John Townsley Accident

TOWNSLE, GUTHRIE

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 9/14/2016 at 11:42:39

A sad accident. - As noted elsewhere a special train was run from Prairie City to Newton on last Sunday. As it was pulling out on its return trip, Jno. Townsley, of Prairie City attempted to board it when it was down about two blocks from the depot at the crossing near Jno. Guthrie's house. He caught the front end of the rear coach and was thrown to the ground and the wheels run over his left foot and right hand. The train was held until his wounds could be dressed and he was taken on the same train home. It was found necessary to amputate the index finger on the right hand and the left foot, about three inches above the toes. John is the son of Joe Townsley, about 17 years old and has always been a hard worker and the misfortune that makes him a cripple for life is a sad bereavement. There can be no blame attached to those in charge of the train as they were attempting to stop the train when the boy made the jump.

Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Guthrie had him taken into their home to have his wounds dressed and by so doing made many additional friends by this kind and charitable act. ~ The Newton Journal, Newton, Iowa Wed 22 Mar 1893.