|
Vermilion County News Stories
Danville Daily News
Obits are here
Clipping found dated
October 11, 1885, (from Monday’s Daily)
(Contributed by Mary Paulius)
A
Narrow Escape from Death
Mr. Martin J. Barger, well known in this
city and county and for several years with Joe Goldsmith, of the Oak Hall
clothing establishment of this city, met with a very painful accident this week,
nearly resulting in his death. He went to Bismarck last Saturday night to visit
a brother, on intending to return Sunday night on the train due at that place at
11:30 p.m., as Mr. Goldsmith, his employer intended going to Cincinnati this
morning on the early train, and his services were necessary at the store. He
flagged the train, and before stopping it ran a considerable distance beyond the
station, and started to backup. Mr. Barger, supposing that the train would
remain where it stopped, started on a run to overtake it, and when about half
the distance he was struck by the rear coach of the backing train and knocked
down upon falling lengthwise and upon his face. Four coaches backed over him,
and the train coming to a standstill he either rolled or threw himself from
under the train, as he was first discovered by the engineer lying alongside the
engine. The trucks in passing over him, tore his overcoat, undercoat and vest
almost entirely off of him and his pantaloons in shreds, breaking three ribs,
cutting an ugly gash over one eye and one shoulder, and badly bruising his body
in many other places. A watch which was in his vest pocket was uninjured
keeping time right along as though nothing had happened.
He was
picked up by the train men and brought to this city and taken to the residence
of his brother-in-law, W. C. Tuttle, our worthy sheriff, where he was kindly
cared for and Dr. C. D. Henton immediately called. After a careful examination
it is opinion of the doctor that Mr. Barger will survive his injuries, although
it was a miraculous escape from death.
Mr.
Barger is a man of sterling qualities, stands high in the estimation of the
people of this city and county, is a member of the Masonic lodge and Kenesaw
Post, G.A.R, and he has the warmest sympathy of all in his sufferings, and the
earnest wish that he may survive his injuries and soon be able to resume his
business.
(See Bios)
|
