Southwell- John G. - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

Source: Crawfordsville Star May 30, 1889 p 3

There was universal regret when the news flashed over the city at 6:30 on Sunday morning that Uncle Johnny Southwell the watchman at the Market Street Crossing of the Monon Route had dropped dead a few feet north of the old depot on his way to his home in Fiskville. He arose at 5 and after taking in his lanterns at the switch targets and the street crossings came up town to the meat market. He exchanged friendly greetings with a few old friends as was his usual custom and to them seemed as well and jovial as ever. Death seems to have been instantaneous. When found he was lying on his face as if he had fallen forward without a struggle while in one hand was tightly clutched the roll of steak he had bought at the market a few minutes before. His death probably resulted from brain trouble as he had complained of violent pains in the head for a week or more. He was born in the city of Dublin, Ireland in 1828 and was there fore 61 years old. When he was 24 he came to this country in company with the father of Ed Coleman and others and in July 1852 reached Crawfordsville where he has resided until death. Upon his arriving here he at once secured employment as chain carrier with the surveying corps engaged in laying out the route for the Crawfordsville & Wabash Road which upon being extended later on became known as the NA&S Road, now the LNA&C or Monon. He remained in the continuous employ of the company until stricken down in death with the exception of 4 months when he was off on leave of absence, making a term of 37 years of honest and faithful duty. This is the highest recommendation possible as to the noble character of the man and makes a stronger and more beautiful eulogium than pen can express. During that time he served in various capacities, doing heartily what his hands found to do. He helped survey and build the road was fireman and brakeman on the trains, cleaned engines, run the water tank, worked on the section and finally became a regular employee in the freight depot here where he served along, honest and faithful term. He carried the mail to and from the post office until the railroad company was released from the duty by the government. For the past few years he served in the position in which he died while on duty. Uncle Johnny will be missed. He was a great favorite, particularly with the children, to whom he was always so friendly and kind. He leaves a devoted wife and two daughters, Mrs. Flute McGilliard of this city and Mrs. PF Hallorin of Cincinnati. The latter, with her husband and child had just arrived the night before to pay a visit and were all at home during his last hours. The funeral occurred at the Catholic church Monday afternoon at 4:30 conducted by Rev. JR Dineen of whose church the deceased was a true member. The interment was in Calvary Cemetery.

===