Charles Bickert 1856-1895

BICKERT

Posted By: Judith Fair (email)
Date: 1/19/2014 at 18:02:46

A TRAGIC DEATH Charles Bickert Killed by the Cruel Wheels OCCURS IN NORTHWESTERN YARDS
His Mangled Body Found at the Fifth Street Crossing by a Night Caller-He Was a Seal Inspector and Had Doubtless Fallen When Between the Cars- The Accident not Witnessed by Any One-Had a Presentiment the Day Before.
Charles Bickert, a car sealer, met a cruel death about 2 o'clock this afternoon at the Fifth street crossing in the Northwestern yards. He fell beneath the wheels and was horribly mangled, death occuring instantly.
As no one witnessed the accident it will probably
never be known just how it occurred. His mangled body was found at the crossing about 2:20 o'clock
by the night caller, and it was evident that he had been dead but a few moments. He had fallen in such manner that the cars ran over his body, just at the heart, cutting it almost in two, and severing his left arm.
His work consisted of inspecting the seals on all cars in the yards, and it is supposed he was examining the end door between the cars, when he
missed his footing.
The patrol wagon was summoned and the remains taken to Knowlton's undertaking establishment. Coroner Sammis was notified of the accident and he empaneled a jury consisting of William Geige, Augut Hinrichs, and E.M.Garlock. After hearing the evidence they rendered a verdict of accidental death, exonerating the railroad company from all blame in the matter.
Charles Bickert was a man about 39 years of age, and resided with his wife and two children at No. 404 Seventh street. He has a host of friends in the city who will be shocked at the announcemnt of his tragic death. He was an member of Lincoln Lodge,I.O.O.F.; Western Star Lodge, A.F.& A.M.;
Clinton Encampment, and Twin City Ganton of Patriarch's Millitant, I.O.O.F..
Only a few hours before the accident occurred he had a presentment that he was going to lose his position, and he told his wife of it. They talked the matter over and she cautioned him not to worry about it.
The funeral will be held from the residence tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Clinton Herald- July 17, 1895.