MCMAHON, Robert – Died 1904

MCMAHON

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 6/22/2019 at 16:14:04

Source: Decorah Republican Mar. 10, 1904 Page 4

The death by suicide of Robert McMahon at Waterloo last week has local interest in that McMahon was well known in Decorah. He spent a number of weeks in Decorah last summer and fall soliciting subscriptions to a set of books known as “Modern Eloquence. To those with whom he became intimate he disclosed important facts in his life, covering a partnership with his brother in New York in the importation of linens, followed by speculation on his part on the board of trade which resulted in his losing all his property and finally becoming book agent. His speculation led to what appeared to be a family feud and caused a separation from his brother which grew in intensity on both sides. After his death the Waterloo authorities notified his brother in New York, who replied that he would pay absolute minimum expense at cheapest interment place. In turn be was informed that $68 would bury his brother in the cemetery but the potter's field would be less. In reply to this the brother telegraphed:—
Any hole is good enough. Utterly unworthy consideration. Am mailing fifteen dollar check to town clerk to recoup city This is final. No further communication on subject desired. If any letter left please destroy. No kinship will be acknowledged. Act accordingly.