Tag Archives: Williamson

Wife of Logan Banner Editor George A. Dean Disappears (1912-1913)

20 Friday Jul 2018

Posted by in Huntington, Logan, Matewan, Tazewell County

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In 1912, Logan Banner editor George A. Dean married the former Lena Gross, who soon thereafter disappeared. Here are a few stories about the event:

Editor Dean Married

On Monday, Nov. 11 in the minister’s study, Geo. A. Dean and Miss Lena Gross of Virginia, were united in marriage by Rev. W.L. Richardson.

Mr. Dean is the hustling editor of the Logan Banner and is well-known in this city and surrounding country as a man of push and energy, while the bride was one of the charming dining room girls at the Hotel Jefferson.

Mr. and Mrs. Dean will be at home to their friends after Nov. 18.

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 14 November 1912.

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George A. Dean Logan Banner LB 01.24.1913.JPG

Logan (WV) Banner, 24 January 1913.

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Editor of “Most Fearless Weekly” on the Trail

West Virginia editors who have failed to receive the Logan Banner on their exchange tables during the past three weeks, no doubt, marveled at its absence. But there is a reason–a tragic, gnawing reason which has caused the editor, Geo. A. Dean to suspend temporarily editorial duties and to embark upon a quest which means more to him than journalistic honors or the mere touch of hollow gold.

Readers of the Banner will remember that there appeared graven upon its front page four months ago Mr. Dean’s and his wife’s own announcement of their marriage. The paragraph attracted more than usual attention, partly because of its unique construction and partly because of the unusual manner of its presentation, but more than all because Mr. Dean was very prominently in the editorial limelight because of recent rather prominent mention in Collier’s Weekly. But that is history, and in mere prelude to the situation which now confronts him: to-wit: that of a married man, wifeless, disconsolate, yearning for the things that were.

Mr. Dean, who has been in Huntington and vicinity for two days seeking a trace of his evanished spouse, speaks frankly of his bereavement, and is importunate that the home-loving public shall, if possible, assist him in finding and restoring his lost treasure. In brief, Lena Boyd Nelson Dean has gone away and, some fear, forever departed. She went without the tender formality of a farewell husband’s kiss. She went away surreptitiously, mysteriously. She went, and Mr. Dean, who has sounded the very depths of heaven and earth, is no whit the wiser whither. Descriptive circulars, telling her height, weight, complexion, color of eyes and hair, manner of dress, and all that pertains to accurate and dependable description have been scattered broadcast all over the territory in which it might be surmised that she would be obscuring herself from the eyes of love and yearning. Mr. Dean stated last night, in conversation with the Herald-Dispatch, that he had absolutely no heart for business, that he had known no rest, no surcease from the terrible heart-longing that had seized upon him and held with tenacious grip from the morning of his wife’s departure. He has searched high and low. He has communicated with every known relative of his wife, without being able to get even the shadow of a clue tending to lead to the discovery of her whereabouts. He gives the following verbal photograph, which is almost as good as the ordinary studio product, and much better than a tintype:

Lena Boyd Nelson Dean, formerly of Williamson and Matewan and Bluefield. Four months ago she served as waitress, cook, and house girl at Logan, W.Va. Last seen at Kenova on Sunday morning, March 2. Physical description: Age 26. Height 5 ft. 2. Coal-black eyes given to starry twinkle. Raven black hair. Rather full lips. Gold filling in front teeth. Deep, well modulated musical voice, with a tendency to coarseness in time of cold. Can not read or write much as her early education was neglected. Her costume is described as being strict in the style of today. Raincoat, drab-colored; blue-serge, two piece coat suit. Beaver hat, embellished with four black ostrich plumes. Leather suitcase, canvass trunk and gold-headed umbrella.

Mr. Dean feels that his wife may have returned to one of the three occupations ascribed to her in the opening paragraphs.

He has important mail for her, both registered and ordinary, and is awaiting anxiously any news of her, and his arms are open to her return. The Logan editor’s plight is positively pitiful. He has grown emaciated, hollow-eyed, faded, wan. The tireless vigil, the ceaseless search, the anxious waiting hours, have all played their part in preying upon his splendid vitality. He is discouraged but not defeated, and will continue the search as long as human endurance will permit, or else sooner find the partner of his joys and immediate cause of his great and overpowering grief. His plight has elicited much sympathy. For what is life without a partner?

Source: Huntington (WV) Herald-Dispatch via Logan (WV) Democrat, 13 March 1913.

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George A. Dean's Wife Missing LB 03.21.1913 1

Logan (WV) Banner, 21 March 1913.

George A. Dean's Wife Missing LB 03.21.1913 2

Logan (WV) Banner, 21 March 1913.

George A. Dean's Wife Missing LB 03.21.1913 3

Logan (WV) Banner, 21 March 1913.

George A. Dean's Wife Missing LB 03.21.1913 4

Logan (WV) Banner, 21 March 1913.

George A. Dean's Wife Missing LB 03.21.1913 5

Logan (WV) Banner, 21 March 1913.

George A. Dean's Wife Missing LB 03.21.1913 6

Logan (WV) Banner, 21 March 1913.

“Bad” Frank Allen (1927)

24 Sunday Jun 2018

Posted by in Big Harts Creek, Culture of Honor

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In 1912, Floyd Allen and other members of his family participated in a sensational gunfight during a trial at the Carroll County Courthouse in Hillsville, Carroll County, Virginia. The incident resulted in the death of Judge T.L. Massie, Prosecutor W.M. Foster, Sheriff L.F. Webb, juror Augustus Fowler, and witness Nancy E. Ayres, while seven others were wounded. In 1927, Frank Allen–a reputed relative of Carroll County Allens–was captured on Harts Creek in Logan County, WV.

Frank Allen Caught On Murder Charge

“Bad Frank” Allen was captured on Harts Creek last night and was lodged in jail here at 6 o’clock this morning. An hour or so later he was taken to Williamson to answer to a murder charge.

State police from Williamson, accompanied by Trooper Wilson and Constable Frank Adams, made the capture. They went to a house where he was known to be and called him to the door. As he appeared in view he was “covered” by high powered rifle and was commanded to drop a pistol he held in his hand. He refused to let go but one of the officers walked up to him and took possession.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 11 November 1927.

“Bad” Frank Allen Moved to Welch Jail for Safe-Keeping

Charged With Murder, He Eluded Officers from October 1 Until Captured on Harts Creek Week Ago–Kinsmen of Allens of Carroll Court House Fame.

“Bad Frank” Allen, who was captured on Harts Creek a week ago last night, to answer to a murder charge in Mingo county, was subsequently moved from the Williamson jail to the Welch jail for safe-keeping. Boys with hard heads or big feet are in the habit of kicking holes in the Williamson bastile, but a ball bearing nutmeg grater will be presented to the first one who bumps his way to freedom through the thick walls of the McDowell prison.

Allen is accused of killing Wallace Dillon at a horsetrading carnival held near the Baptist Association meeting on Shanklin Creek October 1. Stories of the affray are conflicting. It is said Dillon and others had a whale of a fight, after there had been much imbibing of strong liquor. In the free-for-all Dillon was a star performer, upsetting friends and foes with little regard for consequences. Allen missed the “party,” but when he heard that Dillon had beat up the other participants in the affray, he is said to have construed it as a challenge. Saddling his horse he rode to the scene of the fight and presumably without any provocation fired at Dillon with fatal effect. He escaped after the shooting and officials of both Mingo and Logan county waged a strenuous man hunt in an effort to capture him.

The arrest was made at the home of Leonard Conley in a wild and isolated corner of Harts Creek. His captors were Deputy Sheriffs Bill Driver and Ben Bartram, of Williamson; State Police Wamsley and McClure, of Delbarton, and State Trooper C.S. Wilson, of the Logan detachment.

Conley, wanted on a liquor charge, was not at home, but the officers had a tip that “Bad Frank” was there. One yelled for him to come out and he appeared in the doorway, pistol in hand, and ready to “shoot it out,” until he saw several high-powered rifles leveled at him. Even then he ignored the command to drop his gun, but stood motionless as an officer approached him and took possession of the weapon, which proved to be of 45-calibre.

Allen told his captors that during the six weeks he was a fugitive he had slept in caves and barns and had nearly starved at times. It is thought he fared much better in the hospitable hills of Harts, altho he said that was the first night he had sought shelter in a human habitation.

Big Shoot Recalled

Allen hails from Wythe county, Virginia, and is said to be a kinsmen of the Allens who shot up the Hillsville court house on March 14, 1912. Two of the clan were executed for the crime and Sidney Allen was released from prison on a conditional pardon a year or more ago, the first fusillade in the court upon Judge T.L. Massie and Sheriff Lew F. Webb fell dead. Augustus Fowler, a juror was shot through the head and died two days later. Commonwealth’s Attorney Forst was also shot. Andrew Howlett, another juror, was shot through the _____st. Another juror and Clerk of the court Dextor Goad were wounded but recovered. Miss Elizabeth Ayres received a death wound. Sidna and Allen Floyd were wounded also.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 18 November 1927.

Penitentiary Awaits “Bad” Frank Allen

“Bad” Frank Allen, whose recent capture under dramatic circumstances on Harts Creek, will be recalled by Banner readers, was found guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the circuit court at Williamson this week. Sentence has not been pronounced but that offense is punishable by from one to five years in the penitentiary.

This desperado of a picturesque type killed Wallace Dillon at a horse-trading gathering near Kirk, on October 1. State’s evidence indicated he rode on the scene when the crowd was watching a fight between Dillon’s brother and another man and shot Dillon without any provocation. Allen testified he shot in self-defense, claiming there was no ill feeling between them and that they were unacquainted.

Allen is 28 and said to be related to the Allens of Hillsville court house fame.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 16 December 1927.

“Bad” Frank Allen Escapes from Pen

“Bad” Frank Allen, said to be one of the Hillsville Allens and known in these parts, has escaped from the penitentiary and is at large. W.M. Ray, a Boone county man serving a two-year sentence for moonshining, escaped with him. They were missed at the prison mine Monday.

The usual reward of $50 has been offered for Allen’s recapture, but those familiar with his record are likely to believe the reward is too small to be tempting.

Allen entered the pen last December 26 to serve a term for shooting and killing Wallace Dillon at a horse-trading carnival near the Baptist Association meeting on Shanklin Creek, Mingo county, October 1. After that affray he escaped but late in November was captured at the isolated home of Leonard Conley on Harts Creek. State policemen armed with rifles and pistols surrounded the house and several were pointed at the front door when Conley, .45 pistol in hand, opened the door in response to a knock. He ignored commands to drop his gun but allowed an officer to seize it.

During the six weeks preceding his capture, Allen stayed in the wilds, subsisting on nuts and fruits largely, he told his captors, though he fared better after getting into the hospitable Harts Creek country.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 24 April 1928.

Island Creek Roads (1927)

19 Thursday Apr 2018

Posted by in Boone County, Gilbert, Hamlin, Huntington, Logan, Ranger, West Hamlin, Wharncliffe

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From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, comes this bit of history about Route 3 dated October 14, 1927:

“Changes Can Be Noted” In Island Creek Hills

Madison Editor Waxes Interesting on Old Times and Primitive Conditions–Surfaced Highways Mark the Paths Through Woodland That Were Traveled a Generation Ago.

An article of special interest to Logan folk is here reproduced from the Coal Valley News (Madison) of which M.L. Jones is editor. In a reminiscent mood he tells of road conditions and other conditions that prevailed hereabouts a generation ago. Exceptions might be taken to one or two statements, but the whole article is interesting indeed and informative.

It is considered appropriate that West Virginians should sing the “West Virginia Hills,” and year after year the teachers in their institution disturb their neighbors with this song, while “Tears of regret will intrusively swell.” There is some romance and merit in the song; but it strikes us that it is about time for a revision of this line.

“But no changes can be noticed in the West Virginia Hills.”

To prove our point we quote from memory.

For some years after 1882, there lived in the extreme head of the left fork of Island Creek, or Main Island Creek, a man named Bob Browning. It was 18 miles from Logan. The house was a two-room log cabin, surrounded by palings; and the valley was so narrow that it was difficult to find enough level ground for a garden. Apple trees and peach trees were scattered over a few acres of cleared mountain side. The family subsisted by a little farming, a little hunting and much ginsenging.

This place was between two low mountain gaps. A dim road, usable for wagons in dry weather, led down the creek to Logan, and forked at Browning’s house. One fork led east over one gap to Horsepen and Gilbert of Guyan; the other went west over the other gap to Pigeon creek, and by more or less roundabout ways connected with Ben Creek, Beech Creek, Mate Creek and Pigeon Creek, all of Tug river. Hence, it was a possible road route.

The nearest house down Island creek and on Horsepen creek was two miles; and on Pigeon creek about three-fourths of a mile. A wagon, lightly loaded, passed here on the average six times a year. Horsemen may have averaged one a day, though often a whole week passed without a traveler. It was simply a log shack in the head of the hollow, four miles from a school, ten miles from a store, without anything “which exalts and embellishes civilized life,” and so very remote from the haunts of men that when “Devil” Anse Hatfield and his followers concluded to surrender Tug river to Frank Phillips and the McCoys, they picked their “last stand” on Island creek, four miles below the spot we have been talking about.

Now, in the close of 1927, can “changes be noticed?” We have not been there for over 30 years. But we recently received a present from John W. Smith, commissioner of agriculture , Charleston, W.Va., entitled “West Virginia by Rail and Trail,” containing 22 maps and 174 pictures reproduced from photographs of different parts of the state, and for which we sincerely thank whoever got our name on Mr. Smith’s mailing list.

From this book we learn that when we laboriously trudged through the Horsepen gap or the Pigeon gap, from 45 to 35 years ago, we failed to foresee that within on generation men would pick those two gaps, within less than a miles of each other, as a route for one of West Virginia’s leading roads; and not only for one, but for two, of West Virginia’s leading roads. As we will explain:

Route 3, connects Huntington, Wayne, Crum, Williamson, Gilbert, Iaeger, Davy, Welch, Bramwell, and Bluefield. From Huntington to Wayne and about 15 miles above Wayne, it is mostly on the waters of Twelve Pole creek. It then bears west to Tug river and follows it from Crum to Williamson, about 25 miles. It then bears east to Pigeon Creek, which it follows to the spot we are writing about, in the head of Island creek, some 20 miles. It then goes through the two gaps and down Horsepen creek to Gilbert, on Guyan; up Guyan and Little Huff’s creek, of Guyan, and across the mountain to Iaeger, on Tug river. It then follows up Tug, by Welch, to the head of Elkhorn and then on the waters of Bluestone to Bluefield.

In all, Route 3 is in seven counties, though less than a mile of it is in Logan county, in the head of Island creek. It is graded all the way about 60 percent of it is hard surfaced, including about 25 miles at and near the Bob Browning place. Thus Bob, if alive, can ride on a hard surfaced road from his old home almost to Williamson, one way, and to Gilbert on Guyan the other way; and he could continue south by graded road, until he strikes hard surface again. The last fifty miles next to Bluefield is all hard surfaced, also the lower 25 miles next to Huntington.

But this is not the only big state route hitting this “head of the hollow.”

Route 10 runs from Huntington to the very same spot, a distance of 100 miles, through Cabell, Lincoln and Logan, and is all on Guyan or its tributaries. It is paved, or hard surfaced, from Huntington to West Hamlin, on Guyan where the Hamlin-Griffithsville hard-surfaced road turns off. It is also marked paved for seven miles north of Logan and twelve miles up Island creek. This leaves six miles up by the “Devil” Anse Hatfield place to the Bob Browning place to pave, and it is marked, “paved road under construction.” The only drawback to No. 10 is that from West Hamlin to Ranger is a patch where the grading is not yet satisfactory. Doubtless, within three years both 3 and 10 will be hard surfaced all the way. Even now, from the Browning place, the people can take their choice between an evening’s entertainment in Logan or Williamson.

But that is not all yet. The chances are heavy that there will never be but one hard surfaced road from Logan to Williamson. There will always be a heavy travel from Charleston to Williamson. It will be by our No. 2 to Logan; by No. 10 to the Browning place; and by No. 3 to Williamson. Within a few months it will all be hard surfaced.

From all this we conclude.

First; that we let a good chance slip when we failed to buy a half acre of land where No. 10 joints No. 3 for a hotel and filling station. We could have multiplied our investment by one thousand. But so far as we could see that spot was fit only to hold and the rest of the Earth’s surface together, and to get away from as rapidly as possible.

Second; that “changes can be noticed in the West Virginia Hills.”

We might add that thousands can remember crossing the Kanawha at Charleston on the ferry, because there was no bridge; and few, if any, three-story homes. The writer hereof did his first plowing with a two-horse turning plow in the center of what is now Huntington. It was a cornfield then. It is a fashionable residence district now. He boarded at an isolated log house on a hill back of the Huntington bottom, where now are miles of mansions on paved streets. Even in and about Madison and all over Boone county, it is hard for people to visualize how things looked a short ten years ago. Mrs. Sarepta Workman, on her recent visit to her old…

Hatfield Items

12 Monday Mar 2018

Posted by in Big Sandy Valley, Cemeteries, Hatfield-McCoy Feud, Huntington, Logan, Wyoming County

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From the Logan County Banner, the Logan Banner and the Logan Democrat of Logan, WV, come the following items about the Hatfields:

In some way our watchful jailor Elias Hatfield learned that some week or to days ago, the wife of Melvin Runyon, who is confined in jail here for the murder of John Vance at Thacker had been trying to get a pistol in the jail to him. On Monday, Mrs. Runyon, with a brother of Runyon, and Mr. A.J. Shepherd came over to see him. Mr. Hatfield thought it was his duty to search Mrs. Runyon before she was allowed to go into the jail, which he did at once, and found a hatchet under her dress. The hatchet was taken from her and she was not allowed to go in. Mr. Shepherd and Mr. Runyon were, however, allowed to go in and talk with the prisoner. The jailor is commended by all for his action.

Source: Logan County Banner, 17 April 1895.

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Tennis Hatfield is reported on the sick list.

Source: Logan Democrat, 23 January 1913.

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Tennis Hatfield, who has been confined to his room for several weeks, is improving under the care of Dr. Steele.

Source: Logan Democrat, 30 January 1913.

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Tennis Hatfield who has been confined to his room for two months at Calico left last week for New River.

The many friends of Willis Hatfield here are glad to hear that Gov. Glasscock paroled him from a four year sentence at Moundsville for killing Dr. Thornhill in Wyoming county.

Source: Logan Democrat, 20 March 1913.

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Mr. Hatfield caught five ground hogs Tuesday and said that it was not a good day for them either.

Source: Logan Democrat, 24 April 1913.

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Joe Hatfield, of New River, visited his parents at Calico last week.

Source: Logan Democrat, 15 May 1913.

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William Hatfield Injured LB 07.22.1927

Logan Banner, 22 July 1927.

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HATFIELD HELD

Postmaster Willard Hatfield of Williamson was bound over to court yesterday following a row in which Police Officer Dewey Boaz was shot in the foot. Hatfield waived examination and his bond for $1,000 was signed by his father, Greenway Hatfield.

Source: Logan Banner, 5 August 1927.

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Church Meeting at Anse Hatfield's Home LB 09.06.1927 1.JPG

Logan Banner, 6 September 1927.

Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY (2018)

04 Sunday Mar 2018

Posted by in American Revolutionary War, Big Sandy Valley, Civil War, Huntington, Inez

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Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

IMG_5822 Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018. Photo by Mom.

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Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018. Photo by Mom.

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Lewis Dempsey Historical Marker, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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William McCoy Historical Marker, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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County Named (1870) Historical Marker, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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Dr. Henry L. Clay Historical Marker, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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James Ward Historical Marker, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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William B. Ward Historical Marker, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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U.S. Coast Guard Geodetic Survey Bench Mark, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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Old Jail, Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

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Martin County Courthouse in Inez, KY. 3 March 2018.

Confederate Reunions in Logan County, WV (1911-1914)

02 Thursday Nov 2017

Posted by in Big Creek, Breeden, Chapmanville, Civil War, East Lynn, Holden, Huntington, Logan, Man, Pecks Mill, Shively

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From the Logan Banner and Logan Democrat of Logan, WV, come these stories of Confederate reunions in Logan County, WV:

Logan Wildcats 1900.jpg

Logan Wildcats Reunion, Chapmanville, WV, 1900.

Confederate Reunion

The old Confederate soldiers will hold their semi-annual reunion at Chapmansville next Saturday. A good time will be had by all who attend.

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 1 June 1911.

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OLD SOLDIERS MEET

Members of Camp Straton U.C.V. Hold Reunion at Chapmansville

EDITOR DEMOCRAT: The Confederate veterans of Camp Straton met at Chapmansville on last Saturday in celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of their enlistment in the cause of the Southern Confederacy. They were met and greeted by Daniel Smoot and several others from our sister county of Boone, and Robert Lewis of Lincoln county. J.W. Harvey was also present. M.L. Campbell of the Soldier’s Home, at Richmond, Va., enjoyed the pleasure and opportunity on this memorable occasion to once more greet his old comrades of the Lost Cause.

They met, shook hands and greeted each other, and at times the writer could detect the tears in the eyes of these old veterans, which showed the true spirit of these old comrades as they talked of the days when they followed Lee and Jackson, Johnson and Longstreet and others of their immortal leaders in the battles of Gettysburg, Bull Run, Piedmont, Manassas Junction and many other of those famous battles which today stand in history as sentinels of one of the bloodiest and hardest fought wars in the history not only of this nation but of the world.

After forming line and roll call, to which there were comparatively so few to answer, they once more marched the streets of Chapmansville, where just fifty years before to a day they marched when full of life and vigor. But now their bent forms and halting steps mark most sadly the passing of time.

In Federal burying grounds alone, 359,284 soldiers lie, while countless thousands have been buried in plots at home. On the Confederate side doubtless as many more may be counted. What a pitiful sacrifice of blood, the young and strong and brave blood of the nation. Doubtless war stirs certain feelings and virtues into action that otherwise would lie dormant. Perhaps it settles certain questions not otherwise easily adjusted. But it is hard to think that an intelligent Christian nation should ever need to resort to it.

When the noon hour came the veterans marched to the home of Mr. John Ferrell, where refreshments and a fine dinner was served. They then marched to the center of the village, formed a hollow square and held a brief business session.

A committee of three was appointed to draft suitable resolutions to the memory of their deceased comrades. Hon. J.B. Wilkinson, C.E. Whitman and W.F. Butcher were appointed on this committee.

A committee of two was appointed to gather the names of the sons of all the veterans in Camp Straton, said list to be submitted at the next reunion, at which time they expect to organize the Sons of Veterans. C.E. Whitman of Logan and R.L. Stone of Big Creek were appointed on this committee.

A clerk was also appointed to keep the record of the Camp.

It was also suggested that the commandant get in communication with the Daughters of the Confederacy, and secure a cross of honor for each veteran of the Camp, which cross of honor is to be handed down to the oldest son as a souvenir.

After the business session, prayer was offered by Chaplain W.D. Garrett.

The people were entertained for some time by short and breezy speeches by the veterans and their sons, which were very much applauded and enjoyed by all.

We then enjoyed the song of the starting of the Logan volunteers, June 3, 1861, by the wife of a veteran.

The meeting then adjourned to meet at Logan on Saturday, October 7, 1911.

The following veterans were present at roll call:

William H. Ellis

J.E. Acord

T.B. Farley

J.K. McNeeley

N.B. Barker

Simpson Ellis

J.E. Thompson

J.C. Chapman

George Bryant

J.H. Allen

John Wallen

Obadiah Workman

John G. Jeffrey

J.W. Harvey

M.L. Campbell

J.I. Dingess

J.S. Miller

M.D. Stone

David Hale

Hiram Pridemore

William Nelson

J.W. Blevins

Calvin Bias

Francis Collins

David Workman

L.D. Stollings

W.D. Garrett

L.D. Perry

Albert McNeeley

Henry Mitchell

John W. Holdron

Sol Adams

B.F. Curry

David K. White

Harrison White

Isaac McNeeley

Bolivar McDonald

John W. Neece

Greene Thompson

F.B. McDonald

W. Farmer

W.D. McNeeley

Anthony Bryant

Alvis Hall

Reuben White

F.S. Vickers

William White

J.B. Lowe

Patterson Dingess

W.H. Whitman

Daniel J. Smoot

Fulton D. Ferrell

Astynax McDonald

T.C. Conley

Beverley Spencer

George R. Scaggs

Respectfully submitted,

Charles E. Whitman

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 8 June 1911

***

Camp Straton Reunion LB 09.19.1913 4.JPG

Confederate flag over the Logan Courthouse, Logan (WV) Banner, 19 September 1913. Photo from 23 October 1911.

Confederate Reunion

Camp Straton of the Confederate veterans met in this city October 23, 1911, and had dinner at the Buskirk and Peck Hotels as the guests of Judge Wilkinson and Mrs. Vicie Nighbert.

The meeting was called to order at 1:30 p.m. by M.D. Stone, Commandant, and George Scaggs was elected to the office of Third Lieutenant. Motion carried unanimously to meet hereafter on the fourth Tuesday in September, and Logan was chosen as the place for the next meeting.

Judge Wilkinson delivered an able address at the close of the business meeting and suggested organizing a camp of Sons of Veterans, a meeting for which purpose has been called for Saturday, Nov. 4th, at 1:30 p.m., at the court house.

United States Senator William E. Chilton then delivered a very interesting address which was received with great enthusiasm.

After a vote of thanks by the Company to Judge Wilkinson and Mrs. Nighbert for their hospitality the meeting was adjourned.

Eighty-three members of the Camp were present. The following is the roster of Camp Straton, Oct. 23, 1911:

M.D. Stone, Commandant.

Astyanax McDonald, First Lieut.

Jas. I. Dingess, Second Lieut.

Geo. Scaggs, Third Lieut.

Hugh Avis, Orderly Sergeant.

Jas. R. Henderson, Adjutant.

W.D. Garrett, Chaplin.

Jas. Allen, Assistant Chaplin.

Privates

Isaac McNeeley

William C. Lucas

L.D. Perry,

F.M. Collins

Hiram Pridemore

Marion McCoy

Boss Mangus

M.A. Doss

Anse Hatfield

E.J. Stone

Ben Curry

R.F. Hager

F.D. Ferrell

Noah Barker

Simpson Ellis

John Dempsey

David Hicks

Beverly Spencer

Jas. C. Varney

John A. Lawson

Dave White

Alvin Hall

Joe Lowe

Henry C. Runyon

David Hale

Jas. Marcum

Christopher Davis

Joseph Evans

Lewis Brewster

Joseph Wm. Spence

C.A. Staten

Wm. D. Nelson

Joe A. Counts

Richard McCallister

Allen J. Sheppard

Moses D. Tiller

J.A. Ellis

J.K. McNeely

Hubbard Williams

Rush Floyd

Anthony Bryant

W.H. Whitman

M.A. Robinson

E.S. Vickers

Levi Lowe

I.G. Berry

Bolliver McDonald

A.J. Perry

Wm. L. Stollings

J.A. Chapman

N.B. Sanders

Wesley Reed

Henry Mitchell

John Thompson

Gord Riffe

Floyd S. Barker

N.B. Moberly

Wm. N. Stone

S.P. Vernatter

J.W. Martin

Jalin White

 

Green Thompson

J.W. Dempsey

L.D. Stone

All veterans not registered will please send name and address to T.B. Stone, Kitchen, W.Va.

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 26 October 1911.

***

Camp Straton

Names of living Confederate veterans, who served continuously for four years and who are now members of Camp Straton of Logan, West Virginia:

OFFICERS

M.D. Stone, Commandant, Kitchen, W.Va.

Astyanax McDonald, First Lieutenant, Logan, W.Va.

James I. Dingess, Second Lieutenant, Pecks Mill, W.Va.

Geo. Scaggs, Third Lieutenant, Curry, W.Va.

F.S. Barker, Treasurer, Curry, W.Va.

David Hale, color bearer, City.

Hiram Pridemore, color bearer, City.

PRIVATES

L.D. Stollings, Shively, W.Va.

James Blevins, Curry, W.Va.

L.D. Perry, Chapmanville, W.Va.

Hubbard Williams, Logan, W.Va.

William Cary, Logan, W.Va.

Allen Hale, East Lynn, W.Va.

Hiram Burgess, Rolfe, W.Va.

Guy Lawson, Foley, W.Va.

M.A. Doss, Man, W.Va.

Thos. B. Farley, Bias, W.Va.

Moses Tiller, Music, W.Va.

Lewis Cary, Williamson, W.Va.

R.F. Hager, Breading, W.Va.

Andy Lee, Logan, W.Va.

John Messer, Breading, W.Va.

John A. Thompson, Chapmanville, W.Va.

Geo. Crump, member Camp Garnett, Huntington, W.Va.

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 2 November 1911

***

Confederate Reunion

To Confederate Veterans, Camp Straton:

The next reunion of the members of said Camp will be held at Logan C.H. on Tuesday, September 17th, 1912, at 11 o’clock a.m. The presence of each member is requested.

M.D. Stone, Commandant

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 29 August 1912.

***

Notice

To Members Camp Logan Wild Cats:

You are requested to meet at Logan C.H. at 10 o’clock Saturday, September 14th, 1912 to prepare for the reunion of Confederate veterans of Camp Straton to be held the following Tuesday. It is desirable to increase our membership on that day as much as possible. Anyone desiring to become a member of our camp come or send in your name. We want to give the old soldiers a hearty welcome and cordial greeting.

A.W. McDonald,

Commandant

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 29 August 1912.

***

Confederate Reunion

To Confederate Veterans, Camp Straton:

The next reunion of the members of said Camp will be held at Logan C.H., on Tuesday, September 17th, 1912, at 11 o’clock a.m. The presence of each member is requested.

M.D. Stone,

Commandant

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 5 September 1912.

***

Confederate Reunion

Camp Stratton, No. 1633, United Confederate Veterans, met in the City of Logan, Tuesday, September 19th, according to arrangements made at their last meeting, October 23, 1911, making the third Tuesday in September of each ensuing year the regular meeting day at Logan.

The veterans coming east were met at the depot on the arrival of train No. 150 by the veterans already assembled, accompanied by the Logan and Holden bands.

Hon. J.B. Wilkinson announced that arrangements had been made for the veterans to march to the skating rink, where the business session would be held, after which dinner would be served to all veterans at the hotels Jefferson and Buskirk, complimentary tickets having been given to confederates and their wives and daughters present.

The meeting adjourned to meet at 12:30 p.m. at the court house where the Sons of Veterans and the teachers and pupils of the Logan Public Schools fell in line and marched through the business section of the city. The entire procession again marched to the skating rink and was ably entertained for a short time by Hon. J.B. Wilkinson, who in turn introduced Brig. Gen. Wayne B. Ferguson of the 2nd Division of West Virginia, U.C.V., who after delivering an interesting address introduced the Hon. Thos. H. Harvey of Huntington. Amid great applause, Judge Harvey recalled the story days of the Sixties and as a closing remark to his comrades, who must soon follow the great leader, quoted Jackson, “Let us pass over the river and rest under the shade of the trees.” Col. J.R. Miller, a “rebel” from the “Southland” was next introduced by Judge Wilkinson, who remarked that “the best of the reunion was now coming.” Col. Miller delivered an able and interesting address lasting 45 minutes, which was enjoyed by all present.

On motion Comrades Hugh Avis, Andy Perry, Simpson Ellis, Henry Mitchell and Thos. H. Harvey were selected as delegates to represent Camp Straton at the annual reunion in Moorefield, Hardy county, W.Va., October 9, 1912.

On motion Col. J.R. Miller, Hon. Thomas H. Harvey and Gen. Wayne B. Ferguson were made honorary members of this camp.

Mrs. J.E. Robertson and Mrs. Lou G. Buffington were unanimously extended a vote of thanks for their untiring efforts in securing … mandant, a vote of thanks was given to all visiting members, also all Sons of Veterans and Daughters United Confederacy.

After a vote of thanks by the Company to Judge Wilkinson and Mrs. Nighbert for their kind hospitality the meeting adjourned to meet at Logan, September 16th, 1913.

The roster of Camp Straton No. 1633 on September 17th, 1912 is as follows:

M.D. Stone, Commandant

Astynanyx McDonald, First lieutenant

James I. Dingess, Second lieutenant

Geo. Scaggs, Third lieutenant

Hugh Avis, Orderly Sergeant

James R. Henderson, Adjutant

W.D. Garrett, Chaplain

Jas. Allen, Asst. chaplain

Privates:

Isaac McNeely

David Hale

Wm. C. Lucas

Joseph Evans

L.D. Berry

James Marcum

F.M. Collins

Lewis Brewster

Hiram Pridemore

Jos. Wm. Spence

C.A. Staten

Marion McCoy

Boss Mangus

Wm. D. Nelson

M.A. Doss

Joe Accords

Hiram Burgess

Richard McCallister

John R. McCoy

Allen J. Sheppard

Anse Hatfield

Moses D. Tiller

E.J. Stone

J.A. Ellis

Ben Curry

W.E. Cary

Riley F. Hager

J.K. McNeely

F.D. Ferrell

Hubbard Williams

Noah Barker

Rush Floyd

Simpson Ellis

Anthony Bryant

John Dempsey

W.H. Whitman

David Hicks

M.A. Robinson

Beverlly Spencer

F.S. Vickers

Jas. C. Varney

Levi Lowe

John A. Lawson

I.G. Berry

Dave White

Boliver McDonald

A.J. Perry

Alvin Hall

Joe Lowe

J.C. Chapman

Wm. L. Stollings

H.C. Runyon

Christopher Davis

N.B. Sanders

Wesley Reed

Floyd S. Barker

Henry Mitchell

W.B. Moberly

John Thompson

Wm. N. Stone

Gordon Riffe

S.P. Vernatter

J.W. Martin

Green Thompson

John White

J.W. Dempsey

L.D. Starr

Anse Farley

W.E. Carey

T.B. Farley

John Messer

Joseph Mitchell

Harmon White

Harrison White

Luke Curry

J.W. Blevins

L.D. Stollings

Gord F. Lilly

John Wallen

H.H. Ray

Obed Workman

Calvin Bias

Mat Pauley

William H. Ellis

Reuben P. White

J.S. Miller

Andy Lee

George Crump

John W. Haldron

Wm. Blackburn

Thos. H. Harvey

L.D. Chambers

Aaron Adkins

Giles Davis

J.R. Miller

Wayne B. Ferguson

Making a total of 91, 81 of which were present today against 83 last year.

If any member desires to have his name enrolled in the records of Camp Straton, send name and address to T.B. Stone, Secretary, Camp Straton, Kitchen, W.Va.

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 19 September 1912.

***

Notice

To The Sons of Veterans:

The Sons of Veterans will meet in Logan on the first day of the October term of Court. All members are requested to be present.

Don Chafin.

Source: Logan (WV) Democrat, 3 October 1912.

***

Confederate Reunion

Veterans of Camp Straton.

You are hereby requested to attend our annual reunion at Logan C.H. on Tuesday, September 16th at 2 o’clock p.m. for the transaction of important business.

Program of exercises will be given out in due time.

M.D. Stone, Commander

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 5 September 1913.

***

Camp Straton Reunion LB 09.19.1913 1.JPG

Logan (WV) Banner, 19 September 1913. Photos from 23 October 1911.

NOTICE

To the Officers and Members of Camp Stratton, No. 1633, U.C.V.

You are hereby notified that a meeting will be held at the Courthouse at Logan, at 2 o’clock, P.M., on April 30th, 1914, for the purpose of selecting delegates to attend the reunion at Jacksonville, Fla., May 6, 7, and 8th, 1914, and to attend to such other business as may come before the Camp.

Our Camp is entitled to three delegates and three alternates.

Your fraternally,

M.D. Stone, Commandant

Source: Logan (WV) Banner, 10 April 1914; 24 April 1914.

Camp Straton Reunion LB 04.24.1914 6.JPG

Logan (WV) Banner, 24 April 1914. Photo from 23 October 1911.

Mrs. Henry Clay Ragland’s Obituary (1914)

25 Monday Sep 2017

Posted by in Civil War, Huntington, Logan, Matewan, Women's History

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From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, we find the following story dated April 17, 1914:

“GRANDMA” RAGLAND PASSES TO THE BEYOND

MATE OF MAJOR HENRY CLAY RAGLAND, EDITOR OF THE LOGAN BANNER FOR MANY YEARS, PLACED BESIDE HIM EASTER SUNDAY

Mrs. Lou Ragland, mother of the Buskirk family, of this region died last Friday a.m. at the home of her son, Robert W. Buskirk, in the Urias Hotel at Matewan, Mingo county. She had married Henry Clay Ragland, for a long time editor of the Logan Banner, after the death of her first husband, Urias Buskirk. By her first marriage she raised a most interesting family of sons and daughters who are still residing in this section. Mrs. Buskirk was a most remarkable woman in many respects. She had always lived an exemplary and Christian life and assumed her responsibilities after the death of her first husband with efficiency and diligence. She was true to friend and family and was a good and faithful mother and a loving wife. Through her long life she has retained the confidence and respect of all who knew her. We grieve with her relatives and friends at her death. She was near the ninety-two milestone when she died and had been sick only for a few days.

“Grandma” Ragland’s exact age was 91 yrs. 11 mo. 20 days; born on Blain creek, Lawrence county, Ky., May 1st, 1823. For 30 years a member of the Christian church.

On May 1st also (1911) Major Ragland died. He was born on May 7th, 1844; belonged to Co. B 5th Va. Cavalry; member of the Aracoma Baptist church.

Mrs. Ragland’s last request, to rest one night in her old bedroom–the present residence of Rev. Bradshaw–was complied with. This parsonage now becomes the property of the Baptist church, according to the terms of Major Ragland’s deed, at her death.

Her age indicates her wonderful physical endurance, and while she knew she must die soon, retained her usual discretion and fortitude. She made plans with her kindred as to where her last resting place should be and desired that none of her children and friends be troubled about her demise. Up to the last she kept her mind intact and conversed with those near to her.

The mother of the Buskirks has gone, we hope, to a happier sphere. Mother is the dearest friend on earth. We grieve at the bier of the departed with the bereaved, and shed a tear with them in their desolation as we think of our own dear mother. Our sympathies go out to the bereaved ones in the loss of their one best comforter, but we hope and continue to hope that we may meet again in the unknown hereafter.

***

On April 17, 1914, the Logan Banner offered a small additional item: “Among those in attendance at the funeral of ‘Grandma’ Ragland last Sunday were: B.B. Goings, Williamson; Jno. A. Sheppard, Huntington; G.B. Hamilton, Matewan; in addition to the sons of the deceased.”

Stone Mountain Coal Company Headhouse is Burned in Matewan, WV (1921)

16 Saturday Sep 2017

Posted by in Big Sandy Valley, Coal, Matewan

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From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, we find the following story dated 27 May 1921:

The headhouse of the Stone Mountain Coal Company at Matewan, in the heart of the Tug river battle zone, on the West Virginia-Kentucky border, was burned early today, reports received by Major Tom Davis, acting adjutant general on Governor Morgan’s staff, stated.

P.J. Smith, superintendent of the company in Williamson said until he makes an investigation, he could not estimate the amount of damage. The minimum loss, he added, would not probably be less than $25,000.

M.C. Kindleberger, deputy state fire marshal, here to investigate the recent firing of the headhouse at War Eagle, departed for Matewan immediately. Two automobiles containing members of the state constabulary accompanied him. He said he would report to Major Davis.

The Stone Mountain mine has been abandoned by the miners recently, said Superintendent Smith.

Although Chief Deputy Sheriff John Hall gave out the statement that he had made a personal inspection of the fighting area as far east as Blackberry City, and everything was quiet, and that sniping had ceased, the emergency defense organization composed of former service men and other citizens was said by Captain Brockus, of the state police, to be growing. Seventy-two rifles were issued late Saturday night and more have been ordered. In all, said Captain Brockus, several hundred men are under arms prepared for another outbreak. An organization today issued an order temporarily discontinuing the publication of the West Virginia Federationist, a labor paper.

An incident connected with the recent shooting along the Tug river is the reluctance of taxi-cab drivers to take their passengers east of Williamson. Their invariable call at the railroad station to prospective fares is discontinuing.

Source: “Headhouse in Mingo is Burned,” Logan (WV) Banner, 27 May 1921.

To see a coal company headhouse photograph, follow this link: http://wvhistoryonview.org/catalog/wvulibraries:14752

Corpse Found in River at Chapmanville, WV (1927)

13 Wednesday Sep 2017

Posted by in Chapmanville, Guyandotte River, Huntington, Logan

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From the Logan Banner of Logan, WV, we find the following story dated 29 March 1927:

All doubt as to the body of the woman found a mile above Chapmanville last Friday being that of Mrs. J.D. Parsley of Omar was removed that evening. Identification was positive on account of her wedding ring and her shoes.

So badly decomposed was the body, the flesh of the face having wasted away, that identification would have been impossible except for the ring or bits of clothing. In fact, its condition was such that it was recovered with sand at the place where found, after the identification was completed and after Undertaker B.C. Harris reached the scene, it being decided to await instructions from Mr. Parsley. The body had been in water more than three months, for it was on December 21 that she was drowned in the flooded waters of Main Island Creek near her home between Omar and Chauncey. From that point to the point where the  body was found is 22 miles, according to estimates of some deputy sheriffs who are familiar with Logan county distances.

Friday evening Mr. Parsley was located in Huntington, whither he had moved a few weeks ago to engage in the real estate business.

Mr. Parsley came to Chapmanville on the Saturday morning train, bringing a casket with him. Sunday the body was brought on a railway motor to Henlawson and then was taken by way of Charleston to Wayne county for burial. This was done because of the certainty the railway company would not transport the body from Chapmanville to  Huntington or to any other point on a passenger train.

Mr. Parsley, it is said, recognized a scar on his wife’s body–a scar left by a surgical operation.

The finder of the body was a Scarberry boy who lives near the place where it was found. It was lying near the shore, partly covered by silt, with the head wedged under a log or between two logs, according to reports heard here.

From the day of Mrs. Parsley’s tragic death till the body was found scandal-mongers busied themselves circulating reports that she had not drowned but had gone away of her own accord. As late as last Wednesday a Banner reporter was told that she was living in Guyandotte.

Concerning the drowning of Mrs. Parsley The Banner on Friday December 24 published the following account:

In the swollen waters of Main Island Creek Mrs. J.D. Parsley was drowned near her home between Omar and Chauncey at about 5:30 Tuesday evening.

Stepping into a necessary outbuilding that stood on the creek bank behind her home, the building suddenly toppled over and crashed into the swirling tide. Her screams were heard by several persons, among them Carlos Hatfield, a neighbor, who rushed to the rescue. When he reached the bank he saw Mrs. Parsley struggling in the water close to the shore and at the same time being carried swiftly forward by the stream. Just behind her was the building from which she had extricated herself. He waded into the waters and was almost within reach when the building turned over on her and shoved her beneath it out of sight. Before she reappeared on the surface she was too far down stream and too far out in the swift current for Hatfield to reach her.

Reports received here indicate that a son of E.M. Jeffrey of Omar was attracted to the scene and got a glimpse of either Mrs. Parsley or the building, or probably both, and followed along the bank until he saw the building crash into the bridge at Chauncey. The impact shattered the frail structure into pieces that were soon carried from view.

During the night and Wednesday forenoon searchers scanned the banks of the creek in what proved to be a futile effort to find the body.

Mrs. Parsley was nearing her 40th birthday. Her maiden name was Clay, according to her neighbors, and it is said her parents live at Branchland. She leaves no children, though Parsley is the father of several children by a previous marriage.

The Parsleys moved to the present home last August, when he leased a garage from Oscar Napier. This is located near the home of Dr. J.F. May and also close to the garage of Carlos Hatfield, previously mentioned as having tried to rescue the drowning woman. Before moving to the Omar-Chauncey neighborhood, Parsley had a grocery store at Mud Fork. At one time he was in the merchandise business at Williamson.

When the drowning occurred Parsley was at work in his garage. Word came to him that a woman had drowned, but it was half an hour or more before he realized that the victim was his own wife.

Source: “Body Found at Chapmanville is Identified as that of Mrs. Parsley Drowned at Omar on December 21,” Logan Banner, 29 March 1927.

***

Mrs. Parsley’s death record is found here: http://www.wvculture.org/vrr/va_view2.aspx?FilmNumber=1953328&ImageNumber=3233

 

“Human Fly” Visits Logan, WV (1927)

19 Saturday Aug 2017

Posted by in Logan

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In 1927, Harry H. Gardiner, known as “The Human Fly,” visited Logan, West Virginia. His visit followed an appearance at Huntington, WV, and preceded a visit to Williamson, WV. For more on Gardiner’s general biography, follow this link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Gardiner

From the Logan Banner (25 January 1927):

“Harry H. Gardiner, ‘The Human Fly,’ has come to Logan. The boyish-looking man of 57 years, whose death-defying exploits in scaling the walls of the world’s highest buildings have thrilled millions of onlookers, will give an exhibition here Thursday night, under the auspices of McNeely-Gunther-Nowlan post, American Legion. Gardiner is billed to climb from the ground to the dome of the Court House and unfurl the Stars and Stripes to the Guyan breezes from the apex of that structure. This he will undertake to do at 7:30. As he climbs he will perform many a stunt to amuse and startle the interested throng. All this time his figure will be in the glare of a searchlight provided for the purpose and his test will be done without the aid of any  mechanical device. Preceding this act there will be some martial music on the Court House square, and some local citizen will deliver a four-minute speech. And someone in the crowd will receive a gift of $15 in gold from the Manning Clothing Co. Just a few days ago Gardiner thrilled an enormous assemblage in Huntington by scaling the walls of the Coal Exchange building, which is 200 feet high, and as high as any building in the state. In an article published in Muscle Builder in the 1926 Gazetteer [he] is quoted thus: ‘One hundred and twenty of those who have sought to imitate me in this hazardous profession have fallen to death. There is no chance of rehearsing your performance. Each new building is an unknown problem. If you do not guess the right answer, death awaits below, with a breath of up-rushing air, and arms of concrete.'”

human fly 1

Evening Public Ledger (Philadelphia, PA), 10 February 1915.

From the Logan Banner (28 January 1927):

“Nerves of steel, nimble and well-trained hands and feet, a lithe body, and a resourcefulness born of experience enabled Harry H. Gardiner to scale the north wall of the Court House before an enormous crowd last night. Atop the dome he unfurled the Stars and Stripes, and from that point of vantage the flag is now waving for the first time. Saturday night he will scale the White & Browning building, a much higher structure. This performance will start at 9:30, or after rather than before the Logan-Huntington basketball game. Last night’s exploit was thrilling–except to those who expected the ‘Human Fly’ to do the impossible, or to crash into the concrete to provide a super-thrill. Of course, there were a few who supposed evidently that he would walk up the wall with his body at a perfect right angle to the wall and that he would surmount the roof projection like a fly walking on a ceiling. Thousands of people were present: they occupied all the space in front of the Court House from which the performer could be seen, except what a few automobiles occupied and except for the lanes kept open that motor traffic might not be blocked. That crowd at a political rally would have been estimated at 10,000. The Banner is convinced that it exceeded 5,000. Saturday night’s performance as was last night’s will be under the auspices of Gunther-McNeely-Nowlan Post, American Legion.”

human fly 2

World Building (Sun Tower Building) in Vancouver, B.C., Canada, October 1918.

From the Logan Banner (1 February 1927):

“In view of a crowd that packed Stratton street for the distance of nearly a block, Harry H. Gardiner, the ‘Human Fly,’ climbed the front of the five-story Pioneer Hotel Saturday night. With the aid of a hook at each window, he was able to get finger holds on the sills and then lift himself to safety and prepare for the next step upward. To scale the last lap and reach the roof he made use of the braces for the electric hotel sign for a foothold and also the lowered hook to get  a finger hold on the edge of the roof. As on Thursday night when he scaled the court house and tied a flag to the apex of the dome, his performance aroused both admiration and scorn. There were evidently many persons who believed a ‘Human Fly’ would walk and maybe fly like a fly. While as indicated the main section of the crowd of spectators was on Stratton street, it extended for 60 to 70 feet out on Cole street, and besides, hundreds of persons watched from the windows of the nearby buildings. Gardiner himself announced that he had been unable to get permission to climb the White & Browning building and for that reason substituted the hotel which is about the same height. He will climb the Mountaineer Hotel in Williamson Thursday night.”

human fly 1.jpg

Vancouver, B.C., Canada, October 1918.

Winchester Adkins and Cain Adkins, Jr.

21 Wednesday Jun 2017

Posted by in Adkins Mill, Big Harts Creek, East Lynn, Harts, Lincoln County Feud, Music

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Winchester and Cain Adkins Jr. copyright.jpg

Winchester Adkins (left) and Cain Adkins, Jr. (right), sons of Cain and Mariah (Vance) Adkins. Winchester (1874-1938) lived in Williamson, WV, where he was employed by the Norfolk and Western Railroad (and used the surname of Atkins). He was a fiddler who played on the Grand Ole Opry with a band called the Mingo County Ramblers. Cain Adkins, Jr. (1880-1943) lived in Matoaka, Mercer County, WV, and Raleigh County, WV. He was also a fiddler. Both men were children during their father’s involvement in the Lincoln County Feud. Photo courtesy of Adkins family descendants.

Ranger News 05.21.1926

01 Saturday Apr 2017

Posted by in Harts, Logan, Poetry, Ranger

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An unknown local correspondent from Ranger in Lincoln County, West Virginia, offered the following items, which the Logan Banner printed on May 21, 1926:

Luther Midkiff and family of Branchland were seen out car riding Sunday.

Mr. and Mrs. C.L. Wilson and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Evans and families of Hubball were the Sunday guests of Mr. and Mrs. C.C. McCoy.

Hardin Marcum was seen out car riding Sunday. We think he was on his way to Bradyville.

Jennings Smith was seen walking the lonesome road Sunday evening. We wonder where Maggie was?

Mrs. Jim Fulks left Friday evening for Williamson where she will spend a few days with relatives.

Rev. C.C. McCoy and little son Herman attended preaching at Camp Branch Sunday.

Ora Clay was seen out car riding Sunday. We wonder where the widow was?

Sunday is our regular church meeting at this place. Everybody come.

Troy Adkins and family of Midkiff were seen in our little town Sunday evening.

We wonder when Ray Fulks will accept his position back as driving taxi from Logan to Williamson?

Mr. and Mrs. Ollie Saunders of West Logan were visiting relatives here one day last week.

Wonder what has become of Harts?

Miss Oma Estep of Hubball is visiting her sister here this week.

Pearl Hargis, who received a serious burn by starting a fire in the cooking stove with kerosene, is reported much worse, we are sorry to say.

Miss Ena McCoy who has been ill for some time is much better we are glad to say.

Ora Clay was visiting home folks at Hubball Sunday.

He met her in the meadow

When the sun was low.

They strolled along together

In the twilight after glow.

She patiently waited until

He lowered all the bars.

And her soft bright eyes

Beamed upon him as

Radiant as the stars.

Yet she neither smiled nor thanked him

For she knew not how

For he was only a farmer

And she was a jersey cow.

NOTE: I dedicate this entry to my late friend, Harold Ray Smith of Ranger.

Estep News 03.19.1926

23 Thursday Mar 2017

Posted by in Banco, Battle of Blair Mountain, Big Creek, Estep

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An unknown local correspondent from Estep in Logan County, West Virginia, offered the following items, which the Logan Banner printed on March 19, 1926:

Business at this place a few months ago seemed to be on the wane but everything is looking more prosperous at this writing, we are glad to say.

Miss Ida Thomas of this town has obtained a new job. She is assistant postmaster of Estep office.

Taylor Stone of this place left for Blair on last Monday by motor. We imagine his trip will not be a pleasant one as the roads are reported to be in bad condition.

We suppose the South Penn workers are getting along nicely with their work on Ellis Fork as they have ten teams of horses working for them and there were more men seen going through his town last Sunday enroute for Head of Ellis Fork. We are informed those men were the derrick builders.

R.E. Ellis and L.M. Baisden will have to decline the idea of farming any this year as they will have so much other business to attend to that they cannot find time for farming.

Gartner Baisden of Ellis Fork has been very ill with measles but is rapidly improving and will soon be out again.

J.A. and J.W. Thomas were feuding last Tuesday. Stay with it boys. It may be warmer next summer.

Ted Hager of Lynn street was calling on his sweetie at Estep last Sunday.

Wonder why the local “Shlew” of Banco wasn’t seen in Estep last Sunday? Some of the Junior girls were expecting him.

It is reported that a big trade went through up at Banco addition last Monday evening. J.B. Lucas and W.H. Vickers swapped roosters.

Bernie Dunkle of Williamson was seen going through Estep last Monday afternoon on his way to the head of Ellis Fork.

J.A. Stone of Banco was a business caller in Estep last Monday morning.

Ranger News 05.07.1926

09 Thursday Mar 2017

Posted by in Huntington, Ranger

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An unknown local correspondent from Ranger in Lincoln County, West Virginia, offered the following items, which the Logan Banner printed on May 7, 1926:

Rocks and mountains may divide us,

Ten thousand miles apart,

But the Banner is written in golden

Letters and stamped upon my heart.

Mrs. Lizzie McClellan was calling on her mother, Mrs. Jim Fulks, Saturday and Sunday.

Miss Ena McCoy is on the sick list at this writing. We hope for her a speedy recovery.

Scott Adkins of Huntington was calling on Miss Mary Estep Sunday.

Everybody seems to welcome spring with a glad heart, as they are all busy farming and seem to enjoy it.

I wonder what has become of Wilbur and Lyburn writers. Can anyone tell?

Born to Mr. and Mrs. C.C. McCoy April 27th, a son. The little youngster weighs 9 pounds and will go by the same of Ernie.

Roy Fulks returned from Williamson Sunday after a visit of several days. He says he would rather grub than drive a taxi.

Mrs. Lawrence Cook was visiting Mrs. C.C. McCoy Friday evening.

Mrs. Albert Hull of Robinette was visiting her brother Monday, Mr. C.C. McCoy and family.

With love to The Banner.

Note: This blog post is dedicated to the memory of my late friend, Mr. Harold Ray Smith.

The Hearty Artisan (2016)

19 Thursday Jan 2017

Posted by in Hatfield-McCoy Feud

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Before Christmas, I visited The Hearty Artisan in Hardy, Kentucky. The Hearty Artisan features locally-crafted items of superior quality. Conveniently located on Highway 319 just outside of Williamson, WV, and situated in Hatfield-McCoy Feud country, the shop is a perfect destination for tourists seeking unique gift items.

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Photo submitted. Williamson Daily News, 10 November 2016.

 

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The Hearty Artisan, located at Hardy, KY (just outside of Williamson, WV), offers locally made one-of-a-kind items for sale. For more about the store, follow this link: http://williamsondailynews.com/news/7489/the-hearty-artisan

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Carvings by the renowned Jim Hall. Be sure to follow the shop’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/theheartyartisan/

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Tater Buddies by Jim Hall.

Author Appearance at Hatfield-McCoy Marathon

12 Friday Jun 2015

Posted by in Lincoln County Feud

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Tomorrow, on 13 June 2015, the book and I will appear at the Hatfield McCoy Marathon in Williamson, WV. We will be located near the Coal House. I hope my Tug Valley friends will stop by our table and say hello. We love to discuss the Lincoln County Feud.

Coal House, Williamson, WV, 2014

Coal House, Williamson, WV, 2014

Big Creek News 04.05.1923

24 Thursday Jul 2014

Posted by in Big Creek, Coal, Ferrellsburg, Logan, Toney

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An unnamed local correspondent from Big Creek in Logan County, West Virginia, offered the following items, which the Lincoln Republican printed on Thursday, April 5, 1923:

Uncle Hub Vance is suffering from the flu.

Miss Mary Sanders attended Federal Court in Huntington the past week.

Miss Hoaner Ferrell has returned from Parkersburg, where she has been attending Mountain State Business College.

Miss Dixie Toney was the guest of Mrs. Clyde W. Peters, of Huntington the past week.

Miss Cora M. Adkins, the popular teacher, was in Huntington the past week making arrangements to attend Marshall College.

Miss Birdie Linville was calling on friends at Toney, Sunday.

Miss Ida Lucas, who has a position with the First National Bank of Huntington, was here recently enroute to her home on Big Creek.

Mr. K.E. Toney is in Logan this week on matters of business.

Mr. John Thompson, of the Hunt-Forbes Cons. Co., was in town today. He reports that the Company’s contract in Harts Creek district will be completed within one month.

M.D. Bledsew was a recent visitor in Williamson.

J.W. Stowers, merchant of Ferrellsburg, was a recent visitor of his sister, Mrs. Ward Lucas, of this place.

Roy Anderson, Chief Clerk in the Logan Assessor’s office was the Sunday guest of K.E. Toney.

Elbert Baisden has been appointed Asst. Supt. of the Daisy Coal Co.

Miss Hazel Toney will complete her business course at the Capitol City Commercial College about April 15th, and will, we are informed be employed in the Sheriff’s office in Logan.

Miss Maud Gill’s school closed last Friday. Miss Gill is a fine teacher and met with great success in her work this year.

Miss Maud Ellis, of Logan, was the recent guest of Mrs. Ella Baisden.