Testimony During John Gray's Murder Trial, March 1, 1926

Four Persons Are Given Hearing in The Watkins Case. . . . Carl Sweat, Mrs. Sweat, Tom Drake and John Gray Given Hearings During the Day. . . Drake Arrested in This City. . . It Is Charged That Watkins Was Killed and His Body Burned in an Old Barn Near Albemarle

Albemarle, March 1 (AP)—Three men and a woman today were being given preliminary hearings in connection with the alleged murder of “Dad” Watkins, aged man who disappeared several weeks ago and whose charred body was believed found in the ruins of a burned barn.

The body was found in the debris with the arms, legs and head cut off.

Gray was returned from Dillon, S.C., about 10 days ago, and placed in jail here while the other arrests followed later. Drake was arrested in Concord.

Deputy Sheriff Pussor testified today that he overheard Gray telling his wife that he knew all about “the murder, and would tell at the proper time.”

The deputy sheriff further testified that Gray and Carl Sweat and Drake took “Dad” Watkins up the Salisbury road on the night of the alleged slaying and got back about 10 o’clock without him. According to the story of the sheriff, he said he heard the torso of the man was placed first in the Gray home, but later removed.

Robbery has been the only motive advanced for the slaying of Watkins.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Sons of W.R. Matthews, Mecklenburg Legislator, In Jail, March 1, 1926

Three Charlotte Men Are Held in Dallas. . . Sons of Legislator Said to Have Been Guilty of Mann Act Violations

Charlotte, Feb. 28—Two prominent Charlotte men, sons of W.R. Matthews, Mecklenburg legislator, are being held in Dallas, Texas, on Mann Act charges. It is expected that they will make their bonds of $1,000 each in the United States court at Dallas tomorrow.

The men are W.M. and P.D. Matthews, both of whom have wives here, who have sworn out warrants charging non-support and abandonment.

The two Matthews men, with J.P. Matthews, 19-year-old brother, disappeared on January 8th. J.P. Matthews was arrested, but subsequently was released in view of the fact that on the way to Texas he had married the woman whom he had accompanied away from Charlotte. The charges against him will not be pressed.

The women are Mrs. Florence Lipe Matthews, who married the younger brother, her daughter, Miss Lina Lipe, said to be 13 years old, and Mrs. Pearl Lambert, whose husband is now in Florida. Mrs. Florence Lipe was a widow before her marriage to the younger Matthews. The women were all of this city, Mrs. Lipe recently coming here from Columbia, S.C.

W.D. and P.M. Matthews have waived preliminary hearings in Dallas and their cases will be prosecuted in federal court there.

State warrants have been sworn out by the wives of W.M. and P.D. Matthews, charging abandonment and non-support, and a warrant charging W.M. Matthews with abduction has been sworn out by C.E. Lambert.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

The original newspaper article names of the two older sons as W.D. and P.M. Matthews AND as W.M. and P.D. newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Troy Fitzgerald Kills Self in State Prison While Awaiting Trial, Feb. 28, 1926

Troy Fitzgerald Ends Life in State’s Prison. . . Alleged Efland Bank Robber Uses Sheet to Strangle Himself to Death

Raleigh, Feb. 28—Troy Fitzgerald, untried prisoner who was being held in the State penitentiary for safekeeping, hanged himself this afternoon in a death cell at the State’s prison and when found about 5 o’clock, he was dead.

Fitzgerald, who was captured with the recent gang of alleged Efland bank robbers, was thorough dope fiend whose suicidal mania had shown itself in other attempts. At Undertaker Fab Brown’s tonight it was said that Fitzgerald sought to kill himself when a prisoner in Durham jail. He was bought here six days ago and lodged in the prison for safety. He had not been tried. His testimony was that the other robbers framed him and caused him to be found with enough money to make a case against him. Dope, however, is credited with much of his story.

Fitzgerald slew himself this afternoon by use of the sheets which were furnished him in his cell. He made a crude rope and choked himself to death with it. He had been dead half an hour or more when he was discovered by prison people.

Fitzgerald was badly wanted, more for the testimony that he could give than for the actual part which he took in the robbery. The prisoner would have made almost sure the conviction of those with him, it was said, but officers were doubtful tonight whether the State could make a case without him.

The dead man will be sent to High Point tomorrow for burial. He was married, but his wife, Mabel Perdue Fitzgerald, is said to have left him. He had no children but his adopted son’s picture, found on the clothes of the prisoner, proclaimed his affection for the boy.

The marks of the dope habit are written all over the body of this cripple man, whose age is given as 37.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Family Still Waiting for Word About George Melchor, March 1, 1926

No Trace Found of George Melchor. . . Salisbury Brother of Missing Man Is Puzzled Over Sudden Disappearance

Salisbury, Feb. 28—Ray Melchor, an employe of the North Carolina Public Service Company in this city, whose brother, George Melchor, mysteriously disappeared from this city about two months ago stated Yesterday afternoon that no word has yet been heard of him or his whereabouts. The missing man was employed as a plumber by beaver Brothers, of this city, and boarded on East Thomas Street. He left his watch in his room at his boarding house and also his outfit of work clothes.

Ray Melchor is very much concerned over the sudden leaving of his brother but has an idea that he may possible be working at his trade, that of a plumber, in some nearby city or town, but why he would leave so mysteriously, without telling relatives or friends of his intention, is not known.

It was thought by some that probably he had taken a sudden notion to go to Florida, but he brother does not believe he went there, and even if he did is at a loss to understand the manner of his leaving, for which no reason can be assigned by anyone.

The mother of the missing man lives in Cabarrus County and she is very much distressed over the affair.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Police Say Brown Ketner Died from Gas Poisoning, March 1, 1926

Brown Ketner Died from Gas Poisoning. . . Rowan County Man Found Dead in Bed in Cincinnati Friday—Body Sent to This State

Salisbury, Feb. 28—The death of Brown Ketner, Rowan County man, in Cincinnati Thursday night was caused by gas, according to a message received this afternoon by Chief Cauble of the Salisbury police force, in answer to an inquiry sent the chief of police in Cincinnati.

Mr. Ketner was found dead in his bed Friday morning. News of his death was received here by his parents and brothers but no particulars were obtainable. The body had been ordered sent to Salisbury for burial and interment will be made at Ebenezer Church in the county. Mr. Ketner has a wife and one child, he having married since leaving Salisbury some years ago. Mrs. Ketner was not in Cincinnati when her husband died.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Mrs. Ida Moore Young, 75, Has Died, March 1, 1926

Mrs. Ida Moore Young Is Dead in Charlotte

Charlotte, Feb. 27—Mrs. Ida Moore Young, wife of the late Joseph H. Young, died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L.A. Dodsworth, the latter, her daughter, after an illness of several months. She was nearly 76 years of age, having been born April 13, 1850. The funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at the Dodsworth home. Dr. Albert Sidney Johnson, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, of which Mrs. Young had been a devoted member, will conduct the service.

Mrs. Young was a daughter of the late Samuel Moore and Mary Ann Bethel Moore of Caswell County. She was married to Mr. Young in 1872. Five children were born to this union, of whom four survive. They are Robert B. Young of Savannah, Ga.; Mrs. Gillespie Sadler of Atlanta, Ga.; Mrs. L.A. Dodsworth and Mrs. Dolph M. Young of Charlotte. Mrs. Young and her husband moved to Charlotte from Concord in 1885.

Mrs. Young was a sister-in-law of the late Col. Thomas Holt, governor of Norh Carolina.

(Mrs. Young’s husband was a rother of the late Alfred B. Young and Dr. Robert S. Young of Concord.—Ed.).

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Rev. H.M. Pressly Died in Charlotte, N.C., March 1, 1926

Rev. H.M. Pressly Dies in Charlotte

Charlotte, Feb. 28—Rev. Harvey M. Pressly, a prominent minister of the Presbyterian Church, died at his home in this city this morning after an illness of 10 days. Mr. Pressly was born in Illinois September 29, 1845. His mother was a South Carolinian and his father a Kentuckian. He was educated at Monmouth College, Illinois, and studied for the ministry at Xenia Seminary, Ohio.

He had resided in Charlotte for 10 years or more, being the first pastor of the West Avenue Presbyterian Church, and afterward supply pastor. He was universally beloved in city and county. He was a man of wide learning and beloved throughout Mecklenburg County.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

The original paper said he was born in 1945, which couldn’t be true. I changed it to 1845, but I’m not sure that’s accurate either.

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Funeral for Richard E. Reeves March 1, 1926

Will Bury Richard E. Reeves at Mt. Airy. . . Body Will be Taken on Special Car from Summit, N.J., Where He Died Saturday

Winston-Salem, March 1 (AP)—The funeral of Richard Early Reeves of Summitt, N.J., who died in New York City Saturday afternoon, is to be conducted from the First Methodist Church at Summit this afternoon. A special car will bring the body, members of the family and other friends of the family to Mt. Airy, arriving there at noon Tuesday. A brief service will be held as the body is interred in Oakdale Cemetery, and the party accompanying the remains will return to New York late the same afternoon.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 1, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-03-01/ed-1/seq-1/

Mrs. Richard Reames Charged with Transporting, Possessing Liquor, Feb. 28, 1926

Companion of Morris Holmes Is Arrested

Charlotte, Feb. 27—Mrs. Richard M. Reames of Charlotte, said by officers to have been the companion of Holmes Morris, prominent citizen of Monroe, who disappeared mysteriously from that town and was supposed to have been the victim of foul play until Sheriff Cliff Fowler of Union County dispelled that early Sunday, was arrested here Thursday night. The woman was arrested at the request of Sheriff Fowler and taken to Monroe Thursday night. She was charged with transporting and possessing liquor.

From page 5 of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-5/

Coroner's Jury Exonerates Fred Smith in Death of Leland Summerlin, 8, Feb. 28, 1926

Smith Exonerated Death of Child. . . Coroner’s Jury Investigates Accident Which Resulted in Death of Young Leland Summerlin and Renders Verdict to Effect that Same Was Unavoidable—Body Carried to Mount Olive for Interment This Afternoon

Accompanied by a large number of sorrowing relatives and friend, the body of Leland Summerlin, 8-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. A.K. Summerlin, who reside on East Chestnut street and who died at a local hospital early yesterday morning as the result of injuries sustained when he was struck by an automobile driven by Mr. Fred C. Smith, when he dashed in front of the machine while playing in front of his home, was yesterday afternoon carried to Mount Olive, the former home of the family, and this afternoon at 3 o’clock the funeral service will be conducted from the home of Mr. Claude Summerlin, grandfather of the little victim.

Mr. and Mrs. Summerlin were prostrated yesterday over the tragedy which had enveloped their home and countless friends called at the home to extend condolences. It was stated Friday that Mrs. Summerlin was not at home when the accident occurred and when Mr. Smith who picked the little boy up after the accident and rushed to their apartment on the second floor of the dwelling. This, however, was incorrect. She had witnessed a part of the tragedy, and the shock was so great that members of the family residing on the first floor had taken her into their apartment where she was being given restoratives.

Coroner Thomas Robinson yesterday morning empaneled a jury composed of Messrs. M.L. Jones, C.H. Moore, C.W. Peacock, E.C. Crow, L.P. Brit and M.R. Ham to go thoroughly into the details of the accident. Witnesses were called, as was Mr. Smith, and testimony was taken. It was shown that the accident was unavoidable and occurred in spite of every effort on the part of the driver to prevent the same. In rendering their verdict, the coroner’s jury announced that Mr. Smith was absolved of all blame as, in their opinion, the tragedy could not have been averted under the circumstances.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-7/

James Sechrist Pardoned After Serving 8 Months on Roads, Feb. 28, 1926

Gains Freedom After Serving Eight Months

Raleigh, Feb. 27—James Sechrist of Davidson County was paroled by Governor McLean today after having served half of an eight-months road sentence for violating the prohibition laws. A record of good citizenship save for the one offense and strong recommendations by Sheriff Talbert and other responsible citizens of Davidson County aided Sechrist in his successful plea for clemency. He was sentenced by Davidson Superior Court last November.

From page 5 of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-5/

Keep Children Off Street, Reminds Editor, Feb. 28, 1926

Keep the Children Off the Streets

In a home near this city today, the lifeless body of a little boy lies while a grief-stricken father and mother, a brother and sister and other relatives mourn the child’s untimely end. A hope is enveloped with a pall of gloom as the result of this tragedy which swooped down so suddenly and so relentlessly.

There have been other tragedies of a like sort occurring here and elsewhere in years past. They have occurred elsewhere and they will continue to occur despite all that can be said and done but the number can be cut down if the proper precaution is taken.

Parents should impress upon their children, especially the younger ones, that they should not run into or across the streets of the city, or play on the same. The streets are intended mainly for the use of drivers of vehicles, while the sidewalks are for the use of pedestrians.

Drivers of automobiles and vehicles will regret any sort of an accident, no matter how small the same may be, but it is often impossible for them to avoid such. The drivers of vehicles, particularly automobiles, usually are of the opinion that the streets are free of pedestrians, except at crossings and though they are usually constantly on the alert it is often the case that some person who runs or steps out in front of a moving car is either killed or badly hurt.

The whole of Goldsboro regrets the tragedy of Friday afternoon, and we trust that the parents of other boys and girls will warn them not only once but many times against playing in the streets, and urge them to stop, look and listen before they attempt to cross any of the thoroughfares.

If this is done and the children give heed, we will not have a repetition soon of the latest fatal accident.

From editorial page of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-10/

Goldsboro Gets Another Flurry of Snow, Feb. 28, 1926

Goldsboro Is Visited by Another Flurry of Snow—Downfall Slight

Following a rapid decline of temperature, Goldsboro and immediate section was last night about 8 o’clock visited by a light flurry of snow. At intervals during the evening the fleecy flakes fell rapidly and for awhile it appeared as though the city was I for a real storm. However, at midnight the downfall had ceased, and there was no evidence of the same. Several other points in eastern and central Carolina reported snow during the evening.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-7/

Mr. and Mrs. Johan Baer Have a Son, Feb. 28, 1926

Son Is Born to Well Known Goldsboro Couple

Born Friday afternoon to Mr. and Mrs. Johan Baer a son. Mother and little one are reported as getting along nicely. Mr. and Mrs. Baer reside at No. 315 North John Street.

From page 9of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-9/

New Bern to Get New Newspaper, Feb. 28, 1926

New Bern Is to Have a New Newspaper

According to authentic reports received from New Bern, that city is to have another daily newspaper in the very near future, the new publication is to be an afternoon sheet and to be put into the field by a company of several well known business men of that place.

Attempts have been made to start a new daily newspaper in New Bern several times in the past two years, but these have no resulted successfully [not been successful?].

However, according to reports reaching this city, the new venture is to be backed by at least one of the wealthiest citizens in the town.

New Bern now has a morning and afternoon paper.

From page 5 of the Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 28, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-28/ed-1/seq-5/

Thornton Grocery Company Gutted by Fire, Feb. 27, 1926

Costly Fire Sweeps Store in Heart of City. . . R.I. Thornton Wholesale Grocery Company on North James Street Gutted Thursday Morning by Blaze of Undetermined Origin—Stock of Goods Worth $10,000 Practically Ruined; Temporary Quarters Will be Secured

Fire of undetermined origin and which was discovered about 5:30 o’clock Thursday morning practically gutted the interior of the R.I Thornton Wholesale Grocery Company’s store, No. 104 North James street, and entailed a loss of between $8,000 and $9,000 to a stock of goods valued at about $10,000, and also damaged the building to a considerable extent.

The alarm was turned in by the watchman of the Wayne National Bank who stated that he had smelled the odor of burning hay for more than two hours previous to his discovery of the blaze and had made a vain attempt to locate the source. Taking this statement into consideration, it is believed that the blaze had been under way for several hours previous to its outbreak. It was apparent that it had originated in a shipment of hay about midway the second floor.

Prompt Response

Firemen lost no time in answering the alarm and arrive don the scene a few minutes later, finding the structure a mass of flames. It was necessary to throw thousands of gallons of water on the blaze in order to bring it under control and to save the building from complete destruction, also to protect other property in that neighborhood.

When the fire had finally been gotten under control, the interior of the store presented a sorry sight. Fire, smoke and water had played havoc but the work of the firemen had won, and the building stood intact though badly damaged. Practically the entire stock, however, was a total loss. All of the office equipment, records, etc., were saved from ruin.

Temporary Quarters

Officials of the company informed The News later in the day that arrangement were to be made immediately to secure temporary quarters and a new stock of goods, and that they hoped to be able to attend to their customers’ needs within a few days. In the meantime, the damaged goods are to be removed from the fire-swept building and carpenters are to at once start the work of making repairs. The company hopes to be back in their own home within in the course of a few weeks.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Friday morning, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Monday Hearing Against J.A. Harris, Alleged Assailant of Wayne County Woman, Feb. 27, 1926

Harris to Get Early Hearing. . . Alleged Assailant of Waye County Woman to Face Judge Bland on Monday

J.A. Harris, former resident of this county and who was placed under arrest at Coca, Fla., several days ago on a warrant charging him with having committed an assault upon a married woman residing in a rural section near this city and who was brought back to Goldsboro Thursday night and placed in the county jail, will e given a preliminary hearing before Judge Bland on Monday morning.

It is understood that Harris asserts his innocence in connection with the alleged assault, which is said to have taken place last November and that he will put up a determined fight to gain his freedom and exoneration from the charges against him.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-1/

Case Dismissed Against G.A. Norwood, Bank President of Failed Snow Hill B&T, Feb. 27, 1926

Case Against G.A. Norwood Thrown Out of Court. . . Well Known Banker Cleared of Technical Violation Law. . . Judge Presiding Over Term of Court at Snow Hill, Greene County, Hears State’s Testimony in Bank Failure Case, and Then Orders That Case Against Mr. George A. Norwood, of This City, Be Thrown Out of Court—Prosecution and Solicitor Concur

A telegram in the Goldsboro News late yesterday afternoon from its Snow Hill correspondent announced that after hearing the evidence of the state in the case in which Mr. George Norwood, well known local banker, was charged with violation of the state banking law is ??tion with the failure some time age of the Snow Hill Banking & Trust Company, of which he was president, by not maintaining a sufficient cash reserve on hand, the judge presiding ordered the case thrown out of court. This action was not resented by either the private prosecution or the solicitor and, in fact, the latter concurred with the judge in his decision.

The announcement of the court’s action in this matter caused general satisfaction among friends of Mr. Norwood all over this section. It was generally understood that the charge against him was merely a technical one. As a matter of fact, he had not been actively connected with the Snow Hill Bank in several years at the time of its failure, though he was president of the same. It was merely a case, they understood, in which he was the victim of an unfortunate circumstance.

The evidence as presented by the state, according to the News correspondent, was such as to cause the judge presiding to immediately order the case off the docket and ended once and for all.

Possibly no piece of news that this paper has ever received causes as much general satisfaction here as that mentioned above, for it is generally understood all over this section that Mr. Norwood is a gentleman of the highest integrity and business ability.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-1/

Leland Summerlin, 8, Has Died After Chasing Ball into Street, Feb. 27, 1926

Boy Struck by Auto Dies Early This Morning. . . Leland Summerlin Struck by Automobile as He Runs into Street While Playing. . . 8-Year-Old Son of Chestnut Street resident Dashes in front of Automobile Driven by Mr. Fred C. Smith and Skull is Fractured—No Hope for His Recovery Entertained by Physicians

Leland Summerlin, who was fatally injured when struck by an automobile on Chestnut Street late yesterday afternoon, died at 1:40 o’clock this morning.

With his skull fractured at the base of the brain, and with possibly internal injuries, which had not been discovered on account of the seriousness of his condition preventing a thorough examination, Leland Summerlin Jr., 8-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Leland Summerlin, who reside on Chestnut Street, near William, weas lying in the Goldsboro hospital at midnight last night in what was thought to be a dying condition as the result of being struck by an automobile driven by Mr. Fred C. Smith, in front of his home late yesterday afternoon.

The lad is said to have run directly in front of the car, which was being driven at a moderate rate of speed at the time, and was struck on the head by the fender on the right-hand side, being knocked down and rendered unconscious by the blow. When picked up, he was bleeding from the ears, nose and mouth. He was rushed at once to the hospital and given medical attention, but physicians there held out no hope for his recovery though it was said he might survive, providing the shock did not prove fatal.

At midnight a report from the hospital was to the effect that there was no change in the boy’s condition, and that he had not regained consciousness.

According to accounts of the accident given by Mr. Smith and by Mrs. W.A. Sasser, who was near the scene at the time of the same, Mr. Smith, who had just called for his sister, Miss Elizabeth Smith, who is undergoing treatment at the hands of Dr. ?. B. Ivey, was carrying her to their home at No. 316 East Walnut Street. Desiring to avoid the heavy traffic on Walnut Street, he had turned down to Chestnut Street and was midway between John and William streets at the time.

Four or five small boys, of whom the little victim was the smallest, were playing with a baseball on the south side of the street at the time. Just as Mr. Smith neared the t point with his car, the ball rolled into the street, and the little Summerlin boy dashed out after it, looking neither to the right nor to the left, but apparently intent on retrieving the ball.

Failed to Hear Horn

Mr. Smith, who was driving at a moderate speed, blew his horn ?? and cut to the left. He ?? hoped to attract the child’s attention but apparently failed to do this. The machine was at the time headed toward the curbing on the north side of the street, but was just a few feet away from this, the lad darted right in front of it and the right fender struck him on the head. By that time Mr. Smith had brought his car to a stop and, hurriedly alighting, picked the boy up and carried him across the street to the home of the child’s parents, rushing upstairs to the Summerlin apartment with him. There was no one at home at the time, and he started down again.

At that juncture, Dr. L.W. Corbett, who had been summoned from his office nearby, arrived a the scene and took the limp form from Mr. Smith’s arms, placed it in the car of Mr. W.W. Rivers, Boy Scout executive, and the two rushed to the Goldsboro hospital as rapidly as possible. Arriving there the little victim was examined and given every possible medical attention. It was found then that he had suffered a fractured skull and possibly other injuries.

Driver Blameless

Mr. Sasser sated following the accident that he had witnessed the affair, and that Mr. Smith certainly was not to blame. Police and representatives of Sheriff Grant, who were summoned to the scene by Mr. Smith, and shown the car where it stood and as it was when the accident occurred, declared that, in their opinion, it was unavoidable. No charge was made against Mr. Smith last night.

Shortly afterwards Mr. Smith called at The News office and gave his version of the sad affair. He declared that he regretted it more than mere words could express. He asserted that he had done his best to avoid striking the child but that this was humanly impossible. It was apparent that he was greatly agitated over the accident.

The Summerlin family formerly resided at Mount Olive, coming to Goldsboro about five months ago. It is understood that they had resided on Chestnut Street but for a few days. The supposition is that the little boy, intent on the amusement of a baseball game with his little friends and anxious to continue playing the game which they were engaged in, gave no heed or thought to the possibility of a passing automobile when he rushed into the street and probably did not see the smith car until he was upon it. The accident happened so quickly and the blow was so terrific, it is thought doubtful if the lad even realized what had struck him, the blow immediately rendering him unconscious.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-1/

Student "Strike" Against Smallpox Vaccination Ending, Feb. 27, 1926

“Strike” in Rural School in Wayne County Is About Over

According to information reaching Goldsboro, the “strike” of a number of pupils in the Mount Carmel school in the PIkeville section, which was inaugurated last Monday morning, is gradually becoming a thing of the past as parents of the boys and girls are realizing the advantage of allowing their children to be vaccinated against smallpox, and this permits them to resume their studies.

There are about 100 pupils in this school and of this number less than one-fourth had been vaccinated at the beginning of the week. Last Monday, the majority of the pupils failed to show up for class work, and the matter was reported to welfare and county health officials who went out to that section and spoke before the parents.

Since that time a number of the boys and girls have complied with the law relative to vaccination and the classes have grown larger daily, it is said.

Welfare and health officials have expressed the hope that the trouble can be settle amicably without having to resort to the law to compel the school children who have and thus far been vaccinated, and who are not attending school now, to do so.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-1/

Boss Hooks Loses Two Fingers Making Shotgun Shells, Feb. 26, 1926

Shot Gun Explodes and Boss Hooks Is Minus Two Fingers

While out on a hunting expedition in Duplin County Wednesday afternoon, B.F. (Boss) Hooks, who resides out on the Greenleaf-Wilson road, had the misfortune to lose two fingers on one of his hands when his shotgun burst at the breech.

Mr. Hooks was making shells of an unusually high powder in the weapon at the time and this is believed to have been the cause of the accident.

He was carried to a physician’s office as soon after the accident as possible and medical attention rendered the injured member. He was reported yesterday as getting along as well as could be expected under the circumstances.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Friday morning, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Miss Virginia Young Suther and David Whichard to Wed, Feb. 27, 1926

Popular Young Lady Soon to be Married

Mr. and Mrs. E.A. Griffin of this city announce the engagement of their sister, Miss Virginia Young Suther, to Mr. David J. Whichard of Greenville, N.C. The wedding will take place in the early summer.

The bride-to-be has a host of friends in Goldsboro. At present she is teaching in the public school at Greenville.

Mr. Wichard is editor of the Greenville Reflector and is one of the town’s popular and promising young men.

From page 3 of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-3/

Miss Rachel Moye Confined to Home with Influenza, Feb. 27, 1926

Confined to Her Home with an Attack of Influenza

A report last night from the home of Miss Rachel Moye on Centre St, and who is suffering from an attack of influenza, was to the effect that here condition was improved. Miss Moye is the attractive and accomplished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E.W. Moye.

From page 3 of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-3/

Mrs. Kennedy Improving Following Operation, Feb. 27, 1926

Mrs. Kelly Improves Following Operation

Friends of Mrs. Perry Kelly will be glad to hear that she is rapidly improving following an operation at a local sanatorium. They hope for her an early and complete recovery.

From page 3 of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-3/

Mrs. Harrell and Son J.S. Jr. Have Influenza, Feb. 27, 1926

Well Known Lady and Her Son Are Quite Ill

It will be a source of regret to the numerous friends of Mrs. J.C. Harrell to learn that she and her son, J.S. Jr., are confined to their home on North Slocumb Street, with attacks of influenza. Their conditions are said not to be serious.

From page 3 of The Goldsboro News, Saturday morning, Feb. 27, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-27/ed-1/seq-3/

Thomas Yelverton: Loved Citizen Laid to Rest, Feb. 26, 1926

Loved Citizen Laid at Rest. . . Funeral Service Held Over Body of the Late Mr. Thomas L. Yelverton

Attended by a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends, last sad rites over the mortal remains of Mr. Thomas L. Yelverton, who died early Wednesday morning at his home, No. 809 Park Avenue, following an illness of several months, were yesterday afternoon conducted from the home by Rev. J.M. Daniel, pastor of St. Paul Methodist Church, and the body was interred in Willow Dale Cemetery.

Dr. Daniel paid fitting tribute to the life of the deceased and touched those assembled with the simplicity and sincerity of his words.

Mr. Yelverton, was 57 years of age at the time of his death, was a native of Wayne County and had made his home in this city for many years. He was loved and respected by all who knew him and the many beautiful floral tributes attested the esteem in which he was held. The following acted as pall bearers: Active—Louis Hummell, Clem Johnson, T.G. Anderson Cecil Best, Frank Taylor and Sam brit. Honorary--? J. Smith, S.F. Teague, Joe Rosenthal, A.T. Griffin, Dr. C.f. Strosnider, B.G. Thompson, G.A. Norwood, Leslie Weil, Sam Bridgers, Col. John D. Langston, J.B. Hoons, W.G. Britt, and R.H. Edwards.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Friday morning, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Zebulon Record Editor Tells of His Surgery, Feb. 26, 1926

Editor Tells of Sojourn in Hospital

Dear Readers:--Last week I told you that I expected to spend a few days in a hospital in Raleigh, for a minor operation. I left Zebulon Friday of last week and came to Raleigh where I visited my dear sick mother. I then visited other relatives before I went to Mary Elizabeth and hung up my coat and hat for a few days.

Arriving at the hospital, O found a present reception from the time I entered the office until the last sight of the building was far behind when on my way home.

Quite a large number of people are acquainted with the doctors at this institution and especially the Big Doctor, known as Harold Glasscock. He is a great big piece of human pleasantness and has a good word for all. I had told the doctor to get his instrument in good shape and make the date for the use of his keen instrument to suit himself.

Saturday afternoon about 2:30 I was ordered to roll over on a table I soon was on my way to the operating room. Arriving there, I found the Doctor and his assistants ready to begin the operation. Here I had a little argument about being put to sleep. I told to Dr. Glasscock to go ahead, and not to mind the sleeping part. In a few moments I was rolled into another room and the actual work with the knife began. Of course I was filled up on some kind of “cain,” but it done the work. The knife was hardly felt, and I stood the operation fine—leaving the operating room smiling and by the time we arrived in my room, I was laughing—because I felt good over the fact that I had gone through the operation and had not suffered near what I had been suffering for several weeks.

When one comes in contact with the nurses in a hospital, they soon realize that they are with God’s people—kind and generous—obliging and pleasant—always ready when you call, to render whatever they can do for their suffering.

In addition to being a patient at the hospital itself, I found Mr. E.C. Carter who lives on the old Raleigh Road, No. 90, near the ice plant. He had the misfortune to get his hand caught in a corn shredder last Wednesday. He was immediately brought here and had his hand amputated. He is getting on fine.

Another young man, whom I had the pleasure of rooming with, was Mr. Earnest Parrish, who loves on Zebulon Route 1. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A.B. Parrish. Young Mr. Parrish was quite sick when he was brought here, but is improving very fast and will soon be home.

Speaking about hospitals, lots of people dread them, but many persons have gone to a premature grave because they were afraid of the knife and did not want to go to a hospital. When it is all figured out, it is like a child taking castor oil—it is soon over, and all is better, by taking a treatment at some good hospital.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

G.W. Mitchell is listed as the owner of the Zebulon Record. No editor is listed on the editorial page.

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Ed Carter Loses Hand to Corn Shredder, Feb. 26, 1926

Loss of Hand

Ed. C. Carter, who lives about one mile west of Zebulon had a very serious accident last week. In feeding a corn shredder, his right hand was caught in the machine and was so crushed that his arm had to be taken off about half way to his elbow.

He was carried to Mary Elizabeth hospital, Raleigh, where the wound was dressed. He is still at the hospital, and the arm is healing satisfactorily.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

While Coroner's Jury Finds G.M. Jackson Killed His Wife, Daughter, Self; Clerk of Court Finds Will, Feb. 26, 1926

Stranger Than Fiction, Story of Jackson

Stranger than fiction runs the life story of G.M. Jackson, Wake County farmer, who a coroner’s jury Tuesday found slew the wife and daughter for whom he had provided in a will that was provided almost as the verdict was returned.

The coroner’s jury found that Jackson had shot himself to death in a fit of temporary insanity after he had slain his wife and daughter on last Saturday morning. The jury did not have before it the will that was made less than two years ago in which Jackon left his estate of 175 acres of land to his wife and three daughters.

The will would not have been received in evidence by the coroner’s jury, but it bore mute testimony as it lay on the table in the office of Vitruvius Royster, clerk of Wake County Superior Court, to family devotion that was in striking contrast to the verdict the jury returned.

When the crops were laid in July of 1924, Jackson called in M.J. Carlton, a magistrate, and he and his wife carefully made disposition of the estate. Three daughters there were, and none were forgotten, but the parents were to hold the estate during their natural lives. If the husband lived longer than his wife, then she should hold the estate until his death, and if the wife lived longer, then she was to hold it until her death.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

R.I. Hagwood Says His Tobacco Plants Were Up Feb. 20, 1926

Tobacco Plants Up

Mr. R.I. Hagwood of Zebulon R. 1, tells us that his tobacco plants are up. He says he noticed them Saturday, February 20. This is rather early for plants in this section. We hope they come along fine.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Mrs. Strickland Opens Designing Shoppe, Holding Fashion Show, Feb. 26, 1926

Elite Designing Shoppe Opens

Mrs. W.H. Strickland had the opening of the Elite Designing Shoppe in connection with Shamburger-Pippin Department Store on Tuesday, February 23, which was attended with much enthusiasm. Many visitors called during the afternoon and were very much impressed with the “Mary Rose Frocks,” also with the designing shop. Tea and sandwiches were served during the afternoon. Mrs. Strickland invites you to make this store your headquarters while in town.

-=- Fashion Show

A real opportunity to see all the latest styles in Rayon, Linen and Gingham, etc., in all the desirable shades of spring. The dresses for our Fashion Show are coming in every day and are on display at the Elite Designing Shop. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity. The date is March 5th. The place is Wakelon High School. The hour is 8 p.m. Special music will be given during the entire evening.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

Elite Designing Shoppe in first article; Elite Designing Shop in second article.

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Zebulon Losing Good Man as A.E. House Moves to Hendersonville, Feb. 26, 1926

Zebulon Loses Good Man

About 12 years ago Mr. A.E. House located in our town for the practice of law. He enjoyed his full share of business considering the limited clientage incident to a small town and its surroundings.

He was an upright citizen, trustworthy and honorable in all his dealings. Business entrusted to him always received prompt and intelligent attention. His departure from us is much regretted by his many friends.

We heartily commend him to the his brother barristers and the good people of Hendersonville whither he has gone.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Mrs. W.H. Britt, 72, Has Died, Feb. 26, 1926

Aged Garner Lady Dies at Her Home

Following an illness of several days Mrs. W.H Britt of Garner died at her home here Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock. She was 72 years old at the time of her death and had long been a resident of the Garner Community. She was a devoted member of the Garner Baptist Church and took an active part in Christian work.

The funeral exercises were conducted from the Garner Baptist Church Tuesday afternoon at 3 o’clock, and were conducted by Rev. J.T. Morris, who was assisted by the Rev. A.C. Jenkins of Clayton.

Surviving are her husband and the following children: Mrs. Lillie Richrdson of Portsmouth, Va.; Mrs. Ethel Coley of Raleigh; Hardie Britt of Washington, and Dee Britt of Cincinnati, Ohio. One brother, W.P. Ferrell of Old Fort also survives.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

In Memory of Keith Griffin, 17, Feb. 26, 1926

In Memory of Keith Griffin

On Saturday morning, February 20, 1926, the death Angel entered the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.O. Griffin and took from them their son, Keith. He was seriously ill with pneumonia for only five days. All was done for him that loving hands could do. But God called him to be with him in Heaven. We cannot understand why he was taken so young, just 17 years of age. But we must remember that God “doeth all things well.” And let us grieve not for him, but think of him in a fairer land above, where there is room for his loved ones and friends, and when we meet him there on high, we will know that the path that led that way was much better than human hands could plan. And then up there, we will understand why our loved one was taken from us. Keith gave his heart to Jesus at the age of 13 and was a member of Poplar Spring Baptist Church.

The funeral was conducted Sunday evening by Rev. McIver of Louisburg.

The young boys that were his best friends acted as pall bearers: Charlie Richardson, Berry Richardson, Ned Bullock, Bruce White, Elmo Alford, Jessie Reddingfield, Odel White, Tollie Brewer

The people of this community and surrounding communities paid their last tribute of respect by attending the funeral and placing beautiful flowers on the new made grave.

He leaves a devoted mother and father, four sisters, to mourn for him.

Now we pray dear father, that he who is Master of all good things, will keep him by Thy side in heavenly peace, until we, too, are by his side.

--A Cousin

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, Feb. 26, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073191/1926-02-26/ed-1/seq-1/

Details of Killing of Wife and Daughter with Axe, Then Suicide by G.M. Jackson, Feb. 25, 1926

Wake Farmer Kills Off Family

Sunday’s News and Observer carries the following gruesome story:

“G.M. Jackson, 76, well-known farmer of the Leesville section of Wake County, yesterday slew his wife, Mrs. G.M. Jackson, aged 72, his daughter, Miss Eldora Jackson, aged 36, with an axe, and then procured his single-barreled shotgun and blew the top of his head to pieces in what Coroner Waring and Wake County deputies believe was the culmination of domestic troubles in the home.

“Mrs. Jackson had been paralyzed for two years and was said to have been entirely helpless.

“When found about noon yesterday by passers-by, the daughter was still alive, but the husband and wife were lying dead in their own blood. The daughter was rushed to Rex hospital here, where an operation was performed on her badly crushed skull, but she died at 4:45 o’clock yesterday afternoon without regaining consciousness.

“The tragedy is believed to have occurred early yesterday morning, soon after the family of three had arisen from their beds. The husband was fully dressed, but the mother and daughter were only partially dressed. The latter two when found were not wearing shoes or hose.

“It is thought by Coroner Waring that Mr. Jackson, who was said by friends to have been despondent for the past several days, took an ordinary woodaxe from the corner of the kitchen while the family was sitting around the cook-stove and hit his wife on the center of her head, crushing the skull in and scattering the unfortunate woman’s brains and blood in every direction. One of her hands touched the stove and was badly burned.

“The crazed man next advanced upon his unmarried daughter and hit her in the back of he head with the axe, crushing her skull with the blunt end of the weapon. The daughter fell between a wood-box and the stove and had apparently struggled to get away from her crazed parent when the latter inflicted the fatal wound.

“Methodically, the aged murder, apparently believing he had fatally wounded his wife and daughter, placed the bloodstained axe back in a corner of the kitchen, went into a bedroom and got his shotgun. Going back into the dining-room, which adjoins the kitchen where he murdered his wife and daughter, the despondent and crazed man placed the muzzle of the gun against his throat and pulled the trigger.”

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/ Deta

Sheriff Says Holmes Morris Was "Vamped," Not Murdered, Feb. 25, 1926

No Mystery About Monroe Man

Monroe, Feb. 22—Sheriff Clifford Fowler of Union County says that he has cleared “away the mystery” surrounding the disappearance of Holmes Morris, whose bullet pierced automobile was found by the highway Thursday. Morris, the sheriff told a gathering of anxious citizens seeking him, had been lured away by the wiles of a “vampire.”

In making this announcement, the officer also withdrew a reward of $250 posted for clues leading to his discovery.

Thomas House of Charlotte informed officers of his having seen Morris on the night of his disappearance in a Charlotte cab.

The sherif said that he “could find Morris anytime I want him.”

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

A “vampire” was slang for a female seductress, or vamp, who lured men away from their homes.

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/

Roy Hill, Otis Jolly Explain How Shooting of Frank Butler Came About, Feb. 25, 1926

Butler Slayers Are Bound Over

The hearing of Wells Green, Charles Kendrick, Otis Jolley [Jolly?] and Roy Hill, of Gaffney, S.C., alleged murders of Frank Butler who was killed at his home about 15 miles south of Morganton on the Shelby road on the night of January 29th, was held in the courthouse at Morganton before Magistrate George H. Battle.

Captain J.B. Bell of Gaffney appeared for Otis Jolley and Roy Hill, and Ervin & Ervin of Morganton, and Gardner & Burris of Shelby appeared for Wells Green and Charles Kendrick. Mrs. Fannie Butler, wife of the slain man, was the first witness to take the stand for the State. She stated that she was 24 years of age and was a daughter of Pink Cook, of this county. She pointed out Wells Green and Roy Hill as the two men who came into their room on the night of the murder.

Roy Hill, who with Otis Jolly, was the State’s chief witness, was the next to take the stand. He said that he was 19 years old and that he came with Otis Jolly, Wells Green and Charles Kendrick to the home of Frank Butler after liquor on the night of the alleged murder. Asking for liquor, Frank Butler told them he only had 10 gallons. They had containers for only nine gallons and when they returned from a trip of two or three hundred yards up the road where they got the liquor, Frank Butler said he would go into the house to get two fruit jars for the remaining gallon in the deminjohn [demijohn?]. Continuing the story he said that when Butler started toward the house, “Slim” Jolly stepped on the starter. When he did that Frank Butler jumped up on the fender and said, “What does this mean, boys?” and reached over to cut off the engine, but the switch was not on. Charles Kendrick shot through the top of the car to scare him and “Crip” Green fired three shots. On the way back to Gaffney “Crip” said, “I believe I hit that man.” He stated that they did not know if they had killed him, as Frank Butler had picked up the demijohn with the other gallon of liquor and had started toward the house.

On examination he admitted that he had been on the chaingang three times for violating the prohibition law and had taken as high as 40 or 50 gallons of liquor at the time out of the South mountains.

Otis Jolly told very much the same story as Hill on the stand.

On examination he also admitted that he had served two sentences on the chaingang on whiskey charges, and had been indicted seven or eight times, one for larceny of a car.

Wells Green and Charles Kendrick were bound over to the March term of court without bond and Otis Jolly and Roy Hill were allowed to give $1,000 bond each for their appearance at the March term of court.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

A demijohn is a large, narrow-necked bottle traditionally used to store and transport liquids, such as wine, olive oil, cider and vinegar.

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/

Train Kills James Bolick, Coleman Williams at Railroad Crossing, Feb. 25, 1926

Train Kills Two Men Near Maiden

James S. Bolick, aged 60, and Coleman Williams, aged about 65, were instantly killed Saturday afternoon at the railroad crossing on the Newton-Maiden hard surface road about half a mile north of Maiden by a freight engine, which struck the wagon on which the two men were riding.

Northbound Carolina and Northwestern freight, in charge of Conductor Turner Williams with Pete Fennell of Hickory at the throttle, had passed the crossing a short time ahead of the me and had gone to the top of a steep grade when the engine was cut loose from the train and was backing to the Maiden depot to get the remainder of the cars, when the terrible accident occurred.

Both men had seen the freight pass and being slightly deaf did not hear the engine backing. They were riding on a one horse wagon, he property of Mr. Bolick, when the engine struck the wagon, killing the horse and making kindling wood out of the wagon. The body of Mr. Bolick was found some distance down the track while that of Mr. Williams was cut in small parts. Bolick was not mangled. One leg and shoulder were broken, and several severe bruises were found on the body.

Both men were farmers and were returning to their homes when the accident occurred. Mr. Bolick lived in the town of Maiden and Mr. Williams about two miles east. They were highly respected citizens and the tragedy has cast a gloom over the entire community.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/

"Pot Shot" at Monk Baker, Jitney Driver, Feb. 25, 1926

Took “Pot Shot” at Monk Baker

Monk Baker, a well-known jitney driver of this city, had a very close call on last Friday night while he was enroute to Cornelius. He had hauled a number of young people down there early in the night and about 10 o’clock he was returning for his passengers. Just below Mount Mourne, he fell in behind another car. He blew his horn several times but the pace-setter gave no heed and very little room. Finally Baker started to pass the car and when he did the occupants of the front car attempted to wave him down and when Baker had come to a very slow move, some occupant of the other car took a pot shot at Baker, the bullet passing very near to the young man’s head. Only one shot was fired, and had there been another bullet chasing Baker it would never have reached him. He stepped on the gas and went from there.

Policemen are of the opinion that the car in Baker’s way was a booze wagon and the occupants thought Baker was after them. On the other hand, some are of the opinion that the occupants of the pistol-shooting car took Baker’s car for a bootlegger, and were determined to make a haul. Baker may live long, but his shadow will never grow heavier, says Patrolman Will Brown.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/

Siler City English Teacher Exonerated, Resigns Position, Feb. 25, 1926

Siler City News. . . School Now Functioning—Miss Rabey Fully Exonerated—Two New Teachers

Siler City, Feb. 17—Agitated as perhaps never before in their lives were the scores of citizens of Siler City school district No. 1 who gathered about the streets yesterday afternoon to learn the results of the proposed hearing of the testimony for and against Miss Susie L Rabey, who, February 1, was asked by the school board to resign as English teacher in the high school department. No charges were at that time preferred against her, though her demand that specific charges be filed resulted in the boards furnishing her with the following together with the notification that the board was asking county superintendent W.R Thompson to dismiss her:

“First: Lack of cooperation with the principal in mattes of discipline and instruction. Second: Appealing to the emotions of the pupils, causing them to show a spirit of disrespect and disobedience to the principal and other teachers.

Third: Instilling in the minds of the pupils that they do not have enough freedom. Fourth: Attitude towards the pupils suspended in presenting them flowers and giving them social entertainment and undue attention.

Fifth: Making derogatory remarks about other teachers in the high school faculty.” Steadfastly denying these charges, Miss Rabey supported almost to a unit by the high school pupils and a large per cent of the patrons requested a hearing which was set by the county superintendent to be held yesterday at 2 o’clock in the Chatham Bank office before him and the local board. In the meantime all the high school department had been closed down for nearly two weeks due to the fact that there had been a wholesale resignation of all members of the faculty except that of Miss Rabey following the indefinite suspension of five members of the senior class.

Sunday Mrs. Rabey’s brother, an attorney of Suffolk, Virginia, arrived to be with her and yesterday morning a prominent lawyer of Raleigh appeared on the scene. During the day prominent citizens worked hard as mediators between the school board and the Rabeys to effect a compromise without the scheduling hearing, which it would have been difficult to have held as planned as the large crowd gathered were determined to be present.

It was near sundown when a compromise was reached and announcement was made from the front of the local newspaper office, where the crowd was waiting with Miss Rabey in its midst that the board had withdrawn all charges, exonerated her fully and furnished her proper indorsement of her qualifications as a reputable and first class teacher. At the same time Miss Rabey’s resignation was tendered the board and after several days visit here with friends, she will return to her home at Suffolk. All departments of the school are now running except that of domestic science, the instructor in that department, Miss Thomasson, having her resignation accepted, and also that of J.H. Moore, history teacher, being accepted 10 days ago. The vacancies of Miss Rabey and Mr. Moore of Fayettville. All of the seniors dismissed were given certificates of good standing together with credits for work done and three of them have entered school at other places, the other two returning to their classes here.

From the front page of The Chatham Record, Pittsboro, N.C., Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn85042115/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/

Shoemaker's Trial for Affray Ongoing, Feb. 25, 1926

“Turtle” Shoemaker drifted into town Wednesday morning and was immediately arrested and will be tried for an affray with Carl VanPelt, which took place several weeks ago. The trial is on at time of going to press.

From page 2 of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-2/

Roger Babson Says Put Boys to Work at 14, Feb. 25, 1926

Roger Babson, the well-known statistician and much quoted authority on the tendency of the times, in surmising the labor situation, among other things, makes this survey: “Prolonging the school years—both by legislation and custom—is constantly tending to reduce the supply of available labor. Formerly the majority of boys went to work when 14 years of age, and in my opinion many of them were very much better for so doing; but this age is gradually being extended to 16 years or 18 years. Although the state universities and high schools are a distinct handicap, instead of help, to many young people; yet the style now is to send all children to high school and as many as possible to some state university. The prevalent idea that work is something to be avoided is also raising havoc with the labor market, both by keeping people from developing our most promising men into clerks instead of producers. Our faulty educational system together with the indifference of parents, is largely to blame for this condition. The raising and improving of the standard of living is a constant pressure on wage workers for higher wages. This pressure is greatly increasing demands of the wife and the children for more and better things. This condition has always existed and is not to be deplored. Dissatisfaction among young people is more prevalent today than ever before. This is a hard matter to tabulate satisfactorily, but is a real factor in the wage situation.”

From the editorial page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926, Harry P. Deaton, editor.

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-2/

Georgia Supreme Court Says Marriages of Minors May be Void, Feb. 25, 1926

Law Voids Marriages

Hundreds of couples in Georgia are affected by an opinion rendered by Attorney General George M. Nappier of Atlanta to the effect that marriage performed in other states in avoidance of Georgia’s marriage law are voidable.

A law passed by the Georgia assembly in 1924 provides that notice of five days, except in certain cases, shall be given by couples intending to marry before a marriage license can be imposed. The purpose of the law, it is said, is to reduce the number of marriages by minors. Following the passage of the act, South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida and Alabama have reaped a harvest from eloping customers.

Mr. Nappier pointed out in his ruling that the Supreme Court of Georgia has refused to recognize the laws of other states in regards to marriages where they conflict with Georgia laws.

The recent elopement of a number of minors to neighboring states is said to have caused the ruling.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064798/1926-02-25/ed-1/seq-1/

Knox Brown, Brady Simpson Plead Guilty to Simple Assault of Young Girl, Feb. 24, 1926

Brown and Simpson Admit Attack When Cases Are Started. . . Plead Guilty to Simple Attack When Taken in Mecklenburg Superior Court During Day. . . Brown Resident of Kannapolis. . . Cases Grew Out of Attack Made on Charlotte Girl—Attack Was Not Successful, the Girl States

Charlotte, Feb. 24 (AP)—Pleas of guilty to charges of simple attack were entered by Knox Brown, Kannapolis youth, and Brady Simpson, 34, of Thomasboro, who is married, when they were brought to trial today in Mecklenburg Superior Court.

The attach charges grew out of an investigation by officers that followed the disappearance of a young Charlotte girl some time ago. Simpson, who left the state, was arrested recently in Georgia.

The girl told the court that the defendants’ attempt to attack her were not accomplished.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Minister was Holiness Church, Not Christian Scientist, Says Miss Jones, Feb. 24, 1926

Jailed Minister Not Christian Scientist. . . Miss Emily Jones Calls Attention to Error Made in Newspapers

Asheville, Feb. 23—In answer to a news story in several papers, Miss Emily Jones, a member of the Christian Science committee on publication, made a statement in which she says:

“In Sunday morning’s paper, appears on the front page an article telling of the arrest of a ‘Christian Science minister,’ Mr. Robert Yodger, charging him with inhumane treatment of his three children in that he refused to allow them to be treated for infection.

“Mr. Yoder is not a Christian Scientists. I am informed that he is a minister of the Holiness faith. The Christian Science church does not have ministers, but readers, who read from the Bible and the Christian Science textbook, ‘Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.’ By Mary Baker Eddy.”

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926. The newspaper article correcting a previous error misspells the minister’s last name. Is it Yoder or Yodger?

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

State Prison Chaplain Says Youths Don't Belong There, Feb. 24, 1926

Deplores Sending Youths to Prison. . . Chaplain Shacklette Criticizes Judges for It—Discusses Conditions in the Penal Institutions

Rocky Mount, Feb. 23—Conditions among the prisoners at State penal institutions were portrayed by Rev. William S. Shacklette, State prison chaplain, in an address before the Woman’s Auxiliary of the Church of the Good Shepherd at parish house of that church last night.

Rev. Mr. Shacklette, who is a member of the commission on Christian social service for the Episcopal dioceses of North Carolina, discussed in detail the program which the (line obscured) the individual churches to aid in putting across.

The speaker took up in detail the duties of the rector, the local committee, and the general commission in carrying out this program, which he outlined in detail. By way of definite suggestion, Rev. Mr. Shacklette urged that good reading matter be provided for county homes, institutions and jails, that aid be given the families of men who are in prison, that they be supplied clothes and food and a better environment created, that sympathetic help be given to discharged prisoners and those paroled from prison and reform schools and that assistance be accorded them in finding employment.

Rev. Mr. Shecklette [Shacklette?] deplored certain conditions which he declared he had found in the State prison. He declared that he knew several instances where children in their early teens had been sent to the penitentiary and minced no words in criticizing judges who had sent them there. “Hard-boiled methods” on the part of the pardon commissioner likewise came in for comment on the part of the speaker.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Ross Scott, 45, Committed Suicide Feb. 24, 1926

Ross N. Scott Takes Life in Charlotte. . . Body Discovered in Bathroom Which Was Filled with Gas—Every Sign of Suicide

Charlotte, Feb. 24 (AP)—Ross N. Scott, 45, book keeper, was found head in a gas-filled bathroom at his home here. Police after investigating said there was every indication of suicide. He had been dead several hours, they said.

Scott, clad only in underclothing, was found crumpled in a heap on the floor when they forced the door to the room.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Rev. Courtney Praises Training School for Sunday School Workers, Feb. 24, 1926

Pastor Praises Work of Training School. . . Rev. R.M. Courtney Finds School of Interest to Laymen as Well as Teachers

Enthusiastic commendation for the standard training school for Sunday School Workers, now in progress at Central Methodist Church, was uttered this morning by Rev. R.M. Courtney, pastor of the church.

In discussing the work at the school, Mr. Courtney expressed the hope that laymen as well as teachers would attend the sessions. “While the school is arranged primarily for teachers who wish to secure training and credits for attendance,” the minister said, “the average man and woman will find the lectures of great interest and benefit. We had quite a number of visitors Tuesday night and I am quite certain they found the work of benefit. The teachers in the school are experts, men and women who have given much time and thought to their duties, and they have messages that should appeal to every one who is interested in the Bible and the work of the Sunday School.”

Persons attending do not have to enroll in any of the classes, Mr. Courtney explained, but are welcome to hear any of the various teachers whose work appeals especially to them.

Sessions of he school will be held again tonight, tomorrow night and Friday night, beginning each night at 7:30.

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-3/

Personal Notes from Tribune Social Section, Feb. 24, 1926

Society. . . Personal

Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Small of New York City were guests of friend here Tuesday.

W.H. Willard of Charlotte was a business visitor in Concord Tuesday.

Mrs. E.C. Barnhardt Jr. and children were visitors in Charlotte yesterday.

S.W. Kluttz of Chester, S.C., was in Concord Tuesday on business.

Miss Penelope Cannon left Tuesday night for Washington, D.C., to resume her studies after spending several days here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Cannon.

J.H. Wimbleton of Manchester, Ga., spent Tuesday in Concord on business.

Mrs. H.L. Collie and little son, Joe, left Tuesday for Laurenceville, Ga., where they will spend several weeks with relatives.

Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Mebane have returned to Great Falls, S.C., after visiting Concord for several days.

Mrs. Julius Fisher, Miss Mary Peck, Mrs. D.L. Bost and Miss Stella Misenheimer went to Mt. Pleasant this morning to attend the Skinner-Heilig wedding.

Charles E. Parks of Albemarle was a business visitor in Concord Tuesday.

Rev. and Mrs. M.R. Gibson and son, Ralph, spent Tuesday in Charlotte. They were accompanied home by Mrs. Annie B. Baird, who was the guest in Charlotte of her son, Rev. J.A. Baird.

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-3/

December 1925 Wedding of Sudie May Moore and Deane Hill Eller Announced Feb. 24, 1926

Eller-Moore. . . Announcement Made of Marriage of Miss Sudie May Moore and Deane Hill Eller Last December

Announcements reading as follows have been issued here:

Mr. and Mrs. William Lacy Moore announce the marriage of their daughter, Sudie May, to Mr. Deane Hill Eller on Monday, the 28th of December, 1925, North Wilkesboro, N.C. This announcement will be of great interest in this city and county where Mrs. Eller is widely known. She is at present a member of the faculty of the Brown Mill School, where she has taught for several years. She will complete the present term.

Mr. Eller is a traveling representative of Barber Green Company with headquarters in Atlanta.

Mr. and Mrs. Eller will make their home in Concord for the present.

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-3/

Miss Billie Pike Celebrates 9th Birthday, Feb. 24, 1926

Celebrates 9th Birthday Anniversary

Little Miss Billie Pike entertained a number of friends at a lovely party Tuesday afternoon, in honor of her 9th birthday anniversary.

After an hour spent in playing delightful games, the young hostess served refreshments. Dainty favors were given each of the following guests: Mary Cottrell Archibald, Jane Moose, Cora Lee Means, Margaret Brown, Rebecca Bodenheimer, Nancy Pike, James McKay, Victor Means and Linwood Brown.

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-3/

Mrs. Parks Lafferty Recovering After Surgery, Feb. 24, 1926

Mrs. Lafferty Undergoes Operation

Mrs. Parks Lafferty, who entered the Charlotte Sanatorium Sunday, was operated on Tuesday morning.

Reports from the sanatorium state that Mrs. Lafferty stood the operation well, and is resting as comfortably as can be expected.

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-3/

Mrs. O.B. Jones Recovering in Charlotte Sanatorium, Feb. 24, 1926

Mrs. Jones in Hospital

Concord friends of Mrs. O.B. Jones of China Grove will be interested to know that she is improving rapidly from an operation in the Charlotte Sanatorium.

Before her marriage Mrs. Jones was Miss Sallie Willie Hunter, home demonstration agent for Cabarrus County.

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-3/

S.O. Hege Foresaw His Own Death, Feb. 23, 1926

Told Sons of Death Approach and Died. . . S.O. Hege of Davidson County Commended Sons—Was Apparently in Good Health

Lexington, Feb. 22—News reached here today of the death Saturday afternoon under peculiar circumstances of S.O. Hege, well known farmer living about 15miles north of Lexington. Mr. Hege is said to have walked from his home to a spring a short distance away, then walked hurriedly to where his two sons were working near the house, informed them that he was about to depart life, commended them for their worth as sons, expressed the wish that they would do well in life, then sat down for a short while on his front porch. Shortly thereafter he lay down on a bed and expired in a few minutes, according to information received here.

Mr. Hege had just returned from Winston-Salem, where he went to sell a load of wheat, and is said to have been apparently in good health. He was in good financial circumstances, so far as learned, being a hard working and thrifty farmer. He was a son of the late Phillip Hege of Reed Creek township, and one of several heirs to large land holdings of his father.

Funeral services were conducted yesterday by Rev. R.F. Huneycutt of Arcadia community, and Rev. J. McCuiston of Friedberg Church. The deceased only 49 years old and leaves a widow, two sons and one daughter.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-23/ed-1/seq-1/

Robbers with Torch Take $50,000 from Bank of Stokes, Feb. 23, 1926

Bank at King Gives Up Cash to Robbers. . . Cash, Notes and Negotiable Securities Valued at $50,000 Taken by Band of Robbers During Night

Winston-Salem, Feb. 23 (AP)—The Bank of Stokes County, located at King, N.C., 15 miles from here, was robbed early this morning. Officials of the bank say the loss will exceed$50000. An acetylene torch was used to cut a hole in the back of a small safe, and from this the thieves lifted their loot. They left a part of the contents in the safe, being unable to handle some of the articles on account of heat created by the torch.

H.H. Leake, cashier, said the safe last night contained $7,000 in currency, $1,000 in gold, and $1,200 in silver. There were also stocks and bonds in considerable amount, all registered, and about $35,000 in negotiable notes. The entire loss is covered by insurance.

The robbers left no clue to their identify and although a finger print expert has made careful survey of the scene, he has not yet found much that will give a clue.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-23/ed-1/seq-1/

E.E. Eller Sells His Business to Risser & Rabinowitz, Feb. 23, 1926

E.E. Eller Sells Produce Business

Mr. E.E. Eller last Monday sold the E.E. Eller produce company to Risser & Rabinowitz of Philadelphia, Pa. This includes Mr. Eller’s produce business on Tenth Street but not the buildings.

Mr. Eller has been in the produce business for the past 30 years, and for the past several years has been one of the largest poultry dealers in the South. Mr. Eller, who has been in Florida this winter, has been elected secretary and treasurer of the Ridgeland Development Company at Winter Haven, Fla., owners of the Country Club Estate of that place, and one of the largest real estate companies in Florida. He will make Winter Haven his home during the winters and North Wilkesboro, N.C., his home during the summer months.

We are sorry indeed that Mr. Eller saw fit to sell his produce business at this place, but we are glad he is not leaving us entirely. No finer man has ever lived in North Wilkesboro than E.E. Eller. He is a man that all classes of people like.

Risser and Rabinowitz, Inc., is one of the largest poultry dealers in the United States today. They expect to enlarge, and continue the business at the present stand of E.E. Eller Co. on Tenth Street, and want the corporation of all citizens in an effort to make this the equal market of New York for poultry. Mr. B.H. Colvard will be manager of the business at this point. They expect to pay New York market prices for poultry and hope to have the cooperation of our business men and farmers. These same people have recently opened places of business a Hamlet and Goldsboro, N.C. Mr. James Foote, formerly of this place, is manager of the business at Goldsboro.

Risser & Rabinowitz, Inc., is a $3 million concern, and means much to North Wilkesboro—enough said.

From the front page of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Feb. 23, 1926. To see a photo of E.E. Eller and to read the original article, go to:

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92072938/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Two Wilkes County Teachers Dismissed for Smoking Cigarettes, Feb. 23, 1926

Two Teachers Dismissed for Smoking Cigarettes

Two lady teachers in Wilkes County were discharged last week for smoking cigarettes. At the February meeting of the County Board of Education, a resolution was passed forbidding cigarette smoking by school teachers in the count, and if same was persisted in, they would be asked to resign. We are reliably informed that neither of the teachers were residents of Wilkes.

From the front page of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Feb. 23, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92072938/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

5-Year-Old Virginia Coleman Killed After Running into Road, February 22, 1926

Little Girl Killed by Car in Salisbury. . . Virginia Coleman Struck by an Auto Driven by John Gullett—Accident Called Unavoidable

Salisbury, Feb. 22—Virigina Coleman, 5-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James O. Coleman of 429 North Ellis Street, was run over by an automobile this evening about 6 o’clock and almost instantly killed. The little girl, with some neighbor children, had crossed Ellis Street near her home, and Virginia, for some reason, darted back across the street. One of her companions tried to stop her, but she got far enough in the street to run in front of a car driven by John Gullett of Rowan County. Mr. Gullett ran his car on the sidewalk in trying to miss the child.

The little one was rushed to the hospital by Mr. Gullett, but she lived only a few minutes. Coroner Sommerset investigated the accident and pronounced it unavoidable. The police also believe it unavoidable, but placed Mr. Gullett under a $300 bond for a hearing Thursday.

Virginia was an unusually bright little girl for her age and was a general favorite in the neighborhood. Her father conducts a U-Drive-It Car service, and the family have lived here about a year.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 1926

The headline, as seen in the original article, states that the father was driving the car, but the article clearly says that John Gullett of Rowan County was driving the car. I have changed the headline here, but you can see the original one at:

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-23/ed-1/seq-1/

News Briefs in The Hustler, Feb. 23, 1926

Town and Country News. . . Local Items of Interest

Monday was George Washingon’s birthday, the 22nd day of February.

Dr. W.R. Wilkins’ mother died Friday evening at 6 o’clock at Rutherfordton following a stroke of paralysis during the first part of February. She is survived by eight grown children. She was 74 years of age.

Attorney F.B. Hendren made the memorial address Sunday at Hiddenite on the life and character of Rev. Parks Gwaltney, deceased. A large number of people were present from Alexander County.

Representatives of the U.S. Internal Revenue Department will be in Wilkesboro on February 26th and March 1st to assist taxpayers in filing Federal Income Tax Returns.

The District Forest Wardens of Wilkes County had a very profitable conference at the court house Saturday. The following were present: J.L. Eller, G.E. Blevins, E.F. Brown, J.T. Byrd, Rev. Grant Cothren, J.H. Davis, G.A. Eller, P.D. Emerson, L.M. Jarvis, Archie Ogelvie, W.A. Payne, J.W. Robbins, Camie Roberson, W.C. Triplett and Vance Wright. H.M. Sebring represented the State at the conference.

A considerable number of gardens were plowed before the rain of last Thursday though early in the season. We know of one person or two in fact who planted small amounts of Irish potatoes. Onin sets were not grown in this country because of the drought last year and first were shipped in and put on sale at the retail stores here Feb. 8th. The Miller Grocery Co. and others put on sale the cabbage plants first for early spring last Friday.

Uncle Maryland Hickerson, an old-time colored citizen who lived near Roaring River, died Saturday, February 13th. He was a good citizen and commanded the respect and esteem of the citizens of that vicinity, white and colored. Uncle Maryland was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church. He was 86 years old. The burial and funeral services were at Jonesvilles, being conducted by Rev. J.C. Hunter of Straw, the pastor of the colored people’s Methodist church.

From the front page of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92072938/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Plane Tangled With Power Lines, Pilot Escapes, Feb. 21, 1926

Aeroplane Wrecked Near Winston-Salem. . . Machine of R.J. Reynolds Jr. Fails to Clear String of Power Wires

Winston-Salem, Feb. 21—A standard aeroplane, owned by R.J. Reyolds Jr. of this city and piloted by Ernest Smith of New York, was completely wrecked about 2 o’clock this afternoon when it fell while an attempt was being made to take off from a field near the Country Club. Smith, who is mechanician for Reynolds, was the only occupant and he escaped injury.

The ship was unable to gain enough altitude to clear a strong of power lines along the highway and as the tail of the machine struck them it was hurled to the ground. The wires were torn loose for some distance, and the plane buried its nose in the dirt across the road.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-02-23/ed-1/seq-1/

Mary Elizabeth Rash Faw, 76, Died Feb. 21, 1926

Mrs. Thomas H. Faw Died Last Sunday

Mary Elizabeth Rash Faw, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. J.W. Rash, was born near Millers Creek February 5th, 1852. She lived in this community practically all her life and died at her home in Millers Creek Feb. 21, 1926 at 12:30 a.m., aged 74 years and 16 days. She was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, when about 18 years of age and has been a consistent, faithful, devoted member of this church for more than half a century.

She was married to Thomas H. Faw December 7th, 1873, and to this union five children were born, two of which survive her, Mrs. J.F. Caudill, Wilkesboro, R.F.D. No. 1, and C.C. Faw of North Wilkesboro. In addition to the husband and two children, two sisters, Mrs. C. McNeill and Mrs. J.A. Faw of North Wilkesboro, and one brother, John C. Rash, also eight grand-children and five great grand children, and a host or relatives and friends survive to mourn her departure.

An attempt to eulogize her life in her home, in her community, and in her church would be futile as her life has been and is a living benediction to those who knew her.

Her death is a distinct loss to her loved ones, her church and the community as well.

The funeral and burial was conducted Monday by Rev. W.L. Hughes, pastor, assisted by Rev. S. Taylor, Presiding Elder, H.G. Allen and J.L.A. Bumgarner.

Pall bearers: C.H.M. Tulbert, T.M. Brown, C.P. McNeill, Fred Gaither, Monroe Faw and M.F. Bumgarner.

Honorary pall bearers: C.C. Wright, J.H. Pennell, J.W. Nichols, W.R. Absher, R.J. Hinshaw, L.G. Caldwell, W.V. Caudill, E.B. Barkley, W.E. Colvard, H.A. Cranor, J.G. Hackett, W.A. Sydnor, C.M. Finley and C.E. Jenkins.

Mr. Rudd Newsom, assisted by Dr. P.J. Brame and Prof. T.E. Storey, had charge of the music.

The teachers of the Millers Creek school carried the flowers.

Out-of-town people attended the funeral: W.M. Faw, Cumberland, Md.; Hardin Rash, T.C. Rash, Mrs. Mary A. Cloer and Mrs. Tulbert of Lenoir.

From the front page of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Feb. 23, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92072938/1926-02-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Walter Gibbs, Not William Henry Gibbs, Died When the Rebecca Crashed at Coinjock Bridge, Feb. 22, 1926

Accident Victim Was Not Gibbs First Supposed. . . Captain of Virginia Dare, Who Assisted in Bringing Body Ashore, Gives Details of Tragedy. . . Not Gibbs He Knew. . . Masters of Sound and River Craft Suggest Installation of Bell as Means to Prevent Mishaps

Walter Gibbs of Englehard and not William Henry Gibbs, as was first supposed, apparently was the victim of Friday night’s accident at Coinjock Bridge, in Currituck County, when the gasboat Rebecca crashed into the draw as it was being raised, and wrecked her pilot house, crushing to death the steersman inside.

“The man killed was not the William Henry Gibbs that I knew,” stated Captain J.M. Richardson of the oil burner Virginia Dare, operated by the Elizabeth City Boat Line between this city and Norfolk. Captain Richardson, going north of his regular run, reached the bridge about the time of the accident, and helped carry ashore the victim.

In discussing the accident, Captain Richardson said today that the man killed bore no outward evidence of mortal injury, apparently having been crushed in the wreckage of the pilot house. Death was almost instantaneous after the crash, he declared, adding that Gibbs only gasped once or twice as he was being taken ashore.

Walter Gibbs is said to have been a brother of William Henry Gibbs. The latter Gibbs was employed for a number of years as a cook on various sound and river craft plying the waters. The man killed was apparently about 50 years old, according to Captain Richardson, who stated that the body was taken to Englehard on a small gasboat shortly after the accident.

Stirred by this mishap, and another almost identical which preceded it at the same bridge, shop masters here are suggesting that the Government should equip this and other drawbridges with a bell or gong so that when an approaching vessel signals for the opening of the draw, the bridge tender could answer the summons, thereby signifying that the draw was about to be opened. This, they argue, should serve materially to reduce the hazard of accidents like that which occurred Friday night.

From the front page of The Daily Advance, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92074042/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

The original story, giving the wrong identification of the victim, appeared in the Feb. 20th issue of The Daily Advance:

https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8493267847537044513/1034906648419493010

Tragedy Stalks N.C. With Deaths from Train Collisions, Murders-Suicide, Feb. 22, 1926

Tragedy Stalks Across N.C. . . . . Two Murders, One Suicide and 3 Deaths from Train-Auto Crashes

Raleigh, Feb. 20 (AP)—Tragedy stalked across North Carolina today from the mountains to the sea and took a toll of six lives. At Concord, John Goode, a textile worker, was killed by a Southern train when it stepped on to see the tracks and evidently failed to see the train approaching.

At Newton, N.C., J.S. Bolick and Coal Williams of Maiden, N.C., were instantly killed when a freight train struck and demolished a wagon in which they were riding.

With the death in Raleigh hospital today of Dora Jackson of Leesville, the death toll of a tragedy in her father’s farm house was raised to three. C.M. Jackson, 69, well known farmer of the Leesville section, and his wife were found dead this morning in their home, and Dora Jackson, 37, was dying, after what appears to police to have been a double murder and suicide. The bodies of both women were hacked, evidently with an axe, and Jackson was found, his head literally blown to pieces, with a shotgun.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

Gary Mitchell Killed, Minnie Bryant Seriously Injured in Train-Automobile Wreck, Feb. 22, 1926

E. Gary Mitchell of Fairmont Killed in Train-Automobile Wreck Last Night. . . Two Ladies Also Seriously Injured When Coast Line Train Strikes Car at Four Oaks—Remains Will Be Brought to Fairmont Tonight. . . Funeral at Fairmont Tuesday

By Mrs. H.G. Inman

Fairmont, Feb. 22—Mr. E. Gary Mitchell, a young business man of this place, is dead and two ladies are seriously injured as the result of an accident occurring last night in Four Oaks when A.C.L. passenger train No. 82 struck an automobile in which the three were riding.

The remains of Mr. Mitchell and the injured ladies were placed on the train and carried to Rocky Mount, where the injured were taken to the A.C.L. hospital and the remains placed in charge of an undertaker. Officials of the railroad ‘phoned Mr. Durham Mitchell, brother of deceased, and arranged for a fast train passing Elrod early this morning to stop for him to go to Rocky Mount and return with the remains, arriving at Fairmont at 7:40 tonight.

Mr. Mitchell was a widower and leaves three children, besides is parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.G. Mitchell, two sisters—Mrs. F.H. Pittman of Fairmont and a Mrs. Wilson of Hickory—and two brothers—Mr. Durham Mitchell of Fairmont and Mr. L.F. Mitchell of Wilmington.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, and interment made in the Fairmont cemetery.

Only One Lady Badly Hurt

The Robesonian ‘phoned the A.C.L. hospital in Rocky Mount at noon today and learned from the head nurse that Miss Minnie Bryant, one of the ladies with Mr. Mitchell, is badly hurt, the extend of her injuries not having been determined, but that Miss Mary Lee, the other young lady, is not seriously hurt. Both ladies are from Benson.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

Feds Charge Pharmacy Manager, Pharmacist with Violation of Narcotics Law, Feb. 22, 1926

Two Arrested for Sale of Narcotics

Charlotte, Feb. 22—V.R. Fulmer, pharmacy manager, and H.C. Williams, pharmacist, were arrested today by Federal agents, charged with violation of the narcotic laws. A series of arrests have been made here within two weeks on this charge.

From the front page of The Daily Advance, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92074042/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

In Recorder P.S. Kornegay's Courtroom, Feb. 22, 1926

Negro Gets Two Years on Roads. . . Helper at County Home Left Windows Unlocked to Gain Entrance to Rooms of Inmates of Mental Deficiency—Charged with Entering Building for Immoral Purposes—Speights Charged with Assault Bound Over to Superior Court. . . Witnesses Failed and Assault Case is Nol Prossed

As a result of his alleged intimacy with female inmates of the count home, where he had been employed as a helper, Oscar Ratley, negro, was sentenced Saturday by Recorder P.S. Kornegay to two years on the county roads when found guilty of entering the building for immoral purposes.

Ratley was a favorite among the inmates, especially those of mental deficiency, and he was at liberty to go into every part of the building during the daytime, which gave him the privilege of leaving certain windows unlocked so he could re-enter at night. A few days previous to his trial he was sentenced to four months on the roads for disposing of mortgaged property.

Other Cases

Other cases disposed of recently in recorder’s court were as follows:

--M.G. Dial paid $100 and costs for possessing whiskey.

--Wiley Dillard paid the usual $25 fine for being “happy” drunk, while Madry Locklear paid the amount and costs for being “sad” drunk.

--W.L. Chappell paid the costs for speeding.

--Lem Key was fined $10 and costs for transporting one drink of whiskey.

--Mattie Caulder was given 4 months in jail for vagrancy, but was allowed to leave the county in lieu of the sentence.

--Alzie Edwards was given 30 days on the roads for using profane and indecent language on the public highway.

--Minta Stauart [Stuart?] was given a total of 9 months on the roads for driving a car while drunk, carrying concealed weapons, transporting whiskey, and reckless driving.

--The case against James Hall, charged with assault with a deadly weapon, was nol prossed on account of the absence of the prosecuting witnesses.

--Alex Blount paid the cost for larceny.

--J.C. Applewhite and Will Sinclair paid the costs and amount of bad checks.

--Vaughn White paid the cost in two cases of assault.

--Wat Lewis and Isabelle Mitchell were each taxed with the costs for prostitution.

--David Jones was given four months on the roads for possessing whiskey.

--Hamp and Ashe Speight were bound over to Superior Court on charges of assault with a deadly weapon. Bond in the sum of $100 for Ashe Speight was made, but Hamp went to jail in default of a $500 bond.

--J.F. Logan paid the costs for violating the automobile laws, and agreed to get proper license.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

Children Take Parents' Broken Down Car for Joy Ride, Feb. 22, 1926

Small Colored Children Take Joy Ride While Frantic Papa and Mama Seek Them in Vain

Wailing lustily in a Ford car at “Chicken Corner,” where they had run out of gas, three small colored children were observed by residents of the neighborhood Sunday afternoon, after they had had a “joy ride” of several hours. Chief Holmes was notified, and took them in charge, later restoring them to their much disturbed parents. By way of parenthesis, it is explained for the benefit of the unknowing that “Chicken Corner” is the unofficial appellation of the intersection of Harney and Parsonage streets. The family started out for a Sabbath afternoon jaunt on the Hertford Highway, the father of the youthful trio explained to the chief, and something went wrong with the Ford just as they reached the Suffolk & Carolina Railroad crossing, a short distance from the passenger station. The car stopped dead in its tracks, refused to respond to first aid tactics, and finally the husband and wife walked ack to town for help, leaving their three children behind.

The eldest of the trio, a boy of 12 or 13, succeeded in starting the motor after the parents left, and the children decided to take a ride on their own account. This terminated when the gasoline gave out at “Chicken Corner.” When Chief Holmes took them in tow, they were hungry, cold and altogether miserable, he declared. The enterprising youngster who had engineered the party was given an energetically administered reminder of his parents’ disapprobation. They had spent several hours in a vain search for the car and its occupants.

From the front page of The Daily Advance, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92074042/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

State Senator T.L. Johnson Tells Doctors to Ignore New Law, Feb. 22, 1926

Doctors Are Told to Disregard Law. . . State Senator T.L. Johnson Says Amendment to Marriage Law Is Not Legally Enforceable—Law Says It Shall be Duty of Physicians to Examine Applicants for Marriage License Free—Was Rushed Through Last Days of Session. . . Introduced by Townsend

“People who want to get married are not objects of charity, and there is no more reason for a law compelling doctors to examine applicants for marriage license free of charge than for a law ordering the merchant to furnish the wedding garments without cost, or compelling a lawyer to write the deed and examine the title for the home of the newlyweds,” said State Senator T.L. Johnson Saturday in reference to the law rushed through the last Legislature, which says it is the duty of physicians to examine applicants for marriage license without charge.

Senator Johnson’s attention was called to the law following an article printed in The Robesonian giving the facts. Physicians wanted to know what kind of a law it was, who introduced it, and why it was contested. Clerk of Court C.B. Skipper found the law only a few days ago, showed it to the register of deeds, and an account of it was published in the following issue of this paper.

The amendment to the marriage laws was introduced by Mr. N.A. Townsend of Dunn, according to Senator Johnson, on the 7th day of March. It was passed during the rush which always characterizes the closing of the session, when bills are introduced by the hundreds, when sessions are held morning, afternoon and night, with no opportunity to read the bills. During this time members of the Senate and the House must depend on the integrity of the members and the vigilance of the calendar committee, whose duty it is to examine and unfavorably report bills that should not pass.

Commenting on the law Senator Johnson said, “I do not regard the law as legally enforceable and were I physician I would disregard it. It is unfair, and clearly discriminatory, and I am satisfied that it never would have become a law if the members had known the provisions of the bill. I believe the doctors do more charity work than any other class of people on earth. They do it cheerfully and gladly in proper cases, but there is no satisfactory reason to be given, so far as I can see, for the law requiring them to examine applications for marriage license without charge.

The amendment does not provide for a penalty in case of violation, but states that it shall be the duty of the examining physician to make such examination without charge.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

Local News Briefs in The Robesonian, Feb. 22, 1926

Items of Local News

--Local banks are closed on account of George Washington’s birthday anniversary today.

--Rev. R.C. Beaman, former pastor of Chestnut Street Methodist Church, is improving and is able to sit up the greater part of the time, according to information given Mrs. K.M. Barnes by is nurse when Mrs. Barnes called up Dr. Beaman’s residence in Tarboro about 10:30 Saturday night over the ‘phone from her home here. Dr. Beaman returned home two weeks ago from the Mayo hospital in Rochester, Minn., and first reports after his return were discouraging. A dispatch in yesterday’s News and Observer from Tarboro states that Dr. Beaman is in the Edgecombe general hospital there and that he is very much encouraged over his condition, which is improving.

--Mrs. Cutlar Moore will entertain the Woo club Wednesday afternoon at 4 o’clock at her home on North Elm street.

--A Ford runabout belonging to Mr. R.C. McDonald was stolen Saturday night from in front of the home of Mr. and Mrs. F.K. Biggs, East Sixth Street, where Mr. McDonald rooms. The last trace officer here have of the car is that it was seen going in the direction of Wilmington. A search was made of all roads leading from Lumberton, and the State department notified, but nothing had been heard from the car about noon today. The theft occurred about 8 o’clock while Mr. McDonald was in the house.

--Miss Josephine Breece returned yesterday from New York and other Northern cities, where she purchased spring and summer stock for her millinery store.

--Lieut. L.E. Edwards, an auditor of the War department, arrived here Friday night from Atlanta and is making headquarters at the home of his mother, Mrs. Francis Edwards, about 2 miles east of town, while he is doing special work at Fort Bragg, which will last for about 60 days.

--Mr. W.H. McMillan of St. Paul R. 1 was a Lumberton visitor Saturday. Mr. McMillan had been laid up with a cold for some time but has about gotten well.

--Mr. Frank McLeod, who underwent an operation and special treatment for several weeks in the Charlotte sanatorium, has returned to his home here and was able to be out this morning.

--Mr. David Reed Regan of Atlanta is spending a few days here with his mother, Mrs. J.D. Regan, who is undergoing treatment at the Baker sanatorium and whose condition is unimproved.

--Lumberton’s quota of $750 for suffering Jews in Europe is expected to be subscribed at once, and Mr. A. Weinstein, to whom all contributions to the cause are to be sent, has already received donations of nice amounts.

--The men’s Bible class of Chestnut Street Methodist Church, Rev. T. M. Grant, teacher, had lots of fun at an oyster roast at the Goat club house Tuesday evening. The oysters were fine and the merriment was all that could be desired.

--Miss Amelia Linkhauer, proprietor of the Style Shop here, and her milliner, Miss Gertrude Carroll, have returned from Northern markets, where they have purchased spring millinery, large shipments of which have already arrived.

--Mr. and Mrs. R.E. Lee and son, Mr. Henry Lee, attended the wedding of their son and brother, Mr. Osborne Lee, and Miss Catherine Wilder Bobbitt in Louisburg Wednesday evening, an account of which appears elsewhere in this issue.

--Mr. Horace Barnes, student at Oak Ridge Institute, is spending a few days here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. K.M. Barnes. He is recuperating from a slight attack of influenza, an epidemic having been in the school for the past few weeks.

--Former Justice L.R. Varser returned Friday night from Charlotte, where he spent a week in the Charlotte sanatorium. The stone which caused recent kidney trouble having been removed, he came home feeling fine and fat, looking not at all like a man who had been sick.

--Mr. and Mrs. A.E. White have returned from the Rio Grande valley, Texas, where they spent four weeks. Mr. White owns considerable real estate in Hidalgo County, and says he is more enthusiastic than ever over his purchases. They arrived home Thursday night.

--Miss Lillian Edgerton, member of the local school faculty, attended the wedding of her sister, Miss Inez Edgerton, and Mr. Wm. James Cromwell Daniel, in Kenly Monday night. The bride has many friends here and at Bladenboro, having taught at the latter place.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

N.C. Agricultural Credit Corp. Sues Mary C. and J.C. McCaskill, Feb. 22, 1926

Credit Corporation Brings Suit

Suit was stared in Wake Superior Court Saturday by the North Carolina Agricultural Credit Corporation against Mary C. McCaskill and husband, J.C. McCaskill, of Robeson County, for the recovery of $1,545.50 alleged to be due on a note made by the defendant to the plaintive in 1924, states yesterday’s News & Observer.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

Parkton Township's Vote Consolidates White Schools, Feb. 22, 1926

Parkton Township Schools Vote to Consolidate

In an election held Saturday the voters of Parkton township voted by a large majority to consolidate New Home and Buckhorn schools with the Parkton school, thus uniting all the white schools of the township.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., Monday, Feb. 22, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/

C.M. Jackson Commits Suicide After Killing Wife and 37-Year-Old Daughter, Feb. 21, 1926

Wake County Tragedy Causes Three Deaths. . . Farmer Uses Axe to Kill Wife and Slays Self with Shotgun. . . Daughter of C.M. Jackson and Wife Also Victim of Father’s Brutality. . . Blown to Pieces. . . Jackson’s Head Torn to Pieces by Discharge of Weapon; Had Good Reputation. . . Daughter Dies

Raleigh, N.C., Feb. 20 (AP)—With the death in a Raleigh hospital today of Dora Jackson of Leesville, the death toll of a tragedy in her father’s farmhouse was raised to three.

-=-

Raleigh, N.C., Feb. 20 (AP)—C.M. Jackson, 69, and his wife are dead, and Dora Jackson, 37, their daughter, is dying in Rex Hospital, as the result of what sheriffs believe a domestic tragedy which occurred in their humble farm house near Leesville Saturday morning.

Sheriffs believe that Jackson, using an axe, killed his wife and probably fatally wounded his daughter, as they were preparing breakfast in the kitchen and then retired to the dining room, sat down in a chair, placed the muzzle of the shotgun under his chin and pulled the trigger.

“Blown to Pieces”

Jackson’s head was literally blown to pieces, the dining room ceiling being splattered with brains and bird shot. His nose and a section of his moustached lip were found in one section of the room and one of his eyeballs found in another. His shotgun, with one barrel discharged, was found lying on the floor beside his body.

Woman Killed with Axe

From wounds found on the body of Mrs. Jackson, sheriffs concluded that she had been struck in the head with an axe. Her hands had been burned as she presumably pitched forward on the kitchen stove. Her body was found on the floor in a pool of blood and buttermilk from an overturned churn.

Daughter Dying

Dora Jackson, the daughter, was alive when found, but she was unconscious. She was rushed to Raleigh where she was placed on the operating table at Rex Hospital. Little hope was entertained for her recovery.

There was no evidence of a robbery, according to sheriffs, who rushed to the scene along with members of the Raleigh police force when word of the tragedy reached Raleigh.

Mr. Jackson, who was familiarly known as “Tinker” Jackson, had been living in the Leesville section of Wake County for many years. He was known as a quiet farmer, and a good husband and family [man?] but neighbors and sheriffs stated that he had been very nervous recently.

Did Not Have Enemy

Neighbors stated that Mr. Jackson did not have an enemy in the world and that while he had never “messed with whiskey,” that he had taken no active part in “turning up” moonshiners and did not help sheriffs raid stills.

From the front page of The Goldsboro News, Sunday morning, Feb. 21, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn93064755/1926-02-21/ed-1/seq-1/