Redmond, W.L.

REDMOND

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 2/5/2008 at 11:36:53

Maquoketa Excelsior
May 7, 1881

W. L. Redmond Still Missing.

W. L. Redmond, who so mysteriously disappeared from his home in this city last Tuesday night a week ago, is still missing. No clue whatever has been obtained to his whereabouts. The woods, and every unfrequented place around the town have been searched, the river in front of the city has been dragged, telegrams of inquiry have been sent to near and distant points, yet not the least information of the missing man’s fate has been obtained. It is the opinion of most of his friends that he has committed suicide, but how, when or where, is yet a profound mystery. Mrs. Redmond has offered $50 for any information which may lead to the recovery of the missing man’s body, dead or alive. It is generally supposed that he drowned himself in the river, but all is mere conjecture. Mr. Redmond had unfortunately became addicted to dissipation since his failure in business here three years ago, and since then has been a miserable man. In addition to the misfortune of dissipated habits, he was a man in poor health, and was always suffering bodily pain when not under the influence of liquor or some powerful narcotic. His mind had been somewhat deranged for months past, and insatiety was rapidly rushing out his reason. He had many excellent traits of character. He was a man of great industry, a profound student, and well informed on almost every subject. He was quick, apt, prompt and correct in the transaction of business, and as a lawyer enjoyed a lucrative practice.

Mr. Redmond, until quite recently, carried a heavy insurance on his life; but all his insurance policies have been cancelled except one, that a $2,000 policy in the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Unless his body is found his widow will unlikely experience considerable difficulty in obtaining the money. He leaves a wife and five children. – Leader

Later. – A dispatch received by Levi Keck yesterday morning announced the finding of Mr. Redmond’s body in the river.