Scott Crouch of Prairieville, one of the oldest settlers in that vicinity, made what seems an attempt to commit suicide with a razor Friday [01/19/1900] afternoon. He severed an artery in his left arm, and but for timely assistance the man would by this time have been dead.

Crouch states that he was trying to bleed himself to relieve pains in the head. Friday afternoon he went to the barn which is but a short distance from the house, armed with a razor. He took off his coat, rolled up his sleeve and cut a short, but deep gash just above the elbow. Evidently the scheme worked, for when Mrs. Crouch went to the barn a half an hour afterwards, she found him in an unconscious condition from lack of blood. She immediately summoned assistance and Dr. Carolus of this city was called. The injured man was revived and is able to sit up today.

Although it has been reported that Crouch’s real attempt was that of suicide, yet this is not believed by friends of the family and those who know Mr. Crouch best. He was declared insane six years ago and was confined in the asylum for a short time. It is thought that he was temporarily insane Friday, and having pains in his head, cut his arm, firmly believing that it would cure his headache.

Contributed by Larry Reynolds - Sterlng Daily Standard 20 January 1900