SMITH, William - 1890
Source: Covington Friend Thursday July 24, 1890 p1
On last Friday we learned that William Smith of this township was struck by lightning and killed and upon investigation we learned the following particulars for the Friend: Wm. Smith and Lewis Tinder were working on James Moffett’s farm last Thursday and when the storm came up they went into the house for shelter and after the hardest (but not the worse) part of the storm had passed they went to the barn nearby. Smith stepped to the “manure hole” to see how badly his corn had been damaged by the storm and seeing that it was badly damaged, began making plans for the future, seeing that his past ones were spoiled by the damage done his corn and hay. Tinder stepped up to Smith and placed on hand on his (Smith’s) shoulder to view the corn and at that moment the lightning struck the barn and the men, killing Smith almost instantly. Tinder’s shoes were torn from his feet; he was also badly burned and grave fears are entertained for his recovery. It has been reported that the barn was burned but we are informed that it was not. Smith was a married man about 29 years of age and was the father of one child. He has been a member of the Christian Church at Scott’s Prairie ever since 1876, The funeral services were held by Rev. Myers in the church Friday afternoon after which he was laid to rest in the Centennial Cemetery near Yeddo.
Note: Born 15 Feb 1861 died 17 July 1890 – on tombstone says Husband of Mattie
Note two: Louis Tinder died Feb 28, 1921 “in a tragic accident.”
Source: Covington Friend Thursday July 24, 1890 p2
Killed by lightning, July 17th 1890, William Smith, aged 29 years. He was born and raised in the county, united with the Christian Church at Scott’s Prairie when in his 14th year. Married to Martha Durham Oct 24, 1885. He was an honest, industrious, pleasant, Christian gentleman. His unwavering manhood, pleasant disposition and uprightness of character secured to him a friend in every acquaintance. His rare and noble qualities have built to his memory a monument of love in the hearts of all who knew him. At a special meeting of the Steam Corner Lodge, No 4019, FMBA of which the deceased was a member, a committee was appointed to express the sentiment of the association in appropriate resolutions which are as follows:
Whereas, Our Heavly Father in His Divine Wisdom has called home our beloved brother, William Smith and taken him from among us in the midst of his usefulness to that higher life that knows no parting and
Whereas, it is but fitting that we as friends and brethren express our profound sorrow in this sad bereavement therefore be it. Resolved, That the FMBA and community in general has lost a worthy brother and true citizen, one who was ever ready and willing to do good and gain the good will of all around him. Resolved, That we will ever cherish his memory as sacred in our heart and endeavor to profit by the example of his noble life. Resolved, Trust to his faithful and devoted wife and child, we tender of our heartfelt sympathies and promise our assistance in times of need. Resolved, that these resolutions be spread upon the Secretary’s book, also published in two or more of the county papers and a copy sent to the bereaved widow. This done by order of the Steam Corner FMBA July 1890. GN Glascock; Elmer Marshall; Henry Glascock Committee - kbz