre, South Dakota; George of Alton; and Heye, Edward and William of Bethalto. Two daughters, Mrs. George Deye and Miss Anna Deye of Bethalto. The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at one o'clock from the Lutheran church. Interment will be in the Dorsey Lutheran cemetery. ***************************************************
COMBRINK, HETTIE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 26, 1923 The death of Mrs. Hettie Combrink, wife of Rev. Charles E. Combrink, former pastor of the Twelfth Street Presbyterian church, was made known in a telegram received here this morning by Mrs. Gottlieb Warner. Her death occurred Wednesday at Brookston, Ind., to which place Rev. and Mrs. Combrink moved from Alton at the time they closed their service in the Twelfth street church. None of Mrs. Combrink's friends here knew that she was in a bad condition. They knew that for years she had been a sufferer from heart trouble, and had been in frail health, but a letter Mrs. Combrink had written recently to Mrs. F. C. Stowell made no mention of any unusual illness. She was an influential person in the Twelfth street church during the time of her stay here and she was a real help to her husband in discharging the duties of his pastorate. Among the people of the church she was generally beloved and there was sincere regret among all of them when news of her death came. She leaves besides her husband, a daughter, Miss Martha, who was at Brokston, and a son, Harry, at Carrollton, the former home of the Combrinks. The body will be taken to Carrollton, Ill., for burial, passing through Alton tomorrow morning at 9:45 o'clock. The family left Alton about two years ago after having resided here about seven years. ***********************************************
CONLAN, MRS. PETER/Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, February 28, 1893 The funeral services of Mrs. Peter Conlan of North Alton, took place this morning at the Cathedral and her remains were laid to rest in the St. Patrick cemetery. A large number of the friends and relatives of the deceased attended. *****************************************************
CONLEY, EDWARD/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 23, 1923 Edward Conley, who was stricken with paralysis Wednesday night just before midnight, died Thursday evening at 8 o'clock at his home, 1121 State street, without regaining consciousness. It is an interesting coincidence that he died from the same cause as his father, who died suddenly ten years ago at Excelsior Springs, Mo. Bursting of a blood vessel on the brain was the cause of death in both cases. From the time Mr. Conley was stricken, no hope of his recovery was held out to the family by the attending doctor. The previous attack he had three weeks before indicated a condition which forbade any thought of a rally on the part of Mr. Conley. His mother, Mrs. Margaret Conley, died in New York six months ago, she having been taken sick while there on a visit. Edward Conley was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., October 7, 1873, and was in his fiftieth year. He came to Alton when a very small child with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Conley, and he had made his home here ever since. Beside his wife, Mrs. Lottie H. Conley, he leaves one son, Nellis, and two brothers, Charles and William, both of Alton, and one sister, Miss Irene Conley also of Alton. Mr. Conley was a glassblower by trade and worked at that trade for a long time in the plant of the Illinois Glass Co. After the death of his father he, with his brother, Charles, fell heir to the business the father had conducted at Broadway and Piasa streets and he remained in charge of the business up to the night he was stricken with paralysis. He was a well known man about town, prominent in sporting circles and the news of his being taken suddenly ill and his impending death caused much interest in the city. He was a member of the Elks, Knights of Columbus and Eagles. The funeral will be held Saturday morning at 10:30 o'clock from SS. Peter and Paul's Cathedral where a requiem mass will be celebrated. Mr. Conley was a man who was always ready to help with his money in any cause that appealed for help. He asked few questions when he knew help was needed. He was public spirited and gave his support to all public enterprises. All he ever needed to be told when appealed to for financial aid was that it was a good cause and he was ready to do whatever share it was deemed was his. *****************************************************
COOLEY, JAMES ASHLEY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 12, 1899 Brick layer and builder of many Alton businesses James Ashley Cooley, one of the oldest residents of Alton, died at 8:45 o'clock Thursday night, aged 77 years, after a short illness. Although in feeble health consequent of his great age, he was able to be down town every day until last Saturday. On Friday afternoon he sprained his knee by a fall and he was compelled to remain at his home. On Wednesday he was taken with the grip, and his feeble constitution soon collapsed and he died Thursday night after only 36 hours illness. In the death of Mr. Cooley, there passes one of the most interesting characters in the history of Alton. He had lived in Alton for over half a century, having come here from New York at a time when Alton was in her infancy, and not even a shadow of her present importance. He was a bricklayer by trade and was for many years a leading contractor. Most of the large brick buildings in the business part of town were built by him and he often spoke of his connection with the early up-building of Alton. The first building erected by Mr. Cooley after coming to Alton is the one used by the Alton Savings Bank. It was built for the use of the Alton Bank, now the National Bank, and was and is a fine structure. He also erected the building in which the Telegraph is published. He was quite wealthy, and one of the influential citizens of Alton in his early days. Of late years, old age and weakness prevented him from following his accustomed pursuits, and he was obliged to content himself with sitting around and observing events as they took place with a younger generation actively engaged in his place. On the streets, he was a familiar figure, and his condition is well described -
During the war he filled the position of assistant provost marshal. For many years he was Judge of Election in the First Ward, and there he will be missed most. He leaves two daughters, Misses Emily and Alice Cooley, with whom he made his home on State street. Mr. Cooley was one of the most intelligent men in Alton, fully conversant on all current topics, whether social, political, financial or otherwise. Since the organization of the Republican party, he had been an earnest and effective member of it, always taking a leading position in its councils, until laid aside by the infirmities of age. The funeral will be Saturday, at 2 p.m., from the family home. ****************************************************
COOPER, CHARLES MORTON/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 4, 1921 Remains of Charles Cooper, Killed in France, Will be Interred on Tuesday in Moro The remains of another overseas soldier, Charles Morton Cooper, arrived in Moro Saturday night and the funeral is to be held on Tuesday. Cooper, the son of Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Cooper of Moro, was born March 24, 1894 at Moro, and spent his early life there, graduating from the public school and later enrolling at Bunker Hill military academy where he was a student for two years. Cooper entered the army service on February 23, 1918 at Alton, and on June 15, 1918 was made a corporal in Company K, 135th Infantry, 84th Division at Camp Taylor, Ky. He was transferred shortly thereafter to Camp Sherman, Ohio, and later to Camp Mills, N. Y., embarking for overseas on September 3, and was assigned as a replacement to Company K, 28th Infantry, First Division, going into action with that division. On October 15th, 1918, he met his death in action while making an advance with his company in the direction of Sedan. The body was interred in a military cemetery in France, and arrived at Hoboken, N. J., the early part of last week, reaching Moro Saturday. Cooper was well known in this vicinity, and was a member of Bethalto lodge 406, A. F. and A. M. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Cooper, one brother, August, and a sister, Miss Mararetin Cooper. Funeral services will take place at noon Tuesday from the home of the parents, while the Masonic fraternity will have charge of the services at Cooper Cemetery, which is in the front yard of their residence.
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 5, 1921 Impressive funeral services were carried out at noon today over the body of Charles Morton Cooper, who died in France and whose body was returned to Moro Saturday night for final interment in the Cooper cemetery at that place. The Masonic order of which deceased soldier was a member had full charge of the funeral services at the cemetery. Services were conducted at the Cooper home in Moro, with Rev. Meuhlinghaus of the Evangelical church officiating. Rev. Cates of the Upper Alton Methodist church also participated in the services. A number of relatives of the deceased from this city attended the funeral. They were: Mr. and Mrs. A. Mohr and son, Joe, and daughter, Miss Charlotte; Mrs. Jack Hickey and daughter Betty; Mrs. R. G. Huskinson; Mrs. Margaret Unterbrink; Miss Edith Faulstich; Mrs. J. E. Schullenberg; Mr. and Mrs. John Dietchey; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Unterbrin; Mrs. Henry Unterbrink; and Misses Florence and Amelia Kuhn ****************************************************
COOPER, FRANK/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 21, 1920 The funeral of Frank Cooper, who died from a complication of diseases Monday morning at his home two miles north of Bethalto, in Foster township, will be held Thursday morning at 9 o'clock from his late home and burial will be in Zimmerman cemetery. Mr. Cooper was a thrifty farmer, had a good farm, and had accumulated considerable wealth. He had never married. In the past ten years he had his sister, Mrs. Frances Piggott, as his housekeeper. He was a breeder of good livestock, especially draft horses. ***************************************************
COOPER, LEONARD P./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 14, 1921 East Alton Postmaster Fall Out of Car - Killed [This obit was extremely hard to read - some is missing] On the eve of his 50th birthday, Postmaster Leonard P. Cooper of East Alton was fatally hurt Sunday evening by falling from the running board of his automobile, six miles north of Granite City, and striking his head against the curbing, fracturing his skull. He died before he could be carried to Granite City. The accident was the tragic close of what had been a very happy day for the Cooper family. They had gone to St. Louis to be the guests of Mrs. _____ sister, Mrs. Lottie Fields, ______ were returning home. In the car were Mr. and Mrs. L. P. Cooper, H. Cooper, and Mr. and Mrs. Clifford ______. The ______ was in the back, and thinking that a rear tire was flat he opened the car door and stepped out on the running board to look and ascertain whether or not the tire had gone flat. In doing so, a ____ of the car caused him to lose his grip as the car was running 25 miles an hour, and he was hurled headlong into the curbing. The driver of the car did not know Mr. Cooper was going to step on the running board and did not check the speed of the car. Mr. Cooper was knocked unconscious by the fall. He was picked up, put back in his own car and a flying trip was made to St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Granite City, where he was dead before he reached it. Mr. Cooper was a member of an old Madison County family. His mother was born in the county, as was his father. He had lived in the county almost all of his life. He was married at Hannibal, Mo., to Miss ____ Brown, and spent about two _____ there, about twenty-five years ____moving to East Alton. Had he lived another day, he would have been ____ years of age. He was a Democrat all his life and eight years ago he was appointed postmaster at East Alton, a position he held up to the time of his death. He was very prominent in Wood River township. His father was Joseph Cooper, who died a ____ of years ago. He leaves his _____, Mrs. Mart Surratt of Han____, one sister, Mrs. Della Drum____, and one brother, Wilbur Cooper, in addition to his widow, Mrs. Ala___ Cooper, and two sons, Homer and Clifford. Mr. Cooper was a member of the Knghts of Pythias, holding membership in Alton. The duties of postmaster were taken over this morning by Mr. Cooper's ____, Miss Maude Apple, until ____ hear from Washington. The ____ of Mr. Cooper will administer ___ office until a successor can be found. *****************************************************
COOPER, S. G./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 19, 1921 Former Justice of the Peace in East Alton - Lifelong Resident of Madison County Dies S. G. Cooper, for many years a well known resident of East Alton, died Monday night at 9 o'clock in St. Joseph's hospital after an illness of three years. Death was from a general breakdown due to old age. He was 73 years old. Mr. Cooper was born and reared in Madison County and spent all of his life here. He came of a family of pioneer settlers. In the Civil War days he enlisted as a private in Co. D., 10th Illinois Cavalry at Alton, serving for three years. Fifty years ago last December Mr. Cooper was married to Miss Laura Clark, who survives him, but is in poor health herself. She also was reared in Madison County. Four children are living, Mrs. Jessie Howard of Bonners Ferry, Idaho; Mrs. Blanche Hamilton of Atlanta, Ill.; Roland Cooper of Baxter Springs, Kan.; and Mrs. Edna Hale of East Alton. He leaves one sister, Mrs. John Jones of Los Angeles, Calif. All the children are here except the Mrs. Howard and her arrival from her Idaho home is being awaited. Mr. Cooper served for many years as a dispenser of justice in East Alton, being re-elected time after time as Justice of the Peace. He also was in the insurance business. He retired about ten years ago on account of failing health. He spent last winter with his son in Kansas, and intended to spend the summer in East Alton. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home of the deceased daughter, Mrs. L. H. Hale, with Rev. Marsh of Upper Alton officiating. Interment will be in the Montgomery Cemetery. The Montgomery Cemetery is located eight miles east of here. ****************************************************
COPLYE, LUCY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 20, 1919 The funeral of Mrs. Lucy Copley was held this afternoon from the home of her son, J. W. Copley, one half mile south of Godfrey. The service was conducted at 2 o'clock by Rev. F. N. Brown of the Godfrey Congregational church, and was attended by many friends of the aged woman. Interment was in Godfrey cemetery. A lover of flowers all her life, Mrs. Copley's friends saw to it that her burial was accompanied by many beautiful tokens of love by sending handsome floral offerings. Mrs. Copley was the widow of John S. Copley, and died Saturday night at 9:30 o'clock from pneumonia. Her great age prevented her recovery when once she became a victim of the disease. Mrs. Copley was a very interesting character, possessed a lovely disposition and led a christian life. She was a member of the Godfrey Congregational church. She was very fond of flowers, and her yard contained many handsome plants of flowers which were greatly admired by passersby and visitors to the Copley home. Mrs. Copley is survived by three sons, J. W. Copley of Godfrey, Elmer of Webster Groves, W. B. of Alton; also by two daughters, Mrs. Edith Stiritz of California and Mrs. Olive Pine of Oklahoma. Mrs. Copley was born on Feb. 12, 1837, being at the time of her death, 82 years, at Vergrune, Ill. She was married in 1858, her husband dying in 1908. She spent the greater part of her life at Godfrey, and was interested in all that went on about her. She was an active member of the Guild of the Congregational church. ************************************************
COPLEY, LYNNHURST B./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 11, 1920 Lynnhurst B. Copley, second son of Mr. and Mrs. James Copley, died yesterday at the family home in Godfrey, following an illness of influenza and pneumonia. Copley was taken ill a week ago last Saturday. He was 19 years of age. Copley was born October 11, 1901, at Godfrey, and was raised in the town of his birth. He was a popular and well liked young man, and his death is the cause of great sorrow to a large circle of friends. Besides his parents, he is survived by two brothers and two sisters. The sisters are Mrs. Althea Goodyear of Indianapolis; and Mrs. Lucema March of Louisville, Ky.; and the brothers are Chester and Deane. The funeral services will be held at the Godfrey Cemetery at 2 o'clock on Thursday. Rev. John Green of the Godfrey Congregational Church will officiate. Interment will be in Godfrey cemetery. Friends from Alton can go out to Godfrey on the 1 o'clock train, and will be taken to the cemetery. **************************************************
CORBETT, DR. CLARENCE C./Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, September 26, 1932/Submitted by Jane Denny
Edwardsville mourns the passing of a
valued citizen in the death Saturday of Dr. C.C. Corbett. Ever quiet
and unpretentious, he was actively connected with man of the
important civic movements undertaken during the half century he
practice his profession here. His interest in his profession
inevitable resulted in active membership in the county and state
dental associations. He served a term as president of the state
association. Aside from his profession and his family, his church
and his lodge received much attention. Dr. Corbett loved his
family and his home. They always held first place in his affections.
Nevertheless he found time, through the years, quietly to undertake
the accomplishment of much good in the community.
CORDELIA, SISTER M./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 12, 1921 Sister M. Cordelia, aged 33, died last evening at 7:30 o'clock at St. Joseph's Hospital a short time after the young Religious had undergone an operation. Sister Cordelia's condition was known to be serious and her death was not unexpected. For eleven years Sister Cordelia has been a member of the Most Precious Blood Order, and for eight years had been connected with the Catholic Orphanage on Prospect street. She was well known among the friends of the Orphanage, and her death has caused much sorrow among the little ones of the institution and their benefactors. The funeral will be held Wednesday morning from SS. Peter and Paul's Cathedral, and later the body will be taken to the mother house of the Order at Ruma, near East St. Louis, Ill., for burial. ************************************************
CORNELIA, JACK/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, October 27, 1923 Jack Cornelia, aged 46, died last night at his home 312 Cherry street after a long illness. Three years ago his wife died, leaving him four children, who are now without a father or mother. The funeral will be held tomorrow afternoon at one o'clock from St. Mary's church and burial will be in St. Joseph's cemetery. ************************************************
COSSABOON, MATHILDA I./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 15, 1920 The funeral of Mrs. Mathilda I. Cossaboon will be held Thursday at 2 o'clock from the Grace Methodist Church. Rev. David Wahl, the pastor, will officiate. Interment will be in the Upper Alton Cemetery. ***********************************************
COURTNEY, CATHERINE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 29, 1920 Mrs. Catherine Courtney, widow of Daniel Courtney, died last night at the family home on Langdon street, after an illness of influenza and pneumonia. She was 64 years of age. For many years the family resided on East Broadway. Mrs. Courtney was the mother of six children, Miss Mary Courtney; Owens Courtney; Mrs. Annie Richey; Edward Courtney; Margaret Wright and Dan Courtney. She also leaves four grandchildren and one brother, Owen O'Malley of Bingham, Ill. The funeral will be held Friday morning at 11 o'clock from the home, and will be private. Interment will be in Greenwood cemetery. ************************************************
COUSINS, JOHN F./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 4, 1922 Soldier, Shell Shock Victim, Takes His Life ... Jumps Into Cistern ... Gassed While in France Despondent because of physical disability brought about by injuries he received while fighting with the American Army in France during the Great War, John F. Cousins, 34, yesterday ended his life by jumping into a cistern at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Cousins, four miles north of Upper Alton. Mrs. Cousins was doing the family washing on the back porch of the home. The former soldier was standing near the cistern. While his mother was in the house for clothes, Cousins jumped into the cistern. When Mrs. Cousins again came to the porch, she noticed her son was not there. Seeing the lid of the cistern open, she immediately looked there, and saw her son as he rose to the surface of the water in the cistern. She retained her presence of mind and threw him a rope, but he refused to grab it, and sunk to his death. The former soldier had been melancholy for the past two weeks, it was said. While in the service he was gassed, and was a victim of shell-shock. He had been drawing total disability compensation. It was said the effect of the shell-shock left him slightly unbalanced. It was said he was the victim of frequent attacks of melancholy. During the war, Cousins was first a member of Co. C, of the 333rd infantry, with which regiment he trained at Camp Taylor. He was later transferred to the 129th Infantry, Co. C, with which he fought in France. His record as a soldier, friends say, was a notable one. He will be buried Thursday at 1 p.m. Pallbearers will be former servicemen who were in his regiment. They are Dr. O. A. Meyer, William Graul, Oscar Schlissner, Herman Bockstrup, Edward Hermes and William Hermes. They will wear uniforms. Alton Post of the American Legion voted last night to send a firing squad to the funeral. Cousins is survived by his parents and three sisters, one of whom lives at home, one in Marissa and one in East St. Louis. ******************************************************
COUSINS, MAMIE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 20, 1922 Mrs. Mamie Cousins, wife of George Cousins of 1112 Central Avenue, died last Saturday in St. Louis following an operation which she underwent on Friday. The news of the death came as a surprise to friends, many of whom did not know that Mrs. Cousins had been operated upon. She was 35 years of age. Her maiden name was Mamie Quinn, daughter of Mrs. Mary E. Quinn of St. Louis. Mrs. Cousin is survived by her husband, one child, Helen Cousin, her mother, five sisters, Mrs. M. Green, Mrs. William Bentz, James and Leo, Mrs. P. Monaghan, Mrs. Frank Monaghan, Ann Quinn. With the exception of Mrs. Monaghan, all of the brothers and sisters reside in St. Louis. The body was brought to Alton yesterday and taken to the Monaghan home at 1518 east Fourth Street. The funeral will be held from the Monaghan home to St. Patrick's church Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock. ***********************************************
COUSLEY, ALEX F./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 5, 1923 City Comptroller and Secretary of Retail Merchants Association Alex F. Cousley, in his forty-ninth year, died this morning at 1:25 o'clock at his home, 608 East Sixteenth street. His death followed an apoplectic attack which resulted in complete paralysis of his right side, and which rendered him speechless. Conscious until within a few hours of the end, Mr. Cousley was able to recognize those who came around him, and from the first seemed perfectly conscious that his end was near. It had been a matter of knowledge to him for some time that his life was likely to be terminated in just the manner it was, and those who were with him since he was stricken believe that he knew fully that it was the close of his life that was at hand, and there would be no chance of his rallying. Mr. Cousley was born and spent all of his life in Alton. He had been active in business circles in Alton. For about twenty-five years he conducted a grocery store at Sixth and Alby streets and he erected the handsome store building that now stands there. He headed the Alton Retail Merchants for a while and at the time of his death he was the secretary of that association. He was city comptroller under Mayor William M. Sauvage for fourteen months and he was appointed comptroller by Mayor Elble on taking office recently. For four terms he represented the present sixth ward in the city council, returning voluntarily from the city council after faithful service to his ward. Many acts of constructive legislation in the city council were promoted in his mind. It was he who first attempted to get women named as election officers in Alton, and when his slate of nominees was rejected by the council, he refused to name others in place of the women who had been refused confirmation as election officers. He served under three mayors in the council, Mayor Faulstich, Mayor Beall and Mayor Sauvage, and by all of them he was honored. The death of Mr. Cousley caused no surprise but the news that went but last Saturday that he had been prostrated by an apoplectic attack caused a general shock to the community. He was one of the best known men in Alton. About twenty-five years ago he was working on the Telegraph as a compositor when he gave up that work to take charge of a grocery store he had taken over at Sixth and Alby streets. He built up the business of that store until he was known to have one of the best retail grocery trades in Alton. He was persuaded to become a candidate for member of the city council and was elected to that position in 1910. He retired from the city council five years ago after filling important positions in that body. He was chairman of the finance committee of the council for a while, and took an active part in all city affairs during his term of office. He was highly esteemed by those with whom he served and his judgment on matters pertaining to city business was regarded as being of a very valuable kind. After Mr. Cousley had retired from the city council and had also retired from the retail grocery business, he was surprised one day to be tendered the office of city comptroller by Mayor Sauvage, who was looking for a man to fill the position made vacant by W. E. Bissinger. Mr. Cousley took the place and it is the opinion of Ex-Mayor Sauvage that through the efforts of Mr. Cousley the city was saved much money from time to time, and that he made a most competent, conscientious city official. When Mayor Elble was elected, he voluntarily tendered the office of city comptroller to Mr. Cousley and urged him to take it, and, though Mr. Cousley hesitated on account of his bad state of health, he finally took the place. He had previously taken over the position of Retail Merchants Association secretary. He found the affairs of the association in a chaotic condition and he made quick work of restoring order and establishing the association on a basis that had long been the aim and aspiration of the leaders in that organization. At the time he was disabled, the association's affairs were in fine condition and it had become an effective body in Alton, working in the interests of the merchants. He was efficiency of the highest degree in anything he undertook. His word was regarded as being ample assurance to anyone that a promise would be kept. In business he was scrupulously honored. He was self sacrificing when it came to doing a public duty. When the war came on he, like other grocers, found difficulty in transacting business because of regulations it was a hard task under which he labored and it was similar tasks which drove many others out of the grocery business in Alton, worn out. But Mr. Coulsey also shouldered the duties of looking after food administration work in Alton. That, added to his other duties in trying to manage his successful business under trying, anxious conditions, was blamed in part for his break down in the first place. It was too much work that undermined his health, and as his close intimates said, he was one of the victims of the war, though his name is not on the military roll. In thought and action, he was always clean. Where civil decency was concerned, he was always identified with its cause. In public spirit, Mr. Cousley was always lined up with the leaders in that line of thought. He was progressive, enterprising, ambitious for his home town. It was his ambition to build the finest grocery store in Alton, and he always proudly claimed that he had done it, and it will stand as a monument to his enterprise. He was a member of the First Presbyterian church from boyhood, and was deeply interested in church work. In the past few years he had served as secretary of the men's organization in the church known as group leaders and worked most efficiently there, looking after detail work it is hard to find people to do. He was a conscientious Christian, one whose departure leaves no blemish on a record that was made entirely in a community where he was born and reared. He was devoted to his family, and one of the greatest joys of his withdrawal from the city council was that he would be able to give more time to his family and his home. Mr. Cousley is survived by his wife and one son, Richard, and by one sister, Mrs. W. G. Edgar of Eldorado, Ark., who attended him in his dying condition, and three brothers, Paul B. of Alton, John A. of St. Louis, and Thomas G. of Pasadena, Cal. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock from the home, 608 East Sixteenth street. Internment will be in the City cemetery. ********************************************************
COUSLEY, JAMES/Source: Alton Telegraph, May 9, 1873 Died, James Cousley, second son of Ellen A. and James Cousley, on May 5, 1873, 11 o'clock, Alton. He was 11 years and 5 months old. ****************************************************
COVENTRY, JOHN W./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 18, 1899 John W. Coventry, one of the oldest residents of Madison county, died at his home in Edwardsville at 5 o'clock Friday evening, aged 90 years. The funeral will take place Sunday afternoon from St. John's M. E. church. Mr. Coventry was a puzzle to the doctors on account of his wonderful vitality. For two weeks previous to his death he lived absolutely without food, taking only a sip of water occasionally. He leaves two children, Sarah, and George W. Coventry, deputy county clerk. ***************************************************
COX, HENRIETTA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 10, 1920 The death of Henrietta Cox occurred last night at the family home on Main street. Mrs. Cox was 77 years of age. She is survived by her husband, J. M. Cox. The body was shipped to Washington, Kan., this afternoon. The time of the funeral has not been set. *************************************************
CRAFTON, ADA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 13, 1920 Miss Ada Crafton, aged 15 years, died this morning at twenty minutes to eleven at St. Joseph's Hospital, where she underwent an operation for the relief of appendicitis a week ago last Wednesday. Her death was not unexpected, as she has been very ill since she was operated upon. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Crafton of 1109 State street. She was 15 years of age on the 24th of May. Her parents, three sisters, Miss Nellie Crafton of Alton; Mrs. Margaret Davis of Hot Springs, Ark.; and Mrs. Ida Park of St. Louis; also three brothers, Aubrey of St. Louis; James and Howard of Alton, survive. The family has resided in Alton for four years, coming here from Carrollton. The many friends sympathize with them in their bereavement. No funeral arrangements have been made, awaiting the arrival of a brother-in-law of the deceased from Hot Springs. **********************************************
CRAFTON, JAMES L./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 25, 1922 Traffic Policeman Dies Suddenly in Alton Home James L. Crafton, traffic policeman at Broadway and Piasa streets, died unexpectedly this morning at his home, 1109 State street, from heart trouble. He was 69 years of age. Mr. Crafton was taken suddenly ill last Friday. He had been in a state of health that had given him no cause for anxiety, and those of his family believed that he was a perfectly well man. Last Friday evening he was stricken in his home with a fainting spell and from that time he had been unable to leave the house. He was much better yesterday and was up and around the place, rendering little services to his wife, and there was no thought he would die so soon. Last night he became worse and did not rally, and the end came this morning at 5:40 o'clock. Mr. Crafton came here from Carrolton five years ago. He had spent all of his life there. He was a member of the Carrolton Methodist church. He was appointed during last year as a member of the traffic police squad and he served at Broadway and Piasa streets. He had been off that post of duty for a while at the time he was taken sick. A few days ago when he was to have been the city's main witness in a case in the City court, in a charge of violating traffic rules, the court was told that Mr. Crafton was too sick to undergo the excitement of being on the witness stand and the case was therefore continued until Mr. Crafton would be better. Besides his wife, Mr. Crafton leaves three sons, Aubrey of St. Louis; James of East Alton and Howard of Alton; also three daughters, Miss Nellie, teacher at Milton schools; Mrs. D. M. Davis of Hot Springs, Ark., and Mrs. Fred Parks of Alton. The setting of the time for the funeral was deferred until all the absent children could be heard from. Crafton was born in Franklin, Ky., but has been a resident of Illinois for a number of years. Besides his immediate family, Crafton is survived by two brothers, Neil of Springfield, Ill., and George of Franklin, Ky., and a sister, Mrs. Sallie Brooks of Portland, Tenn. Two years ago a daughter, Ada, died at the age of 16 years. *************************************************
CRAIG, MARY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 31, 1921 Three Die Enroute to Hospital While enroute to St. Elizabeth's Hospital to attend her daughter, who was to undergo an operation for appendicitis, Mrs. Mary Keaton, 28, wife of Martin Keaton, 2214 Bryan Avenue, Granite City, with Mrs. Mary Craig, 45, wife of Clement Craig, 2223 Missouri Avenue, Granite City, was instantly killed when the Craig automobile was struck by the Wabash fast passenger train at Granite City at 7 o'clock today. William Bausman, a son of Mrs. Craig by a former marriage, who was injured, died an hour later in St. Elizabeth's Hospital. Mrs. Keaton's daughter was on the operating table and the anesthetic was about to be administered, when her mother was killed. The operation was postponed. The daughter has not been told of her mother's tragic death. The bodies of the three dead have been taken in charge by Coroner Edward Mercer, who will conduct an inquest. The automobile was driven by Mrs. Craig. Information at the office of the coroner was that the automobile was going at a moderate rate of speed. Just as it reached the tracks, it was said, Mrs. Craig saw the speeding train and made an effort to throw the engine into reverse. This action failed to get the machine off the track and the speeding train crashed into it. The two women were instantly killed. The boy was rushed to the hospital, and every effort made to save his life, but failed. Clement Craig, husband of the woman driving the automobile, is mess sergeant at Jefferson Barracks. Keaton is a craneman at the Commonwealth Steel Co. At almost the same instant that the fatal accident at Granite City occurred, a Wabash train crashed into the rear end of a Chicago and Alton passenger train at Madison. The last coach of the Alton train was thrown from the tracks when the rails spread, and demolished. No one was in the rear car when the Wabash train crashed into it. Presence in the car would probably have meant certain death. *************************************************
CRANE, GEORGE B./Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, June 12, 1913/Submitted by Jane Denny George W. Meyer received a telegram this morning at 5 o'clock telling of the death of George B. Crane a former resident and business man of this city, at his home in Chicago last night at 11 o'clock. No particulars of death were given but as he had been sick from some time, it is generally understood that death was due to a complication of ailments resulting from old age. Mr. Crane was born in Senca [sic] county, New York in 1832 and spent the first 16 years of his life on a farm there. In April 1854 he came to Madison county and settled in Edwardsville and in connection with his father-in-law, A. O. French, opened a store on the site of the present Model store building, covering the same territory that is occupied by the present building. At that time the building on the corner of Main and Purcell streets which is being razed at present, had not been built. He continued in business here in partnership until the year 1882 when he purchased his father-in-law's share of the stock and managed the store alone, until July, 1891, when he sold out to the Edwardsville Dry Goods Company, and removed from this city to California. Returning several years later he built a beautiful home on St. Louis street, and resided there for a few years before he removed to Chicago. Mr. Crane was first married on August 1, 1863 to Miss Isabel O. French. As result of this union three children were born, Edward Ottis, George B. Jrn., and Charles A. The former have both died and Charles … practices in Canton, Ohio. Mrs. Crane died in December 1901. Mr. Crane was married the second time to Mrs. Hugh Bayle, also a former resident of this city, and since that marriage about eleven years ago, they have been making their home in Chicago. Besides his wife and son, one grand daughter survives. Miss Isabel Crane, a daughter of Edward Crane, who is now in California, [survives] where she has expressed her decision to enter a convent. No definite funeral arrangements have been made as yet, but it is understood the body will be shipped here for burial toward the end of the week.
Edwardsville Intelligencer, June 1913
The church remained open until 1 o'clock
when the services took place. The body was accompanied to
Edwardsville by the widow, and the only surviving son, Dr. Charles
A. Crane, of Canton, Ohio. The pall bears were selected by Geo. W.
Meyer of this city a life long friend of Mr. Crane and were composed
entire of old friends of Mr. Crane. They were Judge B. R. Burroughs,
Henry C. Barnsback, A. L. Brown, B. H. Richards, O. D. Finch and W.
D. Harniat. The cortege left the church at 2:30 and services at the
cemetery were conducted at 3 o'clock. Dr. Charles A. Crane returned
on Saturday evening to his home in Canton, Ohio, where he has a
large practice. Mrs. Crane was entertained during her stay here by
Mrs. C. N. Travous but she left for her home in Chicago Sunday
afternoon where she will make her home in the future as in the past.
CRAWFORD, ALEXANDER W./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 1, 1921 Killed Instantly by Train Don A. Barrus, aged 45, of Alton, and Alexander W. Crawford, aged 60, of Hillsboro, were instantly killed this morning at 9:30 o'clock by a Chicago and Alton train, No. 32, on the crossing at Wood River. The Chandler Dispatch car in which they were riding was demolished. The body of Don Barrus was underneath the wrecked engine of the car, and that of A. W. Crawford was carried up the track about 150 feet and dropped. Evidently he was caught in the smashed top of the car, which was dropped by the engine a short distance from where the body of Mr. Crawford lay. A car driven by John J. Brenholt Jr. just missed being struck by the engine. Mr. Brenholt got over just in time, the engine missing him by a few inches, while the car in which Barrus and Crawford were riding was a few feet behind and ran on directly in front of the train, which was traveling at a high speed. According to the engineer on the train that struck the Crawford automobile, his train stopped in 150 feet beyond the crossing, but this statement is disputed by men who witnessed the accident and who say that the train ran more than 1,000 feet. The trainmen said that the Illinois Terminal railroad crossing was blocked by a freight train and before the crossing was cleared, a string of six or seven automobiles had lined up. When the Illinois Terminal crossing was cleared, the automobiles, led by the car driven by J. J. Brenholt Jr., moved forward. Only a few feet space separated the two tracks at that place and there was very little room for any observations to be made down the C. & A. track. Evidently no one heard the approaching C. & A. train. The engineer said that the car driven by Mr. Brenholt barely got over the track when the train reached the crossing and that the Crawford car following close behind was struck squarely by the train. The impact buried the automobile into the air and the engine dragged the shattered care about 150 feet. The only part left intact was the tires of the automobile. Mr. Barrus was pinned down by the smashed engine which had been stripped from the rest of the car. Mr. Crawford was carried up the track in the winter top that had enclosed the car. According to men at the Don A. Barrus garage, Mr. Barrus had sold three Packard cars and was going to St. Louis to get two of them for delivery. He found opportunity to make the trip with Mr. Crawford, an old friend, and the two started off from the Mineral Springs Hotel about 9 o'clock. The accident, destroying the lives of two men so well known as Mr. Crawford and Mr. Barrus, produced a great shock to the community. Mr. Crawford was born in Godfrey and had lived there much of his life, and he was widely known. He had served as a member of the Illinois State Board of Equalization and four years ago he was a candidate of the Democratic ticket for the office of Clerk of the Supreme Court, but was defeated. Last November he was an unsuccessful candidate for State Senator in the Macoupin County district, going down in the Republican landslide. For a number of years he had been interested in the purchase of coal rights in Macoupin County and had done much to get together large tracts of land which were sold to mining concerns. He had a prominent part in developing the coal business of Macoupin and Montgomery counties. He was twice married, his second wife surviving him. He leaves six children, Mrs. L. H. Maxfield, Miss Alice of Carlinville, and William of Delhi,, La., Jack, Sue and Elizabeth of Hillsboro. He leaves also one sister, Miss Jennie Crawford, and three brothers, William and Thomas Crawford and John Tolman. Mr. Crawford had spent the night at the home of his daughter, Mrs. L. H. Maxfield. Don A. Barrus had been a resident of Alton since he came here a number of years ago with the late B. L. Dorsey. He served as Mr. Dorsey's business manager for a long period. In recent years he had taken an interest in real estate and it was he who put over a big deal for the sale of a tract of land to the Empire Oil and Gas Co., and he had a prominent part in some other realty transactions here. When the Illinois Terminal remodeled the building at Front and Alby streets, Mr. Barrus took the first floor as a garage and salesroom, and there he was conducting a very prosperous business. His death came at a time when he had been making some good sales of cars. He had disposed of nine others in the past month. Following news of the accident, _____ of parties started out to Wood River to view the scene and look at the wrecked car. The trainmen had the bodies of the two men lifted to one side of the track and Deputy Coroner Streeper was notified to get them. They were later conveyed to the Streeper morgue in Upper Alton. The two victims of the accident were two of the best known men in this vicinity. Both of them were very popular socially and were prominent in business. While Mr. Crawford had not lived here for a long time, he was in and out of Alton frequently visiting his relatives at Godfrey and seeing some of his business associates. It is related that when he was on the State Board of Equalization, he gave quite as much attention to serving people from his old home district as he gave to those from the district he was representing. He was highly esteemed by all who knew him. Mr. Barrus shared in public esteem with Mr. Crawford. He always had a smile for everyone, and it was said by his friends that he was a man whose friendship was to be valued highly. In the car with John J. Brenholt was his sister, Mrs. Edith Jones and Mrs. Anton Reck. After they passed the crossing safely, they looked back and just as they did they saw the Crawford automobile hurled into the air. They immediately telephoned to Alton to give notice of their safety. Reports that they did not know of the accident were denied by Col. J. J. Brenholt, who said that he had a telephone message from members of his family immediately afterward. The railroad men declared that the crossing watchman was signaling to the automobilists to call attention to their danger. People at the crossing said that there was no signal given to the automobile drivers and that the train was running at a speed of about 50 miles an hour. No arrangements had been made this afternoon about the funeral of Mr. Crawford. Immediately upon the death of Don Barrus and his friend, Zan Crawford, this morning, a meeting was called of several of the most intimate friends and business associates of Barrus at the Elks club, and arrangements were made to take charge of the remains and await word from the family. A telegram was sent at once to the brother of Barrus, Ralph Barrus at Richfield Springs, New York, telling of the accident, how it occurred and of Barrus's death. Barrus has two brothers and two sisters who reside in Richfield Springs, N. Y. or near vicinity. After the inquest and the embalming of the body, the Elks will take charge of the remains and follow the instructions of the family. ****************************************************
CRAWFORD, CLARA MAY (nee MERITT)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 5, 1922 Mrs. Clara May Crawford, wife of Frank A. Crawford, died Saturday at Hop Hollow [Alton]. It was the verdict of the coroner's jury which conducted an inquest that death was due to heart trouble. She was 20 years old. She is survived by her husband, one child, 11 months old, parents, Mr. and Mrs. John G. Meritt, and a brother and one sister. Funeral services were conducted at 4 p.m. at the Bauer undertaking parlors today, by the Rev. C. D. Shumard, pastor of the First Methodist Church. ***************************************************
CRAWFORD, HARRY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 1, 1923 Harry Crawford, aged 41, a native of East Alton, died last night at his home on Shamrock street, East Alton, following an illness of 14 months with complication of diseases. For the past two weeks the sick man was bed fast and his death was not unexpected. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Helen Buffe Crawford, to whom he was married five years ago. The couple had one child, who died in infancy three years ago. Crawford was the son of Mrs. Margaret Crawford of Herman street, and the son of the late John Crawford. Besides his wife and mother, Crawford is survived by one brother, George, and three sisters, Mrs. Henry Krueger, Miss Fannie Crawford and Miss Mary Crawford, all of East Alton. For many years Crawford conducted a barber shop in East Alton, but sold out a couple of years ago and went to Wood River where he was conducting a similar establishment at the time of his death. He was a popular and likeable young man. He was a member of the East Alton Baptist church and of the Junior Order of the United American Mechanics. He was also a member of the Loyal Order of Moose of Wood River. Funeral services will be held from the First Baptist church Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev. W. MacIntosh will officiate and interment will be in Oakwood cemetery. ***************************************************
CRAWFORD, HAZEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 17, 1920 Miss Hazel Crawford, 14 years old, died this morning at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Crawford, 824 Logan street, two weeks after the death of her sister, Mrs. Vernon Ballard, who succumbed to influenza. The Crawford family has had far more than its share of misfortune. When Mrs. Ballard died, two weeks ago, Mrs. Crawford, her mother, was unable to attend the funeral because of the illness of Hazel. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford have lost two daughters in two weeks and a third is now very ill. Mrs. Charles Dickerson of Carrollton, is ill at her home and will be unable to attend the funeral of her sister. Miss Hazel Crawford is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Crawford; three sisters, Mrs. George Frenz, Miss Irene Crawford of Alton, and Mrs. Dickerson; three brothers, John, Walter and Robert Crawford, of Alton, and her grandmother, Mrs. Jane Crawford of Kane, Ill. Miss Crawford has been ill for some time. Notwithstanding her illness she remained cheerful and ever willing to please and help those about her. Her death causes general sorrow among all who knew her. She was a member of the First Methodist Church. The funeral will be tomorrow morning. After short services at the home on Logan street, which will be conducted by the Rev. Robert Morris, pastor of the First Methodist Church. The body will be taken to Kane. Interment will be in Kane Cemetery. ***********************************************
CRAWFORD, JANET/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 3, 1923 Miss Janet Crawford, member of an old time Alton family, passed away this morning at her home, 12? East Fifth street, in Alton, after an illness of about six weeks with the grippe. She was 54 years of age. The death of Miss Crawford was a surprise to most of her friends who did not know that she was in such a bad way. She had been sick last summer and underwent a surgical operation. She was not fully possessed of her normal strength when she began to be afflicted by an attack of the grippe and this proved fatal. The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the home and services will be conducted there by Rev. Edward L. Gibson. Interment will be in City cemetery. Miss Crawford was for many years a consistent member and a faithful worker in the First Presbyterian church. She came from a family that had long maintained connections with that church and she early established a connection there. She was for many years a teacher in the Sunday School, and of late years had served as a substitute teacher when her health forbade her taking responsibility for a class regularly. The family originally lived in the immediate vicinity where Miss Crawford died, but many years ago moved to the North Side where they stayed until recent years. Miss Crawford, with her brother, William, came back to the old home place and there they were living when Miss Crawford was stricken with her last illness. She formerly was very active in the Elm Street Presbyterian mission, now the Elm Street church. Kindness and thoughtfulness characterized Miss Crawford. Her brother, for whom she kept house, said that it was her one dominant trait that she was always thinking of what she could do for someone else and that controlled her up to the very close of her life. *****************************************************
CRAWFORD, MARY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 22, 1922 Mrs. Mary Crawford, aged 73, widow of George Crawford, who died a quarter of a century ago, passes away at 6:30 o'clock this morning at her home in East Alton. She was a native of Madison county, being before her marriage Mary J. Pigue. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford farmed land near the present site of the Alton State Hospital for many years, but after her husband's death Mrs. Crawford sold out, the widow moving to East Alton. She was a member of the Baptist church and took an active interest in church work, being a kindly, good Christian woman. She is survived by five children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. The children are Jesse, George, Peter Crawford, and Mrs. John Farris of East Alton, and Mrs. George Henderson of DeWitt, Mo. She also leaves a sister, Mrs. Lizzie Philbrick. No funeral arrangements have been completed, awaiting the arrival of relatives from distant points. *******************************************************
CREMEN, PATRICK/Source: Alton Telegraph, November 21, 1912 Patrick Cremen, aged 72, died Wednesday morning at his home, 450 east Second street, after being ill for nearly two years. Mr. Cremen fell at his home one year ago last summer and tumbled down a flight of stairs, sustaining injuries from which he never recovered. His condition had been very bad some time and his death had been expected for a week. Mr. Cremen was a native of the county of Cork, Ireland. He had lived in Alton 30 years. He leaves six children, Mrs. Harry Jenkins, Mrs. Ross Jenkins, Miss Maggie Cremen, William, Edward and Leon Cremen. The funeral will be Friday morning at 9 o'clock from SS. Peter and Paul's Cathedral. ******************************************************
CRESWICK, JANE ANNE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 28, 1922 Death of Brother Believed to be Cause of Her Death Grief over the death of her brother is believed to have caused the death last night, at 10:35 p.m., of Miss Jane Anne Creswick, at her home, 2230 West Brown street. Her brother, J. E. Creswick, died Tuesday at 2 a.m. Until recently, Miss Creswick was in good health. She was actively engaged in church work to which she gave a great part of her time. The illness and death of her brother, to whom she was devotedly attached, came as a severe shock, and when she became ill, largely because of her sorrow at his loss, was unable to fight off death, the shock being too great for one of her years. Miss Creswick was born in London on September 7, 1839, and was in her eighty-third year. She came to America 18 years ago to make her home with her brother. She was an excellent student of French, and a talented musician. Up to the time of her trip to America, she was a governess. In America, she taught music. Miss Creswick was a member of the Wesley Methodist church, and a leader in the activities of that congregation. She was an excellent Bible student, and taught one of the Sunday school classes of the church. A devout Christian, she was interested in all the work of her church. Whenever called upon for service, she responded willingly. It was only recently that she gave up her great church work. She is survived by a niece, Mrs. Daisy Creswick Rice, inspector of hygiene in the public schools, and a nephew, Edward L. Creswick, also of this city, the only direct descendants of the Creswick family, originally of London. Funeral services will be conducted at the home on Brown street Sunday at 3 p.m. by the Rev. Theodore Cates, pastor of the Wesley Methodist church. Friends are asked to omit flowers. ******************************************************
CRESWICK, JOHN E./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 24, 1922 Master Engraver Puts Down His Tools John E. Creswick, in his eighty-eighth year, died this morning at 2 o'clock at his home 2230 West Brown street. His death was due to pneumonia and followed an illness which began last Thursday. He had been working up to last Thursday at the J. H. Booth Jewelry Store, where he had been engaged as an engraver. His sickness developed into pneumonia and the end came quickly. Mr. Creswick was one of the most talented engravers in America. He had wide experience, and he left many works of art which he made in the long course of his career as an artist-engraver, which will become more valuable now that the master hand that made them is stilled. He was born in London, England, July 8, 1834. When he was sixteen years old, he began his apprenticeship as an engraver and he completed that period five years later. He came to this country a few years afterward and remained in Philadelphia for two years. At the time of the Civil War, he returned to England and remained there until the close of the war, after which he returned to America. He worked at engraving in Cincinnati, Chicago and at Elgin, and from there he went to St. Louis. He took a position as engraver for Mermod and Jaccard in that city, and remained with the firm forty five years, resigning the position after he had passed eighty years of age. He took one year's rest and then, being unwilling to be idle, he began doing work for Alton jewelers, continuing at that work until he was stricken with his last sickness. He was married in St. Louis September 16, 1874 to Isabel McClellan Bice. He leaves three children, Mrs. Nelson McReynolds, Mrs. Daisy Rice and Edward Creswick. He leaves also one sister, Miss Jane Creswick, who is a few years his junior. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the home, and will be conducted by Rev. Theo Cates of the Wesley Methodist church. Burial will be in Oakwood cemetery. Mr. Creswick had few equals in the art of high grade engraving on metal. His hand was also skillful with the brush and he painted many pictures in water colors and in oil. But perhaps the highest expression of his artistic tastes was in his engraving on metals. His skill was frequently called for when some expensive piece of work was desired. One of the finest works he did was the engraving of a portrait of Wayman Crow on a silver plate, which was put up year after year and held by the student at the Wayman Crow school in St. Louis, who made the best achievement in art. This plate is now one of the treasures of Washington University. Always Mr. Creswick kept up his studies, even when he was long past his four score years. He was ever trying to improve his work and acquire new technique. He was an artist in the highest sense, but never ceased to be an art student, as he believed there was always something new to be learned. Seldom was he idle. When not engaged in his chosen profession, he would be busy with the pen or the brush, sketching or painting some beautiful picture. He was head engraver at Mermod and Jaccards when he resigned after he was eighty years of age. His work is scattered all over the United States, and it was the opinion of connoisseurs, that there was no one so skillful in engraving as Mr. Creswick. He was a true gentleman, a kindly benevolent man, and his personality was one that was much admired by all who came in contact with him. ***********************************************
CROCKER, CHARLOTTE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 22, 1921 One of the First Converts To a Faith in the Phenomena of Spirit Return Mrs. Charlotte H. Crocker died at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H. M. Schweppe, who, with her sister, Mrs. William Tindall of Washington D.C., are the only survivors in her immediate family. Her grandchildren include Mrs. Eben Rodgers and Nelson Schweppe of this city, and four children of Mrs. Tindall. Mrs. Crocker was one of the first converts in this country to a faith in the phenomena of spirit return, which came of Orono, Me., jointly, as the result of very persistent and thorough experimentations with spirit mediums, both at their own home and in various cities. She was born in Milford, Mass., August 15, 1827. Funeral services will be held at her daughter's residence, 200 Prospect street, Friday at two o'clock. They will be conducted in accordance with her lifelong faith. Friends are invited. Interment private. Omission of flowers is requested. Mrs. Crocker was deeply interested in public affairs. It was to her, among the first, that Alton is indebted for the city having River View Park. She offered, with Mrs. Schweppe, to advance the money to buy the property and hold it until the city could take it over, and it was due to her suggestion that the city finally acquired the park. She maintained her interest in all social affairs until the last few years. She was known as delightful company even after she had passed ninety years of age. *********************************************
CROSSMAN, THOMAS M./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 25, 1919 Active in Political Circles 3 Decades - Postmaster 25 Years Thomas M. Crossman, one of the best known residents of Madison county, died this morning at his home in Edwardsville with erysipelas. He has been in failing health for some time. Mr. Crossman was a native of Alton and 66 years old. His father was Samuel V. Crossman, who came to Alton from Cincinnati, Ohio in 1853. After coming to Alton, the elder Crossman was connected with the Alton Courier, and later with the Telegraph. The family moved to Edwardsville and founded the Edwardsville Republican in 1869. Until last year that paper was the property of the members of the family. Mr. Crossman was active in Masonic circles and for 25 years has served as the secretary of the blue lodge and chapter bodies in Edwardsville. He was also postmaster there for 25 years, and for three decades or more has been active in the councils of the Republican party in Madison county. At the time of his death Mr. Crossman was Probate Court bailiff. Mr. Crossman is survived by his wife and 7 children. Two brothers also survive, Samuel V. Crossman of Chicago, and William R. Crossman of Edwardsville. The funeral arrangements have not been completed. Mr. Crossman was a man for many years prominent in Madison county politics. He had been one of the publishers of the Edwardsville Republican, but retired from that newspaper to take over the position of postmaster, which he held until the exigencies of party politics made it seem necessary for him to be replaced by a Democrat. He was a man of highest character and he leaves a large number of friends. *******************************************
CROW, JOHN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 15, 1920 The funeral of John Crow will be held at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning and burial will be in the City cemetery. ******************************************
CUNNINGHAM, TEACHIE (nee BAKER)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, October 20, 1921 Mrs. Teachie Cunningham, aged sixty years, resident of East Alton, died Wednesday evening at 7:30 at the St. Mary's hospital in St. Louis, where she had been a patient for the past week. She is the widow of Ed Cunningham. About two weeks ago, Mrs. Cunningham went to St. Louis to visit with her son, Ed Cunningham Jr., and while there she was taken seriously ill and removed to the hospital where she died last night. She was an active member of the Court of Honor lodge in Upper Alton. Mrs. Cunningham was born and raised in Upper Alton, and at the age of twenty years she was united in marriage with Ed Cunningham. After their marriage they resided in East Alton and vicinity. Following the death of Mr. Cunningham, she resided with her daughter, Mrs. Harvey Coats of East Alton. Mrs. Cunningham's maiden name was Miss Teachie Baker. The deceased is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Harvey Coats of East Alton; one son, Ed Cunningham Jr. of St. Louis, and one brother, Charles Baker of Danville, Ill. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at two o'clock from Streeper's Undertaking Parlors. Interment will be in the Upper Alton cemetery. ************************************************
CURRY, JEREMIAH 'JACK'/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 23, 1922 Civil War Veteran Died Jeremiah (Jack) Curry, aged Civil War veteran of Alton, died at 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon at his home at 1819 Smith avenue. Mr. Curry was 77 years old, and had spent the most of his life in Alton. He is survived by a wife and seven children, J. Curry, Mrs. Lottie Magee, Mrs. Liza Deathridge, Mrs. Charles Pickering, Mrs. William Altus, Mrs. Michael Shen, Miss Lottie Curry of San Francisco, and fourteen grandchildren. He also leaves a half brother, John Girth, of Alton, and a brother in Decatur. The funeral will be held from the home Friday afternoon at two o'clock. Burial will be in Oakland cemetery. ************************************************
CURRY, UNKNOWN INFANT/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, Monday, March 13, 1899 The three months old child of Mr. and Mrs. John Curry died this morning after a short illness with bronchitis. The funeral took place at 2 p.m. today. Services were conducted by Rev. M. Jameson. *********************************************************
CURTIS, OLIVE (WIFE OF W. R.)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 29, 1923 Wife of Superintendent of School Killed in Crossing Accident, While on Holiday As a shocking termination of what had been planned to be a happy holiday for Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Curtis, their son Vernon, and their younger daughter, Margaret Ann, Mrs. Curtis was instantly killed and her son perhaps fatally injured in a crossing accident at Vivian, S. D., while the party were enroute in their automobile for a tour of the Yellowstone National Park. It was near the end of the first week of their trip that the accident occurred. Vernon Curtis was driving the car at the time. The body of Mrs. Curtis was carried along by the train 200 feet, and it appears death was instant. The son was badly crushed about the chest and legs and the surgeons had little hope of his recovery. The injured were taken to a hospital at Persho, S. D., not far from the scene of the accident and given surgical attention....From Mitchell, S. D. June 28 - Mrs. W. R. Curtis, wife of W. R. Curtis, superintendent of schools of Alton, Ill., was killed this afternoon, and her son, Vernon, 20 years old, was probably fatally injured, when the car in which they were riding was struck by a westbound freight about 1 o'clock, half a block from the passenger station at Vivian, S. D. Mr. Curtis escaped with a slightly wrenched back and their daughter, Margaret Ann, eight years old, sustained a slight injury about the body and hip. The son, a student in an Illinois medical school, sustained a fracture of the leg below the knee, the loss of one foot and injuries to the lungs which may prove fatal. According to Mr. Curtis, the son, Vernon, was driving when the accident occurred. The car was headed north and the side curtains were all on. The freight which struck the Curtis car was going west and was slowing for the depot when the accident occurred. The cowcatcher of the engine struck the rear hind wheel of the Curtis machine and the car was dragged the entire half block to the depot. Just before the engineer could stop his train the automobile broke loose from the pilot and its occupants were thrown out. In some way, the car swung around, facing the engine, and Mrs. Curtis was thrown onto the tracks. Both legs were cut off at the hip, one arm was severed from her body and her face and head were gashed and cut. She expired almost the moment her body was dragged from beneath the train, without a final word. Young Curtis was also thrown beneath the train, the engine wheels severing his foot. Both Mr. Curtis and his daughter were thrown free from the tracks and escaped with only slight injuries....Young Curtis, it appeared from the testimony, approached the tracks without looking for a train. It was shown that he could have had a clear view of the tracks for half a mile in the direction from which the freight train was coming.....
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 3, 1923 The funeral of Mrs. Olive Curtis, wife of W. R. Curtis, superintendent of schools, was held yesterday at Kewanee. The Alton delegation attending the funeral representing the school board, the Rotary club and the Methodist church arrived home late last night, making the trip in automobiles....Immediately after the funeral service Mr. Curtis departed for Chicago to be with his son, Vernon, who is in a hospital there and is expected to recover, but will probably be confined to the hospital for two months, at least. Mr. Curtis said that it is his expectation that his daughter, Mrs. Harold Swain, will come here to keep house for him.....No word was spoken as to when Mr. Curtis will be back.... ********************************************************
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