Dauchey Ida M.  AGE:  39   DEATH:  02-11-1916
FILE #:                       PAGE:  1916-1
When death took from us the soul of Miss Ida M. Dauchey, there was sorrow in every 
heart that beat within the circle of her acquintance.  A more lovely character and a more pleasant 
disposition never has it been the lot of Fallon county people to know and love.  The death of Miss 
Dauchey who has been bookkeeper for the Baker State Bank for four years last.  December has 
left a rift in the community life and in the office work of the banking institution.  Her attention to 
duty was that perfect service that “counts that day lost whose low descending sun,” sees not the 
day duty amply fulfilled.
A resolution is being prepared by the directorate of the bank commemorating her 
faithfulness, loyalty and cheerful attention to duty.  In all the four years she was never absent 
from her post.
Miss Dauchey was ill several weeks and for a time was thought to have won the fight but 
the angel of death kissed her brow at 4:30 a.m. Friday, February 11, 1916 and her memory is all 
that her friends have to consol them for her loss.
Miss Dauchey was born Sept. 11, 1877 at Decorah, Ia., and while a young girl moved 
with her parents to Preston, Minn., where she attended school and grew to womanhood.  For 
several years she was head bookkeeper for the L. C. Smith Typewriter company in Minneapolis 
and when health failing she came to Montana to recuperate she was a guest of Mr. and Mrs. S. F. 
Robinson, north of Baker.  While a guest at this home she was offered and accepted the situation 
as bookkeeper at the Baker State Bank here and became a resident of Baker.
The body was prepared for shipment to Canton Minn., where her mother and sister live, 
by a Miles City mortician and the sad home going of the mother and sister began on Saturday 
last.  Interment will be made in the family plot in the cemetery there. 


Myers Jennie		Date of Paper: 4-20-1916
File#:			Page:  1916-1

The death of Mrs. Jennie E. Myers occured at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Thomas Chilcoat 
who resides near Bisher, half past nine, Thursday evening after an illness of but a few hours 
duration. Apparently she was in the best of health during the evening meal but shortly afterward 
she was taken with violent pains after which she expired easily and quietly. The physicians agree 
that the cause of her demise was heart failure;
Jennie F. Siver was born on the 10th day of February, 1850 in Green Castle, Brown County, N. Y. 
She   was married to David H. Oakey in 1867 and to that union was born three children namely, 
Frank W., whose whereabouts are unknown; Eva, who passed away at the age of twelve and 
Mrs. Thomas Chilcoat of Bisher with whom she has made her home for a number of years.  A 
brother Jacob Wyman Siver of    Hilyard Wash.. and a step daughter, Mrs. Melvin Mc More of 
West Fort Ann, N. Y. also survive.
She moved to Bisher three years ago where she has lived ever since and has made herself a 
favorite. She will be greatly missed in the community as she was ever ready to lend a helping 
hand in time of need and to lighten the pathway of sorrow for any one.
The funeral was held Sunday at 2 o’clock in the afternoon at the Glen Bush residence one half 
mile east of  Bisher. Mr. Backus officiated and interment was made in the Chapman burying 
ground.
The pallbearers were R. C. Norman, Mr. Miller, L. Mann, P. A. Barber, Mr. Cox and Ray Bush.


Hanson, Lewisa Christensen	Paper Date:  12-15-1917
File#:				Page:  1917-7

In the death of Mrs. Hans Hanson of Webster, Fallon county loses one of its most highly 
respected residents and her kindly deeds will ever remain fresh in the memory of her 
acquaintances.
Mrs. Hanson died last Saturday evening after a lingering illness of over two years, and her death, 
while not unexpected, was sad news to her many, friends.
Mrs. Lewisa Christensen Hanson was born in Tronhjem, Norway, Aug. 27, 1868, and came to 
America in 1899 She lived with a sister, Mrs. Michael Anderson, at Washburn, Wis., and in 1900 
was united in marriage to Mr. Hanson. Seven years ago they moved to Webster, Montana, and 
have resided there ever since.
Deceased was taken sick two years ago last April and was treated in hospitals at Minneapolis 
and St. Paul but could get no relief and returned home last July where she remained until the time 
of her death.
Funeral services were held from home last Wednesday and were conducted by Rev. H. L. 
Anderson their city. Interment in the Willard cemetery.


Douglas, Briley		Paper Date:  12-13-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-7

A terrible accident occurred last Thursday night at about 8 o’clock when Briley Douglas, of near 
Carlyle one of the pioneer, farmers of Eastern Montana, had his skull crushed in and brains 
dashed out when his Ford car driven by his son, Fred, struck the back end of a load of lumber at 
a sharp hill one and a half miles north of Carlyle, resulting in his death three hours later.
Mr. Douglas, his son, Fred and Dillard Carlock, who had been doing jury service at this city during 
the previous several days, were returning home for the night last Thursday and had reached a 
point half way to their destination when the electric lights on the car burned out. They succeeded 
in securing a lantern and strapping it to the front end of the automobile, let off Mr. Carlock at his 
home, and were proceeding with this dim light when the accident occurred.
Unobserved by the Douglas’s a double-box wagon with lumber piled in it and long 2x6’s 
extending out over and behind the box, was ahead of them when a sharp hill a mile and a half 
north of Carlyle was reached. It is stated that Fred made the hill on low gear, and not seeing the 
vehicle ahead shifted the machine to high. They had proceeded but three rods down hill, 
however, when they smashed into the rear of the wagon and the shock sent the back end of the 
light automobile up against the butt ends of long timbers. The elder Mr. Douglas being in the rear 
seat, he received the full effects of the collision.
When picked up his skull was crushed in, his left eye was knocked out and the brains were 
oozing out.
Aid was secured of John Hartse and Mr. Douglas was taken home in the Hartse car. Briley 
Douglas died at 11 o’clock that night without regaining consciousness.
Mr. Douglas, who was a man 58 years of age, is survived by his widow, Minnie R. Douglas, five 
children, a sister and a brother. They are: Fred, Ottie, Howard, Grace, and Ruby. Douglas and 
Mrs. Maggie Kelsey of Carlyle.
Deceased moved to the Golden Valley in 1906, his family following him in the spring of 1907. He 
had conducted his farm located about four miles northwest of Carlyle ever since coming here, 
and was interested in the Beach Co-Operative Mercantile company, being one of its directors.
The funeral was held from the UB church at Carlyle last Sunday noon and interment in the Carlyle 
cemetery.
The entire community sympathizes with the bereaved family in the sudden loss of a devoted 
husband and provident and kind father and brother.


Riley, Fred				Paper Date:  11-03-1917
File#				Page:  1917-6		

News of the death of Fred Riley came as a shock to Baker residents and it was, with profound 
sorrow that they learned of his sudden demised
Mr. Riley was a well known farmer of the Calumet country, going there several years ago from 
Wisconsin, and had been sick only a few days, dying Saturday forenoon. About a week before he 
contracted pneumonia and owing to a weak heart the attending physicians were unable to give 
him any relief.
The following obitua1-y prepared by L. C. Burns is, an excellent sketch of Mr. Riley’s life:
OBITUARY
Brother Fred Riley, of Cabinet. Montana, was born Sept. 15th, 1866, at Franklin, Vernon county, 
Wisconsin; was admitted, passed and raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason by 
Viroqua Lodge No. 84 A. F. & A. M. at LaBelle Wisconsin and on February 18th, 1914, A. L. 
5914, was elected a member of Sandstone Lodge No. S4 A. F. & A. M., Baker, Montana on demit 
from Viroqua Lodge’ No. 84
The great creator being pleased out of his infinite mercy to remove our brother from the cares and 
troubles of this transitory existence, our brother was whelmed neath death silent wave’ at 11 
A.M., November 3rd, 1917, to rest in the stilly shade where darkness and silence shall forever sur-
round his melancholy resting place.
Interment took place in Calumet cemetery, Calumet, Fallon county. Montana, at 3 P.M. A short 
religious service was held at the house, conducted by Rev. Landis of Westmore, attended by a 
host of friends and relatives. The body was then de1ivered over to the Masonic Fraternity and 
bore it to its last resting place and administered the last rites of Masonry in due and ancient form.
In the character of a citizen, our beloved brother had the distinction of discharging well every civil 
duty here below, was a fond father, a loving husband and an affectionate brother and good 
neighbor, his friends being numbered by his acquaintances.
His lifes purpose was to never propose or countenance any act which may have a tendency to 
subvert the peace and good order of society, paying due obedience to the requirements of our 
civil laws and remaining true and faithful to the principles of freedom during this great European 
conflict which has a tendency to rock the very foundation of that great moral edifice which has 
taken so many centuries for a civilized world with the assistance of God to construct.
The brittle thread, which bound him to earth, has been severed; and his liberated spirit has 
winged its flight to the unknown world.
The silver cord is loosed; the golden bowl is broken; the pitcher is broken it the fountain and the 
wheel is broken at the cistern.
The dust has returned to the earth as it was, and the spirit has returned to God who gave it.

Davis, George H.		Paper Date:  11-29-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-6

A shooting affray northwest of Plevna Wednesday afternoon proved a serious affair and one man 
lies cold in death and another is confined in the Fallon county jail as the result.
George H. Davis is the man who was shot and Walter Vanderfort the man who killed him. The 
tragedy occurred on the Frank Shaw ranch about 10 miles northwest of Plevna and happened 
about three o’clock.
Nothing much is known about the trouble between the men, but it is understood that Vanderfort 
was trying to collect money due for farm machinery Wednesday and that Davis refused to settle.
According to the story of Walter and Warden Vanderfort, who were together at the time of the 
shooting Davis had purchased a mower and wagon some time ago belonging to the estate of 
their mother, and which amounted to about $80.00. The boys had repeatedly tried to get a 
settlement out of Davis, but he claimed they owed him for work done on their ranch. 
Wednesday afternoon the boys went to the Shaw ranch, where Davis was employed, and again 
asked him to settle. He left the boys in the house, saying he was going to the barn and when he 
returned he would settle with them. They watched him and saw him go to a shed and secure a 
shot gun, and when he started toward the house they stepped into an other room and closed 
the door.
Coming into the house Davis remarked that he was now ready to settle and for them to come 
out. When they refused he fired through the door, the shot passing over their heads. The boys 
then opened the door and Walter who had a gun in his pocket, fired at Davis, the shot taking 
effect in the right lung.
Davis was mortally wounded and died about 10:30 that night. As soon as Davis was shot Warden 
placed the injured man on a bed and Walter telegraphed to Baker for a physician. Dr. Sanbo left 
at once for the scene of the shooting, but could do nothing for the man as he was beyond medical 
help.
Walter came to Baker Wednesday evening and gave himself up to the sheriff and was locked in 
the county jail.


Saunders, Mrs.		Paper Date:  3-22-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-1		

Mrs. Saunders, who was taken to Rochester some time ago to be treated for cancer, died while 
being taken to her old home in Indiana.  Mrs. Saunders was aware that she had but a short time 
to live and was anxious to reach the place of old familiar scenes before death overtook her and 
had got as far as Indianapolis when she died.
The deceased had been a resident of this place for a long time and everyone who knew her was 
her friend.
Mrs. Walker and Dr. Morgan are the surviving children who reside here.


Brown, Mrs. A.		Paper Date:  3-28-1917
File#:			Page#:  1917-1

Mrs. A. Brown passed away Wednesday noon after a long illness at her home on the east side.
Mrs. Brown was suffering from a complication of trouble and the end was expected any time.
The deceased was 32 years of age and leaves a husband, two children, mother, four brothers 
and four sisters. She was a, member of the Rebekah lodge of Hultt, Wyo., and possessed a large 
circle of friends who deeply regret her death so early in life.
The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at the Congregational church, Rev. J. C. Evans 
preaching the funeral sermon.
Burial was at Bonnievale cemetery.


Heimbaugh, Flossie	Date:  
File#:			Page:  1917-1

Miss Flossie Heimbaugh, aged 25 years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Heimbaugh of Belle 
Fourche, was frozen to death early last Sunday morning on the prairie near the Heimbaugh 
sheep ranch in northwestern Butte county, says the (Camp Crook) Range Gazette.
Walter Wilson of :Albion, Mont., who was with Miss Heinbaugh and made heroic efforts to save 
her, had a very narrow escape from death. He was brought to the Camp Crook hospital Tuesday 
by his brother, J. L. Wilson, for treatment. He is suffering with a terribly frozen face and will 
probably loose several toes.
Mr. Wilson gives The Gazette the following account of the tragedy:
He was returning Saturday from Belle Fourche with a load of supplies and upon arrival at the 
Heimbaugh ranch, about 35 miles out from Belle Fourche, Miss Heinbaugh decided to 
accompany him for a visit at the Wilson home. For some time after noon the weather was 
pleasant, and they had proceeded some six or seven miles when the rapidly lowering 
temperature and approaching blizzard impelled them to turn back toward the Heimbaugh place. 
The storm increased in fury and the temperature dropped over 40 degrees in an hour or two.
Soon after turning back on the road the wagon broke down, the front trucks being pulled from 
under the load, thus making their plight more perilous. They decided it was best to lead the 
teams and proceed on foot, thinking there would be little difficulty in finding shelter. Meanwhile 
the storm had increased in violence, it was becoming bitterly cold and night had overtaken them. 
Their progress was slow because of the darkness, the snowdrifts and the beating, blinding 
storm. It was impossible to follow the road; their only guide was the direction of the storm; yet 
they missed two other ranches besides the Heimbaugh place, and as it turned out, drifted to the 
southward.
After wandering around until nearly daylight in a vain effort to reach a habitation, Miss 
Heimbaugh finally sank exhausted. Wilson found a low bank which furnished some shelter; got 
the girl under it, wrapped her with as much of his clothing as he dared to take from his body, and 
at once set off in search for help. The storm was unabating. Wilson got on one of the horses. He 
would go in one direction and keep his bearings so as to be able to return to the girls 
assistance; then he would strike out another wav. Several hours were thus spent by Wilson ; his 
strength was beginning to wane ; he realized that his feet and face were freezing.
Finally, in going over a bank, he all his remaining strength, he managed to regain his feet and, 
with the aid of a friendly snowbank, remounted the horse.  Within the next few minutes a sheep 
wagon loomed in view.
Two men were found on the wagon tumbled from the horse; the freezing stupor was apparently 
crawling over him.  Wilson says it was only by superhuman effort that he ever got up again. He 
felt that is was all over anyway; the inclination was to lie there and rest.  Summoning the owner, 
Mr. Stetta, and his header.  Wilson was able to direct the men to the spot, less than a quarter 
mile distant, where he left Miss Heimbaugh over a half hour before.  Upon their arrival the 
woman’s life had sped.
The body was at once taken to Belle Fourche where the mother and younger children reside 
and the funeral was held yesterday.  Deceased was a sister of Mrs. Irwin Gilbert of Harding.  
The Heimbaughs have resided in or near Belle Fourche for many years and are well known and 
highly respected.  Mr. Heimbaugh is a prominent and successful stockman.
Walter Wilson located two years ago on a homestead eight miles east of Albion and fifteen miles 
northwest of the Heimbaugh ranch.  That he is alive to narrate the terrible experience can be 
attributed only to the rugged constitution with which he was endowed and his display of 
indomitable pluck. And yet, the physical mental shock he has suffered must have a lifelong 
effect.   



O’Laughlin, Baby		Paper Date:  06-09-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-2

Four boys ranging in age from eight to ten years were pall bearers at the funeral of the 14 months 
old baby of Mr. and Mrs. William O’Laughlin.
The baby was taken seriously ill several days ago. The little one was taken to the Miles, City 
hospital and when the doctors performed an operation in the forlorn hope of saving its life they 
found a telescoped intestine.
Funeral services were held in this city Friday morning, Father Moscopp officiating.
Mr. and Mrs. O’Laughlin have the sympathy of the community in their bereavement.
The boys who acted as pall bearers were:
Lorin Bonner
Emerson Chilton
Donald Smith
Delbert Morrow


Payne, Verle		Paper Date:  04/24/1917
File#: 			Page: 1917-2

Verle Payne, nine-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Payne, met with a shocking death Tuesday afternoon 
at their, ranch home ten miles north of Plevna.
The boy, while playing around the granary, tried to climb through a hole where two boards had 
been broken off. His coat caught on a nail and he was left suspended in air a few feet above the 
ground. He slowly choked around his neck.
Found Him Dead
Shortly afterward his father was alone at the ranch, found his boy hanging there, his face purple, 
eyes bulging, tongue protruding.
Of All Sad Words
After taking down the body, Mr. Payne hurried to town for assistance but it was too late. Had his 
plight been noticed a few minutes sooner possibly he might have been revived.
The Payne family came from Minnesota recently. There are several children in the family. The 
mother had not yet arrived from Minnesota and Mr. Payne and this one boy were staying alone at 
the farm.
An inquest was conducted by Acting Coroner George J. Buergi, a verdict of accidental death 
being give.

Hayes, Lillian		Death: 06-09-1917		
File#:			Page: 1917-2

On Saturday afternoon the city was profoundly moved to learn of the death of Mrs. Hayes, wife of 
Dr. Richard Hayes. While it was known that she was very ill, all had hoped for her speedy 
recovery. It seemed that her great love for her husband and tiny daughter would prove stronger 
than the hand of death, but it was not to be so, and the plans and hopes of the past few years 
were shattered when her spirit left her pain-racked body.
On Sunday, June 3rd, a baby daughter, Lillian Nona, was born to her and in a few days a 
complication of diseases set in. On Saturday morning, as a last resort, an operation was 
performed, but to no avail. Everything that sympathetic hearts and loving hands could do proved 
futile, and at 2:30 in the afternoon she passed to the Great Beyond.	
Lillian Noble Burnside was born in Orange County, Ireland, August 18, 1886. Her parents were 
Capt. and Mrs. Robert Burnside. While a child she came to the United States with an aunt, with 
whom she lived until she graduated as a trained nurse. She was a member of the staff of the 
Children’s Hospital of New York City, where she met Dr. Hayes, who was an intern there. They 
were married in 1912 and came to Miles City the following year.  Since 1913 they have made 
Baker their home.
Mrs. Hayes was of quiet, retiring disposition, beloved by the many friends she had made since 
coming to Baker. She was a real helpmate to her husband, the demands of whose profession she 
knew so well.
This newspaper unites with the entire community in the “silent sympathy” which it so deeply feels 
for the doctor in his great sorrow the most poignant, perhaps, that ever fails to the lot of a human 
soul.
Though lost to sight, to memory dear, she ever will remain.
The funeral was held Monday afternoon at one o’clock at the house, Rev. Frank Durant, rector of 
the Episcopal Church, of Glendive, officiating.
The rooms were filled with hundreds of flowers sent by friends and testifying to the love and 
esteem in which she was held by all who knew her.
The pall-bearers were
E.	A. Sibley,
Dr. B. J. Potterton,
Hugh McConnell,
Joseph Hodgson,
John T. Dabb,
Dr. W. H. Young,
All places of business were closed during the afternoon and while the funeral cortege passed to 
the railway station.
The body, accompanies by Dr. Hayes and Miss Violet Burnside, was taken to New York, where 
interment will take place the latter part of this week.


Mews. Herman		Paper Date:  06-21-1917

Baker lake claimed its second victim when Herman Mews of Canistota, S. D., was drowned 
shortly after five o’clock Saturday evening while fishing from a small boat.
Mews, age 35, with three companions, Oren Amy, Ed Holten and Monte Moore, arrived in Baker 
at one o’clock Saturday afternoon and pitched their tent near the ice-house on the lake shore
Mews struck up an acquaintance with H. 0. Helland who was fishing nearby. He borrowed Mr. 
Helland’s pole and taking a small white canoe paddled out into the lake.
The only person who saw Mews at the moment he pitched headlong into the water was a ten-
year-old lad, Ray Hawkins, son of Mrs. Anna Hawkins, who is employed in the City Bakery. The 
boy was sitting in the front yard of his mother’s home some distance away. Mews was standing 
up in the boat. Oh Mother! he cried, a man’s fallen out of the boat. Mrs. Hawkins was sitting in the 
window crochetting. She saw Mews struggling in the water. He was holding onto the pole, said 
Mrs. Hawkins, and it seemed to me that be was trying to swim. When I saw him go down twice 
and then disappear the third time, I knew he was drowning. I ran over to Mr. Jasperson, who lives 
near us, and called to him that a man was drowning.
Mr. Jasperson was preparing to go down town in his auto. He speeded over to the spot where the 
boat was drifting and saw the pole sticking out of the water, about 200 feet from the shore. This 
was perhaps, ten minutes after Mews went to the bottom. There was nothing at hand with which 
to make a rescue so Mr. Jasperson hurried up town and found Undersheriff Kelling.
Assisted by James Wilson, the drayman, Mr. Kelling got another boat and a 16-foot pole with a 
hook attached, the same pole which was used for a similar purpose three years ago. The boat 
was fastened to a rope held by men on the shore and while Wilson steadied the boat, Kelling 
fished for the body. He finally grappled it, but the men holding the rope pulled too vigorously and 
it slipped away. Another hold was secured with better success and the lifeless body laid on the 
grass. No attempt was made at resuscitation as the body had been under water for nearly an 
hour.
At this time no one knew the identity of the drowned man. The body was taken up town where 
many people saw it, among them a man and woman from the Yankee Robinson circus. The 
woman, an aerial acrobat, was sure at first that the dead man was a circus follower and she said 
the circus people would see that he had a decent burial. But later developments proved she was 
mistaken.
When Mr. Helland heard of the drowning, an hour and a half later, he hunted up Undersheriff 
Kelling, and related the incident of loaning the fishing pole. With the officer he went to the tent 
and found Amy, who up to that time was ignorant of his companion’s fate. The other two boys 
were at Webster’s garage repairing their auto. The body was thus identified beyond question.
In Mews coat which was left in the tent was $40 in currency and a small amount of coin, also 
checks.

Kaapele, Kalle		Paper Date:  07-19-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-3

A Hungarian named KalIe Kaapeh met a horrible death last Friday morning two miles west of 
Plevna when he fell from a moving train. His head and one leg was severed from his body.
His identity was established by an I. W. W. card which had been sent him from Butte. About 
$30 in money was found in his pocket.
County Coroner Meyran, accompanied by Sheriff Jones, County Attorney Dousman, and Miss 
Phillips, stenographer, went to Plevna and held an inquest, the verdict being accidental death.
This is the second death within one week that has occurred through trespassing. Arnold Frazer, a 
tramp, had his leg cut off when he fell from a freight car at Westmore and died shortly afterwards.


Miller, Bobby		Paper Date:  07-13-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-4

Bobbie Miller, age nine, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Miller, was drowned at ten o’clock Friday 
morning in Baker Lake. With a companinon, Lorne Bonner, he paddled out from shore in the blue 
and white canoe. When in water over their heads the boys became frightened. Lorne jumped out 
and started to swim for shore, the boat was upset and poor little Bobbie, being unable to swim, 
was drowned. Lorne reached shore completely exhausted.
Lorne was taken to the home of his parents, Mr. & Mrs. A. E. Bonner and after a short rest in bed 
was little the worse for his thrilling experience.  Seen by a reporter for the Times, he related how 
the accident occurred. 
We were down by the ice-house playing this morning. Bobbie said: Lets go out in the boat. We 
paddled off shore and saw we were getting where the water was over our heads. We got scared 
and I jumped out of the boat and started to swim for shore.
The boat upset and Bobbie fell in. He didn’t know how to swim. I told him to try to paddle his 
hands, but he said he couldn’t.
That was all he said; he never cried out or said anything. When I got to shore and looked back all 
I saw was his hat floating on the water.
The Bonner boy is about the same age as the boy who was drowned.
Hundreds of people were soon on the scene of the tragedy. A steel hay rake was procured and 
the lake bottom dragged.
At half past twelve the body was recovered. Dr. W. H. Young worked for a long time in an effort to 
induce artificial respiration but their was no hope.
Glenn Miller, who runs the Trail garage on Montana street, the boy’s father, watched from shore 
in tearful silent the score of men in their efforts to recover the body.
The spot was not over a hundred yards from where Herman Muse, the young land-seeker from 
Canistota, S. D., was drowned circus day, June 16th.
J. F. Bessert, a plasterer who was working on Pratt’s house, was one of the first on the scene. He 
took off his shoes and went in where he saw the water bubbling, but failed to find the boy.
At the time of the former drowning, The Times warned boys not to go out on the lake in the 
canoes. It takes experience to run them with safety.
A further suggestion is now made, that the owners of the boats keep them chained to posts. The 
boys are too precious to make it so easy for them to put their lives in jeopardy.


Hubbard, Clark H.		Paper Date:  07-09-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-4

Clark H. Hubbard died Monday at his home on Pennell creek, 12 miles northwest of Baker, at the 
ripe old age of 72. Chirrosis of the liver caused his death. His illness dated from last February, 
since which time he had suffered much but complained little and did his work about the farm as 
usual.

Mr. Hubbard was a thorough gentleman of the old school, of kindly disposition and unassuming 
manner. His sterling worth and character was appreciated and admired in the neighborhood 
where for two years he made his home. He believed in the gospel of work. At an age when some 
men fold their hands in helplessness and suffer senility to impair their usefulness, he kept right on 
the job from day to day. Does it seem too harsh, then, to say that those who mourn his loss may, 
even in their sorrow, find cause for rejoicing in the memory of a noble life well spent?
Clark H. Hubbard was born near the city of Rochester, N. Y., in the year 1845. When 11 years old 
he removed with his parents to Wisconsin where he grew to manhood and for many years 
followed farming as his vocation. Two years ago he came to Montana and with his faithful wife 
took up a claim on Pennell creek, in which neighborhood several of his sons had previously 
located.
The surviving relatives are his wife; a sister, Mrs. Harriet Whaling, Madison, Wis.; two daughters, 
Mrs. Florence Olsen of Baker, and Mrs. Rose B. Baldwin of Belleville, Wis.; six sons, Paul, Edwin, 
Irwin L., Byron L., all of Baker; Chelsea R. and Perry 0. of Brooklyn, Wis.
The funeral service at the farm home was conducted by Rev. J. C. Evans Tuesday afternoon and 
was attended by a large number from Baker and Plevna. Mrs. Blanche Cornish, Miss Bonita 
Cornish, Denzil Young and A. B. Bonner sang.
Burial was made in the Baker cemetery.
The pallbearers were:
Andrew Goeving, F.E. Wheeler, Thomas Breen, George McHoes, Herman Shirley, E. W. James.

Wilson, Ellen Amelia	Paper Date:  10-26-1917
File#:			Page: 1917-5		

Ellen Amelia Anderson was born in Wystad, Sweden, August 5, 1875. She came with her parents 
to America in 1887. They lived in Wells, Minn., a short time, then moved to their tree claim near 
Trenton, Minn.
She was married November 13, 1892 to John N. Wilson, also of Trenton. Minn. Six children came 
to grace their home—Elmer Marion, Guy Noble, Archie, Alfred, Ethel Helena, John Edgar, and 
Eileen Ellen. Five of the children, her husband, aged mother, one brother and one sister are left 
to mourn their loss.
Mr. and Mrs. Wilson came to Montana in 1912 and settled on a homestead near Baker, where 
she died October 26, 1917. Baby Eileen died with her mother.
Mrs. Wilson was 42 years, 2 months and 21 days old. She was a devoted mother, and was 
loved and respected by all who knew her. The family have the sympathy of the entire community 
in their bereavement.


Anderson, Isabella	Paper Date:  08-13-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-5

Mrs. Isabella Andersen, of Ekalaka, widow of the late Walter Anderson, Sr., died Monday. The 
remains were brought to Miles city and the funeral will take place from the Presbyterian Church 
this afternoon at two o’clock, says the Miles City Star.
The news of Mrs. Anderson’s death was received with deep regret yesterday by her many friends 
in Miles City who had learned to love and respect the dear old lady, with her motherly ways and 
kindly disposition.
Mrs. Anderson came to Custer county from Scotland in 1892 with her husband and children, 
locating in Ekalaka, where she has lived most of the time for a quarter of a century. Her not 
unfrequent visits to her daughter, Mrs. James Hunter in Miles City, made a large list of 
acquaintances here who appreciated her friendship.
One daughter and five sons survive. Mrs. James Hunter, Miles City, James, Walter and Jack, of 
Ekalaka, and Robert and David of Ismay. Walter Anderson, Sr., died in November of 1914.
Interment will be made in the Miles city cemetery.


Munro, Jimmie		Paper Date:  08-23-1917
File#:			Page:  1917-5

Jimmie Munro was in every sense self-made man. With few opportunities in the way of schooling 
he began early in life a system of self-study that equipped him for the duties of life. He was a man 
of pleasing personality and affable manner and made friends easily and kept them to the time of 
his death.
Mr. Munro was one of a large family, most of whom were present at his bedside. His parents 
were Mr. and Mrs. Roderick Munro. He is also survived by his wife. Mrs. Nellie McClain, Mrs. 
John Hanson and Miss. Mina Munro are sisters. There are also several brothers
The funeral services were held at Miles City and were largely attended by friends from all 
sections of Eastern Montana. The Fallon county commissioners, and those from Ekalaka were 
also present.
The untimely death of County Commissioner Munro comes as a severe shock to the 
people of Fallon and Carter counties. Following the accident near his ranch, fourteen miles 
from Ekalaka on Fallon creek, he was taken to the hospital at Miles City. It was necessary 
to perform an operation in the hope of saving his life when it was found by the surgeon that 
peritonitis had set in. After hovering between life and death for several days he finally 
succumbed.
The accident which resulted in his death happened two weeks ago while he was driving in a 
bunch of cattle. His horse stumbled and fell, the horn of the saddle striking him in the groin. He 
was picked up unconscious and at first it was not known whether he was struck by a bolt of 
lightning or whether the injury was sustained in the manner stated. He was removed to the Miles 
City hospital Monday, a week ago, and the only hope seemed to be an operation.


Comstock, W. R.		Death:  09-20-1916
File#:			Page:  1916-3
On last Wednesday, Sept. 20th, occurred the death of W. R. Comstock of Marmarth, at the 
Mobridge hospital, after a two weeks illness of typhoid fever. The remains were taken back to the 
old family home in Oregon, Wisconsin, from where the funeral services were held on Saturday 
afternoon. On the same day and at the same hour public services were conducted in the Opera 
house of Marmarth. The throngs of people in attendance attested to the deep love and respect in 
which he was held by the entire surrounding country.
At the time of his death Mr. Comstock was Mayor of Marmarth, president of the Farmers State 
Bank and manager of the Carpenter-Webster Lumber Co. at that place, which latter position he 
had satisfactorily filled for many years.
The deceased was a brother of J. M. Comstock of this city.


Isaac, John Williams	Death:  9-18-1916
File#:			Page:  1916-3

The funeral of John William Isaac, the ten months old son of Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Isaac of Dry Forks 
was held from the German Congregation church here on Tuesday afternoon. The little one had 
been ill with summer complaint and died last Monday, Sept. 18. Mrs. Isaacs, the mother of the 
deceased, is also at the hospital at Miles City, seriously ill.

Gustafson, Charles	Paper Date:  09-28-1916
File#				Page:  1916-3

Last week came the tragic end of Charles Gustafson, who in a spell of insanity became a suicide.
It will be remembered that this is the man who a few weeks ago hid himself in a hay mow on the 
Louis Larson farm, near Plevna, and for three weeks lived there without being discovered, his 
only food being wheat from the bins and milk which he stripped from the cows at night. He was 
brought in on an insanity charge; but was considered harmless and placed in the keeping of 
friends. He was irrational only by spells when he labored under the delusion that someone was 
trying to harm him.
It seems that Gustafson, in a recurrence of one of these spells last week, watched and waited till 
the Larson family had left home, then he set fire to the house, went into the barn and set fire to 
the hay, deliberately burning down the barn with himself in.
When not laboring under these paranoeic spells, Gustafson was industrious and saved his 
money. He is said to have considerable money in the bank and a share in the Larson farm.

Olsen, Mrs. Richard	Paper Date: 11-16-1916
File#:			Page:  1916-3

Mrs. Richard Olsen died at the Elizabeth hospital in Baker Wednesday morning, following an 
illness of long duration.  Mrs. Olsen was the wife of a Plevna liveryman, to which the body was 
shipped for burial.  Two brothers, James and John, resid in Baker.


Finlayson Robert		Death:  05/31/1916
File#:			Page:  1916-2

After an illness of only four days, Robert Finlayson died Sunday,. May 31, at. his home in 
this city.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Pollard at the Congregational 
church last Tuesday afternoon.  Interment was at Bonnievale cemeterv.
Robert Finlayson was born in Rossline, Scotland, on June 18, 1858, of Scotch Presbyterian 
parents.  On Dec. 1, 1893, he was married to Miss Nellie Macree and to this union were born 
five children.  Mr. Finlayson came to Canada with his family nine years ago and a year later took 
up a homestead in Fallon county, near Ekalaka.
The first of last January he moved to Baker and took possession of the Fallon house.
The deceased was a kind and affectionate husband and father.  A wife, five 
children here in Baker and a brother and sister in Canada remain to mourn his loss.  
The bereaved family have the sympathy of the entire community.

Gillman, Will			Paper Date:  07/13/1916
File#:				Page:  1916-2

“We the Jury, duly empaneled to inquire into the death of William Gilman, after due inquiry find 
that he came to his death by accidental asphyxiation, and that there are no suspicious 
circumstances surrounding the case, and that the deceased had been fully warned of the dangers 
of entering the pit in the absence of assistance.”
E. A. MONROE, Foreman,
JACK PRATT,
JACOB KESLER,
A. F. HYTHECKER,
O. J. OWENS,
GEORGE M. DAUGHERTY.”

Will Gilman, night watchman at the Montana Petroleum Company’s plant, was found asphyxiated 
by gas, at 10 minutes past seven Wednesday morning.
The gruesome discovery was made when George Laucomer, the foreman and Clarence Faber, 
the tool dresser, went to work.  Gilman’s body was found lying prostrate at the bottom of the small 
pit.  Nearby was a wrench, indicating he had entered there to adjust a pipe.  It is supposed that 
Gilman went into the pit at about five o’clock, that being the usual hour for getting up steam, and 
in the opinion of the doctor life had been extinct only a short time.  The pit or enclosure was 
considered extremely dangerous, large accumulations of gas being present there at all times. 
Supt. Albers was immediately notified by the company’s foreman and hurried to the well in an 
automobile a few minutes after the body was found.  Why Gilman should take the risk which cost 
him his life is a mystery unexplained and which the coroner’s jury will Investigate.  “I had warned 
Gilman time and time again, never to go down in that pit alone.  Don’t go down there even for a 
minute unless there is a man with you, I told him.  And our foreman had also admonished him.  
Gilman knew the dangerous risk he assumed.
The trap was covered with boards.  Gilman pulled one of these up and went down through the 
opening.  The deadly vapor doubtless overcame him in the space of a few minutes.  Five million 
cubic feet of gas are escaping from our well every day.”
The inquest was held by Acting Coroner Burns, the witnesses being examined by County 
Attorney Dousman.  The facts relating to the finding the body and the probable manner of his 
death were related substantially as given above.
Clarence Faber, tool sharpener was the first witness. With Foreman Laucomer he went to the well 
shortly after seven o’clock.  It was he who first discovered that something was wrong; the steam 
was not up as usual and Gilman was missing.  He saw a monkey wrench and piece of chalk lying 
near the opening into the pit.  A board had been removed from this.  Peering into the dim light the 
two men saw Gilman’s limp body astride a cross-piece at the bottom, his face set toward the 
casing from which gas was escaping.  His body was cold. They left the body where it was and 
hurriedly called a doctor and notified Supt. Albers.
Dr. Hays testified that, from all -appearance, Gilman came to his death by asphyxiation. There 
were no marks of violence.
Frank Hitch testified that Gilman had been repeatedly warned by himself and others not to enter 
the pit alone.
Foreman George Laucomer gave practically the same testimony as Mr. Faber.
It is the general belief that Gilman went down to remove a clod of earth which obstructed the gas 
jet.  The gas is used for fuel to - drive the engine.  It was probably at 4:30 this morning the 
tragedy occurred, that being the usual hour for firing up the engine.
Gilman first came to this county six or seven years ago. He bought a steam plow outfit and was 
later associated with Jack Pratt in successful business undertakings.  At that time he is said to 
have inherited a large sum of money. He took the position as night watchman about three months 
ago.
While engaged in a humble occupation, Gilman was held in highest respect by his employers and by 
the people of this community.  He was true blue all the way through; of a kindly disposition, strictly 
attentive to his own business and of a cheerful temperament.  The unfortunate man was reputed 
to be worth $40000 or $50,000, but incompatible as that may seem, it is not an unusual 
occurrence for men of means to seek modest employment.  He was 40 years. of age and 
unmarried.
Mr. Albers had the body embalmed, awaiting instructions from relatives, a brother at Medford, 
Oregon, and one in Mellette, S.D.


Harper, Dorothy			Death:  12-11-1916
File#:					Page:  1916-3

A terrible accident occurred at Westmore Monday morning which resulted in the death of little 
Dorothy Harper, only child of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Harper.  Dorothy was recovering from a recent 
illness and her mother left her alone while she went to a nearby store.  It is thought the child, 
while playing, poured gasoline into the stove and spilled it on her dress.  All her clothing was 
burned off, and she ran screaming into the street.  She lived four hours and was conscious to the 
last.  Westmore and the surrounding country are deeply distressed, as Dorothy was known and 
loved by the entire community.
The funeral took place Tuesday afternoon in Westmore at the Congregational church, Rev. 
Whittaker preaching the sermon. Many beautiful flowers were sent from all parts of the state, and 
a crowded church gave evidence of the love borne the beautiful child so suddenly taken away.
Dorothy Isabelle Harper, aged four years, six months and thirteen days only child of Mr. and Mrs. 
Harry Harper, was born at Lexington, Mo., and died Dec. 11, 1916.


Jones, Josh			Paper Date:  05/18/1916
File#:  				Page:  1916-2

Josh Jones of Box Elder, one of the real old timers of this section of Montana and a Fallon county 
pioneer, died of heart failure Thursday evening.  Mr. Jones has been residing on the Box Elder for 
many years and is well and favorably known in that section of the country.  The news of his death 
comes as a surprise to his many friends.


Perry, George		DEATH:  05-19-1916
FILE #:		PAGE:  1916-2	

George Perry, another of the early pioneers of eastern Montana, died at his home 25 miles 
north of Baker, last Monday at the age of 80 years.  Bright’s disease caused his death.  
Mr. Perry had lived in this section 13 years. He was born at Cornwall, England, and came to 
this country 37 years ago. Before coming here he lived near Cheyenne, WY.  
Decedent is survived by three sons, James M., Robert and Henry and a sister in England.
The body was taken by automobile to Belle Fourche, S. D. for burial beside his wife, who died in 
1905.  Brief services were held by Rev. Pollard at the Baker Congregational church.


Rost, Adolph			Death:  10-07-1916
File#:				Page:  1916-3

Mr. Adolph Meyer Rost died on Saturday evening, October 7th, at the Elizabeth hospital of this 
city, following an operation for appendicitis, after an illness of one week.
The deceased was born at Ulen, Minn., March 22, 1882. In 1907 he was married to Miss Carrie 
Orness.  Four children were born to their  union.  In 1908 the family moved to Fallon County, 
where they have resided on a farm south-west of Qllie.  Mr. Rost is survived by his father and 
mother, Mr. and Mrs. Elias Rost, of Ulen, Minn., three brothers and two sisters, Olaf and Albert of 
Ulen, Emil of Fargo, N. D., Mrs. Peter Grendah of Gary, Minn., Mrs. Anton Bradeson of Fargo, N. 
D., and the bereaved widow and four small children. Mr. Rost was a kind son, an affectionate 
husband and father and a good neighbor. His loss will be felt by all who knew him.
He passed away in the prime of life, but with courage and faith in his Savior. He was a faithful 
member of the Lutheran congregation at Ollie, where the funeral took place Thursday, conducted 
by his pastor, H. L. Anderson. The body was laid to rest in the cemetery of Carlyle.


Selleck, E.M.			Death:  05/14/1916
File #:				Page:  1916-2

The body of E M Sellek of St. James, Minn., was found near the railroad track about a mile and a 
quarter west of Plevna, May 14.  The body was removed to Plevna by order of the coroner, where 
the clothes were searched and letters of identification found. The coroner’s jury returned a verdict 
that the unfortunate young man came to his death by falling from the moving train.  It was found 
that his neck was broken just below the skull, which caused instantaneous death.
At the request of Geo. W. Selleck, the young man’s father, the body was buried at Plevna where 
it will remain until it can be removed to the family burial place.


Gustafson, Guneries	Paper Date:  10-09-1924
File#:			Page:  1924-7

Mr. Guneries Gustafson, one of the early settlers in Fallon county died at his farm home two miles 
southwest of town last Monday. He was a very elderly gentleman and for the past several years 
has been failing rapidly in health. He was born October 7, 1841, and died on October 6th, thereby 
just rounding out another year of his life.
Funeral services for Mr. Gustafson were held this afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Congregational 
church, Rev. Dale of the Lutheran church of Miles City officiating. The body was laid to rest in 
Bonnievale cemetery.
Obituary will appear in next issue of Times.
Gunerius Gustafson was born on October 7, 1841 at Soloe, Norway. He came to this country in 
the year 1907, and settled at Akin, Minn. In the year of 1908 he moved to Montana and took up a 
homestead near Baker in 1909.
Mr. Gustafson was married twice, both wives have died, the second one six years ago. Fourteen 
children in all were born to both unions, ten children to the first wife and four to the second wife. 
Four sons and two daughters are still living while eight went to the Lord years ago. The living 
children are: One son in Norway, Albert Gustafson, Baker: Marius Gunderson, Ironton, Minn., 
Wm. Gunderson, Spokane, Wash; Elise Gunderson, Atkins, Minn.; and Anna Hansen. San 
Francisco, Calif.
Mr. Gustafson was a kind father and a good husband, and liked by all those who came in contact 
with him. The last few years of his life told of his age as his mind was not as keen as in younger 
years, but physically he was strong in every way, and he always enjoyed an outing in the fields.
May he rest in peace.


Anderson, Florence	Paper Date:  12-04-1924
File#:			Page:  1924-7

Florence Anderson, three year old daughter of Mr and Mrs. John Anderson, who live in the 
Knowlton country, was fatally burned Monday morning.  The mother was working in the yard and 
the little girl was playing in the house when her clothes caught fire.  In her excitement she ran 
around the outside of the house before her mother could catch her and extinguish the flames.  
Just how the accident happened is not known as nothing else in the house burned.
Dr. Crary was called and the girl was brought into Ismay but she died about twenty minutes after 
they arrived in town.  Everything possible was done to save the child, but the body was so badly 
burned and the inhaling of flames and smoke, made death certain.
Funeral was held Wednesday In Ismay.


Terrell, Mrs. George R.	Paper Date:  12-25-1924
File#:			Page:  1924-7

The people of Baker and Plevna were shocked on Monday evening when they heard of the 
sudden death of Mrs. George R. Terrell of Plevna, who, in a spell of despondency, took her own 
life with poison.  The young woman, who was about twenty-two years old, was the daughter of 
Mrs. Jacob Wagner of Plevna, very highly respected people of the community.  What makes the 
deed a much more shocking one is the fact that the young woman was a bride of only a few 
weeks, as she was married to Mr. Terrell only a couple of weeks ago.
Mrs. Terrell came to Pena on Saturday from Ismay, where her husband is running a pool hall, and 
went to the home of her father-in-law, the Commercial House. People around her remarked about 
her brooding manner, but did not pay much attention to it.  Her husband was with her Monday, 
but left that afternoon for Ismay to look after his business.  Twenty minutes his wife was found 
very ill, the symptoms appearing that she had taken poison, which she admitted.  Everything 
possible was done to save her and all kinds of antidotes were given her.  Dr. Blakemore was 
called immediately, but nothing could save her, and the unfortunate woman died forty minutes 
after making the attempt to take her life.  The poison used was strychnine.
She did not leave any explanation as to why she did the deed, and her husband and her friends 
are unable to find the solution, but believe her mind was temporarily deranged and she was not 
responsible for the act.
The sympathy of the community is with the family of the deceased, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Wagner 
and her husband, who are heartbroken over the loss of their child and wife.


Ettles, (Chauncy’s Son)	Paper Date:  12-04-1924
File#:			Page:  1924-7

The little son of Mr. and Mrs. Chauncy Ettles of Plevna died on Monday of this week at the local 
hospital.  The child had been ailing for some time and was affected with heart trouble.  The Times 
joins the many friends of the family in extending their sympathy.


Markus, Caroline 		Paper Date:  11-06-1924
File#:			Page:  1924-7

Mrs. Caroline of Baker died last Saturday evening after a long illness of kidney and heart trouble.  
For almost a year she had been confined to bed and during the past summer was unable even to 
lie down but had to keep to a sitting position.  Death released the weary body and the spirit at 
last.
Mrs. Marcus was born in Germany in 1859.  She came to this country at the age of 27 years.  
She was the mother of a son who with her husband preceded her into eternity some years ago, 
and a daughter, Mrs. Eva Krause with whom she has made her home while in Baker.  A 
grandson, John Krause of Baker and a brother in Germany are the remaining relatives to survive 
her.  She was a faithful follower of the Lutheran church and thru much adversity kept an 
unwavering faith in her Savior.  To the griefstricken daughter and grandson we extend deep 
sympathy.
Funeral services were held in the Congregational church by Rev. Seebart after a brief service in 
the home, Monday at 2 o’clock P.M.  The choir rendered several songs.  Interment was made in 
Bonnievale cemetery.