HERMAN GOTTFRIED
New York
Herman Gottfried, described as a jewelry broker, doing business in this city, was killed on Tuesday afternoon, June 26, by a Lexington Ave. subway train. Mr. Gottfried, it is reported, was standing on the crowded platform at 14th St., when he fell in front of an approaching express train and was killed. Two cars passed over the jewelry broker’s body before the train could be brought to a stop. In order to remove the body it was necessary to jack up one of the subway cars.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 5th July 1928
Trev.
Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
FRANK W. FOBES
Kinsman, Ohio
Jeweler Killed
Frank W. Fobes, Kinsman, Ohio, Victim of Accident When Train Strikes His Automobile at Grade Crossing
CANTON, OHIO, May 26.—Frank W. Fobes, jeweler, Kinsman, Ohio, was killed when his automobile was struck by a fast passenger train on the Youngstown-Ashtabula line. There was no warning signal and it is believed Mr. Fobes did not hear the approach of the train.
Mr. Fobes had been to a farm he owns near Williamsfield and was en route home when the accident occurred. His car was wrecked.
For many years Mr. Fobes has been a retail jeweler in Kinsman.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 31st May 1928
Trev.
Kinsman, Ohio
Jeweler Killed
Frank W. Fobes, Kinsman, Ohio, Victim of Accident When Train Strikes His Automobile at Grade Crossing
CANTON, OHIO, May 26.—Frank W. Fobes, jeweler, Kinsman, Ohio, was killed when his automobile was struck by a fast passenger train on the Youngstown-Ashtabula line. There was no warning signal and it is believed Mr. Fobes did not hear the approach of the train.
Mr. Fobes had been to a farm he owns near Williamsfield and was en route home when the accident occurred. His car was wrecked.
For many years Mr. Fobes has been a retail jeweler in Kinsman.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 31st May 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
AARON E. SIPE
Buffalo, New York
Aaron E. Sipe, well known Niagara St. jeweler, was severely burned about the hands and arms Saturday morning at his home, 2452 Delaware Ave., in attempting to extinguish flames which had enveloped Miss Lilleo Marcau, his sister-in-law. Miss Marcau, who made her home with the Sipes, went to the cellar to light the gas burner. Some unexplained leakage had filled the cellar with gas and an explosion ensued, igniting Miss Marcau’s clothes. Mr. Sipe responded to her calls for help and succeeded in beating out the flames with his hands. Miss Marcau’s condition was reported critical.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 17th May 1928
Trev.
Buffalo, New York
Aaron E. Sipe, well known Niagara St. jeweler, was severely burned about the hands and arms Saturday morning at his home, 2452 Delaware Ave., in attempting to extinguish flames which had enveloped Miss Lilleo Marcau, his sister-in-law. Miss Marcau, who made her home with the Sipes, went to the cellar to light the gas burner. Some unexplained leakage had filled the cellar with gas and an explosion ensued, igniting Miss Marcau’s clothes. Mr. Sipe responded to her calls for help and succeeded in beating out the flames with his hands. Miss Marcau’s condition was reported critical.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 17th May 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
CHARLES HOEFER
Kansas City
A Triple Tragedy
Retired Jeweler Drowns in Futile Attempt to Save Maid, and Wife Who Witnesses Unsuccessful Attempt Dies of Heart Failure
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 30.—News has been received from Sayner, Wis., of the death on Aug. 27 of Charles Hoefer, 74, retired wholesale jeweler of Kansas City, who drowned in an attempt to save one of the maids at his summer home at Plum Lake. Both he and the maid, Irene Hagen, 24, were drowned and Mrs. Charles Hoefer, who was watching from a nearby pier, died of heart failure when she saw her husband go down.
Mr. and Mrs. Hoefer had been at Plum Lake since June 8. Since buying the home there several years ago from E. A. Gooding, of Wausau, the Hoefers have spent the summer there In winter they live at Miami, Fla., and spend a little time each year at Kansas City.
Five years ago Mr. Hoefer sold his interest in the Woodstock-Hoefer Watch & Jewelry Co. and retired from business. He was well known to the jewelry fraternity of Kansas City and the surrounding territory.
Mr. Hoefer was standing on the end of a pier at the Hoefer summer home when he saw the maid lose her hold on an inflated automobile tube and go down. Jumping into the lake with his clothes on, Mr. Hoefer swam to the point where the girl was struggling in the water. She grabbed hold of him and dragged him under and both drowned. Mrs. Hoefer, seeing her husband’s plight, fell over in the water dead.
The three bodies have been taken to Wausau and the funeral was held from the city. The bodies of both Mr and Mrs. Hoefer will be cremated.
Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 30.—Charles C. Hoefer, 74 years old, retired wholesale jeweler of Kansas City and his wife, Mrs. Virginia Hoefer, 70, lost their lives in, Plum Lake, Sayner, Wis., their summer home, Aug. 27.
According to a message from P. S. Harris, president and treasurer of the Harris-Goar Co. of this city, who has a summer home near the Hoefer home, Mr. Harris jumped into the water to save Irene Hagen, a maid in the Hoefer home. Mrs. Hoefer, the maid and Miss Cora Edwards, a nurse who was attending Mrs. Hoefer, were in the water in front of the Hoefer cottage. Mrs. Hoefer was a good swimmer but the others could not swim. The maid had a large cork life preserver but when she got into deep water she evidently did not know how to use it and Mrs. Hoefer was trying to help her. Mr. Hoefer, who was on the porch of the cottage, saw that the girl needed help and he ran to the water, jumped in and swam to the women. Mr. Hoefer’s clothing hampered his movements and with the fighting girl he was drawn under the water. Mrs. Hoefer had made her way to shallow water and when she saw her husband go down she fell into the water dead. It is believed that the shock brought on a heart attack, to which she was subject.
Mr. Hoefer’s body was recovered in about half an hour. A physician worked for two hours in an effort to revive him. The girl’s body was recovered several hours later. The coroner from Eagle River was called and an undertaker from Wassau, 100 miles south, the early home of both Mr. and Mrs. Hoefer. Funeral services were held in Wausau, Thursday, Aug. 30.
Mr. Hoefer was for many years vice-president of the Woodstock-Hoefer Watch & Jewelry Co. In 1886 the original company was started as Woodstock, Barger & Hoefer in the Waterworks building at Sixth and Walnut Sts. Three years later it was moved to the Keith & Perry building, the present location of the Woodstock-Hoefer Watch & Jewelry Co. Mr. Woodstock died in 1911 and the following year Mr. Hoefer sold his interest in the business to Mrs. S. E. Woodstock, widow of the president of the company. Some years before Mr. Barger had sold his interest and gone to Chicago where he engaged in business. After disposing of his holdings in the partnership Mr. Hoefer established the Hoefer Jewelry Co., a wholesale jewelry business, which he continued about five years, and finally sold.
He then retired and he and his wife spent their winters in Florida and their summers in Sayner, Wis. Once or twice each year they spent a few weeks in Kansas City, stopping at a hotel. They had been at Plum Lake since the early part of June.
Edgar S. Hoefer, credit manager of the C. A. Kiger Co., is a nephew of Mr. Hoefer. Mrs. Fred Hoefer, widow of a brother of C. C. Hoefer, lives in Miami, Fla.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 6th September 1928
Trev.
Kansas City
A Triple Tragedy
Retired Jeweler Drowns in Futile Attempt to Save Maid, and Wife Who Witnesses Unsuccessful Attempt Dies of Heart Failure
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 30.—News has been received from Sayner, Wis., of the death on Aug. 27 of Charles Hoefer, 74, retired wholesale jeweler of Kansas City, who drowned in an attempt to save one of the maids at his summer home at Plum Lake. Both he and the maid, Irene Hagen, 24, were drowned and Mrs. Charles Hoefer, who was watching from a nearby pier, died of heart failure when she saw her husband go down.
Mr. and Mrs. Hoefer had been at Plum Lake since June 8. Since buying the home there several years ago from E. A. Gooding, of Wausau, the Hoefers have spent the summer there In winter they live at Miami, Fla., and spend a little time each year at Kansas City.
Five years ago Mr. Hoefer sold his interest in the Woodstock-Hoefer Watch & Jewelry Co. and retired from business. He was well known to the jewelry fraternity of Kansas City and the surrounding territory.
Mr. Hoefer was standing on the end of a pier at the Hoefer summer home when he saw the maid lose her hold on an inflated automobile tube and go down. Jumping into the lake with his clothes on, Mr. Hoefer swam to the point where the girl was struggling in the water. She grabbed hold of him and dragged him under and both drowned. Mrs. Hoefer, seeing her husband’s plight, fell over in the water dead.
The three bodies have been taken to Wausau and the funeral was held from the city. The bodies of both Mr and Mrs. Hoefer will be cremated.
Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 30.—Charles C. Hoefer, 74 years old, retired wholesale jeweler of Kansas City and his wife, Mrs. Virginia Hoefer, 70, lost their lives in, Plum Lake, Sayner, Wis., their summer home, Aug. 27.
According to a message from P. S. Harris, president and treasurer of the Harris-Goar Co. of this city, who has a summer home near the Hoefer home, Mr. Harris jumped into the water to save Irene Hagen, a maid in the Hoefer home. Mrs. Hoefer, the maid and Miss Cora Edwards, a nurse who was attending Mrs. Hoefer, were in the water in front of the Hoefer cottage. Mrs. Hoefer was a good swimmer but the others could not swim. The maid had a large cork life preserver but when she got into deep water she evidently did not know how to use it and Mrs. Hoefer was trying to help her. Mr. Hoefer, who was on the porch of the cottage, saw that the girl needed help and he ran to the water, jumped in and swam to the women. Mr. Hoefer’s clothing hampered his movements and with the fighting girl he was drawn under the water. Mrs. Hoefer had made her way to shallow water and when she saw her husband go down she fell into the water dead. It is believed that the shock brought on a heart attack, to which she was subject.
Mr. Hoefer’s body was recovered in about half an hour. A physician worked for two hours in an effort to revive him. The girl’s body was recovered several hours later. The coroner from Eagle River was called and an undertaker from Wassau, 100 miles south, the early home of both Mr. and Mrs. Hoefer. Funeral services were held in Wausau, Thursday, Aug. 30.
Mr. Hoefer was for many years vice-president of the Woodstock-Hoefer Watch & Jewelry Co. In 1886 the original company was started as Woodstock, Barger & Hoefer in the Waterworks building at Sixth and Walnut Sts. Three years later it was moved to the Keith & Perry building, the present location of the Woodstock-Hoefer Watch & Jewelry Co. Mr. Woodstock died in 1911 and the following year Mr. Hoefer sold his interest in the business to Mrs. S. E. Woodstock, widow of the president of the company. Some years before Mr. Barger had sold his interest and gone to Chicago where he engaged in business. After disposing of his holdings in the partnership Mr. Hoefer established the Hoefer Jewelry Co., a wholesale jewelry business, which he continued about five years, and finally sold.
He then retired and he and his wife spent their winters in Florida and their summers in Sayner, Wis. Once or twice each year they spent a few weeks in Kansas City, stopping at a hotel. They had been at Plum Lake since the early part of June.
Edgar S. Hoefer, credit manager of the C. A. Kiger Co., is a nephew of Mr. Hoefer. Mrs. Fred Hoefer, widow of a brother of C. C. Hoefer, lives in Miami, Fla.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 6th September 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
GEORGE OSBORN
Kansas City
Death of George Osborn
Jeweler Succumbs to Bullet Wound in Head Believed to Have Been Self Inflicted
Kansas City, Mo., Oct. 26.—George Osborn, 69 years old, 4029 Benton Boulevard, suffering from a bullet wound in his head, was found in a hollow near Benton Boulevard between 41st and 42nd Sts., Sunday morning, Oct. 21. Beside him was a revolver. He was unconscious when found, and was taken to the General Hospital where he died Monday morning. The son said that his father apparently had shot himself because of ill-health. He had not been well for some time and worried a great deal about his condition.
Mr. Osborn had been a jeweler for Montgomery Ward & Co. for the past 17 years. Previous to his employment there he had been in the jewelry business in Thayer, Kan.
He leaves besides the son, his widow, Mrs. Mary E. Osborn and a daughter, Miss Loretta Osborn, all at the home; three sisters, Mrs. Walter Freeman, Chicago; Mrs. William E. Henley, Clarion, Iowa; Mrs. Etta M. Braidy, Waterloo, Iowa, and a brother, Amos E. Osborn, LaPorte City, Iowa.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 1st November 1928
Trev.
Kansas City
Death of George Osborn
Jeweler Succumbs to Bullet Wound in Head Believed to Have Been Self Inflicted
Kansas City, Mo., Oct. 26.—George Osborn, 69 years old, 4029 Benton Boulevard, suffering from a bullet wound in his head, was found in a hollow near Benton Boulevard between 41st and 42nd Sts., Sunday morning, Oct. 21. Beside him was a revolver. He was unconscious when found, and was taken to the General Hospital where he died Monday morning. The son said that his father apparently had shot himself because of ill-health. He had not been well for some time and worried a great deal about his condition.
Mr. Osborn had been a jeweler for Montgomery Ward & Co. for the past 17 years. Previous to his employment there he had been in the jewelry business in Thayer, Kan.
He leaves besides the son, his widow, Mrs. Mary E. Osborn and a daughter, Miss Loretta Osborn, all at the home; three sisters, Mrs. Walter Freeman, Chicago; Mrs. William E. Henley, Clarion, Iowa; Mrs. Etta M. Braidy, Waterloo, Iowa, and a brother, Amos E. Osborn, LaPorte City, Iowa.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 1st November 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JOSEPH NASELOV
Philadelphia
Jeweler Shot
Employe Wounds Philadelphia Manufacturer and Is Caught After Chase
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 22.—The Sansom St. jewelry section was thrown into excitement last week when Joseph Naselov, a manufacturing jeweler and diamond setter at 719 Sansom St., was shot three times in the body and Alfred G. Sanders, a diamond setter, was arrested, after a brief chase, as his assailant. Sanders was held without bail by Magistrate O’Brien for a continued hearing on Dec. 28. Although Naselov was wounded three times, surgeons at Jefferson Hospital say he will recover.
According to the police, Naselov, who had worked late the night before on jobs for M. Sickles & Sons, arrived at his office a half hour earlier than usual, planning to finish the work. Sanders was aiding him in the settings and had promised to come in early that morning too. Instead, he arrived a few moments before Naselov, according to Policeman Hartsell of the 11th and Winter Sts. station who was standing in front of the store of H. B. Gording on the opposite side of the street. Instead of going upstairs, the policeman said, Sanders waited in a doorway until Naselov appeared and did not enter the hallway leading to the jeweler’s place until several moments afterward.
In the meantime, Naselov had opened the safe and was about to take out some diamonds when Sanders appeared and without warning drew a revolver and fired. Two of the bullets missed but three struck Naselov, two lodging in the left side of his back and the other in the right side. Half dazed by the shock, he jumped up and turned toward Sanders who ran with Naselov in pursuit. As the jeweler reached the street he collapsed from his wounds, Policeman Hartsell picking him up and taking him upstairs to the store as soon as it was possible.
Sanders in the meantime ran but was captured by Traffic Policeman Sowden. The revolver was in his pocket. He was taken back to the Naselov place where the wounded jeweler identified him as his assailant.
At the hospital Naselov told police he and Sanders had some words on the previous night but that Sanders had promised to come in early the next morning. Naselov formerly worked as a diamond setter in New York but has been in this city for some six years and is spoken of highly by members of the trade.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 27th December 1928
Trev.
Philadelphia
Jeweler Shot
Employe Wounds Philadelphia Manufacturer and Is Caught After Chase
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 22.—The Sansom St. jewelry section was thrown into excitement last week when Joseph Naselov, a manufacturing jeweler and diamond setter at 719 Sansom St., was shot three times in the body and Alfred G. Sanders, a diamond setter, was arrested, after a brief chase, as his assailant. Sanders was held without bail by Magistrate O’Brien for a continued hearing on Dec. 28. Although Naselov was wounded three times, surgeons at Jefferson Hospital say he will recover.
According to the police, Naselov, who had worked late the night before on jobs for M. Sickles & Sons, arrived at his office a half hour earlier than usual, planning to finish the work. Sanders was aiding him in the settings and had promised to come in early that morning too. Instead, he arrived a few moments before Naselov, according to Policeman Hartsell of the 11th and Winter Sts. station who was standing in front of the store of H. B. Gording on the opposite side of the street. Instead of going upstairs, the policeman said, Sanders waited in a doorway until Naselov appeared and did not enter the hallway leading to the jeweler’s place until several moments afterward.
In the meantime, Naselov had opened the safe and was about to take out some diamonds when Sanders appeared and without warning drew a revolver and fired. Two of the bullets missed but three struck Naselov, two lodging in the left side of his back and the other in the right side. Half dazed by the shock, he jumped up and turned toward Sanders who ran with Naselov in pursuit. As the jeweler reached the street he collapsed from his wounds, Policeman Hartsell picking him up and taking him upstairs to the store as soon as it was possible.
Sanders in the meantime ran but was captured by Traffic Policeman Sowden. The revolver was in his pocket. He was taken back to the Naselov place where the wounded jeweler identified him as his assailant.
At the hospital Naselov told police he and Sanders had some words on the previous night but that Sanders had promised to come in early the next morning. Naselov formerly worked as a diamond setter in New York but has been in this city for some six years and is spoken of highly by members of the trade.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 27th December 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
KARL LARSEN
Springfield, Illinois
Karl Larsen, veteran watchmaker, employed by the Illinois Watch Co., Springfield, Ill., since May 18, 1887, was fatally injured late the afternoon of Dec. 18, when he was struck by an automobile as he was returning from his work. He later died from the injuries. Mr. Larsen was born in Oslo, Norway, Nov. 20, 1865, and came to this country in 1887, settling in this city. He obtained employment with the Illinois Watch Co., and had been associated with that company since. He is survived by his widow and four sons.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 27th December 1928
Trev.
Springfield, Illinois
Karl Larsen, veteran watchmaker, employed by the Illinois Watch Co., Springfield, Ill., since May 18, 1887, was fatally injured late the afternoon of Dec. 18, when he was struck by an automobile as he was returning from his work. He later died from the injuries. Mr. Larsen was born in Oslo, Norway, Nov. 20, 1865, and came to this country in 1887, settling in this city. He obtained employment with the Illinois Watch Co., and had been associated with that company since. He is survived by his widow and four sons.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 27th December 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
FRANK SCHALLER
New York
Takes His Own Life
Fearing Blindness, Frank Schaller, Well Known Member of New York Jewelry Trade, Shoots Himself
Using a pistol which he had taken from the office of an uptown jeweler, Frank Schaller, of Phoel & Schaller, manufacturing jewelers, 71 Nassau St., New York, and a well known member of the trade, walked into the washroom on the 15th floor of the French building on Fifth Ave., last Monday afternoon, where he shot and killed himself. Mr. Schaller had no financial or business worries and friends firmly believe that the jeweler took his own life because he feared that he might go totally blind.
For years Mr. Schaller had been blind in one eye, and two months ago was struck by a taxicab and so severely injured that he believed he was gradually loosing the use of his other eye. The accident occurred on a rainy night within a block of his home in Brooklyn. He recalled stepping from the curb and seeing a taxicab approaching but remembered nothing more until he was picked up from the sidewalk shortly after 11 o'clock that night. He was taken to a hospital where it was discovered that he had a big gash underneath his good eye, another cut on his cheek and was severely bruised on other parts of his body.
After being released from the hospital, in about two weeks he returned to his office and was still in bad physical condition. Following the accident his business associates and friends in the trade noticed that Mr. Schaller had become quieter, less active, but more nervous. He was more or less depressed by his condition. It was known among a few of his most intimate acquaintances that he was worried about losing his sight.
On Monday he went to his office as usual, and after getting a few special order pieces which he wanted to deliver to customers, left without any indication of what he intended to do. Shortly after 12 o’clock noon he called at the office of Jules Lintz, jeweler, 551 Fifth Ave., where he frequently visited. After taking the key for the washroom, Mr. Schaller removed his overcoat and throwing it on a table, picked up, unnoticed by Mr. Lintz, a revolver, which the latter kept in his office. A few minutes later several shots were heard and when tenants on the 15th floor of the building reached the washroom, Mr. Schaller was found dead with three bullets in his body. Beside him was the gun which he had taken from Mr Lintz’s office.
Funeral services will be held this morning (Thursday) at 10.30 o’clock at Fairchild’s Chapel, 86 Lefferts Place, Brooklyn. Burial will be private.
Frank Schaller was born in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, N. Y., on April 30, 1873. One of his first positions was with a bank in the downtown district of New York where he acted as a teller. Work on books bothered his eyesight and after becoming blind in one eye he obtained a position as salesman with the firm of John Schumacher. In 1909 he became affiliated with the firm of Rice & Widenmeyer, but later formed a partnership with a Mr. Graze under the style of Graze & Schaller. Not long after this firm was formed, Mr. Schaller became associated with Philip Phoel, and since that time had been engaged in the manufacturing jewelry business under the style of Phoel & Schaller.
Mr. Schaller was widely known in the trade, particularly in the manufacturing branch of the industry. For several years he had been active in the Jewelry Crafts Association, of which organization he was a director. He was also affiliated with the Jewelers 24 Karat Club of New York and the Press Club. Mr. Schaller lived at 474 Third St., Brooklyn.
Deceased is survived by his widow, Grace Schaller, and one brother.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 6th December 1928
Trev.
New York
Takes His Own Life
Fearing Blindness, Frank Schaller, Well Known Member of New York Jewelry Trade, Shoots Himself
Using a pistol which he had taken from the office of an uptown jeweler, Frank Schaller, of Phoel & Schaller, manufacturing jewelers, 71 Nassau St., New York, and a well known member of the trade, walked into the washroom on the 15th floor of the French building on Fifth Ave., last Monday afternoon, where he shot and killed himself. Mr. Schaller had no financial or business worries and friends firmly believe that the jeweler took his own life because he feared that he might go totally blind.
For years Mr. Schaller had been blind in one eye, and two months ago was struck by a taxicab and so severely injured that he believed he was gradually loosing the use of his other eye. The accident occurred on a rainy night within a block of his home in Brooklyn. He recalled stepping from the curb and seeing a taxicab approaching but remembered nothing more until he was picked up from the sidewalk shortly after 11 o'clock that night. He was taken to a hospital where it was discovered that he had a big gash underneath his good eye, another cut on his cheek and was severely bruised on other parts of his body.
After being released from the hospital, in about two weeks he returned to his office and was still in bad physical condition. Following the accident his business associates and friends in the trade noticed that Mr. Schaller had become quieter, less active, but more nervous. He was more or less depressed by his condition. It was known among a few of his most intimate acquaintances that he was worried about losing his sight.
On Monday he went to his office as usual, and after getting a few special order pieces which he wanted to deliver to customers, left without any indication of what he intended to do. Shortly after 12 o’clock noon he called at the office of Jules Lintz, jeweler, 551 Fifth Ave., where he frequently visited. After taking the key for the washroom, Mr. Schaller removed his overcoat and throwing it on a table, picked up, unnoticed by Mr. Lintz, a revolver, which the latter kept in his office. A few minutes later several shots were heard and when tenants on the 15th floor of the building reached the washroom, Mr. Schaller was found dead with three bullets in his body. Beside him was the gun which he had taken from Mr Lintz’s office.
Funeral services will be held this morning (Thursday) at 10.30 o’clock at Fairchild’s Chapel, 86 Lefferts Place, Brooklyn. Burial will be private.
Frank Schaller was born in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, N. Y., on April 30, 1873. One of his first positions was with a bank in the downtown district of New York where he acted as a teller. Work on books bothered his eyesight and after becoming blind in one eye he obtained a position as salesman with the firm of John Schumacher. In 1909 he became affiliated with the firm of Rice & Widenmeyer, but later formed a partnership with a Mr. Graze under the style of Graze & Schaller. Not long after this firm was formed, Mr. Schaller became associated with Philip Phoel, and since that time had been engaged in the manufacturing jewelry business under the style of Phoel & Schaller.
Mr. Schaller was widely known in the trade, particularly in the manufacturing branch of the industry. For several years he had been active in the Jewelry Crafts Association, of which organization he was a director. He was also affiliated with the Jewelers 24 Karat Club of New York and the Press Club. Mr. Schaller lived at 474 Third St., Brooklyn.
Deceased is survived by his widow, Grace Schaller, and one brother.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 6th December 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
J.C. KETTERER
West Street, Midhurst, West Sussex
A sad discovery was made at Midhurst, on the 1st Inst., Mr. J.C. Ketterer, jeweller and watchmaker, of West Street, being found hanging in the back part of his premises. It is stated that Mr. Ketterer had worried a great deal recently on account of the war. He had been in business in the town for many years, and was much respected.
Source: The Jeweller and Metalworker - 15th November 1914
Trev.
West Street, Midhurst, West Sussex
A sad discovery was made at Midhurst, on the 1st Inst., Mr. J.C. Ketterer, jeweller and watchmaker, of West Street, being found hanging in the back part of his premises. It is stated that Mr. Ketterer had worried a great deal recently on account of the war. He had been in business in the town for many years, and was much respected.
Source: The Jeweller and Metalworker - 15th November 1914
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
UNKNOWN
Paddington, London
Following the death of a much loved Alsatian dog, the 23-year-old wife of a Paddington, London, jeweler was found dead from gas poisoning during the week-end. The jeweler said that the dog was run over by a motor truck a few days ago and that the animal bit his wife seven times as she was trying to lift it up. She grieved for the loss of her pet.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th August 1928
Trev.
Paddington, London
Following the death of a much loved Alsatian dog, the 23-year-old wife of a Paddington, London, jeweler was found dead from gas poisoning during the week-end. The jeweler said that the dog was run over by a motor truck a few days ago and that the animal bit his wife seven times as she was trying to lift it up. She grieved for the loss of her pet.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th August 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JACOB PLACKTER
Brookline, Massachusetts
Takes Own Life
Jacob Plackter, Member of Boston Jewelry Trade, Kills Self at His Home in Brookline
Boston, Aug. 11.—Jacob Plackter, jewelry job lot buyer, shot and killed himself at his home on Cappan St., Brookline, the night of Thursday, Aug. 9. He left a note for his wife, who was at their summer home in Nantasket, indicating that he intended to take his life. She hastened to the home in Brookline, but arrived too late.
The news of Mr. Plackter’s death came as a great surprise and painful shock to a great many jewelers. He was so cheerful in nature, and apparently in such good health that no one expected him to come to such an end.
Mr. Plackter, who was about 38 years of age, had offices in the Province building, where he apparently did an extensive business. He was prominent in Masonic circles, being a 32nd degree Mason. He was also a Shriner and belonged to Germania Lodge of Masons, as well as to the Odd Fellows. He was also identified with the Congregation of Mishkan Tefila.
He is survived by his widow and several children to whom the sympathy of the trade is extended. Funeral services will take place tomorrow, Sunday.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th August 1928
Trev.
Brookline, Massachusetts
Takes Own Life
Jacob Plackter, Member of Boston Jewelry Trade, Kills Self at His Home in Brookline
Boston, Aug. 11.—Jacob Plackter, jewelry job lot buyer, shot and killed himself at his home on Cappan St., Brookline, the night of Thursday, Aug. 9. He left a note for his wife, who was at their summer home in Nantasket, indicating that he intended to take his life. She hastened to the home in Brookline, but arrived too late.
The news of Mr. Plackter’s death came as a great surprise and painful shock to a great many jewelers. He was so cheerful in nature, and apparently in such good health that no one expected him to come to such an end.
Mr. Plackter, who was about 38 years of age, had offices in the Province building, where he apparently did an extensive business. He was prominent in Masonic circles, being a 32nd degree Mason. He was also a Shriner and belonged to Germania Lodge of Masons, as well as to the Odd Fellows. He was also identified with the Congregation of Mishkan Tefila.
He is survived by his widow and several children to whom the sympathy of the trade is extended. Funeral services will take place tomorrow, Sunday.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th August 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
EMMETT G. RABERN
Atlanta, Georgia
Emmett G. Rabern, 45, a collector for the jewelry firm of Chapman & Rabern, 79 Edgewood Ave., committed suicide recently by shooting himself. Mr. Rabern, according to J. H. Rabern, a member of the firm, took a pistol from the safe at about 8.30 o’clock in the morning, walked into a small office at the rear of the store, and fired a shot into his head before anyone could stop him. According to his brother, Mr. Rabern had been in poor spirits over financial matters for some time. He died in the ambulance on the way to the hospital, leaving only a brief note for his wife which was later found in a pocket. Mr. Rabern had been employed for some months as a collector for the firm. He is survived by his widow and four children.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 28th June 1928
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Atlanta, Georgia
Emmett G. Rabern, 45, a collector for the jewelry firm of Chapman & Rabern, 79 Edgewood Ave., committed suicide recently by shooting himself. Mr. Rabern, according to J. H. Rabern, a member of the firm, took a pistol from the safe at about 8.30 o’clock in the morning, walked into a small office at the rear of the store, and fired a shot into his head before anyone could stop him. According to his brother, Mr. Rabern had been in poor spirits over financial matters for some time. He died in the ambulance on the way to the hospital, leaving only a brief note for his wife which was later found in a pocket. Mr. Rabern had been employed for some months as a collector for the firm. He is survived by his widow and four children.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 28th June 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
PAUL E. KUNZ
East Orange, New Jersey
Paul E. Kunz, jeweler, living at 190 N. 17th St., East Orange, was run down by an automobile and killed, as he was crossing Park Ave. near his home, Saturday night. He was 65 years old and had lived in East Orange two years, commuting to New York where he was employed. He formerly lived in Maine.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th March 1928
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East Orange, New Jersey
Paul E. Kunz, jeweler, living at 190 N. 17th St., East Orange, was run down by an automobile and killed, as he was crossing Park Ave. near his home, Saturday night. He was 65 years old and had lived in East Orange two years, commuting to New York where he was employed. He formerly lived in Maine.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th March 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
GASTON TRUPHENE
France
Body of French Diamond Dealer Found on Lonely Road Outside of Paris
Paris, FRANCE, March 10.—The discovery of the body of Gaston Truphene, a diamond dealer, half burnt, in a ditch on a lonely road between Melun and Lagny, some miles outside of Paris, should serve as a warning to jewelers, designers and dealers, in the matter of taking precautions. Truphene had 150,000 franes worth of diamonds, 400,000 francs worth of precious stones and a considerable amount of money on him, when he was presumably murdered.
His relations claim that only people connected with the diamond club, which he had left some hours before, could be aware of the amount of gems that he carried on his person. At the same time, there is no doubt that thieves are making a habit of watching people coming out of diamond clubs and banks in Europe, and that robber gangs are being carefully organized to follow and rob these men.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 22nd March 1928
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France
Body of French Diamond Dealer Found on Lonely Road Outside of Paris
Paris, FRANCE, March 10.—The discovery of the body of Gaston Truphene, a diamond dealer, half burnt, in a ditch on a lonely road between Melun and Lagny, some miles outside of Paris, should serve as a warning to jewelers, designers and dealers, in the matter of taking precautions. Truphene had 150,000 franes worth of diamonds, 400,000 francs worth of precious stones and a considerable amount of money on him, when he was presumably murdered.
His relations claim that only people connected with the diamond club, which he had left some hours before, could be aware of the amount of gems that he carried on his person. At the same time, there is no doubt that thieves are making a habit of watching people coming out of diamond clubs and banks in Europe, and that robber gangs are being carefully organized to follow and rob these men.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 22nd March 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JOSEPH ROBINSON
New York
Killed by a Train
New York Diamond Dealer Meets Sudden Death at Summit, N. J., After Leaving Sanitarium
Joseph Robinson, diamond dealer, 35 Maiden Lane, New York, and a resident. of Asbury Park, N. J., was killed last Saturday night by a railroad train at Summit, N. J. A Jewelers' Circular reporter was informed by Mr. Robinson’s legal representative in New York that it had not been determined whether the diamond dealer accidently fell in front of the oncoming train or threw himself on the track.
For some time, Mr. Robinson had been confined to a sanitarium in Summit, N. J., and on Saturday night, it is understood he telephoned to his family in Asbury Park, stating that he was somewhat depressed and would probably come home. He left the sanitarium and purchased his railroad ticket to Asbury Park when he was killed. It is claimed that Mr. Robinson was seen to remove his coat and then throw himself on the track as the train approached. His death was instantaneous and the body was badly mangled. The remains were removed to Brewster’s Morgue in Summit where they were identified.
Several months ago Mr. Robinson reported to the police that he had suffered a robbery while riding on a subway train in New York. At that time, he informed the authorities that a wallet containing loose diamonds had been taken from his pocket. Shortly afterwards bankruptcy proceedings were started. Mr. Robinson was placed in Dr. Prout’s Sanitarium in Summit as the result of a nervous breakdown and had been confined there almost continuously since last December.
Mr. Robinson was 65 years old at the time of his death. He made his home in Asbury Park for about eight years, coming to New York each day to transact business. He was prominent in Asbury Park and was associated with a number of organizations in that city.
Deceased is survived by his widow, three sons, two daughters, three sisters and a brother.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th June 1928
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New York
Killed by a Train
New York Diamond Dealer Meets Sudden Death at Summit, N. J., After Leaving Sanitarium
Joseph Robinson, diamond dealer, 35 Maiden Lane, New York, and a resident. of Asbury Park, N. J., was killed last Saturday night by a railroad train at Summit, N. J. A Jewelers' Circular reporter was informed by Mr. Robinson’s legal representative in New York that it had not been determined whether the diamond dealer accidently fell in front of the oncoming train or threw himself on the track.
For some time, Mr. Robinson had been confined to a sanitarium in Summit, N. J., and on Saturday night, it is understood he telephoned to his family in Asbury Park, stating that he was somewhat depressed and would probably come home. He left the sanitarium and purchased his railroad ticket to Asbury Park when he was killed. It is claimed that Mr. Robinson was seen to remove his coat and then throw himself on the track as the train approached. His death was instantaneous and the body was badly mangled. The remains were removed to Brewster’s Morgue in Summit where they were identified.
Several months ago Mr. Robinson reported to the police that he had suffered a robbery while riding on a subway train in New York. At that time, he informed the authorities that a wallet containing loose diamonds had been taken from his pocket. Shortly afterwards bankruptcy proceedings were started. Mr. Robinson was placed in Dr. Prout’s Sanitarium in Summit as the result of a nervous breakdown and had been confined there almost continuously since last December.
Mr. Robinson was 65 years old at the time of his death. He made his home in Asbury Park for about eight years, coming to New York each day to transact business. He was prominent in Asbury Park and was associated with a number of organizations in that city.
Deceased is survived by his widow, three sons, two daughters, three sisters and a brother.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th June 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JOHN R. PINNER
Suffolk, Virginia
The body of John R. Pinner, a jewelry salesman at Suffolk, Va., was found in a woodshed in the rear of his home in that city recently by a boarder in the house. After a preliminary investigation in which a 32-caliber pistol was found by his side. Dr. O. R. Yates expressed the opinion that he had taken his own life. He is survived by his widow and two small children.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th June 1928
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Suffolk, Virginia
The body of John R. Pinner, a jewelry salesman at Suffolk, Va., was found in a woodshed in the rear of his home in that city recently by a boarder in the house. After a preliminary investigation in which a 32-caliber pistol was found by his side. Dr. O. R. Yates expressed the opinion that he had taken his own life. He is survived by his widow and two small children.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th June 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
E.A. HORSTMEYER
St. Louis
Death of E. A. Horstmeyer
St. Louis Retailer Succumbs to Injuries Received in Automobile Accident
St. Louis, June 8.—Members of the trade heard with regret this week of the sudden death by accident of Edward A. Horstmeyer, retail jeweler, 5958 Easton Ave. With his family and some friends he toured last Sunday to Jefferson City, Mo., the State capital and driving home, the car skidded and was overturned, pinning him down and inflicting injuries which caused his death at St. Mary’s Hospital, in Jefferson City, where he was taken. His wife suffered a fractured arm and a daughter was cut and bruised while three friends in the car were badly shaken up and bruised, but none seriously injured.
The remains were sent here for interment and the funeral was attended by members of the trade, who had known him in business.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th June 1928
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St. Louis
Death of E. A. Horstmeyer
St. Louis Retailer Succumbs to Injuries Received in Automobile Accident
St. Louis, June 8.—Members of the trade heard with regret this week of the sudden death by accident of Edward A. Horstmeyer, retail jeweler, 5958 Easton Ave. With his family and some friends he toured last Sunday to Jefferson City, Mo., the State capital and driving home, the car skidded and was overturned, pinning him down and inflicting injuries which caused his death at St. Mary’s Hospital, in Jefferson City, where he was taken. His wife suffered a fractured arm and a daughter was cut and bruised while three friends in the car were badly shaken up and bruised, but none seriously injured.
The remains were sent here for interment and the funeral was attended by members of the trade, who had known him in business.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 14th June 1928
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
EDWIN SHELBY
Ludington, Michigan
Killed in Auto Accident
Edwin Shelby, Ludington, Mich., Meets Sudden Death When Car Goes Into a Ditch
ELGIN, ILL.—As briefly reported in the last issue of The Jewelers' Circular, Edwin Shelby, aged 35 years, son-in-law of Otto A. Starke, Ludington, Mich., former prominent Elgin resident, was instantly killed last Monday in an automobile accident at Muskegon, Mich.
Mr. Shelby and Mr. Starke, Jr., were returning from Grand Rapids when the machine went into a ditch.
Mr. Starke, after several years as master mechanic at the Illinois Watch Case Co., in association with Alfred Church, organized the Star Watch Case Co. of this city which a few years ago was transferred to Ludington, where Mr. Shelby was associated with Mr. Starke, president of the company, in its operation.
Besides his widow, Mr. Shelby leaves two sons.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 19th January 1928
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Ludington, Michigan
Killed in Auto Accident
Edwin Shelby, Ludington, Mich., Meets Sudden Death When Car Goes Into a Ditch
ELGIN, ILL.—As briefly reported in the last issue of The Jewelers' Circular, Edwin Shelby, aged 35 years, son-in-law of Otto A. Starke, Ludington, Mich., former prominent Elgin resident, was instantly killed last Monday in an automobile accident at Muskegon, Mich.
Mr. Shelby and Mr. Starke, Jr., were returning from Grand Rapids when the machine went into a ditch.
Mr. Starke, after several years as master mechanic at the Illinois Watch Case Co., in association with Alfred Church, organized the Star Watch Case Co. of this city which a few years ago was transferred to Ludington, where Mr. Shelby was associated with Mr. Starke, president of the company, in its operation.
Besides his widow, Mr. Shelby leaves two sons.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 19th January 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
ROBERT L. HASTINGS
New York
Secretary to New York Jewelry Manufacturer Found Dead in a Hotel
Under what are regarded as most unusual circumstances, Robert L. Hastings, personal secretary to Walter P. McTeigue of Walter P. McTeigue, Inc., manufacturing jeweler, 36 W. 47th St., New York, was found dead last Sunday in his room at the Adrienne Hotel, 2055 Seventh Ave. The medical examiner after performing an autopsy, has decided that death was due to “manual strangulation,” while the police express the belief that Mr. Hastings, who was suffering from a cold, may have strangled himself by gripping his throat during a spasm of coughing. The many friends of Mr. Hastings however are not inclined to accept this theory, particularly in view of the fact that a number of odd rings, of which the secretary was a collector, are missing.
Since boyhood, Mr. McTeigue and Mr. Hastings had been friends. About 18 years ago Mr. Hastings became Mr. McTeigue’s personal secretary, and since that time had been connected with the McTeigue firm.
His hobby was the collecting of odd rings and other pieces of jewelry and these he exhibited to his friends with great pride.
Mr. Hastings was a bachelor and lived alone in a room at the Adrienne Hotel. He was born in this country and was 59 years old. He is survived only by a few nieces and nephews.
He was an accomplished musician and played the organ at St. Aloysius’s R. C. Church, from where he was buried yesterday (Wednesday).
A detective from Police Headquarters has been assigned to work on the case.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th February 1928
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New York
Secretary to New York Jewelry Manufacturer Found Dead in a Hotel
Under what are regarded as most unusual circumstances, Robert L. Hastings, personal secretary to Walter P. McTeigue of Walter P. McTeigue, Inc., manufacturing jeweler, 36 W. 47th St., New York, was found dead last Sunday in his room at the Adrienne Hotel, 2055 Seventh Ave. The medical examiner after performing an autopsy, has decided that death was due to “manual strangulation,” while the police express the belief that Mr. Hastings, who was suffering from a cold, may have strangled himself by gripping his throat during a spasm of coughing. The many friends of Mr. Hastings however are not inclined to accept this theory, particularly in view of the fact that a number of odd rings, of which the secretary was a collector, are missing.
Since boyhood, Mr. McTeigue and Mr. Hastings had been friends. About 18 years ago Mr. Hastings became Mr. McTeigue’s personal secretary, and since that time had been connected with the McTeigue firm.
His hobby was the collecting of odd rings and other pieces of jewelry and these he exhibited to his friends with great pride.
Mr. Hastings was a bachelor and lived alone in a room at the Adrienne Hotel. He was born in this country and was 59 years old. He is survived only by a few nieces and nephews.
He was an accomplished musician and played the organ at St. Aloysius’s R. C. Church, from where he was buried yesterday (Wednesday).
A detective from Police Headquarters has been assigned to work on the case.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th February 1928
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Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
CARL BRUNSTERMANN
Augusta, Georgia
Word has been received here of the death of Carl Brunstermann, Augusta, Ga., jeweler, who was struck and instantly killed by an automobile while walking along a road at the edge of the city. W. S. Rogers, the driver of the car, was exonerated by a coroner’s jury.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 26th July 1928
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Augusta, Georgia
Word has been received here of the death of Carl Brunstermann, Augusta, Ga., jeweler, who was struck and instantly killed by an automobile while walking along a road at the edge of the city. W. S. Rogers, the driver of the car, was exonerated by a coroner’s jury.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 26th July 1928
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