RECONNOITERING IN THE EASTERN SIERRA NEVADA & GREAT BASIN
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Law & Order
Life and Death
In the Great Basin – Rhyolite / Bullfrog, Nevada

Historical News of Misdemeanor, Felony and Internment
Death and Near Misses by Natural Causes, Accidents and Human Hand

compiled from newspaper research
by David A. Wright


Newspaper List
Beatty Bullfrog Miner – Beatty, Nevada [was called the Bullfrog Miner during first two months of publication – not to be confused with the Bullfrog Miner, of Rhyolite, Nevada]
Inyo Independent
– Independence, California
Inyo Register – Bishop, California
Rhyolite Herald – Rhyolite, Nevada


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Latest Entries Made: 08/05/2008


Rhyolite / Bullfrog, Nevada



Note: Newspaper articles quoted will be formatted in Courier New font with white background to simulate newspaper formatting.

Note: The insertion of “[sic]” or “spelling incorrect,” denotes incorrect spelling directly quoted from the original newspaper. Other editorial mistakes are also denoted by notations inserted in brackets where applicable.


Newspaper Articles



1905


Inyo Register, February 23, 1905
“Reports come into Tonopah from the Bullfrog district that strife among the Indians in that neighborhood resulted in the killing of four of them. Pursuers were on the trail of the one who did the killing, and if he is caught probably the case will fail to get into the courts.”

Bullfrog Miner, April 22, 1905
“RHYOLITE”
“Last Saturday night a woman named Parker, who squatted on a Golden Street lot, was ejected by a constable and others. She was game, snatched his gun and made a desperate attempt to snuff out his candle, but was overpowered. Lot jumping is hazzardous [sic] business.”

Rhyolite Herald, May 5, 1905
LOCAL PANNINGS.”
“Gordon Kennedy, aged 21 years, died this Friday morning after a ten days' illness with pneumonia. Mr. Kennedy's sister from Tonopah was with him when the end came. The interment will take place here but the body will probably be removed later to Nova Scotia. The deceased has a brother in Boston and two brothers in the Klondike. The young man was well and favorably known here. This is the first death from pneumonia in this city.”

Rhyolite Herald, May 12, 1905
“Captain E. McKehaugh Dwyer, who died in Beatty on Monday at about noon and who was the first to be buried in the cemetery started in that town, was a pioneer in the district. The Captain was formerly an officer in the English Army a most pleasant gentleman. He leaves a wife and two children, the better half residing in Boston while the children were on the broad Atlantic at the time of their father's death bound for England where they are to complete their education.”

Rhyolite Herald, May 12, 1905
LOCAL PANNINGS.”
“Captain Dwyer, a familiar figure in the district, died suddenly Monday at Beatty. The interment took place Tuesday.”

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, May 13, 1905
“RHYOLITE ITEMS”
“Dr. Grigby [sic] reports the death, May 8th, of a man named Robert Hughes, from heart failure. He was 50 years old and leaves a wife in California.”

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, May 13, 1905
“RHYOLITE ITEMS”
“Dr. Ingersoll reports the death of a man named Gordon Kennedy from pneumonia. Considering the population there is comparatively low mortality in the mining camps.”

Rhyolite Herald, May 19, 1905
“Ramsey’s stage had an unfortunate accident Sunday evening just as it was pulling up Main Street into town. The driver pulled out upon the approach of an auto and upset the wagon. Mrs. M.M. Sherrill, of Butte, and Mrs. B.B. Lemon, of Kansas City were injured, both being badly bruised. Mrs. Sherrill has been confined to her bed at the Frisco house.”

Rhyolite Herald, May 26, 1905
LOCAL PANNINGS.”
A few cases of petty thieving are reported. This practice will undoubtedly lead to the organizing of a vigilance committee, the custom of which is to deal out justice quickly and without mercy. ...
... Will F. Heffernan was relieved of his watch as he was standing in the crowd at the temporary postoffice waiting for his mail. Some sneak thief slipped the watch from Mr. Heffernan's pocket and got away without being detected.
... A bad man, loaded with Oh Be Joyful and a sixgun, wanted a sample from the hot tomale man, who objected to free lunches. The bad man pulled his gun, fired at the peddler and hit him between the eyes, the bullet grazing the forehead. Dr. Boylan and Dr. Grigsby were both near by and the wounded man was quickly fixed up. The man with the gun was not arrested.
... After several unsuccessful experiments with retired government mules, Mr. Denniston has given up the practice of driving out as a bad job, he having two serious runaways in which not only the rig but his personal wearing apparel were more than slightly damaged and in which he was badly bruised up. Now when a span of mules has a man buffaloed to such an extent, there is a good excuse for a man to either walk or buy an auto. Someone has said that there is a pair of bronks
[sic] in town for sale.
... Dr. S. Trask, of San Francisco, has been in the district a few days, looking over mines, and reports that he is highly pleased. While here he secured many fine specimens which he will exhibit on the coast. Dr. Trask attended the first annual meeting of the Nevada State Medical society at Reno the 9th and 10th inst., at which meeting the so-called “Black Heart” or malignant pneumonia was informally discussed. The doctor believes that the Nevada plateau is the healthiest section for its size on the earth. This far south, however, he recommends operating mines and traveling during the summer mostly at night. At Reno he found three cases of pneumonia, at Hawthorne two cases, at Tonopah one case and none at Rhyolite. The disease will prevail again, he says, attacking the careless, the drinker, the overworked, and those of vicious habits and lowered vitality most fatally, especially during the months of March and April.”

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, May 27, 1905

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, June 3, 1905

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, June 3, 1905

Rhyolite Herald, June 2, 1905
WILLIAM I. RUGGLES.”
“William I. Ruggles, aged 33 years, died May 30, 1905, of pneumonia after a brief illness. A short time before, Mr. Ruggles came here from Los Angeles, accompanied by his wife. He was taken sick soon after his arrival and succumbed to the dread disease. Mrs. Ruggles has been completely prostrated since his death, but revived sufficiently to attend the funeral service.
The deceased was born in Michigan, where he lived during childhood. For some years he has resided at San Francisco and Los Angeles, where he was in business. At an early age he united with the Presbyterian church and his life has attested the merits of a Christian faith and practice. Mr. Ruggles was a member of the Odd Fellows and of the Woodmen of the World, in which order he carried a policy of $2,000.
The funeral was held Thursday afternoon from the Rhyolite Undertaking company's rooms. Dr. Hillis officiated. Sacred music was given by Messrs. Wiley and Alyward. Brother Odd Fellows and Neighbor Woodmen acted as pall bearers.
Mr. Ruggles was an intimate friend of R.S. Fulford, who, during his friend's illness and the wife's bereavement, has shown a constant interest and sympathy, such as is born of the tenderest love and devotion.
The death of this young man in the vigor of his manhood is indeed lamentable, and to the bereaved young wife the sympathy of the entire community is extended.”

Rhyolite Herald, June 9, 1905
DAVID C. HAIG.”
“David C. Haig, aged 58 years, died Wednesday morning of pneumonia after a long illness. Mr. Haig came here from San Jose, Calif., where his wife and three children reside. He has lived there for many years, following the occupation of mining carpenter. During his illness the members of the local carpenters union have cared for him. The funeral was held this afternoon from the Desert Inn; interment in the cemetery south of town. Dr. Hills officiated. J. Wiley had the funeral in charge.”

Rhyolite Herald, June 16, 1905
ALLEGED HOLD-UPS DISCHARGED.”
“An alleged attempt at hold-up took place Monday night about midnight on upper Main street. Steve Shelton, who runs the games at the Shoe String saloon on Colorado street, anticipated for several nights that an attempt would be made to relieve him of his bank roll as he was going home. On Monday night, Shelton, with Jackman and Taylor, started hom. One of them lingered some distance behind with the bank roll, while the others walked ahead. On upper Main street Kid Carr and Barney Hughes emerged from behind a tent, but before they could get into action, Shelton pulled his gun and struck Carr over the head, discharging the gun. They ran westward, Shelton firing, and one of pursued would-be robbers had the pleasure of falling over a few guy ropes of the Herald tent.
Deputy Sheriff Johnson was aroused by the noise and secured Carr and Hughes soon after. On Tuesday Mr. McDonald took the prisoners to Beatty, and on Wednesday they were given a hearing before the justice of the peace. There was not sufficient evidence to prove the charge of attempt at robbery, and they were released.”

Rhyolite Herald, June 16, 1905
NEW ENTERPRISE.”
“The attention of the public is called to the advertisement of the Rhyolite Undertaking company, which is to be found in another column of this issue. Messrs. Bacigalupi and Howe, the proprietors, are both men of considerable experience both in this state and California. They understand embalming thoroughly and are prepared to ship bodies to any part of the United States reaching their destination in a perfectly sanitary condition and life like in appearance.
The firm carries a large line of coffins, caskets and everything pertaining to the business, consisting of broadcloth, plush, metallic and rolled steel caskets in different colors and styles, and a line of burial robes and suits. They also have a hearse which will be on the way in the near future.
The public should feel grateful that such efficient service is at hand when the last sad rites of friends and relatives demand it.”

Rhyolite Herald, June 30, 1905
LOCAL PANNINGS.”
“Diamondfield Jack Davis was arrested upon complaint of Messrs. Sutherland and Frye, the charge being drawing a gun in a threatening way. The trail was held Saturday before Judge Sexton at Beatty, and the case was dismissed. The complainants stated that Davis forced them to leave certain mining ground north of the Shoshone, using a gun to drive them off. Both parties still claim the ground and it is quite probable that the case will go to the supreme court.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 7, 1905
“The board of commissioners of Nye county have at last recognized the fact that Rhyolite is on the map. The board has decided to establish the township of Rhyolite, appoint a justice of the peace and a constable. J.W. Donnelly will be the justice and Zeb Ray the constable. The township lines will extend from the south end of South Rhyolite north 12 miles; from the California line on the west to a distance of one and one-half miles east of Main street in Rhyolite.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 7, 1905
“The fighting editor was unable to be present at all of the impromptu matches that were pulled off during the celebration. It is known, however, that at least four residents of Bullfrog and one officer from that place suffered defeat, while some of the home guards were put to the bad. Even one of the prize fighters had his block busted by an unpretentious man after the main festivities were over. In the absence of a jail, all dilapidated munitions of war were quietly stored away under buildings and in rooming houses until recovery took place.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 7, 1905
“Tom Patterson was terribly mangled while at work on the Jeffrey property on Montgomery mountain, last Sunday. A round of shots had been lighted and Patterson failed to get out of the way in time. It was at first thought that he was killed instantly but a physician was called who found a spark of life still remaining in the apparently lifeless body. He lingered until Thursday when the battle of life was given up. Funeral services were held at Beatty this afternoon.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 14, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS.”
“Judge Donnelly's first case was heard Tuesday when R.P. Reed swore out a warrant for R.P. Griffith for assault and battery. The judge fined the defendant $1 and costs, amounting to about $8. The trouble arose over money loaned and work done by the defendant to the complainant, and the former took a little of what he had due him out of the fellow's hide. ...
... Word has been received here of the death of Mr. Cody, father of Mrs. D.V. Cain, who with her husband left Rhyolite two weeks ago on account of her father's serious condition.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 14, 1905
“SHORT ITEMS.”
W.F. Patrick was taken seriously ill this week and is still in a critical condition. Dr. Bulette is attending him. Last night L.L. Patrick came from Goldfield in an auto, bringing Dr. Galloway for a consultation.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 14, 1905
“PROMINENT CITIZEN SUDDENLY DECEASED: W.F. PATRICK, WELL KNOWN OPERATOR, IS DEAD AFTER BRIEF ILLNESS.”
[Note: Same article as below]

Rhyolite Herald, July 21, 1905
“SUDDEN DEATH OF W.F. PATRICK.”
“The death angel has visited Rhyolite and taken away one of the most worthy of its citizens. For hours the struggle for life continued, and at 7:45 last Saturday morning the end came.
William F. Patrick is dead.
Three weeks ago, Mr. Patrick came to Rhyolite to personally supervise the work on his several enterprises. A comfortable home was provided. He was taken ill almost upon his arrival and gradually grew worse, but bore his suffering in silence until Tuesday, when he gave up and went to bed. Thursday he was critically ill, and additional medical assistance and a nurse were summoned from Goldfield. Tender care was of no avail, however, and at 9:30 last Friday evening Mr. Patrick began to fail rapidly.
William F. Patrick was born in St. Louis, Mo. In 1854, and spent his boyhood there.
For twenty years he was prominently [unreadable] with the mining interests of Colorado, having operated at Leadville. Ten Mil district and the San Juan. At one time he owned the Col. Sellers mine. He was one of the first to enter Goldfield, where he was successful.
The name of W.F. Patrick has been loosely associated with the Bullfrog district since it was first discovered. Mr. Patrick was president of the Bullfrog National Bank Mining company, treasurer of the Yankee Girl company and president of the Bullfrog Water, Light and Power company of Rhyolite. Since he began operations in this field, he has been one of its first and foremost promoters, concentrating time and money in pushing the enterprises. His operations here, as well as in every camp with which he has been identified, have been of the highest order; propositions that have stood the test of expert examination. W.F. Patrick has been a wide operator but always legitimate and invariably successful. In his death the Bullfrog district and the town of Rhyolite have lost one of the best of the number of men who have undertaken great things for the camp.
As a business man, W.F. Patrick was square to the letter. As a friend, he was generous to a fault. Scores of men, helpless financially, can testify to his charity and generosity, for he was always giving and accommodating even when he had no hope or thought of recompense. His congenial and pleasant ways endeared him to all who knew him.
The deceased leaves a wife, who was with him when the end came. His son, Brownlow Patrick, was also here. There are four brothers: W.K. Of Rhyolite; L.L. And E.T. Of Goldfield; and J.M. Of Denver; two sisters, Mrs. W.H. Eddy of Denver, and Mrs. W.W. Bulette of Pueblo.
A post mortem examination on the body of Mr. Patrick disclosed the fact that he had cancer of the stomach.
The body was taken to Goldfield and there laid in state, and was viewed by a large number of people. The latest report received here says that the remains will be interred in Tennessee.
The body was prepared for burial by the Rhyolite Undertaking company.”

Rhyolite Herald, July 21, 1905
“IN JUSTICE COURT.”
“James Dixon and James Clark had a hearing before Judge J.W. Donnelly Tuesday on the charge of stealing, and were bound over to the district court. The complaining witness was G.C. Harper, who testified that while he was asleep in his saloon on Colorado Street he was relieved of diamonds and jewelry to the value of $250, and the defendants were the only persons present with him at the time. When he awoke he found that his diamond shirt stud was gone, Clark admitting he had taken same. Mrs. Harper testified that she wakened her husband, and that when he left home that morning he took with him certain rings which were not upon his person at the time. The rings were returned to Mrs. Harper by Dixon. Deputy Sheriff J.J. Hartigan, who arrested Dixon and Clark, testified that he searched Clark and found the stud. The defense introduced testimony to prove that the affair was a joke and that neither of the accused meant to steal the valuables. Clark made a statement upon the stand but Dixon waived testimony. The defendants failed to furnish $1,000 bail and were taken to Tonopah, the co0unty seat, where they will spend a few sober moments behind the bars wondering how it all happened. Attorney Willis appeared for the prosecution and Attorney Daley for the defense.”

Rhyolite Herald, August 25, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS.”
“... Thomas Wilson, superintendent of the Steinway, received a telegram Monday announcing the death of his sixteen-year-old son, Guerld, who was drowned August 18 at Victor, Colorado.”

Rhyolite Herald, August 25, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS.”
“... Peter Kelley, aged about 45, died at Rhyolite Monday night. He was in the hospital at Goldfield for five months and came here about six weeks ago. While here he has been cared for by friends. By occupation he was a miner. The deceased has relatives in Green Bay, Wis., Ontario, Wis., and Honolulu. A sister in Wisconsin was notified by wire. The interment took place in the cemetery on the Amargosa desert.”

Rhyolite Herald, September 15, 1905
“INJUNCTION IS SERVED”
“An injunction has been served on the Montgomery Shoshone company, preventing a shipment of ore now ready. The complainants are Finnegan and O'Brien, who assert that they grubstaked Bob Montgomery. Fleming, of Los Angeles, has a similar complaint.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 6, 1905
“MINES AND MINERS”
“Henry Dugan is sick with miner's consumption and his friends are arranging to send him out for treatment. ...
... D.H. Peery, of the Peery-Montgomery company, is expected in camp this week. He would have been down before this, but has been ill. ...
... The case in district court at Tonopah last week of Ladd vs. Joseph Hill was called and arguments were heard on the demurrer of Hill and the matter will be submitted on briefs. The same action was taken on the demurrer in the case of Mrs. Lydia E. Ladd, administratrix of the estate of Geo. E. Ladd vs. Joseph Hill, Bullfrog Midway and Bullfrog Mizpah Mining companies. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, October 6, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS”
“Nightwatchman Joseph Mulholland was shot and killed by a gambler named McCarthy at Las Vegas, Sunday morning. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, October 13, 1905
“DEATH OF JOHN SUMMERS”
“John Summers died this (Saturday) morning at the Miners Union Hospital, of chronic diarrhoea [sic], having been sick since June. He was removed to the hospital Monday. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 13, 1905
“DEATH OF GEORGE WELSH”
“George J. Welch died at the Miners Union Hospital, Rhyolite, Nevada, at 11:40 p.m., October 12, 1905, from a complication of fever and heart trouble. Deceased was thirty-one years of age and a native of Michigan. A portion of his early life was spent in the Dominion of Canada, where he was raised by his grand parents. During the last four years he lived in Nevada and Arizona. Mr. Welsh has been closely identified with the early history of Tonopah, Goldfield and Bullfrog. He came to Tonopah in the early days, where he made a host of friends among the pioneers of that camp. He prospected in Goldfield and secured a number of good claims when that camp was first opened up. He was among the first to come to the Bullfrog district, and with his partner, Mr. S.F. Lindsay, started the first business house in Rhyolite. During the trying times when the camp was young, it was his enterprise, courage and enthusiasm which helped to make the town what it is today. His friends know him as a man generous in the extreme and prodigal to those in need. He leaves an estate consisting of valuable mining property and real estate in the Bullfrog mining district and Rhyolite. A host of friends mourn his death. The body will be taken to Tonopah and buried under the auspices of the Knights of Pythias and Miners Union, of which orders he was a member.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 13, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS”
“... Mrs. T.M. Gronen is recovering from her illness with a fever. ...
... U.S. Marshal Grimmom, of Carson, was in Rhyolite Tuesday night. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, October 13, 1905
“William McCarthy, who shot and killed Joe Mulholland at Las Vegas, last week; was bound over to court without bail upon the charge of murder.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 20, 1905
“JODOIN GIVEN LIBERTY: JUDGE NORRIS SUSTAINS CLAIM OF JUSTIFIABLE HOMICIDE – FIRST KILLING IN BULLFROG”

Bob Arnold was shot and killed at Bullfrog at about 1 o'clock last Saturday afternoon, by A.J. Jodoin, as the result of a trivial remark made a few hours before. The Bullfrog saloon was the scene of the tragedy After the shooting Jodoin gave himself up to Constable Pruden and was locked up.
A coroner's jury was impaneled by Judge Norris and after taking considerable testimony, rendered a verdict that the deceased came to his death at the hands of A.J. Jodoin, who shot in self defense.
The remains of Arnold were taken Saturday evening to the home of John Wiley, who conducted a short service Sunday afternoon, after which a large number of the friends of the deceased formed a procession which marched to the grave.
Monday a preliminary examination of Jodoin was begun before Judge Norris. The prosecution was represented by Attorney's Thomas and Wilkinson, while Attorneys Davis and Arnold appeared for the defendant.
The examination lasted four days, during which time twenty witnesses were examined and their testimony typewritten by Miss Likins. The arguments were begun at 4 o'clock Thursday and finished at 5:30, when Judge Norris decided that the evidence was not sufficiently strong to warrant holding the defendant upon the charge of murder and he was therefore discharged.
The attorneys on both sides congratulated Mr. Jodoin, as did numerous other friends, causing his eyes to fill with tears.
In view of the outcome of the case, the statement of the defendant will have more weight than it might otherwise have, and a synopsis of it is here given.

__________________________________________

“A.J. Jodoin, aged 32, was born in Central Falls, R.I., and came to Bullfrog last December. Occupation, mason.
When going home Saturday morning some of the boys suggested going into McGarry's for a lunch and taking it into Durkee's saloon to eat it. After lunch a poker game was proposed. The game started and Arnold was asked if he was playing. In reply to some remark Jodoin said “I have carried more money than any of you fellows.” Arnold asked, “Do you include me?” Jodoin said, “Yes, you as well as any one.” At that, Arnold pulled a gun and began striking Jodoin over the head. The latter tried to get the gun and failing, ran out and up the street. Getting away from Arnold, Jodoin went to the watering trough and washed away the blood from his head. He came back and went to bed.
In the morning he came down to Durkee's saloon to get some money to pay for having his head dressed. Finding no one there, he went away. Later his head was dressed by Dr. Wilkinson in Rhyolite and he went back to Bullfrog. He went into Wandell's saloon to get some money that he had left there, and found Arnold there. The quarrel was renewed and Jodoin suggested that both be searched , and that they then go out and fight it out with their fists. Arnold refused, but offered to let Jodoin hit him over the head with a gun to even matters. Jodoin refused a drink offered by the proprietor and asked for his money, which was given him. He started for the door and says that when three or four feet from it, saw Arnold pull a gun. Jodoin jumped outside and Arnold ran to the door with his gun pointed at the defendant.
While Jodoin was getting at his un, Arnold fired once, and a second time as the former raised his arm. Jodoin fired once at Arnold, the next attempt failing to explode, and after another shot from the inside, Jodoin shot again, and says that is all he remembered of shooting.
In a short time officer Pruden came out with Arnold's gun and Jodoin gave up his gun and himself.
There was some conflicting testimony as to the details of the case and in regard to the plea of self defense, but the examination was conducted with the evident desire on both sides to be fair.
Arnold and Jodoin were both known as peaceable, law-abiding citizens, and their looks and deportment bore out that reputation. Their coming together in mortal combat was an unfortunate circumstance that happens all too often.
Bob Arnold, the deceased, was a prospector, well known in Rhyolite, where he lived with his brother, Ed. He was 36 years old and was born in Madisonville, Ky., coming to this district early last spring. His tragic death is sincerely regretted by all, and nothing but kind words are spoken of him.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 20, 1905
“Paul Weisse, of the Rhyolite meat market, is recovering nicely from a severe attack of fever.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 20, 1905
“Miss Bullfrog, our energetic little sister on the south, is having grievous troubles of late, by reason of petty thieving, and finally by the recent tragic death. The little lady should follow in the footsteps of her big Uncle Rhyolite, and then she cannot go far astray.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 20, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS”
“... The funeral of John Summers was held Monday, conducted by the Miners Union, and interment made in the Rhyolite cemetery. ...
... Dr. J.A. Wilkinson has been appointed deputy health officer and county physician for the towns of Beatty, Rhyolite and Bullfrog at a monthly salary of $50. ...
... While on the way in from Las Vegas Scotty Nichols slipped and fell at one of the stopping places and dislocated his shoulder. Dr. Mason dressed it upon his arrival here. ...
... The remains of George J. Welsh, which were taken to Tonopah for burial, were escorted to the grave by the Miners Union and Knights of Pythias. The procession was headed by the Eagle drum corps. Kev. Klass officiated at the services, which were held at the opera house Sunday afternoon. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, October 20, 1905
“MINES AND MINING MEN: BUSY DISTRICT GETTING BUSIER, NEW FACES IN TOWN AND MORE WORK STARTING”
“... Pat O'Brien, one of the contestants in the injunction suit against the Shoshone, was in camp the first of the week. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, October 27, 1905
“George Nelson, of Goldfield, who formerly operated a corral in that city, arrived in town Wednesday, and has erected a mammoth tent on Golden street opposite Walsh Bros. Store. Mr. Nelson has a freighting outfit and will engage in that business for the present, and expects later to retail hay and grain. On the way here, a pet burro belonging to their son, which was tied to the trail wagon, fell down and was dragged to death before it was noticed.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 27, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS”
“... Atty. N.W. Willis, of the firm of Willis & Scott, is recovering from a siege of typhoid fever, contracted while in Tonopah on business. He is able to be up though still very weak, and expects to return to Rhyolite soon.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 3, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS”
“... Howard M. Gracey, who has been confined in the hospital for several weeks with typhoid fever, left today for the coast, where he will rest up for a short time. He expects to return here as soon as he is able and resume work on the Amargosa shaft south of Ladd mountain. ...
... Paul Weiss and Steve O'Brien are convalescent after a siege of typhoid. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“A lesson may be taken from the last tragic death in our neighboring village, bidding us be mindful of the results of our deeds. The story of a few missteps, a fatal draught and a desert grave, is a short one and soon told, yet in the background is the picture of a mother's gray head and a father's wrinkled brow, ever after bowed in sorrow.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“J.H. Lester's little son is quite sick with a fever.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“A CLOSE CALL”
“Lindsay's Combination saloon had a narrow escape from being destroyed by fire at 3:30 this morning, and was saved only by the prompt use of chemical extinguishers.
Bill Miles, a helper, attempted to fill a gasoline tank which furnishes light for the building, and had a lighted candle setting near. As soon as the top was taken off there was a flash, and the whole room was in flames. They quickly ran up under the roof and the building seemed doomed to destruction. Some men who were in the gaming room grabbed the extinguishers and the flames disappeared like magic.
Mr. Lindsay has four chemical tanks which he put in at a cost of $15 each, and he figures that they saved him at least $10,000. Adjoining buildings would certainly have gone if the Combination had burned. Miles was quite badly burned about the face. If you haven't extinguishers, get them!”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“SHOSHONE GRUBSTAKE”
“The district court at Tonopah is engaged this week in trying the grubstake suit of L.S. Finnegan and Patrick O'Brien against E.A. Montgomery for an interest in the great Montgomery Shoshone mine, near Rhyolite. The week has thus far been taken up with witnesses for the plaintiffs who are represented by Attorneys P.M. Bowler and George Green. Mr. Montgomery's interests are being looked after by Senator Stewart, of this place, George Bartlett, W.H. Dixon and A.C. Ellis.
According to the plaintiffs' testimony, Finnegan, O'Brien and O.F. Reeble put up $25 each to grubstake Montgomery, and that the Shoshone was found while the agreement was in force. Mr. Montgomery says their agreement had expired.
The end of the case is not in sight, and will be hotly contested on both sides.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“W.D. Walsh left on the auto Thursday morning for a trip that will probably be extended to the coast. He is threatened with an attack of fever and is endeavoring to forestall it by taking this trip.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“LOCAL PANNINGS”
“... Attorney Fred Scott started for Selma, Calif., Monday, called there by the illness of his young son. ...
... P.L. Griffin and Attorney Clay Tallman are now associated together in business, in the Tallman office on Golden street. ...
... Attorney George Thatcher went to Tonopah Sunday to be in attendance at court, where he was a witness in the case of Ford vs. Campbell and Rickard, suit over a mining claim. ...
... Mrs. T.M. Gronen has sufficiently recovered from her recent severe illness to be able to stand a ourney, and will accompany Mr. Gronen on a trip to be made in a few days. The itinerary includes Goldfield, Tonopah, Reno, Carson City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. ...
... Mrs. Dunlap has reserved her large and two of her small cottages – Tucker Inn – for patients and convalescents. Several patients who have been under Dr. Grigsby's care for the past three weeks, have left the Inn this week, they having recovered. Mrs. Dunlap is doing all to make her guests comfortable; takes care of patients, gives them home cooking, at moderate prices. ...”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“H.W. KEMP A SUICIDE: CHLOROFORM ROUTE TAKEN BY POPULAR YOUNG MAN OF BULLFROG – OTHER DEATHS”
“Harry W. Kemp, manager of the Bullfrog Lumber Co., committed suicide Saturday by taking the contents of a bottle containing chloroform.
About seven o'clock Saturday morning, a representative of the Herald saw Mr. Kemp in the Java Restaurant, where he sat for a long time with his head between his hands, appearing to be either sick or sleepy. A few minutes later the Herald man again met him in the McCormick Drug Store, where he had just purchased a bottle of chloroform, explaining that his dog had broken his leg and that he was going to chloroform it. He inquired just how to administer it and was told the usual method of using a paper funnel. His actions caused a momentary suspicion in the mind of the reporter, but it was quickly banished as impossible.
The young man went to his lumber office at Bullfrog, where he was seen for about an hour or more. About ten o'clock a customer found him asleep on his cot and being unable to awaken him, called Mr. Ford from across the street. Dr. Grigsby was summoned from Rhyolite, who worked over him for three hours, and at one time it seemed certain his life would be saved, but he finally died at about one o'clock.
Harry W. Kemp was born in San Francisco twenty-three years ago, where his mother and brother still reside. He was the third of four sons. His father has been in Bullfrog for several months and was the only relative present at his death. The young man was very popular in Bullfrog where he has a host of friends, who were greatly shocked at his rash act. Various reasons are advanced for the deed, and most prominent is the fact that he had lost more or less money. He probably brooded over his losses until temporary insanity caused him to take his own life.
Judge Norris conducted a short funeral service at Bullfrog Sunday afternoon, after which the remains were interred in the local cemetery. It is quite probable that the body will later be taken to San Francisco for final interment. About fifty of the young man's friends followed him to the grave to pay their last respects to the departed.

____________________________________

Michael Craney died at 12:30 Monday night in a tucker tent on North Main street of tuberculosis, aged about thirty-one years. He came down here a few weeks ago in the hope of benefiting his health but gradually declined until the end came. W.N. Mack nursed him during his last illness. About midnight the sick man tried to get out of bed, saying he was going “up there” to sleep and in a few minutes he had gone “up there” for the long sleep that knows no walking on earth. His parents live in Butte, Mont., and a sad feature of the case is that he has a wife in Republic, Wash., who is about to become a mother. Mr. Craney was an Eagle and members of that society have been caring for him.

______________________________________

A miner at the Doris-Montgomery was taken with a severe case of diarrhoea [sic], but continued to work until he had to give up on acoount [sic] of weakness. He went down to Beatty where he died Wednesday morning. The remains were interred at that place.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 10, 1905
“MINES AND MINERS”
“P.H. Lavell is again running the hoist at the National Bank, after a layoff on account of sickness.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 17, 1905
“SHORT NEWS NOTES.”
“... The report is current here that Glen Galletly is dead at San Francisco of typhoid fever. Mr. Galletly is well known here and many friends will regret his untimely death. For several months he has been driving his autos between Goldfield and this place, and was one of Rhyolite’s warmest friends.”

Rhyolite Herald, December 8, 1905
“JOHN SULLIVAN AND JAMES C. CLAYTON QUARREL, FIGHT AND DIE -- EIGHT SHOTS WERE FIRED”
No details noted.




1906

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, August 4, 1906
“COMMITTED SUICIDE.”
“Fred L. Mason, well known in Tonopah and all through Southern Nevada, committed suicide in Rhyolite Sunday evening. An inquest was held on the body Monday, and a verdict was returned that Mason, despondent from some cause, ended his life with a dose of carbolic acid. The body was then taken charge of by the Rhyolite Undertaking Co., and was later shipped to his home in Pomona, Cal., where his mother and sister reside. The deceased had recently made a sale in Greenwater country, but little of the proceeds were left. He had many friends all through Nevada who will regret his untimely end.”

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, September 8, 1906
TWO ACCIDENTS IN THE RHYOLITE MINES
“Saturday last, about noon, while J.C. Sullivan and Frank Mulvaney were being lowered down the Townsite shaft at Rhyolite, the break [sic] on the drum of the whim failed to respond to the to the top man’s frantic effort to stop the swiftly revolving cylinder, and the two men fell heavily to the bottom of the shaft. The mine is within town, and the alarm soon spread that there had been an accident at the works, and in a few moments 200 people were gathered about the mouth of the shaft. Several friends of the unfortunates made their way to the bottom, the cable was put in place over the pully [sic], and the injured men raised from the hole by those on top. Stretchers were ready and the injured conveyed to the hospital but a short distance off. An examination revealed the fact that Mulvaney had not a bone broken, though he was terribly bruised and cut. Sullivan suffered a compound fracture of one leg as well as receiving numerous cuts and bruises.
At the Black Spar, west of Rhyolite in the vicinity of the Gold Bar, J.F. LaPoint was killed Saturday, the same day on which two miners miraculously escaped death at the Townsite. The cause of the accident was the same – the whim failed to work at a critical time, when a man’s life was in jeopardy, with the result LaPoint was parcipitated
[sic] to the bottom, killing him almost instantly. The dead man recently came here from Seattle, and has a sister in Rhyolite. The Rhyolite Undertaking Co. took charge of the remains, and internment was made in the local cemetery.
If an investigation were made of the whims used in the Bullfrog district, we think they would mostly be found to be nothing more than death traps; better for the purpose of killing and maining
[sic] miners than hoisting rock. The miner is a slave enough as it is, and every precaution should be taken to protect his life. Of the half dozen fatal accidents that have occurred in this district, the majority of them were caused form old worn out whims. It is time steps were taken to remedy the evil, and prevent such terrible fatalities.”

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, October 20, 1906
“JUSTICE COURT”
“Judge Johnson of Beatty acting for the absent justice in Rhyolite, recently bound over M. South and S.P. Bidwell for connection with the cattle stolen near Lida, part of which were butchered at Rhyolite. A man named Gilbert, said to be interested in the case, has not been arrested.
Jack Maher, who shot and killed T.J. Malone at Rhyolite recently will have a hearing today.”

Beatty Bullfrog Miner, November 24, 1906
"THE AMETHYST: HORSE FALLS 150 FEET DOWN SHAFT INJURING TWO MEN"
“The whim horse at the Amethyst backed down the shaft Tuesday, falling 150 feet. Two men working at the bottom miraculously escaped with their lives, but were seriously injured. They are now in the hospital. The horse was killed by striking timbers on the way down.
A 25 h.p. engine and hoist are due to arrive any day for the Amethyst.”


1908
Rhyolite Herald
, April 29, 1908
“KILLED IN SHAFT.”
Summary: W.J. Shaw killed while working in a shaft belonging to the Southern Nevada T.& T. Company.

Rhyolite Herald, June 17, 1908
“HERBERT T. COOK DEAD”
Summary: Assistant cashier of John S. Cook Bank died.

Rhyolite Herald, June 24, 1908
“SCHOOL PICNIC LARGELY ATTENDED”
“One hundred and ninety people attended the picnic Saturday at Howell’s ranch. The picnic was arranged by the trustees of the school board for the boys and girls and nearly every child of school age in town took advantage of the opportunity for an outing. There was lots of good things to eat, including plenty of ice cream, which was dispensed liberally.
A few accidents marred the festivities. Arnold Gries fell into a spring and would have drowned had it not been for the timely arrival of Mr. McMitchell. ‘Speck’ Harvey also fell in, but was rescued. Mrs. Pearson was hurt by falling from the stone wall at the ranch, but is getting along nicely.
The T. & T. railway gave free tickets to all the boys and girls, and charged only 25 cents for round trip tickets for adults.”

Rhyolite Herald, August 19, 1908
"PANNINGS"
Summary: George C. Zeigler shot and killed an unidentified man at the Colonial Rooming House. Claims self defense, but authorities suspicious.

Rhyolite Herald, August 26, 1908
“M.J. SULLIVAN DEAD.”
Summary: Died at Miner’s Union Hospital from typhoid fever. Wife also ill with fever, but she has chance at recovery. The Sullivan’s have four children, one whom is a baby of a few months. They resided at Bullfrog.

Rhyolite Herald, September 2, 1908
“DEATH OF A.F. GUNN.”
Summary: Death of A.F. Gunn, of San Francisco, who died in Los Angeles. He was connected with the American Book Company in San Francisco, he had interests in Bullfrog.

Rhyolite Herald, September 9, 1908
“DEATH OF ALBERT VENASSE.”
Summary: Found dead in his bed at home on Main Street in Rhyolite. Failed to arrive at the Combination to go to work. Investigation led to his corpse. Heart failure given as cause of death.

Rhyolite Herald, September 23, 1908
“M’COMAS DISCHARGED.”
Summary: W.T. McComas, popular mining man, who shot and killed Mrs. Charlotte L. Noyes in February. He had been living with her for several years. Trial for her murder resulted in a mistrial.

Rhyolite Herald, September 23, 1908
“KEEP THE KIDS AWAY FROM THE DEPOTS ”
“It is high time that parents make an effort to keep their children from roistering around the railroad depots, especially at train time. The depot grounds are no only dangerous places for children to play, but their presence at the depot in large numbers is annoying to the patrons of the railroads and a very unfavorable impression is left upon travelers of the home discipline of a mining camp.
But their constant noisy romp in and out of the buildings and over the platforms is not the worst feature of their play.
They vie with each other in seeing who can stand nearest the approaching engine, and frequently jump on and off the steps of moving trains, if they are not prevented by trainmen.
One 6-year-old little fellow recently tried his hand at hanging onto the steps of an outgoing train, and was sent sprawling into the ditch when he dropped off. It was not his fault that he did not roll under the car wheels.
If children are not kept away from the depots it is only a question of time until an awful accident will befall some child.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 21, 1908
(Editorial)
“It is contrary to the federal law to furnish liquor to the American Indian, and some of these fine days a federal detective may make his way to Rhyolite to ascertain from what source the local tribe of red men get their booze. It will go pretty hard with the man who furnishes the local Indians with liquor if Uncle Same gets no his trail. Uncle Same has a habit of putting offenders away so that their friends will know where to find them for a few years.”

Rhyolite Herald, October 21, 1908
TIME TO INVESTIGATE LOCAL INDIANS.”
“Perhaps the best information regarding the recent killing of an Indian at Rhyolite is that furnished by Mrs. Charles Wass. In speaking of the affair, she said:
'I heard the loud talk of the Indians and from the cries and groans I knew that someone has been hurt. After a time the moans ceased and I concluded that the Indian was dead. This occurred about 9 o'clock at night, only a short distance from our house. Next morning Panamint Joe, whom I saw drive in the night before, loaded the Indian into his wagon and covered him with a blanket. There were two other Indians present when this took place; one Indian had a buckskin pony and the other a white pony. They drove away, through town, and I went down town and tried to get someone to go look under the blanket to see if the man was dead, but no one would go. The Indians are making themselves very obnoxious in our part of town and I would like to see them move on.'
Mrs. Wass tells a straight story. An Indian was killed here by his fellow red men, owing to an overdose of booze. It is contrary to the federal law to sell or furnish liquor to an Indian, yet the Indians here get drunk occasionally, and there is no telling when they may pick a white man or woman for their victim. It is high time that the autorities [sic] were not only ivestigating the sources of the red men's booze, but also to make the Indians move their camp farther from the town. The people on North Main tsreet [sic] should not be made to suffer the presence of these people any longer.”

Rhyolite Herald, November 11, 1908
“DEATH OF R.W. GORRILL.”
also featured in "PANNINGS"
subtitle: “HOLDER OF IMPROVED PROPERTY IN RHYOLITE ANSWERS THE FINAL SUMMONS.”
Summary: Richard W. Gorrill passes away November 9, 1908 at his home on Cochran Street in Rhyolite. Came recently from Oakland. He preferred to go back to Rhyolite to die in the desert. Feeble when he arrived in town. Served as a boy in the war against the Apaches in Arizona, a scout and sharpshooter. College in Ann Arbor, Michigan. President of the Pacific Bridge Company, which built the Morrison Street bridge across the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon. Supervised construction of several small railways. F.M. Smith, the borax king, was a partner in several projects in California. Daughter is Mrs. J.C. Brittan. After death of his wife, he went to Rhyolite to live for a time, returning to Piedmont, Alameda County, California. He came to Rhyolite during earliest days. Funded the Indian Springs water line, supervised laying of pipe. Erected the Gorrill block, a two story structure on Golden Street. Built numerous cottages and houses in western portion of Rhyolite. Vice president of the Bullfrog Bank and Trust Company. Mining interests in Bullfrog district, Transvaal. Largest property holder in Bullfrog. Leaves daughter, wife of J.C. Brittan, president of large San Francisco hardware firm; two sisters, one of whom is wife of F.M. Butler of Oakland; one grand daughter and several nephews. Remains in the charge of Rhyolite undertaking parlors, to be shipped to Oakland for internment. Clement Milward, associate of Gorrill, accompanied remains to Oakland.

Rhyolite Herald, November 18, 1908
Summary: We can't escape taxes, just like we can't escape death.

Rhyolite Herald, December 9, 1908
OUTPUT OF SHOSHONE $300,000 DURING LAST SIX MONTHS.”
Subheading: “MINER HAD NARROW ESCAPE
“A miner named Gilbert narrowly escaped death in the Shoshone hole last Saturday. He had drilled a round of holds on a narrow incline on the south face, and was splitting the holes when he heard a cracking sound above him and rushed into a drift close by. A miner working on the opposite side of the big gaping crevice asserts that fully 400 tons of ore broke off and fell down the face of the glory hole, breaking away a portion of the shelf upon which Gilbert was working and leaving only one of the charges of powder in place. The remainder of the dynamite in the round of holes was crushed beneath the terrible avalanche of falling rock which filled several feet of space in the glory hole.”

Rhyolite Herald, December 16, 1908
“'SCOTTY' HUGHES EXPIRES SUDDENLY.”
“After taking a hot bath Monday night, David B. Hughes, familiarly known as “Scotty,” retired for the night at the 'Frisco house, and on Tuesday morning he was found dead. Judge Kalaher officiated as coroner, and held an inquest Tuesday night. The jury returned a verdict that the deceased came to his death from heart failure. Dr. Grigsby testified that Huges died from angina pectoris, a disease of the heart, for which he had been treating Hughes for more than a year past.
The deceased was 44 years of age, and was born in Glasgow, Scotland. His father was running a line of steamers from Glasgow to Australia, and the son got started in the saloon business on thoes
[sic] steamers, which calling he followed all his life.
He came to Rhyolite nearly four years ago from San Francisco, and established a business on Golden street, where he made numerous friends. Hughes was a member of the Red Men, Royal Arch, Masonic Insurance and Eagle lodges. He leaves a widow. The remains will be taken to San Francisco for interment.”

Rhyolite Herald, December 16, 1908
GONE TO THE COAST ILL.”
“Miss Hollingsworth, who for the past year has been stenographer for Clay Tallman, was compelled to quit work and hasten to the coast, for a change of climate and a general rest. The altitude of Rhyolite and close application to duties have produced nervous affections that enforced a rerecuperation [sic] in a less electrical atmosphere. The many friends the lady has made here will be glad to welcome her back when fully recovered.”

Rhyolite Herald, December 23, 1908
PANNINGS.”
“Funeral services over the remains of David (Scotty) Hughes were held last Sunday afternoon at the Rhyolite undertaking parlors, under the auspices of the Eagles of the Beatty aerie. Rev. J.M. Swander delivered the sermon. The body was shipped to San Francisco, Mrs. Hughes accompaning [sic] the remains.”

Rhyolite Herald, December 30, 1908
“Miss Hollingsworth has returned from the coast.”

Rhyolite Herald, December 30, 1908
DRUNKEN INDIANS.”
“Judge Kalaher had a number of Indians brought before him and gave them a war-talk about their getting drunk and disturbing the peace at the north end of town. He ordered them to leave the town limits, outside of which they could carouse without disturbing others. They have moved. Really, the man who furnishes the Indian liquor is more to blame and more difficult to reach.”




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