Thompson - Henry - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

Henry Thompson killed himself Saturday afternoon at 4 o’clock with a revolver. The deed occurred at the home of his father, James Thompson, two miles northwest of Yountsville. He lived until 10 o’clock Saturday night. Mr. Thompson was raised on the farm where he ended his life, but some time ago went to Lafayette, where he was employed by the street car company. Four weeks ago he came home. He was despondent and the shooting was not entirely unexpected. On Saturday morning his mother noticed him cleaning his revolver and decided to keep a close watch on him. Shortly before 4 o’clock a neighbor, Dick Hopping, came in and in the presence of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson playfully talked with Henry about an accident that had occurred to one of his horses. All joined in the laugh that followed except Henry. He looked very serious, said nothing and a moment later stepped out into the yard. Returning to the front hall, he placed the pistol directly in the middle of his forehead and fired. His parents were in the next room but did not, of course, see him until it was too late to stay his hand. He was conscious for two hours and part of the time was rational. In reply to questions, he informed his parents that he had shot himself intentionally.-s

Source: Crawfordsville Daily Journal Tuesday, 6 November 1894

Henry N. Thompson, son of James and Suzann Thompson, was born July 1, 1867, died Oct. 27, 1894, age 27 years, 3 months and 27 days.

The article published in last week’s Star stating that the deceased took his own life all for love, is a mistake, not a word of truth in it. The deceased and the young lady mentioned were on the best of terms. He, the deceased, kept company with the young lady on Sunday evening previous to his death, and had an engagement with her for the next Sunday evening. The deceased was hurt on the head three weeks ago which caused momentary insanity, and caused him to do the deed. He was esteemed as a good, kind hearted boy at home and among his associates. When the news came to us it sent a shock o’er us, our hearts gave a quick throb, the tears sprang to our eyes, as we tried to see through it all. We weep with the loving parents and brothers and sisters, and try to sympathize with them but we cannot. And at this sad hour none can know their sorrow or go down with them to its depths, save Him who knows the secret of every heart. He can penetrate the depths of this sorrow; it is His presence alone that can stand with the heart broken family in this hour and understand and explain and sympathize, and sustain. An immense audience was present at the services, which occurred Monday evening at the residence. The services were conducted by Rev. Grimes of the M. E. Church, after which the earthly remains were laid to rest in the Thompson Cemetery. -s

Source: Crawfordsville Daily Journal Tuesday, 30 October 1894

Commenting on the suicide of Henry Thompson, the Lafayette Call says:

“About a year ago Henry came to this city and secured a position as motorman on the street car line, which position he held until the 1st of October, when he was discharged. After his dismissal he became very despondent and declared that he was going home to see his parents and then end his life, and carried out his threat by shooting himself through the head. He had an uncontrollable appetite for stimulants, and said he preferred death to a living bondage. He was 26 years and engaged to be married to an estimable young lady of Crawfordsville. -s