Bedford County PA News From the Past
Transcribed by Nancy Piper unless otherwise stated
HEAVY RAINS AND FLOODING 1810
The Centinel (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania), November 21 1810
Bedford, November 14
The rain, which fell on Friday and Saturday last, raised the creeks, in this vicinity, higher than the oldest inhabitants recollect to have seen them. The bridge over Dunning's creek was carried off the pillars, but lodged against a large tree, at a short distance. On this stream as well as on that of the Raystown Branch, much individual damage was done.
We have been informed that a Wagoner and four horses were drowned in crossing a stream near McConnelstown, which, at most seasons of the year, is partly dry; - and that at For Cumberland, Md., the elegant bridge over Will's creek, has been entirely swept away, and a new brick mill.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
March 10, 1824
Bedford, Pa, March 5
Robbery
On Saturday night lst, a villain named John Helverson, broke into the store of Mr. Jacob Schell, of Schelisburg, and took therefrom upwards of 400 dollars in cash, and 4 or 5 watches - he then went to the stable of Mr. Henry Horn, from which he took an elegant mare, mounted her, and was not overtaken until he reached Shippensburg, in Cumberland county, a distance of 75 miles, where he was apprehended in bed, in a public house, about 3 o'clock on Monday morning. He was brought back till about two miles west of Loudon, where he escaped from custody, ran up the mountain, and night coming on, could not be overtaken, although so near was Mr. Shugart, that he got the prisoner's hat. The prisoner spent that night, and the greater part of Tuesday, in the mountain, on Tuesday evening he came to the house of a Mr. Merrison, at Dickey's Mill, got his supper, staid all night, procured a hat, took his breakfast next morning, and set out in the direction of Greencastle. Shortly after his departure, a Mr. Williamson came to the mill, who had seen Helverson in Loudon on Monday night when in custody, and as soon as he learned from Mr. Morrison the singular appearance and description of the stranger he had the night before entertained, began to suspect that it might be the robber that so lately escaped from Shugart and Andrews. A party was formed and went in pursuit, which ending in capturing the villain near Irwin's Mill, about 5 miles from Mercersburg, after a considerable chase over fields, fences, &c. &c. and on Thursday evening he was lodged in the Jail of this place.
Much credit is due to Mr. Abraham Andrews, of Schellsburg, and Mr. Shugart, who keeps a public house about two miles west of M'Connellsburg. Mr. Shugart not only furnished Mr. Andrews with a fresh horse, but mounted one himself and jointed the pursuit, which has fortunately terminated in bringing a scoundrel to justice. Helverson had been but a short time in Schellsburg, where he worked as a journeyman carpenter. - True American.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
March 17, 1824
Bedford, Pa., March 12
An incessant fall of rain on Sunday last, together with a great flow of water from the mountains, which were covered with a deep snow, occasioned an unusual flood in our branch of the Juniata and Dunning's creek. We regret to state that two of the arches of the large stone bridge on the Turnpike east of this pace, gave way on the lower side and fell. The bridge has been so much injured that, we understand doubts are entertained as to the propriety of attempting to repair it. Notwithstanding this accident, by the exertions of the managers of the road and other citizens, the old circuitous road, by Dunnings creek bridge, was so soon repaired as to cause but little delay to the wagoners and other travelers. We have heard that the Turnpike bridge over Turtle creek has also been destroyed. - Gazette.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
July 21, 1824
Bedford, Pa., July 16
We have crowded out considerable matter prepared for this week's paper, to make room for the account of the late interesting trial between John Compher of this county, and James M'Cullough, of the city of Baltimore.
M'Cullough had purchased a horse from Compher, and paid him in counterfeit money, for which Compher had him arrested and held to (?), to answer the charge. M'Cullough to screen himself from this base transaction, employed a hack and pursued Compher in the night, came up to Compher's wagon, and secretly deposited therein a tin box, containing counterfeit money, he then attempted to make it appear that Compher was engaged in passing counterfeit money. But we are happy to find the saddle on the right horse, and M'Cullough, who is an old offender, and for a long time been engaged in this business, has received his just reward - a sentence of ten years to the penitentiary. - Amer.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
July 21, 1824
Bedford Springs
We have the pleasure to say, that our Springs are increasing in celebrity, and, notwithstanding the unusually late season, are more frequented this, than in any preceding year. The improvements have been greatly extended - the accommodations are of a superior order, and greatly increased by the present proprietor. Amongst the numerous visitors now attending the Springs, we are gratified to see Mrs. J. Q. Adams and family; the Hon. Mr. Williams, Senator in Congress from Mississippi; the Hon. Mr. Rankin, member of Congress from the same state; Gen. Stricker and family; and many other ladies and gentlemen of distinction from various parts of the United States
The season, heretofore very wet, has become delightful - and from the reports of strangers now here, we anticipate a great accession of company, large parties of whom are now on their way to this place. - Ib.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
November 24, 1824
On the 29th ult., the house of Mr. Shell, near Shellsburgh, was burnt to the ground. The most of the furniture was, however, saved. The fire originated in the kitchen. - Greensburgh Gaz.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
November 3, 1824
The German Reformed Synod of the United States, convened at Bedford, Pa., on the 26th of September. They have at length organized a Theological Seminary, which is to be located in this place, and have elected the Rev. Samuel Helfenstien, of Philadelphia, Theological Professor. An arrangement, it is said has been made by the trustees of Dickinson College to establish a new professorship in the institution, which is to be styled the "Professorship of History and German Literature," the duties of which will be discharged by the Theological Professor. - Car. Gaz.
Republican Compiler (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
November 17, 1824
From the Bedford Gazette
Roman Catholic Settlement
At Harman Bottom, which is distant fourteen miles from Bedford, and from Schellsburg six miles, a new Roman Catholic settlement is commenced under the direction of the Rev. Mr. Heyden, of this palce. The encouragements held out to Catholic emigrants, or movers are many and cheering. A Mr. Riddlemose, of the city of Baltimore, offers to them, at a low price and on easy payments, a large tract of land, comprising upwards of nine thousand acres. With a rare liberality, and a laudable zeal for the glory of God and the salvation of souls, he has erected, at his own expense, a very neat stone Chapel. He has given a hundred acres of land to the Clergyman, and has built for him a very elegant house. He has also empowered the Rev. Mr. Heyden to approprieate, for the use of a Catholic Schoolmaster, a hundred acres of land. There are erected, in the settlement, a first rate Merchant Mill and Saw Mill. The land is of a good quality, and excellent for all kinds of grain. There have already many Catholic settlers arrived. It is expected the Church will be finished and ready for consecration early in the spring.
Editors who would give this article an insertion in their papers, would confer a favor on those Catholics who are desirous to move, and to whom this information would be acceptable.
Wm. T. Chapman Still Spry at 82
The Indiana Democrat (Indiana, Pennsylvania) May 25 1871
Wm. T. Chapman, Esq., of Bedford, aged eighty-two, this spring, spaded his garden and planted one hundred and fifty hills of corn, without help from anybody. “Squire Chapman is a perfect specimen of vigorous old age. His form is erect, his eye bright and his step firm and elastic. Withal he is genial and companionable. A man who buffets old Time so bravely deserves to become a centenarian.
A Murderous Assault
The Bedford Gazette, Bedford Pa Friday, June 8 1900
Two Colored Desperadoes Attack a Visitor To Bedford and Attempt to Rob Him.
Friday morning James Powell, of Williamsburg, Blair county, came to Bedford to secure work. During the day he met quite a number of his friends, among whom was John Eddie Johnson (colored.) Johnson suggested to Powell, that as they had not seen each other for a long time, and as he was off duty for the day, they have a good time, taking in the sights in and around Bedford, to which Powell agreed.
They visited several hotels and drinks were ordered, Powell usually paying the bills. Johnson observed the money Powell exposed when paying for the liquor and concluded that he would relieve his companion of some of it. Johnson said to his friend: “Suppose we take a walk around the town.” A bottle of whisky was bought by Powell, and then they started. On their way they met Abraham Hamilton (colored). Johnson introduced Abe to his friend Powell and the trio continued their walk until they reached the corner of John and East streets, which is a very lonely place, only partly opened and having on one side a hedge fence. After going about half way out the street Johnson thought it was time to relive his friend of his cold cash. So he gave Hamilton the signal and both men took hold of Powell, threw him down and beat his head with stones,Johnson in the meantime going through his friend’s pockets. Unable to get any money and seeing the condition that Powell was in, his head cut and covered with blood, Johnson and Hamilton concluded that they had better leave, and they fled.
fter Powell regained consciousness he wandered around for a long time before he appeared on any of the streets where he could be seen. He went out Juliana street between four and five o’clock and finally reached the home of O. G. McCoy, where, exhausted from the loss of blood, he fell at the door. Mr. McCoy came at one to Squire Ritchey and notified him. The injured man was brought to Dr. A. C. Wolf’s office, where he received proper attention. The cut in his head was about six inches in length.
Johnson and Hamilton, after hearing that a man was wandering around town covered with blood, decided that they would try to find him; but someone had notified Officer Stiver and before the found their victim he arrested them on suspicion, because he had seen them with Powell during the day. On the way to the lock-up the officer had both hands full and the “coons” tried to break away, but in vain. When the lock-up was reached the prisoners again made several desperate attempts to escape, but Mr. Stiver’s strength and skill were too much for them.
After Powell had his wounds dressed, although very weak, he was taken to the lock-up and recognized his pseudo-friends, Johnson and Hamilton, and said that they were the men who “did him up.” While in the lock-up Hamilton told Officer Stiver that he held the man and that Johnson struck him on the head with a large stone. Johnson said that Hamilton did the hitting while he held the man and went through his pockets. While the policeman was procuring the necessary papers to place his prisoners in jail, Hamilton picked the lock on his cell door with a nail and fled. Mr. Stiver made a thorough search for the fugitive in the rain and at midnight, we to the skin, went home, with as strong a determination as ever to recapture Abraham. At 3:30 a.m., Saturday, Officer Stiver went to Hamilton’s home, where he found the runaway, ready to take his departure, and Abraham now languishes behind the strong bars of the jail.
Officer Stiver deserves a great deal of credit for his cleverness and his fidelity to duty. If the citizens of Bedford support him as they should he will undoubtedly put an end to the lawlessness that has disgraced the fair name of the town.
On Monday Johnson and Hamilton were given a hearing before Squiare Ritchey. The evidence being sufficient to bind them over for September court and being unable to give bail in $1,000 each, they were returned to jail.
-- transcribed by Nancy Piper
The Bedford Gazette, June 8 1900
In the Philippines - Communication From Charles A. Livingston, a Bedford County Boy - Hand-To-Hand Fight - A Brush With the Enemy – Our Correspondent Makes An Important Capture – Tropicl Fruits
Malasiqui, P.I.
Apirl 28, 1900
Editor Gazette
I promised to write you a letter from this place some time ago and have neglected it, so I will try and do so at once. Our company is quartered in the old Spanish convent here and it makes fine quarters. Most of the fighting is with robber bands that infest this island and strike terror to what few law-abiding citizens there arer; but this element is being exterminated by our troops and when we run on to a gang of them we make short work of them.
We don’t have it as hard as we used to. We have plenty of time for amusement. Baseball seems to be the leading sport, but it is most too hot for that. There is lots of fruit here now and most any old time you can see the boys coming in with a load of mangoes or bananas. Mangoes seem to be the favorite fruit with the boys. Cherries are also plentiful here, but they are not as good as the ones that grow in Bedford county.
Our chief duty is eat, drill, sleep and wash. Here is what one of the boys writes home: “Talk about keeping clean – if I went as dirty as I did when I was home I would be driven out of this fort.” First thing in the morning is get up and wash, then drill and wash, and then stand retreat and bath every day.
I never told you people how I captured my first insurgent. It was in June, 1899, not long after the rebellion had broken out. We were stationed at San Fernando. This was at that time the hot-bed of the insurrection. Our company was on outpost at the north end of the city. The insurgents had made several attempts to break our lines and retake the city and we were always looking for something to happen. It was the night of the 22nd and raining as hard as it could pour down. We had taken shelter in an old sugar mill not more than 800 yards from the insurgent outpost. It was about midnight and most everyone was asleep.
Suddenly the stillness was broken by several shots, which proved to be the shots of the enemy. These were followed quickly by others, then a tremendous volley fire was poured into us. “Steady, boys, steady. Don’t get excited. Into the trenches; be quick.” Spoke our captain. We were soon in the trench and pouring volley after volley into the flash, as that was all we could see to aim at. Oh, I will never forget that night. Our front was nothing but a sheet of flame. Mauser bullets were tearing through the bamboo, cutting them down like a scythe. Our artillery was sending shrapnel into them as fast as they could fire. I, with some others, was detailed to bring up ammunition and we had laid our guns down so we could carry a larger load. I was my good fortune to get separated from the others. All at one I heard the sugar cane breaking and as I looked I could make out the form of a man and by all appearances he was an insurgent. What could I do? To run would cause me to get the contents of his rifle, and that I had no desire for. The only thing I could do was to risk a hand-to-hand encounter with him.
I waited till he was even with me and then sprang on to him, catching him by the throat. The weight of my body knocked him to the ground. He could not utter a sound and the more he tried to get away the tighter I gripped him. I dragged him several feet, yelling as loud as I could for help. Soon several of the boys came to my assistance. One, I remember, stood over us, saying, “Let me put a bullet into him,” at the same time putting the muzzle of his gun to my foe’s head. Soon the voice of the captain was heard – “Bring a light; let him up. Let’s see who you have.” Then a light was brought and held up to his face. Oh! Lord, what next? I had captured and nearly choked to death our “Chino” bull driver. Even to this day the “China” won’t have anything to do with me and when he sees me he will point to his throat and say “Much a malo.” The joke was on me and the boys will often ask me if I remember the time I captured the goo-goo.
Hoping you may find room for this and promising to write soon again, I am
Very truly yours,
Charles A. Livingston
Co. C., 17th U.S. Inf.
Phillippine Islands
Miss Lydia Herts Cromwell, M.D. Married To Julian Greene Hearne
The Bedford Gazette, June 8 1900
Miss Lydia Herts Cromwell, M.D., one of Bedford’s fairest and brightest daughters, was united in marriage to Julian Green Hearne, a wealthy resident of Wheeling, W. Va., on Wednesday. The ceremony took place in the First Presbyterian church, Atlantic City, N.J., and was followed by a reception and breakfast given by the Atlantic City Homeopathic club, of which Mrs. Hearne is secretary and the only female member. The bride was given away by her brother, Ralph Cromwell.
After a tour of Europe and a visit to the groom’s copper mines in Arizona, Mr. and Mrs. Hearne will take up their residence at Wheeling.
The bride is a daughter of William F. Cromwell of Bedford. She is a graduate of the Bedford High school class of ’93, and of the Hahnemann Medical college, Chicago, class of ’96. For the past few years she has been practising her profession at Galen Hall, Atlantic city. As was said in a sketch of her life published in THE GAZETTE of April 10, 1896, Mrs. Hearne is a “type of hwat is highest and best in cultured, refined and advanced nineteenth century womanhood.” The GAZETTE extends congratulations.
The Death of Frank Tillman
The Bedford Gazette, June 8 1900
So many contradictory rumors are afloat regarding the manner of the death, at Windber, of Frank Tillman, the colored man, who was recently buried at Schellsburg, that the friends of the deceased have instituted an investigation. THE GAZETTE, being desirous of ascertaining the true facts, wrote to our former citizen, J. Frank Reed, who now resides at Windber, and from him ascertained that Frank Tillman had been complaining of heart trouble, had not been taking proper care of himself and had died in a barn where his body was found. No suspicion of foul play was entertained by those interested in the dead man. If the friends through their investigations gather any additional information you will see it in THE GAZETTE.