John Van Schaik(died 1890)

VAN SCHAIK

Posted By: Anne Hermann (email)
Date: 5/28/2008 at 00:49:41

Maquoketa Excelsior, Jan. 11, 1890.

John Van Schaik, aged about fifty-eight years and a blacksmith by trade, was found dead near Daniel Stephens’ farm early Monday morning, by the latter’s tenant, Mr. Smith. Coroner Miller was notified and an inquest was held. The jury came to the conclusion that death was the result of whiskey and exposure. He had been drinking hard the day before with a son and other persons. The deceased started out to accompany his son a part of the way to Delmar Sunday evening. Reaching the Stephens’ crossing, he sat down to rest, gave his son his watch and what money he had, and the latter proceeded on his way. This was the last seen of John Van Schaik, until his dead body was discovered in the morning. He leaves a wife and five children in poor circumstances. He was buried Wednesday afternoon from the M. E. Church, Rev. Van Ness officiating. We wish that the Mayor and Aldermen of this city might have heard Rev. Van Ness’ sermon