Smith, Fred P. 1876 - 1936

SMITH, HENRICHS

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 5/3/2023 at 08:44:00

Clayton County Register, 09 Sept. 1936.

Fred P. Smith, prominent farmer living near Elkport, took his own life by hanging Monday afternoon.

Mr. Smith had been working on the farm during the day and about two o'clock returned to the corn crib. About a half hour later Mrs. Smith observed the door to the corn crib open and upon investigation found the lifeless body of her husband hanging from a rafter. The husband had jumped from a wagon after he had secured the rope about his neck.

The only reason that could be given for his act was that he must have been despondent because of poor crops and the loss of hogs due to cholera.

He is survived by his widow and one daughter, Mrs. Florence Henrichs, who lives on a farm near Elkader.

The deceased was born October 31, 1876, and reared near Lamont. He owned the farm upon which he was living, and apparently was in good health.

Funeral services will be held tomorrow afternoon in St. John's church at Garber, and burial will be made in Mt. Harmony cemetery, Rev. Hohman officiating.