From the Circuit Court records of Russell County, 1850, comes the sad story of Alfred Short, a youth raised in "infamy" who was convicted of passing a counterfeit two dollar note, as well as counterfeit coins. He pled guilty, attempted to hang himself in jail, and was eventually sentenced to two years in the State penitentiary. I have found no record of what happened to him after that point.
"At a Circuit Court held for Russell County, at the Courthouse, on Monday, the 16th day of September, 1850.
Present, Benjamin Estill, Esquire Judge of the 15th Circuit.
Isaiah Fuller, foreman; Edward D. Kernan, James G. Martin, John W. Webb, Meshack White, Joseph Smith, Saml. Taylor, James S. Browning, David Price, Thomas Gibson, Abner Harding, James McCoy, William Gibson, Joseph C. Fugate, James Dickenson, Henry Fogleman, Isaiah Drake, Wesley Gilmore, John W. Honaker, Thomas Meade, Henry Campbell and Samuel P. Fogleman, were sworn a grand jury of inquest for the body of this county and having received their charge withdrew from the bar to consider of their presentments: Wm. Robinson, Wesley Soward, Jeremiah T. Chase, Lewis B. Paine, Martin Fraley & Alexr. Wright, were severally sworn in Court and sent to the Grand Jury to give evidence. The said Grand Jury after some time returned into Court and presented,
An Indictment against Alfred Short, for uttering and publishing as true, a counterfeit Bank note, a true bill. They also found a presentment against the same person for passing counterfeit coin; and not having finished the business before them, were adjourned till tomorrow morning at 10 O'clock.
Alfred Short who stands indicted for uttering and publishing as true a certain false, forged, and counterfeit Bank note and passing the same as true, was brought to the bar in custody of the keeper of the Jail of this County, and being thereof arraigned pleaded not guilty to the indictment; whereupon, cam a jury to wit:
Thomas H. Garrett, Robert Burk, Robert Johnson, Abraham Buckles, John D. Alderson, Gabriel Jessee, Harvey G. Long, Henry M. Honaker, Major A. Fletcher, Thomas J. Richardson, William Gilmer junr. and Benjamin Wallis, who being elected by ballot, tried and sworn the truth of and, upon the promises to speak, and having heard the evidence, but not agreeing in a verdict, were, with the consent of the prisoner, committed to the custody of the Sheriff of this county, who is directed to keep them together without communication with any other person and to cause them to appear here tomorrow morning at ten o'clock: whereupon an oath was administered to Robert Boyd, Isaac Vermillion and Jesse Browning deputy Sherriffs to the following effect that they should well and truly, to the best of your ability, keep this jury, and neither speak to them nor suffer and person to speak to them touching any matter relative to this trial until they return into Court tomorrow. And the said Alfred Short is remanded to jail.
Alfred Short, late of the County of Russell who stands indicted for uttering and employing as true a certain counterfeit bank note, was again led to the bar in custody of the jailor of Russell County, and the jury sworn yesterday for his trial were brought into Court by the Sheriff of said County, were then sent out of court again to consider of their verdict, but not having agreed in a verdict at the time when the Court was about to adjourn, were, with the consent of the said Alfred Short again committed to the custody of the said Sheriff, who is directed to keep them together without communication with any other person, and he cause them to appear before the Court on tomorrow morning at 10 Oclock, whereupon an oath was administered to Robert Boyd, Isaac Vermillion and Jesse Browning that they should well and truly, to the best of their ability keep the jury, and neither speak to them themselves, no suffer any person to speak to them touching any matter relative to this trial, until the return in Court tomorrow. And the said Alfred Short is remanded to jail.
The Grand Jury, by permission of the Court, struck out the presentment made on the first day of the Term against Alfred Short for passing Counterfeit coin.
Alfred Short late of the County of Russell who stands indicted for uttering and employing as true a certain counterfeit bank note, was again led to the bar in custody of the jailor of Russell County, and the jury heretofore sworn for his trial were brought into Court by the Sheriff of said County, and not having yet agreed in a verdict, by Consent as well of the Attorney for the Commonwealth as of the prisoner, the said jury were discharged and the prisoner is admitted to give bail for his appearance before the Court at the next term to stand a trial upon said Indictment in the sum of $200; but being unable to find security he is again remanded to jail.
Jeremiah T. Chase, Thomas G. Sowards, George W. Stacy, Wm. Robinson, Wesley Sowards & Lewis B. Payne in Court acknowledge themselves to be severally indebted to the Commonwealth of Virginia in the sum of One hundred dollars each, of their respective lands and tenements, goods and chattels to be levied and to the said Commonwealth for the use thereof to be rendered. Yet, upon condition, that if the said Jeremiah T. Chase, Thomas G. Sowards, George W. Stacy, William Robinson, Wesley Sowards & Lewis B. Payne, shall severally appear before the judge of this Court at the next April Term to give evidence on behalf of the Commonwealth against Alfred Short who stands indicted for passing a certain Counterfeit Bank note, and shall not depart thence without the leave of the said judge, then this recognizance to be void.
Alfred Short, late of the County of Russell, who stands indicted for feloniously passing a counterfeit Bank note, for whose trial a jury had been empanneled and sworn during the previous part of the term but did not agree in a verdict, was again brought and sat to the bar at his own request; and withdrawing his plea of not guilty heretofore pleaded, by permission of the Court now pleads Guilty to the indictment: whereupon, by his consent and the assent of the Attorney for the Commonwealth, a jury was empanneled to wit: Richard H. Lynch, James C. Dickenson, Francis Lark, Joseph Hackney, Jacob Rasnick, Thomas C. McClearey, John A. Pruner, Meredith C. Logan, James P. Warren, Augustus W. Aston, Alexander L. Bratton and Samuel W. Aston, who being sworn the truth of and upon the promises to speak upon their oath do ascertain the term of imprisonment of the said Alfred Short in the Penitentiary of the State to be two years. Therefore; it is considered by the Court, that the said Alfred Short for the felony aforesaid to imprisoned in the public jail and penitentiary house of the Commonwealth for the term of two years, the period by the jurors in the verdict ascertained therein to be kept and treated in the manner directed by law. And, it is ordered, that the Sheriff of Russell County do, as soon as possible after the adjournment of this Court, remove and safely convey the said Alfred Short from the jail of this Court to the said public Jail and Penitentiary house for confinement and treatment therein according to law.
And the Court doth direct the following statement of the case to be made and transmitted to the directors of the penitentiary: The Court has not had time to inform itself of the provisions of the new Code, which it has not seen till the commencement of this circuit; but supposing it proper, proceeds to make the statement required by the former statute. Therefore, the Court doth order it to be certified to the directors of the penitentiary, that the prisoner, Alfred Short, a youth, was convicted at the present Term on his own confession, in open Court, of feloniously passing a two dollar counterfeit Bank note, purporting to be a note on the bank of Indiana. On the first day of the term the prisoner was arraigned on the charge and pleaded not guilty, and a jury were empanneled, who not agreeing in a verdict, were, with the prisoner's consent discharged on the third day of the term. The Court feeling great commiseration for the prisoner, and not thinking the evidence against him conclusive, offered to bail him in the sum of $200; but in consequence of the infamy of his family and connections, he could not give bail, though the Court believes this to be the first offence imputed to the prisoner, and has heard no other evil of him, beyond his connection with an infamous family. On the evening of the third day of the term the prisoner hung himself in the jail with his bed clothes, but was discovered and cut down before life was entirely extinct. The prisoner, after resussitation said, he would rather die than be confined in the jail (a most unpleasant one) till the next Term. Whereupon, he petitioned the Court for leave to plead guilty and go to the penitentiary at once, though he strongly denied the guilty knowledge charged in the indictment, but finally preferred to plead guilty, which he did and the jury rendered the verdict found in the record. This is a short history of his case.
In consideration of his youth and bad raising, and some uncertainty as to his guilt, the Court feels the strongest sympathy for him, and would have dismissed the prosecution and discharged him, had it not believed it would thereby have usurped the functions of the executive. The Court therefore does all it believes it has power to do, strongly and urgently recommends him to be instantly pardoned by the executive, who knows something of the Sandy country in which this unfortunate though was raised, the lawlessness of which, may be justly compared to that of the worst aborigines of the country, though of late greatly improved in its morals and standing. The Court also recommends him to the kindness of the keepers of the penitentiary.
Peter B. Henritze keeper of the Jail of Russell County for imprisonment and support of Alfred Short charged with felony $32.61.
George W. Johnson, Sheriff of Russell County for summoning a venire in the case of the Commonwealth against Alfred Short charged with felony, and the allowance directed by law to be paid by him to said venire $49.56.
Ordered that the Sheriff be permitted to employ two guards for the safe conveyance of Alfred Short to the Penitentiary convicted of felony, the Court believing that number to be necessary."
Sunday, December 31, 2017
Saturday, December 9, 2017
The World War II Letters of Billy J. Campbell, Letter 7
Somewhere on Luzon
June 18, 1845
Dear Mom,
Well so far I am still in the same place and feeling fine. Working some, eating a whole lot and sleeping more than anything else. I have done about as much writing as anything else. I should have plenty of mail one of these days if they all answer it. I have written everybody that I got letters from when I got off the boat. And a few more besides. There isn't much to write about but I guess I can say hello and goodbye. A few interesting things but part of them we can't write about. Plenty of the native customs are interesting and as long as we don't talk against them it's O. K.
Boy somebody really goofed off back in the States or they haven't been to the Philipines or or the other. When we started getting ready to come over here they said don't take any moeny, you won't need it and can't spend it. That may have been true when we get closer up but it isn't here. Maybe you had better send me somemoney, it is still a few days yet untill payday. Just registered mail I guess is the easiest. I want to get some souveniers; I have seen some pretty nice ones.
We get cigarettes and beer rations pretty cheap but other stuff is just as high as anywhere. I get my cigarettes and beer then then trade the beer to a fellow that doesn't smoke for his cigarettes. That is the way we get most ever-thing we have something we can't use we trade it to one of our buddies for some-thing he doesn't wan't.
Gilbert and Mason comes over here once in awhile to talk about something.
Well I had better stop now, it is getting dark.
Tell Susie and Ham hello and be good. I will write more soon. Don't worry about me.
Love
Billy
June 18, 1845
Dear Mom,
Well so far I am still in the same place and feeling fine. Working some, eating a whole lot and sleeping more than anything else. I have done about as much writing as anything else. I should have plenty of mail one of these days if they all answer it. I have written everybody that I got letters from when I got off the boat. And a few more besides. There isn't much to write about but I guess I can say hello and goodbye. A few interesting things but part of them we can't write about. Plenty of the native customs are interesting and as long as we don't talk against them it's O. K.
Boy somebody really goofed off back in the States or they haven't been to the Philipines or or the other. When we started getting ready to come over here they said don't take any moeny, you won't need it and can't spend it. That may have been true when we get closer up but it isn't here. Maybe you had better send me somemoney, it is still a few days yet untill payday. Just registered mail I guess is the easiest. I want to get some souveniers; I have seen some pretty nice ones.
We get cigarettes and beer rations pretty cheap but other stuff is just as high as anywhere. I get my cigarettes and beer then then trade the beer to a fellow that doesn't smoke for his cigarettes. That is the way we get most ever-thing we have something we can't use we trade it to one of our buddies for some-thing he doesn't wan't.
Gilbert and Mason comes over here once in awhile to talk about something.
Well I had better stop now, it is getting dark.
Tell Susie and Ham hello and be good. I will write more soon. Don't worry about me.
Love
Billy
Saturday, November 25, 2017
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Fires in Russell County, 1855-1925
March 8, 1855 - Richmond Dispatch
FIRE IN RUSSELL. The saddlery shop of Mr. Meredith Logan, at Lebanon, Russell County, was destroyed by fire lately, involving a loss of some $600 or $800.
April 15, 1864 - Abingdon Virginian
A destructive fire occurred at Lebanon, Thursday night, the 7th inst., supposed to be the work of an incendiary. Charles Carroll's out houses, four in number, were all burned, six short horned Durhams and four fine horses, with many valuable farming utensils, in all perhaps 25,000 dollars worth, went with the flames.
November 28, 1866 - Baltimore Sun
FIRE. Mr. Charles Carroll, near Lebanon, Russell county, Va., had his barn, containing a large quantity of grain, and a threshing machine, totally destroyed by fire a few days since. Mr. Carroll's loss is estimated at $5,000.
February 23, 1872 - Bristol News
LEBANON IN ASHES.
Destructive Fire in Russell County.
ABINGDON, Va., February 16 - Lebanon, Russell county, Va., was visited by a destructive fire on Wednesday last. The courthouse and jail, the Planter's hotel W. A. Stuart, owner, partly insured in the Virginia Fire and Marine Insurance Company for $3,000, Jenk's shop, the post-office, Dr. Ferguson's dwelling, A. Hendrick's dwelling and store, and other out-buildings, were destroyed. The fire was discovered in the observatory of the Planters' Hotel at 12 o'clock M. The wind was blowing a hurricane, and all was burned in about ten minutes. The records and papers of clerks office were saved. The loss is estimated at from $30,000 to 40,000.
February, 1872 - Abingdon Virginian
DESTRUCTIVE FIRE AT LEBANON, VA.
Court House, Jail, Planter's House
AND OTHER HOUSES DESTROYED.
$44,300.00 LOSS.
ONLY $3,000 INSURED.
Russell Correspondence.
LEBANON, Va., Feb. 19th, 1872.
Editors Abingdon Virginian:
You will remember that in my communication of last week, I spoke of the beauties which our town would present after having it incorporated, and maturing our plans in having our streets graded and side-walks paved: but, alas! a change has come o'er the spirit of our dreams, and we have another striking demonstration of the fact, that all human calculations and expectations are doomed to disappoint: and how it becomes my painful duty to tell you that the most beautiful part of our town is laid in ashes.
On Wednesday of last week, just as 12 o'clock, a dense smoke was seen issuing from the roof of the west end of the large Hotel, known as the Planter's House, which was erected by Alderson & Kernan, but now belonging to W. Alex. Stuart, of Saltville, and was occupied by H. Askbrook, and as there was a heavy wind blowing from the west, the roof was soon in a flame, and before water could be had, the cupalo was wrapped in a fiery sheet, and the raging flames bidding defiance to the citizens, many of whom had buckets in hand carrying water, vainly attempting their extinguishment. Very soon it communicated with the cupalo of our once magnificent Court House, and on burning the chord suspending the striking weight of the clock, it commenced striking its own funeral dirge, thus making the scene still more mournful; and simultaneously therewith, the Jail, the store and dwelling house of N. B. Gray, occupied by Aaron Hendricks and the Rev. J. H. Torbett, situated directly east of the Court House, were in flames, and by this time the large building belonging to the heirs of Col. A. F. Hendricks, dec'd, directly west but adjoining the Planter's House, was also on fire. This building was occupied by Dr. D. C. Ferguson with his family; J. C. Comann, with his tailor shop and Post office; J. P. Jenks, with his saddlers's shop, and Bruce & Thomas for a produce house.
It was a terrible sight to see those find large buildings, all at once tumbling into ruins, and the angry flames curling up heavenward, and interrupted all the time by the violent west winds blowing burning shingles and sheets of blazing fire a considerable distance towards the east. Burning shingles were thrown some three hundred yards and set Geo. Williams' house on fire, which would have been consumed, but for his son James mounting the roof and extinguishing it.
The winds were so violent, which were continually fanning the flames, that an end was put to the disaster in two and a half hours.
The large stable and corn-crib on the log of the Planter's House were saved; also the crib and stable on the lot of the heirs of Col. Hendricks; but on the lot of N. B. Gray, all the out-buildings were destroyed.
The loss, from the best data that can be obtained, and from information derived from the unfortunate ones, is as follows:
Court House.........................................................$17,000
Jail............................................................................8,000
W. Alex. Stuart.......................................................12,000
N. B. Gray................................................................2,500
Heirs of Col. Hendricks, Dec'd................................2,000
H. Ashbrook.............................................................1,000
A. Hendricks............................................................1,000
J. P. Jenks....................................................................100
Bruce & Thomas, in salt, plows, grain, &c...............400
Rev. J. H. Torbett........................................................150
J. J. Henritze.................................................................50
Lebanon Lodge, No. 215, jewels and furniture..........100
Total loss, $44,300
[...]of this property was insured, ex-[...] three thousand dollars[...]
The fire was not communicated to the southside of the street, but it would have been utterly impossible to have saved this part of the town, bur for the wind blowing directly east, and the immense quantity of water which was thrown on the houses: and much credit is due to the citizens of the town, and many from the country who were here on business, for their determined effort to stop the conflagration. The streets were lined with them carrying water to throw on the houses of Bruce & Thomas, Alderson & Kernan, Judge Burns and Capt. Gent, whilst many others were on the top of all of these houses, receiving water which they poured profusely on the roofs, to prevent their ignition from the excessive heat. The roof of Judge Burns' houses caught fire in two places, and that of Capt. Gent in three places, but was promptly put out.
Those who were thrown of of houses by this disaster, have mostly gotten other rooms, but some of them only temporarily. Aaron Hendricks has moved his family into the house of N. B. Gray, immediately east of Capt. Gent's house, and has his goods in Capt. Gent's Store-house, and is going on with his business. The energetic and untiring H. Ashbrook, who knows no surrender and has never studied the definition of the words, give up, is again in full blast, in the east end of Capt. Gent's house, were he is prepared to satisfy the appetite of both man and beast, and where he will meet his former patrons with a smile and make them feel easy. Notwithstanding his loss, he saved his bacon, corn, wheat, oats and hay, of which he has no small quantity. Rev. Torbett has moved temporarily to the Parsonage, but in a few days will occupy the house of R. D. Powers. James J. Henritze's family have gone to his father's, he is at present absent from home. Dr. Ferguson will probably move his family to his mother-in-laws on Moccasin; the Dr. was at the time of the fire, and is now, professionally absent in Washington county. J. P. Jenks has moved his shop, temporarily, to the shoe-makers shop of R. D. Powers. J. C. Comann has taken the Post Office to his house in the extreme west end of town, but is trying to bring it back nearer the centre of the place. Capt. J. W. McBrown occupied an office in the Planter's House, and was successful in getting his library out, with the exception of some two or three old books, on which he set but little value.
I have been thus minute as to the fire, and the present locality of the sufferers, believing that it will be of interest of their absent friends, many of whom I know to be readers of your paper.
The fire is thought, by some, to have been the act of an insendiary, but generally believed to be the result of accident from the bar-room chimney.
The next morning after its occurrence, Judge Fry issued a proclamation forewarning all persons from going near the burnt walls for fear of accidents, and forbidding the taking away of anything from the public buildings, or private property, and if anything had been taken away, for the same to be returned to the owners, under the penalty of being indicted by the Grand Jury.
RUSSELL.
(February 23, 1912 - Lebanon News)
Forty Years Ago.
Forty years ago the 14th of this month the Court House, jail, Hotel, and A. Hendricks' residence was burned to the ground. It was a very windy and disagreeable day. On that day H. Ashbrook rolled four barrels of whiskey into the street, and notwithstanding most every person belonged to the temperance council many got a prescription from Dr. Kernan and the obligation to taste was not forgotten.
February 20, 1874 - Daily State Journal (Alexandria, VA)
Two stables, a cow-house and granary, with contents, valued at about $700, belonging to P. D. Humitzin, of Lebanon, Russell county, were destroyed by an incendiary fire Monday night.
March 18, 1881 - The Baltimore Sun
A fire at Lebanon, Va., last Sunday night, destroyed property valued at $26,500, insured for $11,500. The principal losers were Anderson & Lynch, W. H. Burns, J. C. Gent.
August 19, 1881
Another Fire in Lebanon.
On the night of the 3d inst., Lebanon, in Russell county, was again visited by fire. It was not so serious as the fire which occurred a few months since, but still very disastrous to a little place like Lebanon. The loss this time falls heavily upon Mr. L. H. Clapp, whose drug store and contents were entirely destroyed. His loss is reported at $2,200. He was insured in three different companies for $400 each. The dwelling in which Mr. Clapp lived was also burned, and was owned by Mr. C. D. Boyd. A house occupied by a colored man and owned by J. F. McElhenney, was also burned. The people think the fire was the work on an incendiary. Total loss $3,900. - Abingdon Standard. [As appearing in the Clinch Valley News.]
February 17, 1901 - Times (Richmond, Va.)
FIRE AT LEBANON.
Good and Prompt Work Prevented a Disastrous Conflagration.
(Special Dispatch to The Times.)
LEBANON, VA., Feb. 16. - Lebanon narrowly escaped having a very disastrous fire yesterday. The smoke and flames burst from the roof of C. M. Jenks & Company's large store, but in a few minutes the fire was under control. The store is in the central part of the town, and had not the fire been discovered as soon as it was doubtless half the town would have been swept by the flames. The fire originated from a defective flue.
October 10, 1902 - Times (Richmond, Va.)
FIRE DUE TO SAFE BLOWERS.
Cracksmen Were at Work in Lebanon Wednesday Night.
BRISTOL, TENN., October 9. - (Special.)
A telephone message from Lebanon, Va., states that a fire, which broke out there at 3 o'clock this morning, destroyed the store of C. M. Jenks & Co., the post-office, residences of J. C. Gent and W. E. Burns.
A loud explosion aroused the people of the community, when it was discovered that robbers were in the town and had made an effort to blow open the safe of the Bank of Russell county. The safe in Jenks & Co.'s store was blown open and robbed and the building fired. Three suspicious men were seen disappearing in the direction of Cleveland.
Sheriff Ashbrook, of Russell County, is here to-night, and states that there is a clue to the gang which has been doing safe-blowing in Southwest Virginia.
October 10, 1902 - The Tennessean
TOWN WIPED OUT
For the Second Time Lebanon, Va., is Annihilated by Fire - Incendiarism Suspected.
BRISTOL, Tenn., Oct. 9. - (Special.)
A telephone message to this city from Mendota this evening states that the town of Lebanon, Russell County., Va., was practically destroyed by fire, the entire business center being in ashes. The leading properties destroyed were the Russell County Bank, John P. Jinks' emporium, the postoffice building and its contents, Barry's dry goods store, W. E. Burns' costly residence, the Gents building and many smaller buildings. The fire is thought to be of incendiary origin. The telephone wires entering town were cut by unknown parties while the fire was raging.
Lebanon was wiped out of existence by fire during the civil war and rebuilt.
October 17, 1902 - Lebanon News
Lebanon Will Rise Above the Ashes
Lebanon is very much disfigured by the loss of three of her finest buildings in the fire which occurred here one week ago yesterday, but we are happy to say she will rise above the ashes again.
L. L. Bays, the biggest loser by the fire, will rebuild and will erect a much finer business house than the one which was burned. Mr. Bays has also secured a lot from D. K. Banner in the west end of town and will erect on it a find brick residence.
Capt. J. C. Gent and Wm . E. Burns will also rebuild. Capt. Gent has been burned out three times in the last few years but he isn't one bit discouraged. he will rebuild at the same place.
Mr. Burns will build a find business house on the lot where his residence was burned. He has purchased a lot from Capt. H. H. Dickenson on north Church street and will build a handsome residence on it.
This news will be welcomed by Lebanon people with enthusiasm. It takes just such men as Bays, Gent and Burns to make a town.
December 17, 1902 - Times (Richmond, Va.)
ROBBERS IN RUSSELL
For Two Months Safe Blowers Have Been Operating Successfully.
(Special Dispatch to The Times.)
TAZEWELL, VA., December 15. For the past two months safe-blowers have been at work in Russell county and much valuable property has been destroyed.
Last Friday night Compton's store, four miles northeast of Lebanon, the county seat, was robbed and burned. The loss was very heavy, with no insurance, just a few days previous the robbery and burning of the store-house of S. F. Combs & Son, on the headquarters of Weaver's Creek took place.
Before the building caught fire the safe was blown open. The explosion tore out one whole side of the building. The loss was $12,000 with $6,000 insurance.
Some time in October burglars, supposed to be the same band that burned the above mentioned stores, set fire to the stores of the Jenks Mercantile Company, at Lebanon, resulting in the destruction by fire of goods and buildings to the amount of $38,000.
May 23, 1907 - Tazewell Republican
FIRE AT LEBANON.
Several Business Houses and Two Residences Destroyed.
Bristol, Tenn., May 21. Fire destroyed several business houses and other property at Lebanon, the county seat of Russell county, last night, the loss being estimated at $40,000 or more.
The burning of Henritz Brothers store alone entailed a loss of $20,000. Other houses destroyed were: W. H. Alderson's store, the Lebanon Bank, and the residences of Judge Harry Burns and T. C. Alderson. The insurance but partly covers the loss.
April 22, 1910 - Lebanon News
FIRE AT CLEVELAND.
Entire Business Section of Little Town Reduced to Ashes.
LOSS $100,000; INSURANCE ABOUT $25,000
Fire which broke out early last Friday evening in G. W. Thompson & Co's., Feed store almost wiped out the business section of Cleveland, which lies next to Clinch River.
The only fire fighting apparatus which was at hand was the old time bucket brigade, which was quickly formed, but the flames spread rapidly from one building to another until they were consumed into ashes.
Many of the buildings were old and dry and fit tinder for the sweltering blaze which swept its way through the little railroad town, which is the gateway to the capital of Russell.
The buildings burned were:
J. B. Branson's & Co's., Hardware store.
G. W. Thompson & Co's., Feed store.
M. P. Artrip's store and livery stable.
G. W. Price and Co's., General store.
Peoples Bank.
Dotson's Hotel.
Purcell Brothers & Co's., General store.
Norfolk and Western Depot.
Lumber yard.
Wm. L. Jessee's dwelling house and stock of groceries.
The loss including buildings, goods and lumber yard is estimated at $100,000 with something like $25,000 insurance.
May 13, 1910 - Lebanon News
$15,000 BLAZE.
A destructive fire occurred at Swords Creek Sunday at 3 a. m. The fire which had its origin in B. J. Wysor's store spread to the postoffice and to J. H. Jackson's dwelling, causing a loss of about $15,000.00 which was partly covered by insurance.
By hard work other buildings near the fire were save.
Origin of the fire is unknown.
March 26, 1915 - Lebanon News
WHOLE BLOCK BURNS OUT AT HONAKER.
Five Buildings Wiped Out.
Honaker was visited by another destructive fire Thursday night of last week. The Honaker Herald of last week furnishes the following report:
About seven o'clock the building in which J. H. Meade was located was discovered to be on fire and had gained such headway that it was impossible to do anything to save the building and all efforts were turned to save the goods. Much of the goods were saved. The building was owned by Dr. J. H. Lockhart and was a splendid two story frame building. He had only $600.00 insurance. Mr. Meade carried $3000 on the stock of goods. John Jackson and family who occupied the rooms up stairs, lost everything, even to their clothing.
The flames spread to the building owned by J. T. Wygal's Cash Store and restaurant. Quite a little of the goods were saved, but the building was soon reduced to ashes. By heroic work the flames were held in check, here, saving the feed store and Honaker Herald office which were the next buildings.
The fire spread west from Mead's store to G. B. Johnson's law office, which was also burned. He succeeded in saving his library and office equipment, though it was badly damaged. Mr. Johnson carried small insurance.
A frame building owned by Mrs. Ratcliff and occupied by the Busy Bee Restaurant was next to burn. No insurance.
A dwelling owned by a Mr. Sword and occupied by Dr. S. H. Speer was the last house to burn. Dr. Speer saved most of his dental equipment and household effects.
It is impossible to estimate the loss this morning but it is immense.
It looked at one time as if this end of the town was doomed, but willing workers conquered the flames and thereby have the thanks of a grateful people this morning.
The Herald plant was carried into the street and is so badly damaged that it is impossible to get out more than a half sheet this week.
July 15, 1921 - Lebanon News
Destructive Fire at Honaker Wed.
Wednesday morning at 2 o'clock a very destructive fire visited Honaker, starting in Paul Clark's feed store and wiping out the Hurt Saddlery and Harness Shop, Honaker Herald outfit, and John D. Miller's store and residence.
C. C. Bausell, editor of the Herald, asks us to state that he will resume publication of the Herald within a month or just as soon as material can arrive and asks his patrons to kindly send in the amounts due to him at once to enable him to resume business at the earliest possible date.
The origin of the fire is unknown.
Combs & Hurt, undertakes in the Hurt Saddlery building, is said to have lost heavily.
May 22, 1925 - Lebanon News
Honaker Suffers Heavy Fire Loss.
Last Thursday night about 12:30 Honaker had another destructive fire which broke out in the N. Yates building opposite the depot occupied by Henry Branson's restaurant, and in a short time the flames spread to the Walter Wallace building which was occupied by the department store of H. D. Wallace on the east and the Clark building on the west, all of which were totally destroyed.
The loss is partially covered by insurance, the Wallace brothers, it is said, carried four thousand dollars, one thousand on the building, and three thousand on the stock of goods. Yates carried twenty-five hundred dollars insurance on his building and fixtures, while Branson carried only nine hundred dollars, but Mr. Harris had no insurance.
The fire, it is thought, started in the Branson restaurant and it was with difficulty that Mr. and Mrs. Branson and a travelling man escaped the burning building and did so by sliding down a pole.
FIRE IN RUSSELL. The saddlery shop of Mr. Meredith Logan, at Lebanon, Russell County, was destroyed by fire lately, involving a loss of some $600 or $800.
April 15, 1864 - Abingdon Virginian
A destructive fire occurred at Lebanon, Thursday night, the 7th inst., supposed to be the work of an incendiary. Charles Carroll's out houses, four in number, were all burned, six short horned Durhams and four fine horses, with many valuable farming utensils, in all perhaps 25,000 dollars worth, went with the flames.
November 28, 1866 - Baltimore Sun
FIRE. Mr. Charles Carroll, near Lebanon, Russell county, Va., had his barn, containing a large quantity of grain, and a threshing machine, totally destroyed by fire a few days since. Mr. Carroll's loss is estimated at $5,000.
February 23, 1872 - Bristol News
LEBANON IN ASHES.
Destructive Fire in Russell County.
ABINGDON, Va., February 16 - Lebanon, Russell county, Va., was visited by a destructive fire on Wednesday last. The courthouse and jail, the Planter's hotel W. A. Stuart, owner, partly insured in the Virginia Fire and Marine Insurance Company for $3,000, Jenk's shop, the post-office, Dr. Ferguson's dwelling, A. Hendrick's dwelling and store, and other out-buildings, were destroyed. The fire was discovered in the observatory of the Planters' Hotel at 12 o'clock M. The wind was blowing a hurricane, and all was burned in about ten minutes. The records and papers of clerks office were saved. The loss is estimated at from $30,000 to 40,000.
February, 1872 - Abingdon Virginian
DESTRUCTIVE FIRE AT LEBANON, VA.
Court House, Jail, Planter's House
AND OTHER HOUSES DESTROYED.
$44,300.00 LOSS.
ONLY $3,000 INSURED.
Russell Correspondence.
LEBANON, Va., Feb. 19th, 1872.
Editors Abingdon Virginian:
You will remember that in my communication of last week, I spoke of the beauties which our town would present after having it incorporated, and maturing our plans in having our streets graded and side-walks paved: but, alas! a change has come o'er the spirit of our dreams, and we have another striking demonstration of the fact, that all human calculations and expectations are doomed to disappoint: and how it becomes my painful duty to tell you that the most beautiful part of our town is laid in ashes.
On Wednesday of last week, just as 12 o'clock, a dense smoke was seen issuing from the roof of the west end of the large Hotel, known as the Planter's House, which was erected by Alderson & Kernan, but now belonging to W. Alex. Stuart, of Saltville, and was occupied by H. Askbrook, and as there was a heavy wind blowing from the west, the roof was soon in a flame, and before water could be had, the cupalo was wrapped in a fiery sheet, and the raging flames bidding defiance to the citizens, many of whom had buckets in hand carrying water, vainly attempting their extinguishment. Very soon it communicated with the cupalo of our once magnificent Court House, and on burning the chord suspending the striking weight of the clock, it commenced striking its own funeral dirge, thus making the scene still more mournful; and simultaneously therewith, the Jail, the store and dwelling house of N. B. Gray, occupied by Aaron Hendricks and the Rev. J. H. Torbett, situated directly east of the Court House, were in flames, and by this time the large building belonging to the heirs of Col. A. F. Hendricks, dec'd, directly west but adjoining the Planter's House, was also on fire. This building was occupied by Dr. D. C. Ferguson with his family; J. C. Comann, with his tailor shop and Post office; J. P. Jenks, with his saddlers's shop, and Bruce & Thomas for a produce house.
It was a terrible sight to see those find large buildings, all at once tumbling into ruins, and the angry flames curling up heavenward, and interrupted all the time by the violent west winds blowing burning shingles and sheets of blazing fire a considerable distance towards the east. Burning shingles were thrown some three hundred yards and set Geo. Williams' house on fire, which would have been consumed, but for his son James mounting the roof and extinguishing it.
The winds were so violent, which were continually fanning the flames, that an end was put to the disaster in two and a half hours.
The large stable and corn-crib on the log of the Planter's House were saved; also the crib and stable on the lot of the heirs of Col. Hendricks; but on the lot of N. B. Gray, all the out-buildings were destroyed.
The loss, from the best data that can be obtained, and from information derived from the unfortunate ones, is as follows:
Court House.........................................................$17,000
Jail............................................................................8,000
W. Alex. Stuart.......................................................12,000
N. B. Gray................................................................2,500
Heirs of Col. Hendricks, Dec'd................................2,000
H. Ashbrook.............................................................1,000
A. Hendricks............................................................1,000
J. P. Jenks....................................................................100
Bruce & Thomas, in salt, plows, grain, &c...............400
Rev. J. H. Torbett........................................................150
J. J. Henritze.................................................................50
Lebanon Lodge, No. 215, jewels and furniture..........100
Total loss, $44,300
[...]of this property was insured, ex-[...] three thousand dollars[...]
The fire was not communicated to the southside of the street, but it would have been utterly impossible to have saved this part of the town, bur for the wind blowing directly east, and the immense quantity of water which was thrown on the houses: and much credit is due to the citizens of the town, and many from the country who were here on business, for their determined effort to stop the conflagration. The streets were lined with them carrying water to throw on the houses of Bruce & Thomas, Alderson & Kernan, Judge Burns and Capt. Gent, whilst many others were on the top of all of these houses, receiving water which they poured profusely on the roofs, to prevent their ignition from the excessive heat. The roof of Judge Burns' houses caught fire in two places, and that of Capt. Gent in three places, but was promptly put out.
Those who were thrown of of houses by this disaster, have mostly gotten other rooms, but some of them only temporarily. Aaron Hendricks has moved his family into the house of N. B. Gray, immediately east of Capt. Gent's house, and has his goods in Capt. Gent's Store-house, and is going on with his business. The energetic and untiring H. Ashbrook, who knows no surrender and has never studied the definition of the words, give up, is again in full blast, in the east end of Capt. Gent's house, were he is prepared to satisfy the appetite of both man and beast, and where he will meet his former patrons with a smile and make them feel easy. Notwithstanding his loss, he saved his bacon, corn, wheat, oats and hay, of which he has no small quantity. Rev. Torbett has moved temporarily to the Parsonage, but in a few days will occupy the house of R. D. Powers. James J. Henritze's family have gone to his father's, he is at present absent from home. Dr. Ferguson will probably move his family to his mother-in-laws on Moccasin; the Dr. was at the time of the fire, and is now, professionally absent in Washington county. J. P. Jenks has moved his shop, temporarily, to the shoe-makers shop of R. D. Powers. J. C. Comann has taken the Post Office to his house in the extreme west end of town, but is trying to bring it back nearer the centre of the place. Capt. J. W. McBrown occupied an office in the Planter's House, and was successful in getting his library out, with the exception of some two or three old books, on which he set but little value.
I have been thus minute as to the fire, and the present locality of the sufferers, believing that it will be of interest of their absent friends, many of whom I know to be readers of your paper.
The fire is thought, by some, to have been the act of an insendiary, but generally believed to be the result of accident from the bar-room chimney.
The next morning after its occurrence, Judge Fry issued a proclamation forewarning all persons from going near the burnt walls for fear of accidents, and forbidding the taking away of anything from the public buildings, or private property, and if anything had been taken away, for the same to be returned to the owners, under the penalty of being indicted by the Grand Jury.
RUSSELL.
(February 23, 1912 - Lebanon News)
Forty Years Ago.
Forty years ago the 14th of this month the Court House, jail, Hotel, and A. Hendricks' residence was burned to the ground. It was a very windy and disagreeable day. On that day H. Ashbrook rolled four barrels of whiskey into the street, and notwithstanding most every person belonged to the temperance council many got a prescription from Dr. Kernan and the obligation to taste was not forgotten.
February 20, 1874 - Daily State Journal (Alexandria, VA)
Two stables, a cow-house and granary, with contents, valued at about $700, belonging to P. D. Humitzin, of Lebanon, Russell county, were destroyed by an incendiary fire Monday night.
March 18, 1881 - The Baltimore Sun
A fire at Lebanon, Va., last Sunday night, destroyed property valued at $26,500, insured for $11,500. The principal losers were Anderson & Lynch, W. H. Burns, J. C. Gent.
August 19, 1881
Another Fire in Lebanon.
On the night of the 3d inst., Lebanon, in Russell county, was again visited by fire. It was not so serious as the fire which occurred a few months since, but still very disastrous to a little place like Lebanon. The loss this time falls heavily upon Mr. L. H. Clapp, whose drug store and contents were entirely destroyed. His loss is reported at $2,200. He was insured in three different companies for $400 each. The dwelling in which Mr. Clapp lived was also burned, and was owned by Mr. C. D. Boyd. A house occupied by a colored man and owned by J. F. McElhenney, was also burned. The people think the fire was the work on an incendiary. Total loss $3,900. - Abingdon Standard. [As appearing in the Clinch Valley News.]
February 17, 1901 - Times (Richmond, Va.)
FIRE AT LEBANON.
Good and Prompt Work Prevented a Disastrous Conflagration.
(Special Dispatch to The Times.)
LEBANON, VA., Feb. 16. - Lebanon narrowly escaped having a very disastrous fire yesterday. The smoke and flames burst from the roof of C. M. Jenks & Company's large store, but in a few minutes the fire was under control. The store is in the central part of the town, and had not the fire been discovered as soon as it was doubtless half the town would have been swept by the flames. The fire originated from a defective flue.
October 10, 1902 - Times (Richmond, Va.)
FIRE DUE TO SAFE BLOWERS.
Cracksmen Were at Work in Lebanon Wednesday Night.
BRISTOL, TENN., October 9. - (Special.)
A telephone message from Lebanon, Va., states that a fire, which broke out there at 3 o'clock this morning, destroyed the store of C. M. Jenks & Co., the post-office, residences of J. C. Gent and W. E. Burns.
A loud explosion aroused the people of the community, when it was discovered that robbers were in the town and had made an effort to blow open the safe of the Bank of Russell county. The safe in Jenks & Co.'s store was blown open and robbed and the building fired. Three suspicious men were seen disappearing in the direction of Cleveland.
Sheriff Ashbrook, of Russell County, is here to-night, and states that there is a clue to the gang which has been doing safe-blowing in Southwest Virginia.
October 10, 1902 - The Tennessean
TOWN WIPED OUT
For the Second Time Lebanon, Va., is Annihilated by Fire - Incendiarism Suspected.
BRISTOL, Tenn., Oct. 9. - (Special.)
A telephone message to this city from Mendota this evening states that the town of Lebanon, Russell County., Va., was practically destroyed by fire, the entire business center being in ashes. The leading properties destroyed were the Russell County Bank, John P. Jinks' emporium, the postoffice building and its contents, Barry's dry goods store, W. E. Burns' costly residence, the Gents building and many smaller buildings. The fire is thought to be of incendiary origin. The telephone wires entering town were cut by unknown parties while the fire was raging.
Lebanon was wiped out of existence by fire during the civil war and rebuilt.
October 17, 1902 - Lebanon News
Lebanon Will Rise Above the Ashes
Lebanon is very much disfigured by the loss of three of her finest buildings in the fire which occurred here one week ago yesterday, but we are happy to say she will rise above the ashes again.
L. L. Bays, the biggest loser by the fire, will rebuild and will erect a much finer business house than the one which was burned. Mr. Bays has also secured a lot from D. K. Banner in the west end of town and will erect on it a find brick residence.
Capt. J. C. Gent and Wm . E. Burns will also rebuild. Capt. Gent has been burned out three times in the last few years but he isn't one bit discouraged. he will rebuild at the same place.
Mr. Burns will build a find business house on the lot where his residence was burned. He has purchased a lot from Capt. H. H. Dickenson on north Church street and will build a handsome residence on it.
This news will be welcomed by Lebanon people with enthusiasm. It takes just such men as Bays, Gent and Burns to make a town.
December 17, 1902 - Times (Richmond, Va.)
ROBBERS IN RUSSELL
For Two Months Safe Blowers Have Been Operating Successfully.
(Special Dispatch to The Times.)
TAZEWELL, VA., December 15. For the past two months safe-blowers have been at work in Russell county and much valuable property has been destroyed.
Last Friday night Compton's store, four miles northeast of Lebanon, the county seat, was robbed and burned. The loss was very heavy, with no insurance, just a few days previous the robbery and burning of the store-house of S. F. Combs & Son, on the headquarters of Weaver's Creek took place.
Before the building caught fire the safe was blown open. The explosion tore out one whole side of the building. The loss was $12,000 with $6,000 insurance.
Some time in October burglars, supposed to be the same band that burned the above mentioned stores, set fire to the stores of the Jenks Mercantile Company, at Lebanon, resulting in the destruction by fire of goods and buildings to the amount of $38,000.
May 23, 1907 - Tazewell Republican
FIRE AT LEBANON.
Several Business Houses and Two Residences Destroyed.
Bristol, Tenn., May 21. Fire destroyed several business houses and other property at Lebanon, the county seat of Russell county, last night, the loss being estimated at $40,000 or more.
The burning of Henritz Brothers store alone entailed a loss of $20,000. Other houses destroyed were: W. H. Alderson's store, the Lebanon Bank, and the residences of Judge Harry Burns and T. C. Alderson. The insurance but partly covers the loss.
April 22, 1910 - Lebanon News
FIRE AT CLEVELAND.
Entire Business Section of Little Town Reduced to Ashes.
LOSS $100,000; INSURANCE ABOUT $25,000
Fire which broke out early last Friday evening in G. W. Thompson & Co's., Feed store almost wiped out the business section of Cleveland, which lies next to Clinch River.
The only fire fighting apparatus which was at hand was the old time bucket brigade, which was quickly formed, but the flames spread rapidly from one building to another until they were consumed into ashes.
Many of the buildings were old and dry and fit tinder for the sweltering blaze which swept its way through the little railroad town, which is the gateway to the capital of Russell.
The buildings burned were:
J. B. Branson's & Co's., Hardware store.
G. W. Thompson & Co's., Feed store.
M. P. Artrip's store and livery stable.
G. W. Price and Co's., General store.
Peoples Bank.
Dotson's Hotel.
Purcell Brothers & Co's., General store.
Norfolk and Western Depot.
Lumber yard.
Wm. L. Jessee's dwelling house and stock of groceries.
The loss including buildings, goods and lumber yard is estimated at $100,000 with something like $25,000 insurance.
May 13, 1910 - Lebanon News
$15,000 BLAZE.
A destructive fire occurred at Swords Creek Sunday at 3 a. m. The fire which had its origin in B. J. Wysor's store spread to the postoffice and to J. H. Jackson's dwelling, causing a loss of about $15,000.00 which was partly covered by insurance.
By hard work other buildings near the fire were save.
Origin of the fire is unknown.
March 26, 1915 - Lebanon News
WHOLE BLOCK BURNS OUT AT HONAKER.
Five Buildings Wiped Out.
Honaker was visited by another destructive fire Thursday night of last week. The Honaker Herald of last week furnishes the following report:
About seven o'clock the building in which J. H. Meade was located was discovered to be on fire and had gained such headway that it was impossible to do anything to save the building and all efforts were turned to save the goods. Much of the goods were saved. The building was owned by Dr. J. H. Lockhart and was a splendid two story frame building. He had only $600.00 insurance. Mr. Meade carried $3000 on the stock of goods. John Jackson and family who occupied the rooms up stairs, lost everything, even to their clothing.
The flames spread to the building owned by J. T. Wygal's Cash Store and restaurant. Quite a little of the goods were saved, but the building was soon reduced to ashes. By heroic work the flames were held in check, here, saving the feed store and Honaker Herald office which were the next buildings.
The fire spread west from Mead's store to G. B. Johnson's law office, which was also burned. He succeeded in saving his library and office equipment, though it was badly damaged. Mr. Johnson carried small insurance.
A frame building owned by Mrs. Ratcliff and occupied by the Busy Bee Restaurant was next to burn. No insurance.
A dwelling owned by a Mr. Sword and occupied by Dr. S. H. Speer was the last house to burn. Dr. Speer saved most of his dental equipment and household effects.
It is impossible to estimate the loss this morning but it is immense.
It looked at one time as if this end of the town was doomed, but willing workers conquered the flames and thereby have the thanks of a grateful people this morning.
The Herald plant was carried into the street and is so badly damaged that it is impossible to get out more than a half sheet this week.
July 15, 1921 - Lebanon News
Destructive Fire at Honaker Wed.
Wednesday morning at 2 o'clock a very destructive fire visited Honaker, starting in Paul Clark's feed store and wiping out the Hurt Saddlery and Harness Shop, Honaker Herald outfit, and John D. Miller's store and residence.
C. C. Bausell, editor of the Herald, asks us to state that he will resume publication of the Herald within a month or just as soon as material can arrive and asks his patrons to kindly send in the amounts due to him at once to enable him to resume business at the earliest possible date.
The origin of the fire is unknown.
Combs & Hurt, undertakes in the Hurt Saddlery building, is said to have lost heavily.
May 22, 1925 - Lebanon News
Honaker Suffers Heavy Fire Loss.
Last Thursday night about 12:30 Honaker had another destructive fire which broke out in the N. Yates building opposite the depot occupied by Henry Branson's restaurant, and in a short time the flames spread to the Walter Wallace building which was occupied by the department store of H. D. Wallace on the east and the Clark building on the west, all of which were totally destroyed.
The loss is partially covered by insurance, the Wallace brothers, it is said, carried four thousand dollars, one thousand on the building, and three thousand on the stock of goods. Yates carried twenty-five hundred dollars insurance on his building and fixtures, while Branson carried only nine hundred dollars, but Mr. Harris had no insurance.
The fire, it is thought, started in the Branson restaurant and it was with difficulty that Mr. and Mrs. Branson and a travelling man escaped the burning building and did so by sliding down a pole.
Saturday, October 28, 2017
William Sample to John W. Martin - 1863 Sheriff's Election
"Mr John W Martin
Please read if necessary on the day of Election
Notice
Having been informed that E R Smith my opponent in trying to create an impression that I am under promise to him not to run this race I told Maj Harris in the presance of Maj Fulkerson to rite to Smith and say to him if he wanted to run for the sherifalty to wait til my time or tearm was out and I then would give him my support But has he complyed with his obligation the answer must be no is this my tearm according to law if it is then he can have no claim whatsoeaver or hold me under any obligation in so much as he is contesting the tearm I was elected to hold the above is the true statement which I can prove at any time.
Your friend
Wm Sample
Apl 8th 1863"
Monday, October 9, 2017
Strange Happenings in Russell County
Daily State Journal - July 17, 1872
"VIRGINIA NEWS.
A letter from Lebanon, Russell county, in the Abingdon Virginian, says:
Quite a phenomenon occurred on the lands of Andrew Frailey, in Castle's woods, in this county, about two weeks ago, and I will now related as it was given to me by his son, Nelson H. Frailey, who says he went to the spring to wash, near the house, and after being there but a short time, his attention was attracted by an unusual noise, some three or four times, but observing nothing which gave rise to it, he started towards the house, and after waking some twenty paces, a report in the direction of the spring louder than he had previously heard, and not unlike the firing of a gun, arrested his attention, whereupon he returned to the spring, and to his astonishment found a large rock cracking and making reports as before described, at intervals the aperture in the rock still gradually but constantly increasing in size. These reports continued for about twenty-four hours, and on returning to the spring next morning, rocks were seen which had been thrown of various sizes, some of them weighing from four to five hundred pounds presenting altogether the appearance of some mighty volcanic eruption having taken place. Can you or some other geologist account for this eruption on scientific principles? A report of this kind was heard at this spring some eighteen or twenty years ago, but I believe no rock was thrown up."
Bristol News - January 18, 1881
"FROM RUSSELL COUNTY.
A Shower of Blood in Russell.
Strange But True.
On the evening of the 6th of Jan., 1881 near the residence [of] Dr. Abram Salyer in the lower end of Russell county, Va., a substance resembling blood fell upon about one half acre of land, and on the 9th day of this month (Sabbath) quite a number of persons visited the spot to testify to the truth of the matter and say that it was plain to be seen upon the rocks and boards, and on some clothes that was on the fence.
I have talked to quite a number of persons that say they saw the blood or what looked like blood, and I have not room to double their statement.
JAS. M. QUILLEN.
Nickelsville, Va., Jan. 10, 1881."
Lebanon News - October 2, 1925
Russell County's Wonderful Madstone
[...] Some weeks ago since we published an account of the wonderful madstone owned by Mr. Counts [...]
Mr. Counts' communication follows:
[...] this madstone in question was not found by C. F. Counts but was found by A. K. Evans, a man of about seventy years, a native of Russell county, and still a citizen of the same. A man well known by many good people of southwest Virginia. Mr. Evans found this rock not it a cornfield, as was stated, but found it in the underbrush or virgin forest of the farm on which he has lived for about seven years, and still owns a portion thereof.
Now for the benefit of any that might be interested regarding the history of this stone in our modern days, we would submit the following. This stone was dragged from the clay by hauling heavy timbers over a narrow pathway, and was picked up through curiosity by the said Mr. Evans not far from forty years ago. Having been advised by some of his friends that he had found a madstone, he took special care of it until six or eight years ago, when he gave it to his daughter, Mrs. C. F. Counts who still has the rock.
We hare not making any claims for the virtue of this rock, but are willing to submit the record of the stone at work and allow that to suffice. This stone has been actively in operation especially since 1896, and of the many people visiting the stone to obtain relief from dog and reptile attack, from many parts in Southwest Virginia and adjoining states, it seems that a comparatively few have attracted the seeming true adhesive power of the stone. That is we would venture only about 10 or 15 percent of the patients attract the stones best efforts.
We have on our books the names of forty-two parties that the stone seemed to to stick to, more or less, and out of this number about thirty or forty per cent appeared to be of the more aggravated or severe cases. On such the stone adhered from nine to twenty-four hours, and even longer, but finally it finishes the job and quits.
Now we would further say that of all to which the stone has been applied as a treatment of both man and beast, the writer is able (considering of course our limited means of getting news from a distance), to record but one failure, and that was in the Bovine family. If we may detail this case with few words, would say that four or five years ago, a Mr. Anderson near Cleveland, Va., had a fine milk cow bitten by a dog, the cow's ear was badly lacerated and she was highly nervous and excited so much so that ht was very nearly impossible to confine her, so as to give the stone unmolested connection with the wound, for a reasonable time, which we think is necessary.
But notwithstanding its seemingly beautiful record, notwithstanding that many people hail it with their fond recollection, as their benefactor, yet knowing as we do that the scientific world has taken a step beyond the rim of mystery, and that medical science is unalterably opposed to the use of such agencies as a treatment. We would gladly tuck this cute little rock away in its little crown of achievement and its rainbow-like robe of many colors, and never-ending mystery with tender hands lay it away as a mother would her child, never to see it again in service, of only the public could be educated to not make long voyages to obtain the services of this stone as a remedy for their troubles.
Respectfully submitted,
C. F. Counts."
"VIRGINIA NEWS.
A letter from Lebanon, Russell county, in the Abingdon Virginian, says:
Quite a phenomenon occurred on the lands of Andrew Frailey, in Castle's woods, in this county, about two weeks ago, and I will now related as it was given to me by his son, Nelson H. Frailey, who says he went to the spring to wash, near the house, and after being there but a short time, his attention was attracted by an unusual noise, some three or four times, but observing nothing which gave rise to it, he started towards the house, and after waking some twenty paces, a report in the direction of the spring louder than he had previously heard, and not unlike the firing of a gun, arrested his attention, whereupon he returned to the spring, and to his astonishment found a large rock cracking and making reports as before described, at intervals the aperture in the rock still gradually but constantly increasing in size. These reports continued for about twenty-four hours, and on returning to the spring next morning, rocks were seen which had been thrown of various sizes, some of them weighing from four to five hundred pounds presenting altogether the appearance of some mighty volcanic eruption having taken place. Can you or some other geologist account for this eruption on scientific principles? A report of this kind was heard at this spring some eighteen or twenty years ago, but I believe no rock was thrown up."
Bristol News - January 18, 1881
"FROM RUSSELL COUNTY.
A Shower of Blood in Russell.
Strange But True.
On the evening of the 6th of Jan., 1881 near the residence [of] Dr. Abram Salyer in the lower end of Russell county, Va., a substance resembling blood fell upon about one half acre of land, and on the 9th day of this month (Sabbath) quite a number of persons visited the spot to testify to the truth of the matter and say that it was plain to be seen upon the rocks and boards, and on some clothes that was on the fence.
I have talked to quite a number of persons that say they saw the blood or what looked like blood, and I have not room to double their statement.
JAS. M. QUILLEN.
Nickelsville, Va., Jan. 10, 1881."
Lebanon News - October 2, 1925
Russell County's Wonderful Madstone
[...] Some weeks ago since we published an account of the wonderful madstone owned by Mr. Counts [...]
Mr. Counts' communication follows:
[...] this madstone in question was not found by C. F. Counts but was found by A. K. Evans, a man of about seventy years, a native of Russell county, and still a citizen of the same. A man well known by many good people of southwest Virginia. Mr. Evans found this rock not it a cornfield, as was stated, but found it in the underbrush or virgin forest of the farm on which he has lived for about seven years, and still owns a portion thereof.
Now for the benefit of any that might be interested regarding the history of this stone in our modern days, we would submit the following. This stone was dragged from the clay by hauling heavy timbers over a narrow pathway, and was picked up through curiosity by the said Mr. Evans not far from forty years ago. Having been advised by some of his friends that he had found a madstone, he took special care of it until six or eight years ago, when he gave it to his daughter, Mrs. C. F. Counts who still has the rock.
We hare not making any claims for the virtue of this rock, but are willing to submit the record of the stone at work and allow that to suffice. This stone has been actively in operation especially since 1896, and of the many people visiting the stone to obtain relief from dog and reptile attack, from many parts in Southwest Virginia and adjoining states, it seems that a comparatively few have attracted the seeming true adhesive power of the stone. That is we would venture only about 10 or 15 percent of the patients attract the stones best efforts.
We have on our books the names of forty-two parties that the stone seemed to to stick to, more or less, and out of this number about thirty or forty per cent appeared to be of the more aggravated or severe cases. On such the stone adhered from nine to twenty-four hours, and even longer, but finally it finishes the job and quits.
Now we would further say that of all to which the stone has been applied as a treatment of both man and beast, the writer is able (considering of course our limited means of getting news from a distance), to record but one failure, and that was in the Bovine family. If we may detail this case with few words, would say that four or five years ago, a Mr. Anderson near Cleveland, Va., had a fine milk cow bitten by a dog, the cow's ear was badly lacerated and she was highly nervous and excited so much so that ht was very nearly impossible to confine her, so as to give the stone unmolested connection with the wound, for a reasonable time, which we think is necessary.
But notwithstanding its seemingly beautiful record, notwithstanding that many people hail it with their fond recollection, as their benefactor, yet knowing as we do that the scientific world has taken a step beyond the rim of mystery, and that medical science is unalterably opposed to the use of such agencies as a treatment. We would gladly tuck this cute little rock away in its little crown of achievement and its rainbow-like robe of many colors, and never-ending mystery with tender hands lay it away as a mother would her child, never to see it again in service, of only the public could be educated to not make long voyages to obtain the services of this stone as a remedy for their troubles.
Respectfully submitted,
C. F. Counts."
Sunday, September 17, 2017
Nannie Jumps
The Richmond Daily Dispatch of September 29th, 1870 brings the following story. The Nannie McCallum in the story married Russell County Confederate solder Robert T. McElyea and lived in Robeson County, North Carolina. However, the historical record is confusing, McCallum married McElyea in 1867 in North Carolina and McElyea was apparently living in North Carolina by 1865.
"From Russell County - Explosion of Kerosene Lamps - Thrilling Scene - Narrow Escapes from Death
{Special Correspondence of the Index.}
LEBANON, RUSSELL COUNTY, VA.,
September 24, 1870.
Messrs. Editors: My long silence has been occasioned for the want of some local topic to speak of, and that was furnished last night in the way of a kerosene explosion.
Miss Nannie McCallum, principal of the Female Academy at this place, proposed giving, with the assistance of her scholars, a number of brilliant tableaux in the large public hall situated in the second story of the court-house building. The entrance to this room is from the court-room below, through two long, winding stairways enclosed by walls on either side.
Nearly every man, woman, and child in our little town, with a large number of persons from the adjacent country, had seated themselves in this spacious room - supposed to be about three hundred in all. Everything was going on as merry as a marriage belle, and several scenes had been exhibited to the great delight of the audience, when an awkward attempt on the part of one of the managers to draw the curtain overturned a large lamp, used as a foot-light, which at once took fire; one of the musicians, in attempting to move a second lamp broke that, and in an instant the flames leaped from floor to ceiling, the curtains and scenery took fire, and the whole end of the room seemed to be in one solid sheet of fire. The audience, with few exceptions, sprang to their feet, men hallooing, women screaming, and children crying, broke pell mell for the doors leading down the narrow stairways, in which many were badly bruised and trampled, though none fatally, as yet heard of. Miss McCallum being upon the stage at the time, with the fire between her and the door leaped from a back window to the ground, a distance of twenty-five feet. When found she was insensible, and is said to be seriously hurt from her fall, or leap, as you may call it. Some half dozen men now engaged the fire, and, by rolling up the large carpets over the flames, succeeded in extinguishing it, and thus saved to the county its costly and beautiful seat of justice.
How so many men, women, and children, in pell-mell order, passed down the narrow stairways and so few seriously hurt, is the wonder of all.
Many laughable and ludicrous scenes occurred during the excitement, which, but for the want of space, would be given.
YOURS, &c.. RUSSELL"
"From Russell County - Explosion of Kerosene Lamps - Thrilling Scene - Narrow Escapes from Death
{Special Correspondence of the Index.}
LEBANON, RUSSELL COUNTY, VA.,
September 24, 1870.
Messrs. Editors: My long silence has been occasioned for the want of some local topic to speak of, and that was furnished last night in the way of a kerosene explosion.
Miss Nannie McCallum, principal of the Female Academy at this place, proposed giving, with the assistance of her scholars, a number of brilliant tableaux in the large public hall situated in the second story of the court-house building. The entrance to this room is from the court-room below, through two long, winding stairways enclosed by walls on either side.
Nearly every man, woman, and child in our little town, with a large number of persons from the adjacent country, had seated themselves in this spacious room - supposed to be about three hundred in all. Everything was going on as merry as a marriage belle, and several scenes had been exhibited to the great delight of the audience, when an awkward attempt on the part of one of the managers to draw the curtain overturned a large lamp, used as a foot-light, which at once took fire; one of the musicians, in attempting to move a second lamp broke that, and in an instant the flames leaped from floor to ceiling, the curtains and scenery took fire, and the whole end of the room seemed to be in one solid sheet of fire. The audience, with few exceptions, sprang to their feet, men hallooing, women screaming, and children crying, broke pell mell for the doors leading down the narrow stairways, in which many were badly bruised and trampled, though none fatally, as yet heard of. Miss McCallum being upon the stage at the time, with the fire between her and the door leaped from a back window to the ground, a distance of twenty-five feet. When found she was insensible, and is said to be seriously hurt from her fall, or leap, as you may call it. Some half dozen men now engaged the fire, and, by rolling up the large carpets over the flames, succeeded in extinguishing it, and thus saved to the county its costly and beautiful seat of justice.
How so many men, women, and children, in pell-mell order, passed down the narrow stairways and so few seriously hurt, is the wonder of all.
Many laughable and ludicrous scenes occurred during the excitement, which, but for the want of space, would be given.
YOURS, &c.. RUSSELL"
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