WILSON, Ida - 1892 - Putnam

Great excitement was caused in Jackson Township on Tuesday night by the self-inflicted death of Ida Wilson, wife of John Wilson, the well-known citizen of Barnard. The cause of the rash and deplorable act is unknown and Coroner McNeff made a flying visit to the scene upon summon late Tuesday evening, Mrs. Wilson about 4 p.m. Tuesday visited the store of Ben Wilson where her husband is employed as a clerk and complained of a cold. Her husband gave her some quinine, but the woman went to the chloroform bottle and helped herself to a goodly supply.  In pouring what she wanted into a small vial, she spilled a quantity on the floor. Some boys who were present went to examine the spilled drug and she warned them to be careful of it. She went home and about 5:30 p.m. her husband went home to supper. He saw nothing unusual to arouse his suspicions and went back to work. About 9 p.m. he returned home for the night and found his wife had undressed and retired. She was lying on her bed as if she were asleep, but upon closer examination was found to be dead!  The horrified husband immediately gave the alarm and neighbors were called in.  On examination it was found her throat and face were swollen. Whether Mrs. Wilson used too much chloroform purposely or accidentally is not yet known as the vial could not be found. Opinions of the friends neighbors differ.  Mrs. Wilson was about 23 years of age and was quite a handsome lady. Her maiden name was Ida G. Dodd. She was married to Mr. Wilson April 23 last and her short married life seemed to be happy and full of contentment.

 

Source: Greencastle Star Press 16 Jan 1892 p 4