Sherman, Alonzo 'Lon' died 1884

SHERMAN

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 6/29/2022 at 13:06:29

Elkader register, 10 Dec. 1884.

A very sad and fatal accident occurred in our little place on Sunday afternoon last about 3 o'clock, whereby Alonzo Sherman lost his life. It seems that Lon, as he was familiarly called, was in George Arnold's restuarant with some other young men, and while in there exhibited a revolver which he wished to sell. William Eveleth talked of buying it, and wished to inspect it. The weapon was handed him with the injunction to be careful, as it was loaded. While endeavoring to cock it the hammer slipped out from under his thumb and the pistol was discharged, the ball taking effect in the back of Sherman's head, killing him instantly.

The victim, Mr. Sherman, was a single man and a laborer, and was just in the prime of life, being 33 years of age. He leaves a mother, three brothers and two sisters residing in this vicinity, also a large circle of friends who will miss him and mourn his sudden taking off. The funeral occurred Tuesday.

(Note: This was followed by a detailed account of the inquest, which found Eveleth blameless.)