DID YOU EVER STOP TO THINK?
(by J.A. ZEIGLER)
THAT – Earnest Pearce, auto mechanic of Florence, enjoys with Mark Twain the unique distinction of reading his own death notice. Reports in two of the leading state newspapers had it that Mr. Pearce was killed at Ocean Drive Estates while testing his car for the auto races. Mr. Pearce wants the world to know that the news of his demise is slightly exaggerated.
The Daily Chattanooga Rebel (Griffin, Ga.), June 9, 1864, page 1
The President's Household-The Late Terrible Bereavement.
The late sad accident and terrible bereavement suffered by the President and family, called forth the deepest sympathies of the public. From a private letter of a Confederate Officer-though not intended for publication-the Selma Dispatch copies the description of the scene of the accident, and the President's household, when struck with the sudden affliction:
FLORENCE, S. C., May 3.-I left Richmond on Sunday morning, 1st of May-On the evening before, I found myself at the President's house, upstairs, by a sad and singular accident. Having finished all my business with the Department, I strolled with Judge H., of Mississippi, to look at the city, and passing the President's mansion, we paused to look at the scenery beyond, when a little girl ran out of the house crying to the next door and pulling the bell violently; in a minute she was followed by another, and then by a a little boy, the picture of the most utter desolation and despair, and then by a negro women, from whom we learned that the President's little son was badly hurt, and no white person except these three little children at home.
We at once ran in and found the little fellow (about five years old) in the arms of a negro man, insensible and almost dead. Dispatching a servant for a Doctor, we began to rub him with camphor and brandy, and put mustard on his feet and wrists, and in a short time he began to breathe better, and opened his eyes, and we all thought he was reviving, but it was the last bright gleaming of the wick in the socket before the light is extinguished forever.
Mr. and Mrs. Davis came in while we held the little fellow rubbing him. She relieved herself in a flood of tears and wild lamentations; he knelt by his side and clasped the dying boy's hand in his own thin attenuated fingers. As he thus held his hands and watched the boy die, such a look of petrified, unutterable anguish I never saw. His pale, thin intellectual face, already oppressed with a thousand national troubles, that now so imminently threaten our existence, seemed suddenly ready to burst with unspeakable grief, and thus transfixed into a stony rigidity.
The little boy had fallen from a gallery about fifteen feet, on a brick pavement, and lay there some time before he was discovered. His head was contused, and I think his chest much injured internally. The little boy who died was named Joe. He had beautiful black eyes and hair, and was a very handsome boy. The other little fellow, was stricken with grief, named Jeff, was some six or seven years old, an intelligent, independent at little fellow, with the tenderest heart under a rough exterior.
When I recall the picture of our poor President, grief stricken, speechless, tear less and crushed, I can scarcely refrain from tears myself, even now. No man could have witnessed that scene, and ever find it in his heart again to abuse that great and pure man, who, in the exercise of great powers confided to him by a generous people, has shown more continence and moderation than Washington.
The President's little boys were dressed in grey jeans, and barefooted, and Jeff, the sturdy little fellow, had on a broad brim hat of oat straw. The President himself was dressed in a plain suit of grey.
Aiken Tribune, January 4, 1873
During a drunken fracas which occurred in Timmonsville on Christmas eve, William Oliver was shot twice by Marshal Powers, and his brother Hiram Oliver, was also shot twice by Powers, who, in return, was shot by William Oliver. Another man, named Malcom Timmons, was also shot severely.-It is doubtful whether Powers can recover.
Aiken Tribune, January 18, 1873
Mr. Andrew Powers, who was wounded at the late affray at Timmonsville, has had his leg amputated above the knee.
A colored child, named Easter Brown, was severely burned, on Ashley River, on the leg, by her clothes taking fire.
New Ulm Review, Nov. 9, 1892, page 6, New Ulm, MN
Dorsey Goodin, of Timmonsville S.C. deliberately beat his seven-year old daughter to death with a large leather strap, having an iron buckle on the end, in twenty minutes, and then picking the little one up hurled her to the floor. She died shortly afterwards. Goodin is in jail, and may be lynched. [cb Robin L.]
The State, 20 Oct. 1907, transcribed by Vicki Bryan
Florence, Oct. 19 - The marriage on Wednesday evening of Miss Blanche Ethelyn Morris and Mr. Beo Grey Peterson was one of the most beautiful of the season. It took place in the First Methodist church, which for the occasion had been transformed by skillful decorators into a fairy-land. Masses of palms and ferns formed a background for the white altar and here and there burst forth many gleaming candles. The color scheme, white and green, was beautifully carried out in every detail. Enchanting music cast its spell over the large company of friends and admirers of the contracting parties. Before the ceremony Mr. William Gordon sang "Love Me and the World Is Mine." The ushers were Messrs. T. E. Babb of Laurens and W. T. Thames of Manning. To the inspiring strains of Mendelssohn's wedding march, played by Miss Della Dusenberry of Florence, the groomsmen and bridesmaids entered in alternate couples and grouped themselves about the altar. The maids were Miss Lillian Peterson of Laurens, sister of the groom, Miss Bertha Morris of Lake City, Miss Mannie Meadors of Florence and Miss Baker. The groomsmen were Messrs. C. H. Babb, T. C. Switzer, Ed Morris, and J. N. Dunklin. Following this group came the dame of honor, Miss Florence Tatum of Bishopville. The bride entered with her maid of honor, Miss Florence Bristow of Bennettsville. The groom entered with his best man, Mr. J. H. Peterson of Laurens and met the bride at the altar. Suspending from an arch was a beautiful marriage bell of white, under which the happy couple stood together to plight their troth. The picture formed by the party was harmonious. The evening dress of the men heightened by contrast the beautiful gowns of the ladies. The maids wore graceful gowns of white net over taffeta, with slippers and gloves to match. They carried bouquets of white rosebuds and ferns. The dame of honor wore white Louisine over taffeta, made princess style. A picture hat of white velvet greatly enhanced her beauty. Her bouquet was of white chiffon over taffeta and carried white carnations and ferns. The bride, who is unusually attractive, never looked lovelier than on this occasion. Her gown was an exquisite creation of white crepe de chine over white taffeta. She wore her veil from off the face and it fell gracefully over her train. She carried bride roses and maiden-hair ferns. The Rev. T. E. Morris, father of the bride and pastor of the First Methodist Church, performed the ceremony. "Hearts and Flowers" was rendered during the ceremony. Following the ceremony the bridal party drove to the depot and amid showers of rice and best wishes, the young couple left for their future home in Union. Many elegant presents testified to the popularity of the bride and groom.
The reception given by Rev. and Mrs. Morris in honor of the bride-elect Wednesday afternoon was a very enjoyable affair.
Mr. Manly Hines of this city and Miss Snead of Charleston were married at the bride's home Wednesday evening last. Mr. Hines hails from North Carolina, but for several years has been engaged in business here. By his courteous manners and business ability he has won many staunch friends, who rejoice with him in his good fortune. Miss Snead has visited here on several occasions and has endeared herself to many hearts who will gladly welcome her in our midst as Mrs. Ilines.
Friends in Florence have received invitations to the marriage of Miss Leonide Hudgins of Norfolk, Va., to Mr. Edward Lucas of this city, which takes place at the home of the bride's parents on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 29. These young people are very popular in Florence, therefore many friends are interested in their marriage.
Drs. E. M. Matthews, Brooks Rutledge and Mr. L. T. Jones went over to Columbia Wednesday morning last to attend the pilgrimage of Omar temple of Charleston, held in Columbia, Wednesday. They report a delightful trip.
Mr. J. H. Ledbetter of Fayetteville is the guest of his sister, Mrs. D. T. Jones.
Miss Clara Burch has returned home, after a month's stay in Orangeburg and Sumter.
Mrs. T. H. Tatum is visiting her brother, Dr. Mann, on west Palmetto street.
The State ( Columbia, SC) August 9, 1908
DROWNED IN LYNCHES RIVER
Eldest Son of Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Haynie of Cartersville Loses His Life
Cartersville, Aug. 8 - This little village was shocked beyond expression yesterday at noon, when the horrible tidings were brought by a little negro boy that Charles G. Haynie, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Haynie, was drowned in Lynches river near town. He had gone out with a party of young boys to go in bathing. He could not swim and soon got into a deep hole, which sucked him in. His brother, Will, did everything in his power to save his life but all in vain. Just as soon as possible the river was dragged and his dead body brought to the surface. His bereaved parents are prostrated with grief. The entire town is in the deepest mourning for this young man who was budding into manhood. He was only 16 years of age and a splendid specimen of a young man. He leaves a grief stricken mother and father, one sister and two brothers. Evander Anderson Dies In Columbia Special to the Morning News: TIMMONSVILLE April 15 - Evander M. Anderson. 44. World war veteran died early this morning at the Veterans hospital Columbia after a protracted illness. The funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock from Bain and Player's Funeral Home. Mr. Anderson will be buried with military honors. The pallbearers will be his military comrades. Mr. Anderson was born in Darlington county March 28. 1814. He was the son of James Anderson and Bernice, Hatchell Anderson. For more than fifteen years He and his family have lived in Timmonsville. Mr. Anderson first coming hero In the employ of the Charles A, Smith company. Mr. Anderson was a man of many fine traits; of character and leaves a wide circle of friends who will learn with regret of his passing. H e is survived by his widow and five children: Evander Anderson, Jr., Wake Forest student; Walker, Callis, Lenough and Miss Beatrice Anderson all of Timmonsville. Also surviving are three, brothers. C. B. Anderson E. H. Anderson of Timmonsville and Bealer Owens Anderson of Columbia. [APRIL 16, 1938 Florence News] SUMMONS FOR RELIEF Complaint Served STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF FLORENCE COURT OP COMMON PLEAS Mrs. S. J. Buchheit, Plaintiff, vs Sue Milner, Lola W. Milner, B. C. Milner, Sr., W. J. Milner, Sr, Penelope Sparks Wilson, Mary Alef Sparks. George H. Sparks, Ben Milner Harrison, George P Harrison, Flora Milner Harrison, J. F. Stackley, J. R. Webster. Morrison Investment Company and L. S. Morrison, C. W. Morrison and J B. Morrison, as Trustees for Morrison Investment Company Defendants. TO THE DEFENDANTS ABOVE NAMED: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the complaint in this action, of which a copy is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your answer to the said complaint on the subscriber at his office, 156- A West Evans Street, Florence, S. C.. within twenty days after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; and if you fail to answer the complaint within the time aforesaid, the plaintiff in this action will apply to the Court for the in the complaint. R. B. FULTON, W. STOKES HOUCK, Attorneys for Plaintiff Dated at Florence, S. C., June 4, 1936. TO THE ABSENT AND NONRESIDENT DEFENDANTS. Sue Milner, Lola W. Milner, B. C. Milner, Sr., W. J. Milner, Sr., Penelope Sparks Wilson, Maty Alef Sparks, George H. Sparks, Ben Milner Harrison, George P. Harrison, Flora Milner Harrison, L. S. Morrison, C. W. Morrison, J. B. Morrison, and Morrison Investment Company. YOU WILL PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the original summons of which the foregoing is a copy, together with the original complaint, has been filed in the office of the Clerk of Court of Common Pleas for Florence County. Dated this 5th day of June, 1936. E. M. SINGLETARY, Clerk of Court of Common Pleas for Florence County. June 6, 11 and 15. R C Barwick well known employee of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad shops, died at his home at 608 Rose Avenue yesterday His death was due to a heart attack Mr Barwick had been suffering from this trouble since December but he was taken seriously ill a week ago and yesterday passed away Funeral services will be held at Immanuel Baptist church at 4 o'clock this afternoon and the interment will follow in Mount Hope cemetery The Rev P H Bussey will conduct the services Originally from Clarendon county Mr Barwick had lived here for 14 years, twelve of which were passed in the service of the Atlantic Coast Line He was a son of Mr and Mrs J M Barwick of Clarendon county He is survived by his wife who was Miss Pauline Cutter and four children Mozelle Mary Lee Winfred and Atha Mae One sister Miss C J Cutter of Florence, and two brothers J M Barwick Jr, and W F Barwick of Alcolu, also survived together with his mother, Mrs J M Barwick. of Manning Active pall bearers will be E D Dawkins, R C Wall P M Nichols H H Stakes, John Otmann Walton Gantt Honorary pall bearers will be E C Fowler, S R Flowers, F E Wright John Koopman B L Farmer Dr. Way, Herbert Lewis H E Parnell, J H Painter, C W Walker The honorary pall bearers are requested to meet at Immanuel Baptist church at 3:45 o'clock Waters will be in charge . [JUNE 6, 1936 The Morning News Florence] Pickens Sentinel Journal [Pickens, South Carolina], April 7, 1910 The Bamberg Herald March 24, 1910 Georgetown Times [Georgetown, South Carolina] April 6, 1912 Georgetown Times [Georgetown, South Carolina] November 30, 1912 The State June 15, 1913. The State, June 15, 1913 The State, June 15, 1913 State - October 19, 1918 State - October 19, 1918 State - October 19, 1918 The Union Daily Times, [Union, SC] April 9, 1920 The Herald and News, [Newberry, SC] June 9, 1922 Florence Morning News, Sunday Morning, April 3, 1932 Florence Morning News, 06 APR 1936 Florence Morning News [Florence, South Carolina] January 17, 1939 Contributed by Joe Pearce From the Florence Morning News, 21 NOV 1945 Florence News TUESDAY, AUG. 12, 1947
Clarence Turner, a well known young man of Florence county, has been arrested on the charge of attempting to make a criminal assault on a young white girl.
Manslaughter Verdict
Florence. March 17.-A verdict of manslaughter was brought in tonight by the jury in the case of young R. L. Bazen, who killed L. E. Poston. at Blossom, In the lower section of this county on the night of January 28. A difficulty occurred between the two at a school entertainment and in the fight which followed Bazen stabbed Poston in the neck severing the carotid artery, causing death almost instantly. Arguments for the defense and the State were made this afternoon. Both parties in the case are very young, Poston being 21 or 22 and Basen only 18. Sentence has not yet been passed.
Negro Commits Suicide
After Killing His Baby and Shooting His Wife and Others
A dispatch from Timmonsville says John Lockwood, a well known negro blacksmith employed at that Cooper blacksmith here wont on a! rampage Monday night and killed his seven months' old baby, shot his' wife's fingers off and seriously wounded two other negroes and ended by drinking carbolic acid and killing himself. What was the matter with Lockwood will probably never be known. He knocked off from work about 4 o'clock and went home and the row was soon started, he began on his wife and she tried to escape by jumping out of the window and was shot in the hand as she went. He then took up his seven-months-old Infant and cut its throat. As some neighbors ran in to help he cut the throat of one, Allen Mack and also cut another named John Russell, both of these will survive. The alarm becoming general he drank a lot of carbolic acid and was in a dying condition when taken.
Tragedy in Timmonsville
C. E. Jones Sends Five Bullets into R. F. Williams
A dispatch from Timmonsville to The State says one of the most shocking tragedies ever enacted in Timmonsville occurred Saturday afternoon about 2 o'clock, when C. E. Jones, a saw mill man, of Fountain Inn, S. C shot and instantly killed R. F. Williams, of Baldwin, Miss., who has been there several days representing a laundry machine company. Williams was sitting in his place of business in the heart of town reading, when Jones walked in and. It is said, without any warning began shooting Williams, five shots being fired, all taking effect, one near each nipple and two in the stomach, the fifth in the neck. As Williams fell, Jones walked on the streets and gave himself up. The dead man has a wife and three children in Baldwin, Miss., to which place his body was shipped Saturday night, the Masons of this place assisting in preparing the body for shipment. Jones was taken to Florence and lodged in jail to await trial. A brother-in-law of Williams stated that the two had had some little trouble, but on last Sunday adjusted their differences and shook hands and agreed to let everything be a thing of the past.
Florence June 14.
Miss Sarah Heard whose marriage to David Adams will take place June 19th has been complemented with several charming entertainments by her many friends receiving at the front door were Mrs. W T Heard, Mrs. Brooks Rutledge, Mrs. Arthur McCall and Mrs. Haynesworth of Darlington. Honored guests Mesdames John Sowers, Greg McMaster and part of the bridal party including Mrs. P A Willcox, Mrs. Mary Ervin, Mary Brunson, Aline Heard, Constant. Cakes were served by Miss Annie Joe Timmons, Ruth Darr, Hazel Thomas, Lily Wilkins, Josie McBride, Edna McCurry.
Mrs. Charles Early will entertain for Miss Heard a linen shower on Friday and Miss Lillian Muncaster will be a boudoir shower in her honor on Saturday.
Misses Elizabeth and Mary Brunson and Constance Ashby entertained for Miss Heard on Wednesday.
Miss Katie Clayton gave a card party on Thursday afternoon complimentary to two visitors, Mrs. Thomas and Miss Dover Roxboro, North Carolina. Punch were served by Mrs. William Paul Friar and Miss Mona Early. The hostess was assisted in receiving by Mrs. William Maurice and Miss May Muncaster.
Dr. and Mrs. Brooks Rutledge entertained the graduating class of the high school of which their son Robert is a member at a moonlight picnic.
The city Federation of women's clubs met on Saturday afternoon in the Council chamber. After several reports were read officers for the following year were enacted being president. Mrs. J F Dudley, first vice president Mrs. J W McCown, Sec. Vice Pres. Mrs. R E Ward, recording secretary, Mrs. Leslie McLaurin, correspondence secretary Mrs. D M, MCeachin, treasurer Mrs. T C Willoughby, auditor's Mrs. M. G. Scott.
Mrs. George L. Brandt entertained and honor of her sister, Mrs. a. C. Averitt of rocking him North Carolina and Mrs. M. J. Perkins of Sanford, Florida.
Mrs. Turnipseed assisted by Mrs. Virginia Greg and Florence Brown, bursitis in the dining room were pretty color scheme of green white paint was most tastefully carried out.
Several hundred people in Florence and throughout the state have received invitations from Mrs. William Thompson Heard to the marriages of her daughter, Sarah Berrien, to David Greg Adams on Thursday evening June 19th at 730 o'clock at the First Baptist Church.
Mrs. J. C. Grow up Texas with the guest of Mrs. William Barringer during the week.
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Sallenger spent the weekend with Mrs. Sallenger's parents, Dr. and Mrs. Williams of Lake City.
Mrs. Charles Arrington of Macon, Georgia is the guest of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Muncaster in their handsome new home on Coit Street.
Mrs. Annie Bynum of Newberry is the guest of Mrs. John Chase.
Miss Barbour, who has been the guest of Mrs. John Chase has returned to her home Virginia.
Timmonsville, June 14
Mrs. Ralph Kelsey Foster and Miss Kathleen Handco*ck attended the wedding of their brother, the Rev. John McSween, Jr., and Miss Lina Washington Crews in Durham, NC, Wed. Before returning Mrs. Foster and Miss Handco*ck will be the guests of Mrs. Jesse Keith in Greensboro.
Miss Claire Smith left the past week to visit her sister, Mrs. Henry Pritchett Lane, in Leakesville. She will also be the guest of Mrs. John B. Ray while there.
Mrs. Duncan McKenzie was dame of honor at the Crews-McSween wedding. John Hector McSween was best man and James McCoy of Rowland, NC, was groomsman, both cousins of the groom elect.
Miss Marian Bailey of Edgefield is the guest of Mrs. Carl Foster.
Miss Louise Bass has returned to her home in Lanes, having been the guest of Mrs. Marian Sims. During her stay here she was entertained at the home of Miss Agnes Severance.
Dr. and Mrs. Jas. T. Culpeper had as their guest the past week Mrs. Mary Williams of Bennettsville.
Hugh P. Smith of Wake Forest college, Carl Shannon of Carolina are at home for the holidays.
Lake City, June 14
J. Metler Sturgeon, Jr., leaves Friday morning for Bowling Green, Ky., where he goes to be married to Miss Mary Louise Amos of that place.
Miss Estelle Haselton left Monday morning for an extended trip to Virginia. She will visit the principal cities, including Norfolk, Richmond, Fredericksburg, Etc.
Vallin c. Ray of North Carolina spent the past week in town visiting friends.
Dr. W.S. Stokes and family leave soon for their new home in Winnsboro.
Mrs. C.M. Kelley and daughter left last evening for an extended trip to New York.
Ashton Williams is at home again, after spending the past winter months in Washington. Mr. Williams is a student at Georgetown university.
Miss Simpkin of Atlanta, Ga., has been visiting in town.
Miss Eloise Sturgeon leaves for Bowling Green, Ky., on Friday morning, where she attends the Amos-Sturgeon wedding, which will be solemnized on Thursday evening, June 19.
Miss Cora Richey of Camden is spending several days in town, to the delight of her many friends.
Mrs. W.E. Severance entertained the Ladies' Aid society on last Monday afternoon.
Mrs. T.J. Cottingham and children are spending some time in Rowland, NC.
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur M. Parker, Jr., leave soon for their summer home at Flat Rock, NC.
Mr. and Mrs. D.M. Epps and family are spending the summer on the island.
Eugene Funderburk
Special to The State
Florence, October 18. -- Eugene Funderburk son of Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Funderburk of this city, but formerly of Lancaster, died yesterday of pneumonia; He was 26 years of age and unmarried. [State - October 19, 1918 Transcribed and contributed by: The Friends of Free Genealogy, FC]
R. Toland Wilson
Special to The State
Florence, October 18. -- R. Toland Wilson died here Wednesday night of pneumonia, following an attack of influenza. He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Wilson of this city and was well known throughout this county. He is survived by his widow and five children and one stepdaughter. Mr. Wilson was connected with the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Company. The funeral services were held at High Hill Baptist Church this afternoon. [ Transcribed and contributed by: The Friends of Free Genealogy, FC]
Joseph H. Snipes
Special to The State
Florence, October 17. -- Joseph H. Snipes, aged 35 years, died yesterday morning of pneumonia, brought on by influenza. His widow and one daughter survive him. Mr. Snipes was an Atlantic Coast Line Conductor. He was originally from Mullins, where two brothers, A. G. Snipes and Henry Snipes, now reside. The funeral will be held tomorrow at Mount Hope Cemetery. Mr. Snipes was a member of the Methodist Church. [Transcribed and contributed by: The Friends of Free Genealogy, FC]
Dies from Injuries
Wilbur Langston Caught in Grist Mill
Florence, April 8-Wilbur Judson Langston, 12 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Jose Langston, died at 11 o'clock yesterday morning in the Florence infirmary. Death resulted from injuries sustained Sat. morning when he was caught in the rapidly revolving shaft in the McLeed grist mill in the Glenwood section of the county, the body of the little fellow was terribly mangled in the accident, having been whirled over and over as a fly-wheel until the machinery could be stopped to remove him. The accident occurred while little Wilbur was playing in the mill, which is adjacent to his home.
BIGHAM IS TAKEN BACK TO FLORENCE
Columbia, June 5.—Edmund D.
Bigham, Florence county man convicted of murdering his brother, Smiley and charged with murdering his mother, his sister and his sister's two adopted children, is today in the Florence county jail, where he was taken from the state penitentiary, on order of Judge Shipp, issued at Florence, for Bigham to be brought before him for resentencing. It was announced at the same time that Bigham's counsel would make a motion for a new trial, on the ground of after discovered evidence. The alleged after-discovered evidence is letters said to have been recently discovered, signed by the late Smliey Brigham.
Two deputies took Bigham from the penitentiary to Florence by automobile Bigham's appeal to the state supreme court was rejected by that tribural and his later appeal to the United States supreme court
DR JAMES PEARCE TO PRACTICE HERE
Dr. James H Pearce, it was announced yesterday, has moved to Florence from Georgetown and will continue the practice of medicine here. Dr. Pearce has secured offices in the Florence Trust company building and will open them on Monday. Dr. Pearce is very popular in Florence and his friends are delighted that he is to return. He is a son of the late Dr. R. H. Pearce, and Mrs. Pearce, and is descended from a long line of physicians on both sides of the family. After graduating from P.C. where he won fame as a football player, in addition to honors in class work, Dr. Pearce studied at the South Carolina Medical College in Charleston. Fro a year he served as intern at The McLeod Infirmary and then went to Georgetown where for the past 15 months he has enjoyed a successful practice.
PEARCE HOME BURNED
Fire yesterday afternoon destroyed the old Dr. Pearce home on the Claussen road. From what could be learned the fire started in an upstairs room and spread rapidly. It was with difficulty that the out buildings and barns were saved. It was a two-story frame structure and built of the best materials.
Johnston Frees 18 More
10 Serving Life-sentences For Murder Among Those Paroled
Columbia, SC, Jan. 18-Eighteen prisoner's received clemency today from Governor Johnston on the eve of the close of his four year administration.
Those receiving clemency:
Oscar Young, convicted of robbery at Beaufort in June, 1936 and sentenced to five years. Paroled.
Albert Carlos, convicted in Kershaw in July 19234 of manslaughter and sentenced to 18 years. Commuted in eight years, six months and nine days.
Susie Thompson convicted in Spartanburg in April 1934 of murder with recommendation to mercy and of accessory before the fact sentenced to life...Paroled.
L. M. Workman, convicted at Greenville in August, 1934 of murder with a mercy recommendation and sentenced to life. Paroled.
Cecil McSmith, convicted in Florence in February 1931 of non-support and sentenced to one year. Paroled.
H. H. Elliott, convicted in Horry in June 1933 of murder with a mercy recommendation and sentenced to life. Paroled.
Fred Emory, convicted in Spartanburg in June 1933 of murder with mercy recommendation; sentenced to life imprisonment. Paroled.
Henry Mattison, convicted in Anderson in February 1938 of manslaughter and sentenced to two years. Paroled.
Bloomer Williams, convicted in Spartanburg in January 1938 of manslaughter and sentenced to 20 years. Paroled.
Booker Brannon, convicted in Spartanburg in January, 1938 of manslaughter and sentenced to two years. Paroled.
Roberta Miller, convicted at Anderson in May 1938 of manslaughter and sentenced to two years. Paroled.
Caesar co*ckeril, convicted at Sumter in July, 1931 of murder with a mercy recommendation and sentenced to life. Paroled.
W. W. Riley, convicted in Richland in January, 1936 of robbery and larceny and sentenced to five years. Paroled.
Candis Flower, convicted at Allendale in April, 1934 of murder with a mercy recommendation and sentenced to life. Paroled.
Hansford Berry, convicted at Allendale in April 1934 of accessory to murder with a mercy recommendation and sentenced to life. Paroled.
Robert Platt, convicted at Marion in May, 1931 of murder with a recommendation to mercy; sentenced to life imprisonment. Sentence commuted to nine years.
Theodore Wayman, convicted at Charleston in September, 1935 for murder with a mercy recommendation, sentenced to life. Paroled.
Robert Parkey, convicted in Beaufort in July, 1933 of murder with mercy recommendation; sentenced to life. Paroled.
From the Florence Morning News, 06 NOV 1945
W.T. Pearce, farmer who lives on Sumter street extension, reported much better at the McLeod infirmary where he is a patient.
Friends of W.T. Pearce, who lives on Sumter street extension, are glad to learn he is much improved now from a recent illness and is getting along fine.
FUNERAL SERVICES FURMAN.L. POWELL
Funeral services for Furman L Powell were conducted from Trinity Methodist church Wednesday morning at 11 o'clock with the Rev. J. Sherwood Davis officiating Interment was in the adjoining cemetery. The following nephews served, as pallbearers. C. C Woodbury, Jr. Lurie Poston,Hallie and Howard Powell and J B and Freeman Richardson. Relatives also furnished the music. A quartet composed of C. O Voodbury, W. P. Richardson. E K. Poston and A. D. Poston, sang accompanied by Mrs. Casten. There were many beautiful floral offerings. The son of the late Warren Powell and Mary Altinan Powell. Mr. Powell was reared at "Powell Corner" the plantation home of his parents. In early manhood he married to Evelyn Richardson of the Poston community. He is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Dick Whiteside of York, Mrs. W. W. Hodge and Mrs. David Dowdy of Columbia, and Mrs. Ray Ellis of Port Huenene, California. One son Walker Powell of near Johnsonville also survive. Another son, Carl, died in childhood. Mr. Powell had been in declining health for several years.
From the “The State” – Columbia, S.C., Monday, July 7, 1947 – page 1
Denmark, July 6 – (Special) – Three young people met death, early today before an onrushing Seaboard Streamliner, which tossed their car 150 feet away after ramming it broadside, at grade crossing three miles north of here.
Dewis K. Blume, 19, of Denmark, was killed instantly. Alice Jean Pearce, 17, of Fort Lawn, died shortly after she was admitted to the Columbia hospital. Clyde Buford Harris, 18, of Denmark lived only 10 hours.
The young people were returning from a house party and dance at the Denmark country club where there is a pavilion and an extensive summer colony. The road they would ordinarily have traveled back to Denmark was under construction and they detoured on a dirt road.
When they drove onto the railroad track the southbound Seaboard train No. 7, the Camellia, struck their car broadside with terrific force. The car was tossed into a patch of woods around 150 feet from the point of impact. Scattered parts, such things as seat cushions and the battery, were found 300 feet from the crossing. The car, 1941 Mercury, belonging to young Blume’s father, was completely demolished.
The train stopped and backed up. A motorist who heard the impact a half mile away hurried to the scene and offered to summon ambulances from Denmark. Two ambulances arrived within 15 minutes and the two who were still living were rushed to the Columbia hospital where they were admitted at 4:30 am. Denmark is around 50 miles from Columbia.
Only 100 yards from the fatal crossing is the Columbia-Denmark road, highway No. 5, running parallel with the railroad track. The car was going east, toward the paved highway. The railroad track is straight as an arrow from around three miles on each side of the crossing. The track can be seen from about 40 yards when it is approached from the west, according to the coroner of Bamberg County.
It was the second time within a year that tragedy had struck the Pearce home. Last July Alice Jean Pearce’s father, Eugene C. Pearce, was killed in a railroad accident near Charleston.
Two of the accident victims were in Denmark almost by chance. Miss Pearce was visiting her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. G.M. Pearce, along with her mother and sister. The Blume boy was home for the Fourth of July weekend.
None of the victims regained consciousness. The party from which were returning was given by Miss Pearce’s cousin, Miss Shirley Barker, and was held at the cottage owned by Miss Barker’s parents.
Miss Pearce was freshman at Winthrop College last year. She was graduated, an honor student, from St. Andrews school in Charleston in 1946.
She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Margaret McFadden Pearce of Fort Lawn, a sister, Miss Mary Anne Pearce of Fort Lawn, a brother, Thomas George Pearce of Fort Lawn, her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. G.M. Pearce of Denmark and several aunts and uncles at Fort Lawn and Charleston.
Funeral services for her will be held at 4 o’clock this afternoon from the Fort Lawn Methodist church. Interment will be in Fort Lawn cemetery.
Dewis Kelly Blume was the son of B.L. Blume of Denmark. He was graduated in 1946 from Denmark High School and was employed in South Carolina by the Davey Tree Expert Company of Long Island. His father is wood supervisor for the International Paper company. The boy was a member of the Denmark Baptist church and the Yellow Pine Camp No. 246 of the Woodmen of the World in Denmark.
Besides his father, he is survived by his step-mother, four half-sisters. Mrs. James Odom and Mrs. Ruben Odom, both of Elko; Mrs. Roscoe Beard of Denmark, and his grandmother, Mrs. William Blume of Denmark.
Funeral services for him will be held at 4 o’clock this afternoon at the home of his parents in Denmark, conducted by his pastor, the Rev. H.S. Sauls, who will be assisted by the Rev. J.P. Carroll. Interment will be in Denmark Cemetery. The body will remain at Folk Funeral Home in Williston until time of services.
Clyde Harris was an orphan who had been living in Denmark with his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. W. Quentin, for 15 years. He finished high school last May and had employed since the by the Seaboard railroad. He was a member of the Baptist church in Denmark.
He is survived by five brothers, A.Y., Fred, Roland and Jesse Harris. All of Rutherfordon, N.C., and Hoyle Harris of Columbia; three sisters, Miss Louise Harris of Atlanta, GA., Mrs. Raymond West of Spindale, N.C. and Mrs. David Heffner of Rutherfordton, and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Harris of Rutherfordon.
Funeral services will be held sometime Tuesday morning at the home of his foster parents, Mr. and Mrs. Collins, conducted by his pastor, the Rev. H.S. Sauls. Interment will be in the Denmark Cemetery.
News and Courier, Aug 31, 1955 Florence Morning News, Tuesday, November 2, 1976 College Library Receives Atlas
Florence Woman Killed During Family Argument
Florence, Aug 30 - Horace Walker Jones is being held in the Florence jail pending further investigation into the pistol death of his 25 year old wife, Audrey ?Fowler Jones, here today. Coroner Joe Clarke said an inquest will be held as soon as witnesses are able to testify. Mrs. Montague Fowler, mother of the slain woman, was the only witness to the fight and pistol slaying. She is confined to a local hospital as the result of injuries received when she attempted to separate the couple, Coroner Clarke said. The dead woman left her husband about six weeks ago and was living with her parents only a few doors from the house she occupied with Jones and their 16 month old child. Coroner Clarke said Jones came to the Fowler home Tuesday morning and demanded to see the baby. His wife asked him to leave and he refused. An argument followed and the Joneses started to fight, Mr. Clark said Mrs. Fowler told him. Mrs. Fowler claimed she attempted to help her daughter after Jones threw her to the floor and started beating her on her head. "He shoved me down three times," Mrs. Fowler told the coroner. "One of the falls injured my back and I could hardly walk."
The mother of the slain girl said her daughter went into another room after the first fight and brought out a pistol. She fired into the floor, Mrs. Fowler told the coroner, then a struggle ensued. The coroner said there were several shots fired and one bullet struck Mrs. Jones in the back of the head. When police arrived they found Mrs. Jones lying on the living room floor, Mrs. Fowler on a bed in another room and Jones leaving the house. The coroner said the police were called before the shooting occurred but arrived too late to prevent the tragedy.
Dr. J.H. Pearce of Pamplico has presented the Francis Marlon College Library a copy of the Robert Mills Atlas of South Carolina published in 1836.
The atlas originally belonged to James Furman Pearce, Dr Pearce’s grandfather, and is one of 100 copies printed for the second edition. Commenting on atlas, director of the college library Mitchell Reames said, “The significance of the gift lies not only in its intrinsic value, but also in the fact that Dr. Pearce, along with many other in the Pee Dee, is willing to entrust to the college library such valuable treasures for preservation and study.” Robert Mills (1781-18550, a native of Charleston, was a famous architect and engineer. Although his most famous achievement was the design of the Washington Monument, Mills also designed such well known buildings as the Fireproof Building in Charleston, the Treasure Building in Washington, DC and probably the South Carolina College Library, now the Carolina Library. As the state architect and engineer during the 1820’s, Mills designed several county court houses, including those in Kingstree, Newberry, Camden and Greenville. It was during this same period that Mills published his atlas, with the first edition of 50 copies appearing in 1825. Henry S Tanner produced the engravings from drafting by Mills. In order to obtain $2,000 from the state legislature for recovering the original plates for the printer, Mills published a second edition of 100 copies in 1838. It is a copy of this edition that Dr. Pearce presented to the FMC Library. The second edition has revised frontispiece and several minor changes in legends, but the engravings are the same as the ones used in the first edition.
