London Evening Advertiser
(1864 – 1865)
London Daily Advertiser
(1874, 1880 – 1885)
London Advertiser
( 1885 )
Extracts of names and stories of Elgin County residents
Summarized, Transcribed and Extracted by
updated as of 2 June 2014
London Evening Advertiser – October 1864 – June 1865
1864 Oct 18 – Image 2
Charles ROE of St. Thomas has charted his clipper the “Mary Roe” to a Toronto firm to take lumber to Natal, South Africa
1864 Oct 24 – Image 3
Horrible Murder – A lunatic kills his mother – long article on Charles HAYBOURN of London, residing with brother-in-law Robert CLARK
1864 Nov 5 – Image 1
Awful Death – The Aylmer Times learns that as Mr. THOMAS, of that township was in the act of stopping up a well fro Mr. Francis ARMSTRONG, on the 18th instant ( 18 Oct 1864) when about eight feet from the bottom – some thirty feet below the surface – the well caved in, covering Mr. THOMAS to a considerable distance in the quicksand. Mr. James ARMSTRONG, who was close by, came to his assistance, but was himself in like manner entrapped by a further slide of the well. He was, however, extricated from his perilous position without sustaining serious injury, after many hours of hard labour by the neighbours. Poor THOMAS was not recovered for some eighteen hours after the accident when life was extinct.
1864 Nov 26 – Image 2
Died – On the 24th inst., suddenly, at Thornwood, London, C. W., Sarah EVENSON, Wife of H. C. R. BECHER, Esq., Q. C. Funeral will take place to-morrow (Sunday) at half-past two, p. m.
Died – At his residence, Talbotville, near St. Thomas, on the 25th inst., John ALLWORTH, Esq., aged 75 years. The funeral will take place on Monday, 28th inst., at 12 o’clock. Friends are invited to attend. [ Buried at the Old English Cemetery, St. Thomas]
1864 Dec 17 – Image 2
St. Thomas Mayoralty – A large and influential meeting of the rate-payers of St. Thomas was held on Thursday evening, 15th inst., to select a proper man for the mayoralty of that town, Dr. SOUTHWICK, the present mayor, having declined to stand again. Two gentlemen were proposed: C. D. PAUL, Esq, barrister, and Thomas ARKELL, Esq., merchant. The latter carried the meeting by a large majority, and will probably be mayor of St. Thomas for 1865.
1865 Jan 23 – image 2
List of Insolvents – Hiram H. HUNT, St. Thomas
1865 Feb 11 – image 2
Large Fire in St. Thomas – Loss – $6,000! Special to Advertiser, St. Thomas, Feb 11, Last night a fire took place in St. Thomas, when two stores and considerable of their contents were destroyed. The leather store and shoe finding establishment, belonging to Moore & and Sons, was entirely destroyed, together with the greater portion of the stock – about $3,000; insured, we believe, in Royal for $1,600. a grocery store next to this was also burned; occupied by Mr. BAXTER, brother of J. H. BAXTER, who at one time did business in London. We could not learn his loss. The buildings were on Talbot street, opposite the post office. The firemen turned out promptly. [See 2 news items below]
1865 Feb 15 – image 3
Arson – We learn that an investigation is going on in St. Thomas, to discover, if possible, the origin of the late fire in that place. The proprietor of the grocery – BAXTER – is suspected, and we understand that the facts brought out are not at all favorable to him. [See news item above and below]
1865 Feb 18 – image 3
Investigation – At a coroner’s inquest, held at St. Thomas, to inquire into the cause of the late fire, the jury brought in that the fire was the work of an incendiary, at present unknown. Mr. BAXTER was honorably acquitted. [ See 2 news items above]
1865 Feb 21 – image 2
From British Columbia – At Red River nearly 134 started for British Columbia by the overland route : From St. Thomas were Messrs. W. F. HUTCHISON, M. A. HAM, two BERDANS, A. MACALLUM, J. FOWLER, M. CRANDALL……The St. Thomas party sunk a shaft on William’s Creek, Cariboo, but abandoned the prospect shortly after; this was called the “Tiger” Shafts; much money was lost by this enterprise. Mr. HAM, of St. Thomas entered into partnership with MR. McLEAN, of Whitby – these gentlemen decided on working a claim on the Kootaino river….. Messrs McLEAN and HAM managed to secure a promising claim on the kootenay river.
1865 Feb 23 -image 3
Hogs Again! – Mr. MILES, of the County of Elgin, sold to Messrs. Hamilton & Wakeling, for pork packers in Hamilton, thirty hogs, all of his own raising, weighing 4,697 pounds, putting into the pocket of this farmer $326.44; the same gentleman, on Saturday, sold to the same parties $98 worth of pork, and moreover says it pays as well, if not better than some other kinds of stock. Farmers, attend to your hogs.
1865 Mar 6 – image 2
List of Insolvents – George WEGG, St. Thomas
1865 March 13 – Image 2
Died – On the 12th inst., 6th concession, Township of Dorchester, Sarah MUNNING, aged 89 years. [This may be MANNING]
1865 March 18 – Image 2
Port Stanley Flooded – the same thaw which swelled the river Thames, has flooded the stream outletting at Port Stanley, though with worse effect. the lake being still frozen, all the ice which came down has collected in the harbor, overflowing the piers, spreading over the railway, and forcing people from their homes and cattle and horses from their stabling. the water continued to rise, till the warehouses, station, and a number of private residences were standing in several feet of water, in fact, higher than ever known for twenty years. To-day, we learn the water has fallen considerably. In Sarnia the river St. Clair has overflowed its banks, as has every stream , large and small throughout the Western District.
1865 April 3 – image 2
List of Insolvents – John E. NELLES, Sparta
1865 April 4 – image 3
Port Stanley – It is said the Port Stanley harbour has been shallowed considerably by the late floods, which has deposited a large amount of sand and rubish their (sic).
1865 April 22 – image 2
The Tillsonburg Observer states that Mr. H. W. TURNER, merchant tailor in that town, committed suicide, by taking a quantity of chloroform on the 18th ult.
1865 May 9 – Image 3
Daring Robbery – Detroit Ruffians Steal Three Horses (at Grovesend, Malahide Township) and Commit Highway Robbery – One of them shot. Long article on a gang of horse thieves from Detroit, James M. DYKE, John SHARPE and Daniel MANN. “Proceeding direct to the farm of Mr. Elijah SAXON [SAXTON] 1st Concession of Malahide – stealing 3 horses.” One of the horses threw its rider. Then “In front of Mr. CHUTE’s [Walter CHUTE] house, one mile and a quarter from SAXON’s [SAXTON’s], they halted, tied their two horses, and knocked at the door saying their waggon had broke down and they wished assistance. Mr. CHUTE had hardly opened the door when the fellows pounced on him and tied him firmly with his own shoulder braces. Then producing a revolver each demanded his money, swearing they would kill him on the spot, unless he at once gave up all he had.” He pointed out only $18.00 which did not satisfy them. While this was going on CHUTE’s son escaped from upstairs and sought help in neighbors SMITH and R. CHUTE, a relative. Gunfire resulted and R. CHUTE wounded DYKE severely. SHARPE and MANN made their escape. One John PARNELL living at Detroit, has been implicated by the confession of DYKE, who, unable to escape was placed in the St. Thomas jail to await trial. Detective VanVALKENBURG, of this city [London] and detective CAMPBELL of St. Thomas, are in pursuit; the former has proceeded to Detroit, the latter to Port Huron. Description given of the horses. [ Note: See Sims, History of Elgin County for more on this story]
This is often referred to as the ” 1865 Grovesend Robbery” [Note R. CHUTE is Richard Lawrence CHUTE (1836-1917); CHUTE is Walter CHUTE (1812-1895)]
See Aylmer Express, 13 Jan. 1999, p. 3, “Recalling 1865 Grovesend robbery” by Paul Brackenbury.
See also Tillsonburg Observer, Thur 18 May 1865 p. 2 Robbery on Mon 15 May 1865
Recalls events of May 8, 1865 when and armed robbery and shootout took place at the home of Walter and Catherine Chute. Robbers, Dan Mann, John Sharp and James Dyke arrived in Lakeview with intent on robbing John Haggan. who resided on north side of road Lot 29 Conc. 1 Malahide. robbers stole 3 horses from Elijah Saxton. He kept a diary and wrote on 8 May 1865 “Three men (named) stole my horses and robbed Walter Chute.” [Great grandson John Saxton owns diary today] Nelson Franklin’s place was across from John Haggan.
Trial in St. Thomas. Dyke injured and turned Crown’s evidence. Mr. Sharp was later hung for other crimes after serving time and escaping from jail.
1865 May 10 – Image 3
Personelle of the Horse Thief Gang – [more on the Grovesend, Malahide robbery] John SHARPE, one of the two robbers who escaped, is said to have formerly lived in London, keeping a saloon on the Market square, but has for some time back been living at Detroit. James M. DYKE, the fellow who was shot in the head by Mr. R. CHUTE, was well known in the neighborhood of the robbery, as a desperate character. the most daring and hardy of the gang, Daniel MANN , has lived in Malahide for a number of years, and been arrested several times for various outrages and thefts – at one time robbing a church; of late he was in the “substitute business,” [Crimping – Civil war recruits] at Detroit, but his occupation stopping with the war, he took to the “road.” As yet they have not been arrested.
1865 May 12 – image 3
The Horse-Thieves Arrested – Clever Capture of the Gang [more on the Grovesend, Malahide robbery] – Detective VanVALKENBURG has added considerably to his reputation by the clever arrest detailed below. …he proceeded to Windsor and spied SHARPE. Followed him and with the help of a Detroit constable captured him. MANN was arrested shortly afterwards. Mr. V. had to comply with the extradition treaty and put him in custody of the “Yankee Officers.” until a writ of habeas corpus could be procured. SHARPE had two warrants for his arrest in Michigan and was anxious to be taken back to Canada. Mr. V. crossed the river again and sought out a man named PURNELL who it is said planned the whole raid, he knowing the district thoroughly his relatives living on N. Scotia-st., Malahide. He enticed to go to Windsor to presumably help his friend but then was arrested. Both taken to St. Thomas in charge of Sheriff MUNROE, the Jailor, and a few constables. Horses ridden hard but then turned loose and returned. The man DYKE is in very precarious health at present, the buckshot not agreeing with him. MANN will be brought over to Canada next Tuesday to await his trial.
1865 May 13 – image 3
More Robberies in Malahide – Robberies, attempted murders, horse stealing, etc., seem to be the prominent feature in the character of certain residents of Malahide – something the style of Hassen Ben Saba and his followers, of the 13th century, who cultivated robbery, murder and thieving as the fine arts, and believed that to commit them skillfully was the true test of greatness. The latest outrage is the robbery of two churches, everything valuable being stolen, down to the hymn-books. A few nights after five or six school houses suffered in a like manner – articles which could not be carried away being smashed or damaged. Subsequent to the latter, the Good Templars Hall, Bayham, was entered and sacked; everything portable and at all valuable was spirited away. the St. Thomas Journal says these are only the beginning of the first instalment. The culprits are former bounty jumpers.
1865 May 22 – image 3
Port Stanley. – As usual, on the 24th inst., each year [Queen’s Birthday a national holiday] the Railway Company intent running excursion trains to Port Stanley. “Lake View Gardens,” has been planted, with shade and ornamental trees, and arrangements made for supplying hot and cold water, so that excursionists may pic-nic at the heights, enjoy the cool breeze on the lake and beautiful scenery, while being gratified with a “good cup o’ tea.” As the trip is short, and fare light in proper on, a big turn-out is confidently expected.
1865 May 25 – image 2
Free Masons Demonstration – Yesterday, 24th instant, at St. Thomas the foundation stone of a new Presbyterian Church was laid with all the rites and ceremonies of the Masonic order. Lodges were represented from London, Fingal, Lambton, Delaware, Port Stanley, Yarmouth, St. Thomas and other places. The London Volunteer Band under Mr. St. John HYTTENRAUCH, headed the procession through nearly all the principal streets, playing selections of popular music. Mr. DRAKE, Grand Master at St. Thomas, let the procession mounted on a spirited horse. The Port Stanley Marines, 30 strong, and the St. Thomas Rifle Company, acted as a body guard to the Masons, and were joined in the procession by the Beaver Fire Co., a fine, smart-looking set of ment. The site of the church is in a very pleasant part of the town on Talbot street, and from the plans, we may judge, will be a very creditable and imposing edifice when completed. An arch of evergreens was erected, leading to the site, in front of which the volunteers and firemen arranged themselves in open column on each side, allowing the Masons to pass through the ranks to the scene of the ceremony; ex Grand Master WILSON, L. B. JARVIS, Grand Secretary of Canada, and Rev. MR. CALVERT, Episcopal minister, were the principal actors in the ceremonies, which were of a solemn and impressive character. Members upset when …twenty-five cents each was charged for the refreshments. [More on this slight in next issue]
1865 May 25 – image 3
Married – On the 25th inst., at Rance’s Hotel [London], by the Rev. W. H. Watts, Mr. Thos. McCOLL, of the Township of Aldborough, to Margaret McCOLL, of the Township of Dunwich, County Elgin.
1865 May 26 – image 2
The Masonic Lunch – We have received a communication from Robert STARK, Esq., of Woodstock, respecting the Masonic lunch at St. Thomas, the substance of which we publish; “The lunch was not got up by the Masons of St. Thomas, but was a private affair; the mistake was, that the managers did not inform the brethren of its private character until afterward. However there was every indication that the dinner which was to be provided for the craft by the St. Thomas Masons, to which I did not remain, would not be unworthy of the St. Thomas portion of the royal craft – the craft to which kings and the noble and learned of the earth delight to belong.”
1865 May 26 – image 3
The Port Stanley Excursion – The trains on the popular Port Stanley Railway were busily employed on Wednesday. Every one enjoyed themselves heartily. The grounds at Port Stanley called “Lake View Garden,” are much improved, and in a few years will be one of the prettiest in Canada. Mr. FRASER, conductor, assisted by Mr. SMALLMAN, gave universal satisfaction by their courteous attention to the passengers.
Daily Advertiser – 1874, 1880-1885
Born – On the 1st inst., at the village of Belmont, the wife of John BOYD, of a son
Married – On the 1st inst., at the residence of the bride’s father, by the Rev. N. McKinnon, Presbyterian minister, Mr. John NICHOL, Civil Engineer, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Flora, youngest daughter of Malcolm McBRAYNE, of Yarmouth.
Married – Also on the same date, at the residence of the bride’s father, in Southwold by the Rev. G. Sutherland, Presbyterian minister, John McCALLUM, mechanic, of Belmont to Maggie McLACHLIN.
1874 Jan 8 – p 4
Elgin Items –
Aylmer – Mr. WALLACE, of the public school having to resign his position on account of ill health, was presented with a handsome writing desk by his pupils. Mr. WILLIAMS succeeds him.
T. M. NAIRN has been elected Reeve by acclimation.
The scholars of the Church of England Sunday School assembled at the residence of the Rev. Mr. TURNBULL on Christmas Eve.
Port Stanley – Miss E. CHANDLER, organist of the Episcopal Church of this place, was lately presented with a gold locket and chain, and also a prayer book handsomely bound with white and gold.
Notices from Talbotville, Bismark, Iona and Dutton.
St. Thomas – Mrs. CUTHBERTSON was lately waited on by some of the Presbyterian congregation and presented with a purse containing $35. A complimentary dinner was given to Mr. GRANNIS the lessee of the refreshment rooms. A fine omnibus owned by Mr. SIMONS commenced running last week between the Post Office and the various railway stations the fare being only five cents.
New Sarum – Mr. WILEY, living near this place had his leg broken. Allowed leg to dangle through a sleigh and hit an obstruction.
Kingsmill – The many friends of Mr. Stephen TEEPLE will learn with pleasure that he has received the appointment as station master.
Aldborough – Municipal elections – Chas. O’MALLEY, Reeve; Jas. E. FLEMMING, Deputy Reeve; and John HENRY, Peter STALKER, Arch. GRAHAM, Councillors.
1874 Jan 21 – p 2
Died – At St. Thomas on the 10th instant, the beloved wife of P. O’NEAL, Esq., aged 24 years.
1874 Jan 21 – p. 3
West Elgin – Mr. CASEY Enthusiastically Received – A meeting of the electors of the township of Southwold was held in the Town Hall, Fingal, on Friday, Jan. 16. The Town Hall was crowded to excess with a very attentive audience. Mr. Dan. McPHERSON was elected to the chair, and called on Mr. CASEY to address the meeting. Mr. CASEY, on rising was greeted with deafening applause, and was frequently cheered during the delivery of his excellent address. Mr. CASEY has made a marked improvement in speaking, and is in splendid trim for an electoral campaign.
1874 Jan 29 – p. 1
A woman in St. Thomas, named Mrs. BARRETT went up in the hay loft of a barn to gather eggs and accidentally stepped into a hole in the floor and fell to the ground, a distance of several feet, breaking three of her ribs.
A young lad named Charles STRONG, of St. Thomas, had his arm broken on Saturday last by being thrown from a wagon, the horse having started suddenly at a furious rate.
1874 Feb 4 – p. 2
Aylmer – Big fight after the elections. Tories disrupting party of the winning Reformer HARVEY whose majority ws 182 but could have been 400. Asa CASWELL was lately tried before Squire BEEMER for selling liquor without a license and fined $20 and costs. New brick houses being built by Dr. McLAY, Messrs. W. R. FARTHINGS and Joseph HARVEY.
St. Thomas – East Elgin Agricultural Society held annual meeting and elected Jos. LAING, President; Arch. BLACK, 1st Vice-President; Wm. AYRST, 2nd Vice President; H. R. ELLIS, Secretary; John KING, Treasurer; James ARMSTRONG, Thomas FULCTIER, John SMITH, Edwin NICHOL, Thos. PENEALE, Samuel DAY, Stephen WADE, James FARLEY and Freeman ELLISON, Directors. Professor PRATT is in town taming horses. Mr. George CUMMINGS, Track Inspector on the western section of the Air Line road, was presented with a handsome gold watch and chain. Rev. Mr. MORROW has organized a Sabbath School with Grace Church. John McCAUSLAND, Esq., Reeve of Malahide, has been reelected Warden. J. H. SANGSTER, M. A., M.D., will conduct an institute herein connection with the Elgin Teachers Association. The members of the English Church presented Canon CAULFIELD with a purse containing $145 on his removal to take charge of the Windsor congregation. A large number of pupils are in attendance at the High School.
Lawrenceville – Mr. Neil DEWAR is building a store near the new Air Line station.
West Elgin – The large majority by which they have returned Mr. CASEY indicates the healthy state of the constituency. His majority was 328. The large number of acquaintances of John Rolf Van VELSER [ VELSOR / VanVELSOR / VanVELSER] will learn with regret of his death on the 9th ult., in Hastings, Mich., where he had been practising law for a few years past. Mr. Van VELSER was brought up on the Bank street in Southwold, and for a number of years followed the profession of teaching. Having graduated in law at Ann Arbor he practised first in Leslie, and latterly in Hastings. Being a good speaker he rose to a prominent position in the profession and filled quite a number of important public offices, among others that of Circuit Court Commissioner.
1874 Feb 11 – p. 2
Fingal – Dr. McLAUGHLIN, of this village sustained a rather sever injury on Saturday, 31st ult. While driving out to visit some patients his cutter cam in contact with a stick of cordwood, one end of which was frozen in the ground and the other projecting there-from, and so severe was the shock that the doctor was thrown violently from the cutter and rendered insensible for a considerable length of time. On friday last a Mr. MORRISON, of Dunwich, was driving home from Fingal, and when crossing the C. S. Railroad on the gravel road, about three miles to the north of the village, his team was struck by a passing train, killing one of the horses instantly. The other horse escaped unhurt. Mr. MORRISON was thrown form his sleigh and had three of his ribs broken.
Aylmer – About $100,000 has been paid out for pork at the Elgin Pork Factory although it has only been in operation since last fall. About 8,000 hogs, averaging 210lbs each, have been purchased. Immense pile of bacon and hams an sausages stacked on the floor. J. H. LONG, B.A., head master of the High School, has been offered the position of teacher of modern languages in the Hamilton Collegiate Institute, at a salary of $1,000 per annum. It is expected that he will accept it.
Sparta – A Reform demonstration will be held here on Wednesday evening at which W. HARVEY, M.P., G. E. CASEY, M.P. and C. McDOUGALL, Esq., are expected to address those assembled to rejoice over the recent victory in the Elgins.
New Sarum – Elder HAYCOCK taken charge of the Baptist Church congregation. Mr. WHITE, of Mapleton, has charge of the school, in place of Mr. William H. ELLIOTT, who has retired from the profession.
St. Thomas – A new band organized. D. McINTOSH resigned his position as Chief Engineer of the Fire Brigade and Mr. Henry STRONG was appointed in his stead. Lachlan CAMPBELL, Esq., has been appointed License Inspector, at a salary of $25 per annum. The annual meeting of the Upper Canada Bible Society was held in George street W. M. Church on Monday evening last. After an address by the Rev. Mr. HILL, the following officers were elected; C. McDOUGALL, Esq., President; John FARLEY, Esq., Treasurer; W. E. YOUMANS, Esq., Secretary. A vote of thanks was passed to the retiring Treasurer, Henry CALDWELL, Esq., in consideration of his long and faithful services. The contract of the building the Registry Office for the County of Elgin has been awarded to Mr. EDISON, of Port Stanley. John McCAUSLAND, Esq., the Warden of the county of Elgin, entertained the members of the County Council to supper at the Hutchinson House on Wednesday evening. A branchman named WOODSWORTH had his arm so severely crushed while coupling cars on the Air Line last week that it was found necessary to amputate the limb. Dr. J. H. SANGSTER’s visit to the county last week for the purpose of holding a Teachers’ Institute was a grand success. 100 teachers present. J. McLEAN occupied the chair.
1874 Feb 11 – p. 3
Ball at the Port – About fifty couples from the town of St. Thomas went to Port Stanley last night and joined in a ball at the Fraser House. Mr. FRASER, the genial proprietor, arranged everything for the occasion after the most approved and acceptable style, and set before the guests a splendid supper. The entertainment passed most successfully and to the entire satisfaction of all. A portion of the 7th Battalion Band furnished music for the dances. This is the sixth gathering that has taken place at the Fraser House this season, which is sufficient evidence of the popularity of the hotel.
1874 Feb 12 – p.1
Tales of a Pioneer – by Garret OAKS, Esq. – A long article on Col. Thomas TALBOT land management practices in Elgin County. He enticed 5 settlers to make a road from the Talbot Road to his Mill at Port Talbot. The next nearest mill was Norwich. The second time I (Garret Oaks) went in company with Wm. TEEPLE. I look back in wonder at the contrast between the race of pioneers that from the year 1810 to 1818 settled the Talbot district, and those of the present time. Many of the former had to be content with coats, vests and pants of unfulled flannel, tow and linen shirts, straw hats and naked feet, for boots in the woods were scarcely known, and overcoats were a luxury unattainable.
p.2
Married – On the 2nd inst., by the Rev. J. T. Davis, at the residence of the bride, Springfield, Mr. William TOMLIN, of Warwick, County of Lambton, to Mrs. Catherine ALLEN, of Springfield, Malahide.
Married – At Aylmer, on the 11th inst., by Rev. J. T. Davis, Mr. John Nelson BEARSS, of Malahide, to Miss Julia Ann BROOKS, of Aylmer.
p. 3
Presentation – The wife of Rev. J. T. DAVIS, Springfield, was the recipient of some excellent presents on the 9th inst., consisting of a beautiful all-wool shawl, a very heavy and rich cloud, and a quantity of table napkins. The gifts were from the hands of Miss Maggie THOROLD and Miss Elva KIPP. This is only one of a number of instances where this lady has received tokens of respect from the people of Springfield and vicinity.
1874 Feb 13 – p. 3
Serious Accident – One of the brakesmen of the L. & P. S., named Lewis E. MASTER, [MASTERS] met with a serious accident yesterday shortly after the rain left St. Thomas for this city. He was engaged coupling the bell rope on the top of the cars when the train reached Kettle Creek, and though warned by his mate, failed to get his head low enough to prevent it coming in contact with the overhead beams of the bridge. The blow, as might have been expected, left several painful cuts and bruises about his head, and very nearly threw him from the top of the car. The wonder is that he was not killed outright. On arrival of the train in this city he was taken to the office of Dr. MOORE, where his wound were dressed, and later he returned to Port Stanley, where hi resides. He is expected to recover. [ Note His wife has a baby girl Alice Catherine MASTER / MASTERS later in August of 1874]
1874 Feb 14 – p.2
The Pistol that Killed Tecumseh – from the Lexington Gazette – A story on Colonel R. M. JOHNSON who takes credit for killing Tecumseh.
A Canadian Lynx was shot in the township of Colborne [Huron County near Lake Huron] on Monday last by Capt. BOGIE. It was three feet two inches long and 23 inches high.
1874 Feb 16 – p. 2
Divorced – At Norwich, Conn., on Feb 9th, 1874, by Chief Justice Park, Annie CLARE, from Thomas CLARE, of London, Ont.; charge of intemperance. DAY, attorney, of Colchester, Conn., for petitioner. [Note: The 1871 census for London, Ont., indicates Thomas’s religion as Wesley Methodist and Annie as Roman Catholic- Likely unable to get a divorce in Canada at the time so went to Connecticut]
1874 Feb 18, p. 2
A yardsman on the Canada Southern Railway, at St. Thomas, CARLIS [CARLESS ] by name, was run over and cut in two on the 17th inst. The deceased was well known and greatly respected.
A new manufacturing company has been formed at Wallcetown for the purpose of manufacturing wagons, carriages and buggies, with sufficient capital to enable the business to be carried on an extensive scale.
On Friday morning, as a young man named MATTHEWS was chopping wood on Talbot street, Aylmer, he was taken with a fainting fit, and falling in a pool of water not over six inches deep, was drowned before assistance could reach him.
1874 Feb 18 p. 3
Only seven tavern and three shop licenses are to be issued for 1874 in Aylmer. The Town Council of Aylmer have raised the licenses on billiard tables to $100 for the first table and $50 for each additional table.
1874 Feb 19 – p. 4
Bismarck [Now West Lorne] – A stave and building factory is about to be started by Mr. D. McKILLOP.
Dutton – two cars ran off the tract about a mile west – little damage. The saw mill on the ridge near Dutton, until lately in the hands of Messrs. McMILLAN & McEACHREN, is now, owing to a dissolution of partnership, solely under the control of Mr. McMILLAN. He has taken a contract for supplying the railway company with about 300,000 ties. Mr. McEACHREN is seriously contemplating the erection of a large grain warehouse at Dutton.
Largie [in Dunwich Twp.] – The measles seem to have a fine time of it in this vicinity.
Lawrenceville – Subscription lists are in circulation in the northern part of Southwold (Twp.) for the purpose of raising means with which to build a Presbyterian church near this station..
Sheddon – the members of Evening Star Temple, I. O. G. T. at this place, have succeeded in building a fine hall for the use of the order, and on last Friday formally dedicated it to the cause of temperance.
Wallacetown – The Rev. T. HANNA, the Wesleyan Methodist minister near this place, was surprised a few evenings ago by a number of friends who met and presented him with a purse containing the sum of $35.
Sparta – The Reform demonstration held here on Wednesday evening last was a grand success. About 350 gentlemen from various parts of the county sat down to supper about 8 o’clock, and thus fortified themselves for the mental feast which was to follow. The chair was taken by the Warden of the county, J. McCAUSLAND, Esq., with Dr. CAMPBELL the first vice chair, and Stephen WADE, Esq., the second vice chair. Eloquent addresses were delivered by Wm. HARVEY, M. P. and G. E. CASEY, M. P., and Messrs. C. McDOUGALL, G. SUFFEL, Capt. McBRIDE, Joel LEWIS, etc.
Port Burwell – Considerable interest seems to be taken in the matter of shipbuilding. Youell & C.. are building a large timber vessel of full canal size, now nearly ready, and another with a capacity of 16,000 bushels, to be ready in June. Messrs. SUFFEL and McBRIDE are also engaged in building two vessels, one of which will be ready on the opening of navigation.
Springfield – The Wesleyan Methodist chapel was lately entered by some sacrilegiously disposed individual, who was “nabbed” just in time to save the Sabbath school collection box with its contents. A new school house is about to be built. The estimated cost of the building, together with the lot, will be about $4,000.
St. Thomas – A large brick block will be erected during the summer, in the space between the Merchants’ Bank and the Metcalf, Block by Messrs, GILBERT, COMFORT, and ARKELL. The members of the new band presented Mr. ALEXANDER with a handsome gold mounted whip, as an acknowledgement of services in connection with the band. Mr. Daniel BARNES was slightly injured on Monday last, by the upsetting of a load of straw. The I. O.O. F. of the town have very generously contributed $113.98 for the relief of the poor. Last Tuesday evening about 5 o’clock, a man named CARLIS [CARLESS], while employed in the wood yard at the Canada Southern station, was run over by the “pony engine” and immediately killed. The day being cold his cap was drawn over his ears and it is supposed that he failed to hear the engine approaching; the consequence was, therefore, as above related. His dead body was removed to the Simcoe House, where upon examination he was found to be fearfully mangled.
Aylmer – Mr. John A. McCAUSLAND has been appointed License Inspector for the current year. Seven tavern and three shop licenses have already been issued in Aylmer. On Friday morning last as a young man named MATHEWS, was chopping wood near the village, he fell in a fainting fit and falling in a small pool of water not over six inches deep, he was drowned before assistance could reach him.
1874 Feb 20 – p. 2
The Siamese Autopsy – Dr. Pancoast’s report to the College of Physicians – The Bodies of Chang and Eng. Nerves of two were independent. Long article [ not an Elgin connection here but search engines might find this interesting for some]
1874 Feb 23 – p. 2
Died in Spite of it All – Medical Witness Dr. AIKEN answers the question what medicines were prescribed. [very funny!]
1874 Feb 25 – p. 2
Died – In St. Thomas, on Friday, the 20th inst., of inflammatory croup, Archie, the eldest son of Thomas LEITCH, Esq., Assistant Master in the High School, aged 3 years, 7 months and 22 days.
Died – In St. Thomas, on the 19th inst., Mr. Geo. T. CLARIS, Treasurer for the County of Elgin, aged 67 years.
St. Thomas – Mr. D. OSTRANDER was severely injured lately by being thrown from his wagon. One of the wheels passed over his ankle, bruising it very considerably. G. T. CLARIS, Treasurer of the county of Elgin, died at his own residence last Thursday. The Warden has called a special meeting of the county council this week to appoint a successor. It will be a difficult matter to find one who will discharge the duties of the office with such general satisfaction as did Mr. CLARIS. A fire broke out on Sunday morning in Mr. WILKINSON’s confectionery, but by the aid of the fire brigade it was speedily extinguished without doing any serious damage. The switching engine collided with a freight train at the Air Line station on Tuesday last. Both the engines were considerably smashed. The Rev. Mr. DICKSON has been presented by members of his congregation with a valuable ow and and purse containing $31. A man named HELMS had his hand severely crushed while working in Mr. BAILEY’s planing mill. Dr. SMITH was immediately called and found it necessary to amputate one of the fingers. The Merchant’s Bank was seriously threatened by fire on Wednesday evening, the 17th inst., by the explosion of a coal oil lamb in one of the upper rooms. Noticed by one of Mr. KERR’s clerks.
Aylmer – One day last week, Mr. A. J. DAVIS found two lads of this village lying on the railroad track a short distance from the station in a beastly state of intoxication. A train shortly afterwards passed over the road, which , owing to a turn, would evidently have ended fatally to them had they not been discovered in time. It is no wonder that such scenes as these are not uncommon not only in Aylmer but also in other places, where there are found a proportionate number of persons whose sole duty it is to deal out the poisonous material with which to intoxicate the people.
1874 Feb 27 – p. 3
A Day After the Affair – A grand clam bake in honor of Mr. DAY, the disjointed candidate for East Elgin at the late election, occurred at Sparta on the evening of the 26th. … A sumptuous bill of fare had been provided, the chief dish being “consolation steak” largely partaken of by Messrs. DAY, NICHOL, McCOLL, LUTON, PRICE, ARKELL, CARLING and Dr. GUSTIN, all of whom have had at some time or other the satisfaction of being like Noah – in a glorious minority. [ Long article follows]
1874 Feb 28 – p.2
Two men from Tillsonburg, named WOODWARD and CONKLIN, have been committed for trial at St. Thomas for burglary and sheep stealing.
1874 March 4 – p.3
Recovered – We are glad to learn that Mr. L E. MASTER, of the L.&P.S.R., who a short time since was struck by an overhead bridge near St. Thomas, is now fully recovered from the effects of the accident.
1874 March 5 – p.1
Cleveland and Port Stanley – Open for Navigation – The fine side-wheel steamer, City of Sandusky, which ran on the route last year, is now undergoing thorough overhauling and repairs, in hull and machinery, and will be ready by the time that navigation opens and will leave this port for Port Stanley every Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings. Captain E. M. PECK will have the general management of the boat. The steamer will connect Port Stanley with the Great Western (Canada) Railroad, and indirectly with the entire railroad system of Canada.
1874 March 7 – p. 3
Murder or Suicide – A telegram to the Detroit Free Press from Grand Rapids, dated March 4, says; A rather handsome looking woman named Eliza WILLIAMS, of St. Thomas, Canada, has been in this city some two months in the ostensible capacity of housekeeper for one William MOORE, at a room or two in No. 202 Canal street. She was the owner of some property in Canada. For some time she has been acting as if distressed mentally, and MOORE says was crazy at times. She was last seen at 7 o’clock this evening, apparently as well as usual. Half an hour later her dead body was found against the boom at the guard locks in the east side canal. Officers are now taking steps to ascertain whether it is suicide or murder. There is very probably a mystery in the affair which will hardly bear honest scrutiny.
1874 March 11 – p. 2
West Elgin – A very successful fruit festival was held at New Glasgow on the evening of the 26th ult. Mr. John LOWRY occupied the chair. Speeches were delivered by David MILLS, Esq., M. P., Rev. John MUNRO and others. Mr.s David MILLS presiding at the organ. Mr. CONN, Deputy Reeve of Dunwich, is contemplating the erections of a grain warehouse at Dutton.
St. Thomas – An accident which terminated fatally occurred to a teamster named Patrick TAYLOR about two weeks ago, while hauling ice to the L. & P. S. station. He leaves a wife and seven children, the eldest of who is only eleven years of age.
Frederick DAY, a young man about 16 years of age, was found guilty of having stolen $100 from his employer at the Air Line Station and sentenced to an imprisonment of four years in the Reformatory at Penetanguishene.
William ROGERS and Edward CHALMERS were arraigned on Friday last on a charge of assaulting and robbing one John McPHEE. They were committed for trial.
The dwelling owned and occupied by Mr. John BAIRD, of the firm of POLLOCK & BAIRD, was completely consumed by fire on Saturday morning last. …lost pretty well covered by insurance.
1874 March 18 – p. 2
Port Stanley – An extensive contract has been taken by Major ELLISON to put up a large quantity of ice for the Standard Oil Company of Cleveland, Ohio. …Major ELLISON will obtain nearly all the quantity needed on Mr. HARDING’s mill pond.
Aylmer – comical piece on “Captain” COOK wife problems – She left his “bed and board” and won’t return. J. H. LONG, B.A., Head Master of the High School, having received an appointment in the Hamilton Collegiate Institute, has resigned his position here. Mr. GOBLE, of Ingersoll, has taken the contract of building a $16,000 W. M. chapel near the parsonage lately erected. The new Town Hall is not yet completed, although the time specified for that event was the latter part of last December.
Yarmouth Centre – Mr. Joseph MARLATT has purchased the hotel occupied by George PARLEE.
New Sarum – Mr. C. HOUSE has purchased the residence owned and occupied by Mr. John HORTON, and removed it on his farm, a distance of about 80 rods. The Air Line Company have laid a long siding here and intend during the coming summer to erect a suitable depot. Mr. Cyrus TISDALE has already made a considerable quantity of maple sugar.
Fingal – The “Fulton House” has been purchased by Mr. George PENWARDEN, who is well and favorably known as a hotel keeper. The price paid was $4,500.
West Magdala [Southwold Lot 5, Con 2 (Third Line & Union Road)] – A strong temperance organization is in existence here. Mr. Peter McARTHUR is W.C. for the present quarter.
Southwold Station – Mrs. ORDISH has a grocery here and is doing a good business.
St. Thomas – A man named SIMMONS was lodged in jail lately on charge of rape. Mr. L. CAMPBELL has sold a corner lot opposite the Wilcox Hotel for $2,000. The following pupils passed the entrance examination into the High School in January last. They are arranged in the order of merit: J. T. SUTHERLAND, Southwold; Christina McNEIL, S. Dorchester; John McARTHUR, Southwold; G. HINDMARSH, St. Thomas; L. FORBES, Plympton; Elva TEETZEL, Yarmouth; Hiram PETTIT, S. Dorchester; Emily McCREDIE, S. Dorchester; R. HAGGERT and Jas. McLEAN, St. Thomas. About 75 are in attendance now, about thirty of whom are from the county.
An additional constable has been temporarily appointed for the town, owing to some slight attempts at burglary lately. Mr. Thomas BALLARD was agreeably surprised on Wednesday evening, the 11th inst., by a number of his friends, and was presented with a beautiful china tea service. The Town Council are erecting an engine room near ELLISON’s lumber yard in the east end of the corporation. A new town bell has arrived.
1874 March 21 – p. 3
Mr. G. H. GILBERT, formerly a teacher in Elgin County, has graduated at the Cleveland Homoeopathic College, with high honors.
1874 March 23 – p.2
At Tyrconnell, on March 21st, Frances Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. John PEARCE, aged 27 years and 9 months.
1874 March 24 – p. 2
Married – At the residence of the bride, on the 20th ult., by Elder William Pollard, Baptist minister, Mr. Andrew IDLE, to Miss Mary LEITCH, youngest daughter of the late Archibald LEITCH, Esq., all of Dunwich.
1874 March 26 – p. 2
Union – Farmers organizing a Grange. Samuel DAY, Esq., chairman. Mr. E. THOMAS organized the “Pioneer Grange.”
Southwold – Near this station on the St. Clair Branch, C.S.R., a horse owned by Mr. John McBRAYNE was lately run over by a passing train, and instantly killed.
New Sarum – New members of the I. O. G. T. Officers are W. C., John LEE; W. V. Miss Frances BOUGHNER; P. W. , Thos. ELLIOTT; W. F., Henry CAUGHELL; F. S. , Lewis R. CLOES. This lodge has been organized for about fourteen years.
Iona – Mrs. MORRIS, for many yeas an invalid has been supported by locals.Mrs. CASEY has kindly presented a lot, and upon it a suitable dwelling house is now in course of erection. Help from Mr. EDGECOMBE and Mr. John LYONS.
Bismarck – A large sale of lumber will take place at GOSNELL’s mill on the 31st inst.
Kingsmill – Station master Stephen TEEPLE, Esq., is making preparations to build a large grain warehouse.
Wallacetown – Near this village lives Mr. John BOBIER, who has a hen that deserves a leather medal for the enormous dimensions of an egg lately laid by it. The prodigy in size measures 7 x 8 and weighs 4 1/2 ounces.
St. Thomas – Mr. William KERR, having removed to the United States, the business will be carried on as formerly by Mr. Thos. ARKELL. Bishop of Huron has appointed the Rev. S. B. KELLOG to the position vacated by the Rev. Dr. CAULFIELD. Mr. J. C. FINLAY has purchased the Queen’s Hotel from George KAINS for $7,000, and intends to fit and furnish one part of it as a hotel. The other part will be occupied by Mr. R. WALKER as a jewellery store. The inquest held to investigate the causes which led to the mysterious death of Elizabeth THOMAS, at Grand Rapids, Mich., adjourned to meet again on the 30th instant, when it is expected such evidence will be forthcoming as will enable the jury to agree upon a verdict.
Charles O. LEARN, Esq., has sold out his store in the Masonic Block to Mr. UPPER of the county of Norfolk, for about $4,700. Mrs. DREANEY, of the Dufferin House, was lately waited on by a number of friends and presented with a handsome china set. On Monday morning a fire broke out in the premises occupied by HUFFMAN Bros..The building was owned by Mr. D. ZAVITZ, Yarmouth. The fire is supposed to be the work of an incendiary. An inquest will be held.
1874 March 28 – p. 3
Dwelling Burned – A frame dwelling owned and occupied by Mrs. NOBLE, about two miles east of St. Thomas, on Talbot street, was consumed by fire on Wednesday last. The occupants of the house were at the sugar bush. A neighbor noticed the flames and gave the alarm, but too late to save either the building or contents. The fire originated in the chimney. So says the Home Journal.
1874 March 30 – p. 3
On Saturday morning last the daughter of Mr. BILLINGS, of St. Thomas, after sweeping the floor, threw the dust into the stove. A quantity of gunpowder was mixed with it, which exploded, seriously injuring her face.
1874 April 1 – p. 3
A Strange Tale From the Far South – Mysterious Murder of a Canadian in Texas – His Companion Suspected of Committing the Deed – Description of the Victim and the Supposed Culprit The following is an accurate copy of a letter which reached St. Thomas a few days since, and which may possibly relate to the two men implicated in the brutal murder of the Indian, Dr. NINHAM, which occurred at St. Thomas in September, 1872. Two men named FITZSIMMONS and Robert LIPSEY.
Police Court – Detectives raided a prostitution house south of Robinson Hall in London. Eliza EDWARDS first. Ellen CURRY says her husband lives in St. Thomas. Henry BELL a colored man thinks wife lives in Saint Thomas.
1874 April 2, 1874 – p. 2
Port Stanley – The propeller Lady Franklin made her first trip this season on the 27th inst. from Cleveland with passengers and freight. Under the command of Capt. DRAKE. A man named James McKAY. living in a small house on the beach, about a quarter of a mle to the west of the pier, was found dead in the house on Saturday morning last. Deceased was somewhat deranged at times and subject to epileptic fits. the tug “Colin Munro” made a trial trip out on the lake on Thursday. The Fraser House will be opened on the 10th of May. Mrs. Elizabeth SWEENEY, of htis village has recovered from a man named SECORD, of Cleveland, in an action for damages by reason of slander, the sum of $300.
Aylmer – The apartment of the new Town Hall, intended for a lockup, has already had three criminals in it since it has been fitted for use. The times are rather dull here at present, there being very little done in any line of business. The many friends and acquaintances of L. D. TEEPLE, Esq., will learn with pleasure that he is expected back from California in the course of a few weeks. It is sincerely hoped that the trip has favorable affected his health and that he may return hale and hearty to the scenes of his childhood, where so many friends await to greet him.
1880 June 5 –
William JOHNSON of Malahide (brother to Andrew and Thomas) escapes from London Insane Asylum
1880 June 17 –
The Malahide Tragedy – [ From the Aylmer Gazette ] Killing of brothers Andrew and Thomas JOHNSON of Malahide. Long article on details and coroner’s inquest.
1885 Feb 24 – Image 6 –
St. Thomas Items – Conductor HOFFMAN, who was injured by falling from a train at Welland a few days ago, still lies in a precarious condition at Buffalo. The water wheel at Turvill’s mill froze up last night for the first time this year. A young Frenchman arrested who had put up a horse at Peter SUAVES.
1885 Feb 26 – Image 1 –
St. Thomas Items – Mr. J. M. GLENN, barrister, of this city, was married this afternoon to Miss Jennie POLLOCK, daughter of Mr. H. B. POLLOCK. There are 66 inmates in the Elgin House of Industry. the stock of Mr. John LARMAN was seized to satisfy a chattel mortgage.
1885 Feb 26 – Image 2 –
Other Deaths – At St. Thomas, Ont. – Mr. Thos. STACEY yesterday received word of the death of his brother William at Kalamazoo, Mich. Age 63. One of the six sons of John STACEY an old resident of St. Thomas