THOMAS J. THOMPSON
Washington, D.C.
Thomas J. Thompson, Washington, D. C., Watchmaker, Commits Suicide at His Home
Washington, D. C., Feb. 8.—Thomas J. Thompson, an old and well-known watchmaker, committed suicide early yesterday morning at his home, 1235 I St., by hanging himself from a water pipe in the kitchen. Despondency and worry are said to have caused the act, as he was in straitened circumstances financially, and had been threatened with eviction.
The deceased was born in England 64 years ago, and after learning his trade in that country came to the United States and started in business. About 10 years ago he met with reverses, and from that time on had an uphill fight. At the time of his trouble he moved to the northeast section of the city, where he lived until his death. For some time past he had had a watchmaking establishment at Rockville, Md. About six months ago Mr. Thompson’s sight began to fail and he had been practically confined to his home ever since.
Mr. Thompson is survived by a widow and a son.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th February 1905
Trev.
Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
W.N. McALLISTER
New Albany, Mississippi
Mississippi Jeweler Murdered by Burglar Who Had Hidden in His Store
Memphis, Tenn., Feb. 12.—The murder of W. N. McAllister, a jeweler, at New Albany, Miss., 60 miles east of Memphis, has thrown that town in a turmoil of excitement, and posses of armed men are scouring the northwestern section of the State for the murderer, being assisted by a pack of bloodhounds hired for the purpose.
McAllister’s body was discovered early this morning. Circumstances indicate that McAllister was shot by a burglar, who had secreted himself in the jewelry store, and that after being shot, McAllister attempted to reach the house of a friend nearby, but fell dead on his way there.
A consignment of diamonds received in the last few days is thought to have been the booty that prompted the deed, but investigation showed nothing missing from the safe.
Mr. McAllister began business here in 1893, succeeding G. L. Seay. Early in 1897, McAllister sold out and in the Fall of the same year became associated with his brother, A. L. McAllister, as McAllister Bros. In 1898 this firm dissolved and W. N. McAllister continued alone. He was a single man. and stood high in the community as an honest and industrious citizen.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th February 1905
Trev.
New Albany, Mississippi
Mississippi Jeweler Murdered by Burglar Who Had Hidden in His Store
Memphis, Tenn., Feb. 12.—The murder of W. N. McAllister, a jeweler, at New Albany, Miss., 60 miles east of Memphis, has thrown that town in a turmoil of excitement, and posses of armed men are scouring the northwestern section of the State for the murderer, being assisted by a pack of bloodhounds hired for the purpose.
McAllister’s body was discovered early this morning. Circumstances indicate that McAllister was shot by a burglar, who had secreted himself in the jewelry store, and that after being shot, McAllister attempted to reach the house of a friend nearby, but fell dead on his way there.
A consignment of diamonds received in the last few days is thought to have been the booty that prompted the deed, but investigation showed nothing missing from the safe.
Mr. McAllister began business here in 1893, succeeding G. L. Seay. Early in 1897, McAllister sold out and in the Fall of the same year became associated with his brother, A. L. McAllister, as McAllister Bros. In 1898 this firm dissolved and W. N. McAllister continued alone. He was a single man. and stood high in the community as an honest and industrious citizen.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th February 1905
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JOHN CORBELAS and NICHOLAS FUTORUS
Meriden, Connecticut
John Corbelas and Nicholas Futorus, employed by the International Silver Co., Meriden, while returning home from their work, one night last week, engaged in a fight, in which both men drew knives and badly slashed each other. Futorus was removed to his home in a serious condition, and Corbelas was locked up after having his wounds dressed.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th February 1905
Trev.
Meriden, Connecticut
John Corbelas and Nicholas Futorus, employed by the International Silver Co., Meriden, while returning home from their work, one night last week, engaged in a fight, in which both men drew knives and badly slashed each other. Futorus was removed to his home in a serious condition, and Corbelas was locked up after having his wounds dressed.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 15th February 1905
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
LEON JODRY
Topeka, Kansas
Leon Jodry, who was formerly employed as a jeweler in New York, and left this city 20 years ago, was murdered on Monday of this week at his repair shop in Topeka, Kan. The robber attacked Mr. Jodry in the rear of the store and broke in his skull with a sandbag. Eugene and Ariste Jodry, of New York, are brothers of the murdered man, and he has also two sisters living in this city, Miss Lea J. Jodry, 314 W. 125th St., and Mrs. D. A. Mackey, 351 W. 56th St.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 1st March 1905
Trev.
Topeka, Kansas
Leon Jodry, who was formerly employed as a jeweler in New York, and left this city 20 years ago, was murdered on Monday of this week at his repair shop in Topeka, Kan. The robber attacked Mr. Jodry in the rear of the store and broke in his skull with a sandbag. Eugene and Ariste Jodry, of New York, are brothers of the murdered man, and he has also two sisters living in this city, Miss Lea J. Jodry, 314 W. 125th St., and Mrs. D. A. Mackey, 351 W. 56th St.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 1st March 1905
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
CHARLES OWENS
Waynetown, Indiana
A Bloodthirsty Jeweler
Crawfordsville, Ind., Aug. 2.—Charles Owens, a jeweler of Waynetown, quarreled with Dora Scott, a farmer, last night, and drawing a knife cut him almost to pieces, hacking off an ear, his nose, and planting twelve deep stabs in his face and breast. Scott is still alive, but Is dying. Owens was being brought to the Crawfordsville jail today, when he overcame the constable having him in charge and escaped. He is still at large, with the country full of men searching for him. Owens, although wealthy and well connected, is a desperate character and carries in his body several bullets as reminders of former encounters. He came to Waynetown two years ago from Cincinnati and married into one of the best families in the county. Scott was a peaceful and respectable man.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 10th August 1892
Trev.
Waynetown, Indiana
A Bloodthirsty Jeweler
Crawfordsville, Ind., Aug. 2.—Charles Owens, a jeweler of Waynetown, quarreled with Dora Scott, a farmer, last night, and drawing a knife cut him almost to pieces, hacking off an ear, his nose, and planting twelve deep stabs in his face and breast. Scott is still alive, but Is dying. Owens was being brought to the Crawfordsville jail today, when he overcame the constable having him in charge and escaped. He is still at large, with the country full of men searching for him. Owens, although wealthy and well connected, is a desperate character and carries in his body several bullets as reminders of former encounters. He came to Waynetown two years ago from Cincinnati and married into one of the best families in the county. Scott was a peaceful and respectable man.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 10th August 1892
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
LOUIS BLOCK
New York
Louis Block, who was for many years well known in the Maiden Lane district, committed suicide at his home, 3 W. 117th St., early last week, and the funeral services were held Feb. 4, the interment being in Washington Cemetery. Mr. Block, who was about 34 years old, was born in Elmira, and when a young man was employed by Roseman & Levy, remaining with the concern and its successor, A. Roseman, from 1886 to 1902. During this time he became well known in the jewelry district and made many friends. After quitting Mr. Roseman he went into the real estate business, but was not successful, and it is believed that financial troubles preyed upon his mind. The deceased was married about five years ago, and is survived by a widow and a young son.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 12th February 1908
Trev.
New York
Louis Block, who was for many years well known in the Maiden Lane district, committed suicide at his home, 3 W. 117th St., early last week, and the funeral services were held Feb. 4, the interment being in Washington Cemetery. Mr. Block, who was about 34 years old, was born in Elmira, and when a young man was employed by Roseman & Levy, remaining with the concern and its successor, A. Roseman, from 1886 to 1902. During this time he became well known in the jewelry district and made many friends. After quitting Mr. Roseman he went into the real estate business, but was not successful, and it is believed that financial troubles preyed upon his mind. The deceased was married about five years ago, and is survived by a widow and a young son.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 12th February 1908
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
THOMAS TRACY TRESS
Columbus, Ohio
Thos. T. Tress Accidentally Kills Himself With Revolver He Thought Was Unloaded
Columbus, O., April 30.—Members of the jewelry trade in Columbus were greatly shocked this week by the sudden accidental death, Wednesday evening, of Thomas Tracy Tress, a well-known retail jeweler. Mr. Tress returned to his home from his jewelry store, 99 N. High St., and just as
supper was announced he remarked that he would change his collar before going down to the table. He went to the dresser in his room and there picked up a 38 caliber Iver Johnson revolver which some member of the family had laid on the top, having removed it from its usual place in the drawer.
Mr. Tress jokingly pointed the gun at his wife, remarking that it was harmless and that it was not loaded. Mrs. Tress, however, became frightened and asked him not to point at her any more. Then, to convince her that her fears were groundless, the jeweler again told her that it was not dangerous and pointed the weapon toward himself and pulled the trigger. There was a flash, followed by a muffled report, while a pallor overspread Mr. Tress’s face, and his wife became almost panic stricken. Mr. Tress walked steadily across the room, remarking, as he went, that he had been foolish, reached a couch and lay down. Blood streamed from his breast and his wife immediately summoned, medical aid. When the physicians arrived they found Mr. Tress still alive, but, although they used every restorative, death ensued within 45 minutes after the accident.
Thos. Tracy Tress was born in Columbus 39 years ago and after completing his education engaged in the jewelry business with his father, George T. Tress, who died about two years ago. He was a member of the Columbus Club, the Board of Trade, the Mt. Vernon Commandery, K. T., and also of Aladdin Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
Mt. Vernon Commandery, No. 1, Knights Templars, had charge of the funeral services over the remains, this afternoon, at the deceased’s residence, 77 Jefferson Ave. Religious services were conducted by Rev. J. G. King, of the Neil Ave. Presbyterian Church.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 4th May 1904
Trev.
Columbus, Ohio
Thos. T. Tress Accidentally Kills Himself With Revolver He Thought Was Unloaded
Columbus, O., April 30.—Members of the jewelry trade in Columbus were greatly shocked this week by the sudden accidental death, Wednesday evening, of Thomas Tracy Tress, a well-known retail jeweler. Mr. Tress returned to his home from his jewelry store, 99 N. High St., and just as
supper was announced he remarked that he would change his collar before going down to the table. He went to the dresser in his room and there picked up a 38 caliber Iver Johnson revolver which some member of the family had laid on the top, having removed it from its usual place in the drawer.
Mr. Tress jokingly pointed the gun at his wife, remarking that it was harmless and that it was not loaded. Mrs. Tress, however, became frightened and asked him not to point at her any more. Then, to convince her that her fears were groundless, the jeweler again told her that it was not dangerous and pointed the weapon toward himself and pulled the trigger. There was a flash, followed by a muffled report, while a pallor overspread Mr. Tress’s face, and his wife became almost panic stricken. Mr. Tress walked steadily across the room, remarking, as he went, that he had been foolish, reached a couch and lay down. Blood streamed from his breast and his wife immediately summoned, medical aid. When the physicians arrived they found Mr. Tress still alive, but, although they used every restorative, death ensued within 45 minutes after the accident.
Thos. Tracy Tress was born in Columbus 39 years ago and after completing his education engaged in the jewelry business with his father, George T. Tress, who died about two years ago. He was a member of the Columbus Club, the Board of Trade, the Mt. Vernon Commandery, K. T., and also of Aladdin Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
Mt. Vernon Commandery, No. 1, Knights Templars, had charge of the funeral services over the remains, this afternoon, at the deceased’s residence, 77 Jefferson Ave. Religious services were conducted by Rev. J. G. King, of the Neil Ave. Presbyterian Church.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 4th May 1904
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
T.H. BENNINGER
Cleburne, Texas
During an electric storm, which visited Cleburne, Tex., last week, T. H. Benninger was badly injured by a bolt of lightning. Physicians, who attended him, are of the opinion that the electricity came through the wires in an electric clock which hung on the wall, and in that way was communicated to Benninger, who was standing near it.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 11th May 1904
Trev.
Cleburne, Texas
During an electric storm, which visited Cleburne, Tex., last week, T. H. Benninger was badly injured by a bolt of lightning. Physicians, who attended him, are of the opinion that the electricity came through the wires in an electric clock which hung on the wall, and in that way was communicated to Benninger, who was standing near it.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 11th May 1904
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
ISAAC WEINSTEIN
New York
A man who is said to be Isaac Weinstein, a jewelry designer and diamond setter, was found dead at 670 E. 171st St., last week, from carbolic acid poisoning. It is said that Weinstein was at one time in the jewelry business in Paris, France, but came to America, several years ago, and engaged in business in Canton, O. Prior to his death the deceased had been twice in an asylum for mental trouble.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 11th May 1904
Trev.
New York
A man who is said to be Isaac Weinstein, a jewelry designer and diamond setter, was found dead at 670 E. 171st St., last week, from carbolic acid poisoning. It is said that Weinstein was at one time in the jewelry business in Paris, France, but came to America, several years ago, and engaged in business in Canton, O. Prior to his death the deceased had been twice in an asylum for mental trouble.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 11th May 1904
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JOHN FINNEGAN
Marion, Connecticut
John Finnegan, one of the oldest employes of the Meriden Britannia Co., and a well-known resident of Marion, committed suicide, last week, at that place after having been ill for a year. The deceased is believed to have been rendered temporarily insane, owing to his sufferings. Mr. Finnegan was 75 years of age and was a veteran of the Civil War. He was a member of Marion Post, G. A. R. He enlisted April 25, 1861, in Company B, Third Connecticut Volunteers, and was discharged Aug. 12, 1861. He re-enlisted in Company F, 15th Connecticut Volunteers, in 1862, and served three years, until he was finally mustered out in 1865 at the close of the war.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 4th August 1909
Trev.
Marion, Connecticut
John Finnegan, one of the oldest employes of the Meriden Britannia Co., and a well-known resident of Marion, committed suicide, last week, at that place after having been ill for a year. The deceased is believed to have been rendered temporarily insane, owing to his sufferings. Mr. Finnegan was 75 years of age and was a veteran of the Civil War. He was a member of Marion Post, G. A. R. He enlisted April 25, 1861, in Company B, Third Connecticut Volunteers, and was discharged Aug. 12, 1861. He re-enlisted in Company F, 15th Connecticut Volunteers, in 1862, and served three years, until he was finally mustered out in 1865 at the close of the war.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 4th August 1909
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
LUCIANO CAMERINO
New York
Suffering from a fractured skull and a bullet wound in the abdomen, alleged to have been inflicted by Vincenzo Perillo, his father-in-law, Luciano Camerino, a jeweler, at 596 E. 183d St., was taken to Fordham Hospital, Monday. He was reported dying later. Perillo was locked up after a fierce struggle with Policeman Traynor, of the Tremont station, in the jewelry store, during which the valuable stock in the place was scattered over the floor when the show cases were smashed. Perillo charged that Camerino, who married his daughter a year ago, borrowed $500 from him and has since refused to pay it. The elder man entered the store and demanded his money, Monday. When it was refused, it is charged, he struck his son-in-law on the head with an iron bar and then fired three shots at him.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th June 1909
Trev.
New York
Suffering from a fractured skull and a bullet wound in the abdomen, alleged to have been inflicted by Vincenzo Perillo, his father-in-law, Luciano Camerino, a jeweler, at 596 E. 183d St., was taken to Fordham Hospital, Monday. He was reported dying later. Perillo was locked up after a fierce struggle with Policeman Traynor, of the Tremont station, in the jewelry store, during which the valuable stock in the place was scattered over the floor when the show cases were smashed. Perillo charged that Camerino, who married his daughter a year ago, borrowed $500 from him and has since refused to pay it. The elder man entered the store and demanded his money, Monday. When it was refused, it is charged, he struck his son-in-law on the head with an iron bar and then fired three shots at him.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 16th June 1909
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JOHN O. MERRICK
Newark, New Jersey
John O. Merrick, 79 Greene St., remains in a serious condition at St. Barnabas Hospital, the victim of an explosion of an alcohol lamp in his room, last week. Mr. Merrick is 88 years old and has been employed as a jeweler for 50 years. He was saved from death only by the prompt arrival of Mrs. Mary Smith, who keeps the boarding house in which he lived. She and friends whom she had summoned in response to his cries found the aged man a living torch writhing on the floor. Everything in the room was ablaze. Men from nearby factories extinguished the flames with hand apparatus, and the first precinct ambulance was summoned. The mishap occurred while Merrick was preparing his breakfast. When the lamp exploded the bottom of a half-gallon can, out of which he was pouring oil, struck him in the face and he was blown across the room.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 21st July 1909
Trev.
Newark, New Jersey
John O. Merrick, 79 Greene St., remains in a serious condition at St. Barnabas Hospital, the victim of an explosion of an alcohol lamp in his room, last week. Mr. Merrick is 88 years old and has been employed as a jeweler for 50 years. He was saved from death only by the prompt arrival of Mrs. Mary Smith, who keeps the boarding house in which he lived. She and friends whom she had summoned in response to his cries found the aged man a living torch writhing on the floor. Everything in the room was ablaze. Men from nearby factories extinguished the flames with hand apparatus, and the first precinct ambulance was summoned. The mishap occurred while Merrick was preparing his breakfast. When the lamp exploded the bottom of a half-gallon can, out of which he was pouring oil, struck him in the face and he was blown across the room.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 21st July 1909
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
IMRI DUNN
Bloomington, Illinois
Miss Estella Dunn, aged 32 years, daughter of Imri Dunn, a jeweler at Bloomington, Ill., met a tragic death in Milwaukee, last week, when she jumped from a second story window of the public museum. The young woman, who was temporarily deranged, had been an inmate of the Milwaukee sanitorium at Wauwatosa for some time.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 21st July 1909
Trev.
Bloomington, Illinois
Miss Estella Dunn, aged 32 years, daughter of Imri Dunn, a jeweler at Bloomington, Ill., met a tragic death in Milwaukee, last week, when she jumped from a second story window of the public museum. The young woman, who was temporarily deranged, had been an inmate of the Milwaukee sanitorium at Wauwatosa for some time.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 21st July 1909
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
C.A. AGNEW
Minneapolis
C. A. Agnew, a manufacturing jeweler, committed suicide at his rooms. 211½ Nicollet Ave.. Minneapolis, by inhaling gas. He left a letter stating that enemies were pursuing him and he sought relief in suicide. No relatives are known.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 21st July 1909
Trev.
Minneapolis
C. A. Agnew, a manufacturing jeweler, committed suicide at his rooms. 211½ Nicollet Ave.. Minneapolis, by inhaling gas. He left a letter stating that enemies were pursuing him and he sought relief in suicide. No relatives are known.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 21st July 1909
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
ELAM CHAPIN
East Hartford, Connecticut
Elam Chapin, president of the Good Samaritan Society of East Hartford, met with a serious accident last week. While standing upon some machinery at the silversmith shop where he was at work, his foot slipped, and he fell backward to the floor, striking his back on a water pail, and injuring himself internally. It is feared he will not survive.
Source: Boston Evening Transcript - 5th February 1873
Trev.
East Hartford, Connecticut
Elam Chapin, president of the Good Samaritan Society of East Hartford, met with a serious accident last week. While standing upon some machinery at the silversmith shop where he was at work, his foot slipped, and he fell backward to the floor, striking his back on a water pail, and injuring himself internally. It is feared he will not survive.
Source: Boston Evening Transcript - 5th February 1873
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
JAMES NICHOLS
Lyons, New York
One Young Man Shoots and Kills Another in the Street
Clyde, N. Y., Feb. 8.—James B. Nichols, a young man of this village, was shot and instantly killed by Fred H. Childs, son of Sylvester J. Childs, a jeweler of this place. Childs passed Nichols on the street and fired one shot from behind. When Nichols turned around, Childs fired two more shots into his abdomen, which caused death. Trouble had been brewing between them for some time, Childs claiming that Nichols had been circulating stories derogatory to himself. The murderer was jailed.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 14th February 1894
The murder trial of Fred. S. Childs, who shot and killed James Nichols, jeweler, Lyons, N. Y., came to a sudden termination on Friday. A commission was appointed to examine Childs and he was pronounced insane, and sent to Matreawan by the judge. Upon his discharge from the State Asylum of that place, he is to be turned over to the sheriff of the county.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 9th May 1894
Trev.
Lyons, New York
One Young Man Shoots and Kills Another in the Street
Clyde, N. Y., Feb. 8.—James B. Nichols, a young man of this village, was shot and instantly killed by Fred H. Childs, son of Sylvester J. Childs, a jeweler of this place. Childs passed Nichols on the street and fired one shot from behind. When Nichols turned around, Childs fired two more shots into his abdomen, which caused death. Trouble had been brewing between them for some time, Childs claiming that Nichols had been circulating stories derogatory to himself. The murderer was jailed.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 14th February 1894
The murder trial of Fred. S. Childs, who shot and killed James Nichols, jeweler, Lyons, N. Y., came to a sudden termination on Friday. A commission was appointed to examine Childs and he was pronounced insane, and sent to Matreawan by the judge. Upon his discharge from the State Asylum of that place, he is to be turned over to the sheriff of the county.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 9th May 1894
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
C.F. LEOBUITY
Canton, Ohio
Jeweler C. F. Leobuity Killed by a Train
Canton, O., May 17.—C. F. Leobuity, a jeweler, who came here from Cincinnati a few years ago, was struck by a Cleveland and Canton passenger train Monday night and instantly killed. He was 73 years of age, and, being deaf, did not hear the train approaching.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 23rd May 1894
Trev.
Canton, Ohio
Jeweler C. F. Leobuity Killed by a Train
Canton, O., May 17.—C. F. Leobuity, a jeweler, who came here from Cincinnati a few years ago, was struck by a Cleveland and Canton passenger train Monday night and instantly killed. He was 73 years of age, and, being deaf, did not hear the train approaching.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 23rd May 1894
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
FREDERICK I. MARCY
Providence, Rhode Island
Suicide of Frederick I. Marcy
Providence, R. I., Nov. 4. At an early hour his morning the community was startled by the sad news of the death of Frederick I. Marcy, for a number of years one of the most prominent manufacturing jewelers of this city. His inanimate body was found in his office at 59 Page St., where for more than a year his factory has been located, at 2 o’clock this morning. He had committed suicide by inhaling the gas which came from four gas jets turned on full force. Despondency is attributed as the cause of the deed.
Mr. Marcy left his home on Portland St. yesterday morning about 8 o’clock, as usual, to go to his business, although his shop on Page St., in common with others, was shut down for the day, on account of election. Though it had been his custom to come home to dinner, no alarm was felt when he did not return at noon, as he was greatly interested in politics. When he had not returned at night his family began to be alarmed. Their fears were due to the fact that he had talked very despondently about his business lately and had mentioned death as the only solution of his troubles. About 10 o’clock last night his two sons, Harry and Fred., went down street looking for him. They visited a number of places where he was well known, but did not find him. Their fears increased and they went to Mr. Marcy’s office, on the fourth floor of the building at 59 Page St., accompanied by an officer from the Central Police Station. They noticed that the odor of gas was very strong in the hallway and when they found the office door locked they were afraid that their worst fears had been confirmed. They burst open the door to find that such was the case.
Mr. Marcy was found sitting in a chair dead. The cocks of all four of the gas jets were turned on as far as possible. He had wheeled the chair around until his back was against a roll-top desk, and the left hand was resting on the rest board. His head had dropped over on the right side. His hat lay on a table near him, and from his position it looked as though he had deliberately turned on the gas and then seated himself in the chair to die. Medical Examiner Palmer was notified, and, after viewing the remains, allowed the grief-stricken family to take possession of them. Mr. Marcy leaves a widow and three sons, two of whom, Harry and Fred., are bank clerks, while the third is a schoolboy.
The sudden taking off of Mr. Marcy removes from the community a man who has been closely allied with the jewelry industiy of the State for more than a quarter of a century. No better known or more congenial artisan than he has participated in the business life of this city, and the ending of his career is deeply commiserated by all who knew him. As has been the business experience of several of our manufacturing jewelers during the past few years, Mr. Marcy suffered from the depression of the trade, and undoubtedly the rash act that caused his death was the result of, perhaps, imaginary further depression yet to come in the business community. Those knowing the deceased intimately cannot but believe that his hand was raised against himself in a moment of mental aberration, and all who enjoyed his confidence and friendship well ever hold his memory in loving consideration.
Like a majority of the leading men of Rhode Island, Mr. Marcy was country-born and bred. He was born May 13, 1838, at Hartland, Windsor county, Vermont, and was educated in the district schools of his native town. Until he was 21 years of age he remained with his father, working on the farm. Having attained his majority he went to Medfield, Mass., where for four years he was employed by a dealer in tinware, named D. Hoisington. In 1863 he accepted a position as traveling salesman with James H. Sturdy, then a manufacturing jeweler in Attleboro, Mass. At the expiration of one year he purchased an interest in the business, becoming Mr. Sturdy’s partner, and the firm name was changed to Sturdy & Marcy. This co-partnership remained in force only a few months, when the senior member disposed of his interest to W. A. Sturdy, and for two years the business was continued without change of firm name. In 1867 Mr. Sturdy became the sole owner of the business, Mr. Marcy retiring, and, with his first partner, James H. Sturdy, removed to this city and located at 95 Pine St., and began the manufacture of jewelry under the firm name of Sturdy & Marcy. Mr. Marcy represented the firm on the road, and Mr. Sturdy superintended the factory until his retirement in 1877.
In 1878 Charles H. Smith, who had been Mr. Marcy’s salesman, was given an interest in the concern under the firm name of F. I. Marcy & Co., and remained a partner until 1882, when he retired. Mr. Marcy then continued the business alone, manufacturing a general line of jewelry, such as the Acme lever button, which he turned out in immense quantities every day, the line including about 6,000 different designs and patterns. It was at this time Mr. Marcy was at the zenith of his business power. The New York office was at 1½ Maiden Lane, and several salesmen were employed in traveling to attend to the wants of the customers of the house throughout the United States. The trade of the concern extended to Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe and Australia, and the goods manufactured by the firm enjoyed a high reputation in the market and had the full confidence of the trade.
After a few years the button business began to wane, cut prices ruined the profits and the market began to drop. In hopes to revive the trade, Mr. Marcy spent thousands of dollars, but all to no purpose, and with a number of other concerns that had backed jobbing and retail houses throughout the country heavily, he was, about six years ago, forced to succumb before the waves of business depression. He engaged in the insurance business for two or three years, and finally, about a year ago, by the assistance of friends, he re-entered the manufacturing jewelry business at 59 Page St., but the times were unauspicious for a successful trade, and he had simply plodded hopelessly along, patiently awaiting a turn of the tide that would bring his renewed prosperity. But the fates were seemingly against him, for from being a staunch lifelong Republican, he became, a few months ago, a pronounced Free Silver Democrat, a policy embraced by him, it is believed, in the same spirit that a drowning man clutches a straw, in hopes that it would, if accepted by the country at the polls, bring him a revival of business. When the returns began to come in and it became evident that the Sound Money platform was certain of winning he is thought to have given way entirely to his despondency and committed his rash act.
Mr. Marcy was one of the original members of the New England Manufacturing Jewelers’ Association, and was always active and prominent in its festivities. When the Manufacturing Jewelers' Board of Trade was first spoken of, he was one of its staunchest advocates, and upon its organization was elected its first vice-president. He entered public life in 1878, and for several years, up to the time when he met with business reverses, he was very prominent, and he was known to the citizens of this community as a busy, useful and influential man. In 1878 he was elected a member of the City Council from the Sixth Ward, and continued to represent that ward for a number of years. In 1879 he was chosen chairman of the committee on education.
In the same year he was appointed a member of the committee on parks and reappointed Jan. 1, 1880. In 1878 he was chosen one of the managers of the Old Men’s Home, and on June 30, 1879, was elected a director of the Rhode Island National Bank He was at one time president of the Retort Gas Stove Co.
Mr. Marcy, in April, 1865, became identified with the Masonic fraternity, and was elected a member of Bristol Lodge at North Attleboro. In 1871 he withdrew from Bristol Lodge and became identified with Ezekiel Bates Lodge, at Attleboro, and in 1876 became a charter member of Adelphi Lodge No. 33, of this city. He was exalted in Providence Royal Arch Chapter, No. 1, and in 1870 became a member of St. John’s Commandery, No. 1, K. T. On Oct. 18, 1871, he married Miss Mary Jane Woodward. The family regularly attended the Union Congregational Church.
That there is a very loving and tender consideration in this community for the memory of Mr. Marcy is apparent from the expressions of love which have been uttered by his friends and companions with whom his life was more closely associated. Probably no man in the trade has held a higher position in the estimation of the business world than the deceased.
Providence, Nov. 7—The funeral of the late Frederick I. Marcy was solemnized from his late residence at 11 o’clock this morning and was strictly private, none but the members of his immediate family being present. Among the mourners was Mr. Marcy’s mother, now in the 84th year of her age, who was nearly prostrated by the sad ending of her son. Conspicuous among the floral tributes were handsome offerings from the Manufacturing Jewelers’ Board of Trade, St. John's Commandery, and the various branches of the Masonic fraternity. The services were very impressive and were conducted by Rev. Dr. Nutting, pastor of the Union Congregational Church, where for many years the deceased and his family were constant attendants. The earers were : Ex-Mayor William S. Hayward; John M. Buflinton, of Potter & Buffinton, Albert W. Smith, and Charles H. Baker, of Gorham Mfg, Co. The burial was at Swan Point Cemetery.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 11th November 1896
Trev.
Providence, Rhode Island
Suicide of Frederick I. Marcy
Providence, R. I., Nov. 4. At an early hour his morning the community was startled by the sad news of the death of Frederick I. Marcy, for a number of years one of the most prominent manufacturing jewelers of this city. His inanimate body was found in his office at 59 Page St., where for more than a year his factory has been located, at 2 o’clock this morning. He had committed suicide by inhaling the gas which came from four gas jets turned on full force. Despondency is attributed as the cause of the deed.
Mr. Marcy left his home on Portland St. yesterday morning about 8 o’clock, as usual, to go to his business, although his shop on Page St., in common with others, was shut down for the day, on account of election. Though it had been his custom to come home to dinner, no alarm was felt when he did not return at noon, as he was greatly interested in politics. When he had not returned at night his family began to be alarmed. Their fears were due to the fact that he had talked very despondently about his business lately and had mentioned death as the only solution of his troubles. About 10 o’clock last night his two sons, Harry and Fred., went down street looking for him. They visited a number of places where he was well known, but did not find him. Their fears increased and they went to Mr. Marcy’s office, on the fourth floor of the building at 59 Page St., accompanied by an officer from the Central Police Station. They noticed that the odor of gas was very strong in the hallway and when they found the office door locked they were afraid that their worst fears had been confirmed. They burst open the door to find that such was the case.
Mr. Marcy was found sitting in a chair dead. The cocks of all four of the gas jets were turned on as far as possible. He had wheeled the chair around until his back was against a roll-top desk, and the left hand was resting on the rest board. His head had dropped over on the right side. His hat lay on a table near him, and from his position it looked as though he had deliberately turned on the gas and then seated himself in the chair to die. Medical Examiner Palmer was notified, and, after viewing the remains, allowed the grief-stricken family to take possession of them. Mr. Marcy leaves a widow and three sons, two of whom, Harry and Fred., are bank clerks, while the third is a schoolboy.
The sudden taking off of Mr. Marcy removes from the community a man who has been closely allied with the jewelry industiy of the State for more than a quarter of a century. No better known or more congenial artisan than he has participated in the business life of this city, and the ending of his career is deeply commiserated by all who knew him. As has been the business experience of several of our manufacturing jewelers during the past few years, Mr. Marcy suffered from the depression of the trade, and undoubtedly the rash act that caused his death was the result of, perhaps, imaginary further depression yet to come in the business community. Those knowing the deceased intimately cannot but believe that his hand was raised against himself in a moment of mental aberration, and all who enjoyed his confidence and friendship well ever hold his memory in loving consideration.
Like a majority of the leading men of Rhode Island, Mr. Marcy was country-born and bred. He was born May 13, 1838, at Hartland, Windsor county, Vermont, and was educated in the district schools of his native town. Until he was 21 years of age he remained with his father, working on the farm. Having attained his majority he went to Medfield, Mass., where for four years he was employed by a dealer in tinware, named D. Hoisington. In 1863 he accepted a position as traveling salesman with James H. Sturdy, then a manufacturing jeweler in Attleboro, Mass. At the expiration of one year he purchased an interest in the business, becoming Mr. Sturdy’s partner, and the firm name was changed to Sturdy & Marcy. This co-partnership remained in force only a few months, when the senior member disposed of his interest to W. A. Sturdy, and for two years the business was continued without change of firm name. In 1867 Mr. Sturdy became the sole owner of the business, Mr. Marcy retiring, and, with his first partner, James H. Sturdy, removed to this city and located at 95 Pine St., and began the manufacture of jewelry under the firm name of Sturdy & Marcy. Mr. Marcy represented the firm on the road, and Mr. Sturdy superintended the factory until his retirement in 1877.
In 1878 Charles H. Smith, who had been Mr. Marcy’s salesman, was given an interest in the concern under the firm name of F. I. Marcy & Co., and remained a partner until 1882, when he retired. Mr. Marcy then continued the business alone, manufacturing a general line of jewelry, such as the Acme lever button, which he turned out in immense quantities every day, the line including about 6,000 different designs and patterns. It was at this time Mr. Marcy was at the zenith of his business power. The New York office was at 1½ Maiden Lane, and several salesmen were employed in traveling to attend to the wants of the customers of the house throughout the United States. The trade of the concern extended to Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe and Australia, and the goods manufactured by the firm enjoyed a high reputation in the market and had the full confidence of the trade.
After a few years the button business began to wane, cut prices ruined the profits and the market began to drop. In hopes to revive the trade, Mr. Marcy spent thousands of dollars, but all to no purpose, and with a number of other concerns that had backed jobbing and retail houses throughout the country heavily, he was, about six years ago, forced to succumb before the waves of business depression. He engaged in the insurance business for two or three years, and finally, about a year ago, by the assistance of friends, he re-entered the manufacturing jewelry business at 59 Page St., but the times were unauspicious for a successful trade, and he had simply plodded hopelessly along, patiently awaiting a turn of the tide that would bring his renewed prosperity. But the fates were seemingly against him, for from being a staunch lifelong Republican, he became, a few months ago, a pronounced Free Silver Democrat, a policy embraced by him, it is believed, in the same spirit that a drowning man clutches a straw, in hopes that it would, if accepted by the country at the polls, bring him a revival of business. When the returns began to come in and it became evident that the Sound Money platform was certain of winning he is thought to have given way entirely to his despondency and committed his rash act.
Mr. Marcy was one of the original members of the New England Manufacturing Jewelers’ Association, and was always active and prominent in its festivities. When the Manufacturing Jewelers' Board of Trade was first spoken of, he was one of its staunchest advocates, and upon its organization was elected its first vice-president. He entered public life in 1878, and for several years, up to the time when he met with business reverses, he was very prominent, and he was known to the citizens of this community as a busy, useful and influential man. In 1878 he was elected a member of the City Council from the Sixth Ward, and continued to represent that ward for a number of years. In 1879 he was chosen chairman of the committee on education.
In the same year he was appointed a member of the committee on parks and reappointed Jan. 1, 1880. In 1878 he was chosen one of the managers of the Old Men’s Home, and on June 30, 1879, was elected a director of the Rhode Island National Bank He was at one time president of the Retort Gas Stove Co.
Mr. Marcy, in April, 1865, became identified with the Masonic fraternity, and was elected a member of Bristol Lodge at North Attleboro. In 1871 he withdrew from Bristol Lodge and became identified with Ezekiel Bates Lodge, at Attleboro, and in 1876 became a charter member of Adelphi Lodge No. 33, of this city. He was exalted in Providence Royal Arch Chapter, No. 1, and in 1870 became a member of St. John’s Commandery, No. 1, K. T. On Oct. 18, 1871, he married Miss Mary Jane Woodward. The family regularly attended the Union Congregational Church.
That there is a very loving and tender consideration in this community for the memory of Mr. Marcy is apparent from the expressions of love which have been uttered by his friends and companions with whom his life was more closely associated. Probably no man in the trade has held a higher position in the estimation of the business world than the deceased.
Providence, Nov. 7—The funeral of the late Frederick I. Marcy was solemnized from his late residence at 11 o’clock this morning and was strictly private, none but the members of his immediate family being present. Among the mourners was Mr. Marcy’s mother, now in the 84th year of her age, who was nearly prostrated by the sad ending of her son. Conspicuous among the floral tributes were handsome offerings from the Manufacturing Jewelers’ Board of Trade, St. John's Commandery, and the various branches of the Masonic fraternity. The services were very impressive and were conducted by Rev. Dr. Nutting, pastor of the Union Congregational Church, where for many years the deceased and his family were constant attendants. The earers were : Ex-Mayor William S. Hayward; John M. Buflinton, of Potter & Buffinton, Albert W. Smith, and Charles H. Baker, of Gorham Mfg, Co. The burial was at Swan Point Cemetery.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 11th November 1896
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
ALBERT NEUMAN
New York
The body of a man thought to be Albert Neuman, a watchmaker, was found in the river at the foot of 142d St., Wednesday morning. The man appeared to have been about 40 years old, was five feet eight inches tall and had black hair and a black mustache. In one pocket were found two pawn-tickets bearing the name Neuman, and several cards marked Philip Fox, 420 Palisade Ave., Jersey City Heights. Mrs. Albert Fox, who was seen at that address, said that from the description the body was undoubtedly that of her uncle, Albert Neuman, who had been out of work lately.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 18th May 1904
Trev.
New York
The body of a man thought to be Albert Neuman, a watchmaker, was found in the river at the foot of 142d St., Wednesday morning. The man appeared to have been about 40 years old, was five feet eight inches tall and had black hair and a black mustache. In one pocket were found two pawn-tickets bearing the name Neuman, and several cards marked Philip Fox, 420 Palisade Ave., Jersey City Heights. Mrs. Albert Fox, who was seen at that address, said that from the description the body was undoubtedly that of her uncle, Albert Neuman, who had been out of work lately.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 18th May 1904
Trev.
Re: Some Macabre Stories of the Silver Trade
SIGMUND HOFFMAN
Jefferson, Wisconsin
Sigmund Hoffman, jeweler, Jefferson, Wis., committed suicide last Wednesday morning by shooting himself with a revolver.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 28th March 1894
Trev.
Jefferson, Wisconsin
Sigmund Hoffman, jeweler, Jefferson, Wis., committed suicide last Wednesday morning by shooting himself with a revolver.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review - 28th March 1894
Trev.