Jim Middleton , a 13, year old orphan boy, lost his life by drowning 
yesterday morning in the river near the Cornett-Lewis Coal company plant at 
High Splint. At the same time Dr. M.L. Gunn of High Splint and formerly of 
Harlan, barley escaped with his life after a hard struggle in the river. Mrs. 
Frank Lankford, a sister of the boy and at whose home he was staying was 
taken quite ill and young Middleton was sent to notify Dr. Gunn to come at 
once. The doctor set out on horseback, overtaking the boy near the river 
ford. The boy asked for a ride across the river and he got behind Dr Gunn on 
the horse. While crossing the river which at the time was rather high and 
running swift, the horses' feet were sweep from under him and both riders 
were thrown into the stream. They floated down for about fifty yards when 
each grabbed projecting roots near the bank. The boy was below Dr. Gunn, 
quite a distance and before Dr. Gunn could get out and go to his assistance 
his body disappeared, later to be found a quarter mile down stream. Dr. Gunn 
who was weighed down by an overcoat and other heavy clothing was very lucky 
to escape alive. The funeral for the drowned lad will be held today.

Researcher:
Elva Nolan Morgan
Kiezza@aol.com